1305M321QNFFT0031-0001 - FormSF30 - Contractor QnA Amendment.pdf

Offers must acknowledge receipt of this amendment prior to the hour and date specified in the solicitation or as amended, by one of the following methods:

(a) By completing items 8 and 15, and returning or (c) By separate letter or electronic communication which includes a reference to the solicitation and amendment numbers. FAILURE OF YOUR ACKNOWLEDGMENT TO BE RECEIVED AT THE PLACE DESIGNATED FOR THE RECEIPT OF OFFERS PRIOR TO THE HOUR AND DATE SPECIFIED MAY RESULT IN REJECTION OF YOUR OFFER. If by virtue of this amendment you desire to change an offer already submitted, such change may be made by letter or electronic communication, provided each letter or electronic communication makes reference to the solicitation and this amendment, and is received prior to the opening hour and date specified.

E. IMPORTANT: Contractor is not is required to sign this document and return copies to the issuing office.

AMENDMENT OF SOLICITATION/MODIFICATION OF CONTRACT 1. CONTRACT ID CODE

2. AMENDMENT/MODIFICATION NUMBER 3. EFFECTIVE DATE 4. REQUISITION/PURCHASE REQUISITION NUMBER 5. PROJECT NUMBER (If applicable)

7. ADMINISTERED BY (If other than Item 6) CODE

STANDARD FORM 30 (REV. 11/2016)

Prescribed by GSA FAR (48 CFR) 53.243

FACILITY CODE

9A. AMENDMENT OF SOLICITATION NUMBER

9B. DATED (SEE ITEM 11)

10A. MODIFICATION OF CONTRACT/ORDER NUMBER

10B. DATED (SEE ITEM 13)

11. THIS ITEM ONLY APPLIES TO AMENDMENTS OF SOLICITATIONS

The above numbered solicitation is amended as set forth in Item 14. The hour and date specified for receipt of Offers is extended. is not extended.

12. ACCOUNTING AND APPROPRIATION DATA (If required) copies of the amendment; (b) By acknowledging receipt of this amendment on each copy of the offer submitted;

13. THIS ITEM APPLIES ONLY TO MODIFICATIONS OF CONTRACTS/ORDERS. IT MODIFIES THE CONTRACT/ORDER NUMBER AS DESCRIBED IN ITEM 14.

CHECK ONE A. THIS CHANGE ORDER IS ISSUED PURSUANT TO: (Specify authority) THE CHANGES SET FORTH IN ITEM 14 ARE MADE IN THE CONTRACT ORDER NUMBER

IN ITEM 10A.

B. THE ABOVE NUMBERED CONTRACT/ORDER IS MODIFIED TO REFLECT THE ADMINISTRATIVE CHANGES (such as changes in paying office, appropriation data, etc.) SET FORTH IN ITEM 14, PURSUANT TO THE AUTHORITY OF FAR 43.103(b).

C. THIS SUPPLEMENTAL AGREEMENT IS ENTERED INTO PURSUANT TO AUTHORITY OF:

D. OTHER (Specify type of modification and authority)

Except as provided herein, all terms and conditions of the document referenced in Item 9A or 10A, as heretofore changed, remains unchanged and in full force and effect.

15C. DATE SIGNED

15A. NAME AND TITLE OF SIGNER (Type or print)

16C. DATE SIGNED

16A. NAME AND TITLE OF CONTRACTING OFFICER (Type or print)

14. DESCRIPTION OF AMENDMENT/MODIFICATION (Organized by UCF section headings, including solicitation/contract subject matter where feasible.)

PAGE OF PAGES

6. ISSUED BY CODE

8. NAME AND ADDRESS OF CONTRACTOR (Number, street, county, State and ZIP Code) (X)

CODE

15B. CONTRACTOR/OFFEROR

(Signature of person authorized to sign)

16B. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

(Signature of Contracting Officer)

Previous edition unusable

See Attachment Page.

1 20

1305M321QNFFT00310001 MAY 27, 2021 NF-FT7800-21-01280

AJ630031

WESTERN ACQUISITION DIVISION

CONTRACTS BRANCH

7600 SAND POINT WAY NE, SOU6

SEATTLE WA 98115-6349

See Block 6

1305M321QNFFT0031

MAY 11, 2021

See Schedule

Attachment Page

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Contractor Q&A

1. SOW Paragraph II.A.1. Normally the PMNM permit is obtained by the client chartering our vessel and doing work within the PMNM and not the vessel operator / owner. Can you please verify this requirement?

The ships that we work will need to acquire their own permit to enter PMNM, which requires passing vessel inspection, rat/insect inspection, etc. NOAA NMFS PIFSC are provided the PMNM Co‐manager's Permit and Research/Conservation Permit which allows us to do our special activities proposed in PMNM, but other activities will need to be covered by the ship‐acquired permit.

2 SOW Paragraph II.A.12 and II.A.13 ‐ Is ABS certification required for the cranes or, provided the crane is capable of loading/unloading boats and supplies as specified in the SOW, is another certification acceptable?

A USCG approved crane is satisfactory, provided it can safely and effectively meet requirements.

3. SOW Paragraph II.A.25. Please verify that NOAA will be providing the gasoline and containers for us to store on our vessel for dispensing to the small boats.

We prefer that it is billed into the vessel contract, to ensure the storage containers and the way it is secured on the ship is satisfactory to USCG rules and regulations. We will likely utilize ~1000 gallons of non‐ethanol gasoline.

4. SOW Paragraph II.C.3 and II.F.17 ‐ Is an EMT certified crew member mandatory?

The EMT is optional but preferred (ref SOW para B.2 on pg4). The SOW will be updated (see below) to remove this as a requirement in the other sections. We prefer not to give up one of our scientific party berths aboard the ship for a mariner with EMT qualifications. We will have a remote medical doctor subscription and extensive medical kit so that we may call a doctor 24/7 in the event of a medical emergency.

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Statement of Work rev1

VESSEL SUPPORT FOR MARINE DEBRIS RECOVERY EFFORTS

IN THE NORTHWESTERN HAWAIIAN ISLANDS

STATEMENT OF WORK/SPECIFICATIONS

The contractor shall furnish the necessary personnel, material, equipment, services and facilities (except as otherwise specified) to perform the following Statement of Work and meet the following specifications.

A. OVERALL DESCRIPTION:

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Pacific Islands Fisheries

Science Center (PIFSC) is located in Honolulu, Hawaii. The Center (PIFSC) is responsible for research on federally managed marine fisheries, protected species such as the endangered Hawaiian monk seal and Hawaiian green sea turtle.

The contractor shall provide a vessel that will support remote marine debris removal operations. Marine debris removal support include: assisting with ship and small boat operations to safely launch and recover small boats and loads of marine debris from the small boats, contained in helicopter sling nets and large bulk bags, via the ship’s crane.

Additional responsibilities include deck management of marine debris storage.

Additional ancillary scientific activities may be conducted in conjunction with these activities in a manner not to interfere with the vessel’s primary mission.

The planned charter will require the following:

One (1) trip not to exceed thirty (30) days at sea (DAS) are required along with four (4) days to mobilize and demobilize, and up to 14 days of required Shelter‐in‐Place (SIP) for all seagoing personnel immediately prior to departure. This project will take place in the

August‐September 2021 time period. The length of trips and itineraries will be dependent on the berthing capabilities of the selected vessel as well as operational needs as decided by the Chief Scientist.

B. OPERATIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

1. The PIFSC requires a vessel to support remote marine debris removal operations. This work will be conducted from a vessel with government supplied small boats deployed from the vessel.

The vessel shall be suitable for distant open‐ocean work with sufficient fuel, sewage treatment, water, food stores and shall meet all permitting requirements to transit and operate in the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument (PMNM). The vessel shall have in proper working order all required United States Coast Guard (USCG) approved safety, lifesaving, navigation, and communication devices. The vessel shall be compliant with existing NOAA, PMNM, State of Hawaii, and federal regulations. The Captain shall have a valid merchant mariner’s license for the appropriate vessel size and have experience operating in PMNM waters, including experience with small boat shore landings, navigating unmarked channels and near shore areas of the PMNM.

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2. The contractor shall furnish the necessary personnel/crew, equipment, and services to support scientific and conservation operations. Scientific equipment will be furnished by the Government. In addition, the contractor shall accommodate minor modifications to the deck space or removal and/or relocation of equipment to accommodate the project as needed.

3. The chief scientist or designated alternate has final authority for the work schedule except for work stoppage resulting from uncontrollable situations such as unsafe weather and sea state conditions and other safety‐of‐life‐at‐sea considerations as determined by the Captain.

4. The contractor must comply with all government requirements for COVID mitigation. This may include UNOLS, NOAA, or other requirements and will be discussed at the post‐award meeting.

These requirements may include but are not limited to the following:

a. 14 day shelter in place (SIP) for all seagoing personnel (and households if SIP is at home) prior to departure.

b. Confirmed negative COVID test(s) for all seagoing personnel at pre‐specified time points prior to departure. Tests for contractor personnel will be at the contractor’s expense.

c. PPE including but not limited to: gloves, face coverings (covering nose and mouth) and face shields in some situations.

d. Adequate cleaning supplies for cleaning common use areas frequently for the duration of the trip.

e. Adequate hand sanitizer for use by all seagoing personnel frequently for the duration of the trip.

f. Appropriate and adequate medical supplies to provide basic medical support to personnel with COVID‐like symptoms for up to seven (7) days and a supply of quick screen COVID tests (if available).

g. If anyone on the vessel displays COVID‐like symptoms the vessel will return to port immediately. The vessel must have the ability to isolate any personnel comfortably who exhibit COVID‐like symptoms for the duration of the return to port.

h. Optional but preferred: A medical professional (EMT or higher) that is capable of conducting a quick‐screen COVID test (if available) while underway and caring for contractors or government personnel that may exhibit COVID‐like symptoms while underway.

C. OPERATIONAL AREA:

HAWAIIAN ARCHIPELAGO INCLUDING MAIN HAWAIIAN ISLANDS AND

NORTHWESTERN HAWAIIAN ISLANDS ‐ PAPAHĀNAUMOKUĀKEA MARINE NATIONAL

MONUMENT:

Charter operations will begin and end in Honolulu, Hawaii, and the majority of the work will be conducted in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands (NWHI), within the boundaries of the PMNM. At the discretion of the Government, an in‐port at Midway Atoll may be

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incorporated into the operational plan for the purposes of marine debris pick‐up, scientific surveys, personnel transfer, fuel and supply restocking. The furthest work site is expected to be Kure Atoll, located approximately 1,200 nautical miles (NM) from

Honolulu, Hawaii.

D. GENERAL INFORMATION:

1. The scientific personnel will include Federal, contractor, and partner personnel as well as personnel from the University of Hawaii and/or the Research Corporation of the University of Hawaii.

2. The contractor shall provide a certificate of insurance that indicates that the contractor vessel is adequately insured (Protection & Indemnity Insurance with limits of at least $5,000,000 per occurrence, and if the project is based both onboard the vessel and on land, Marine General Liability Insurance with limits of at least $1,000,000 per occurrence and $2,000,000 per project aggregate). The required limits of insurance may be provided by a single policy or through a combination of primary and excess policies. The insurance shall name the Research Corporation of the University of Hawaii and the University of Hawaii as additional insured.

3. The contractor is responsible for maintaining all contractor provided equipment, vessel, personnel, services and facilities in a state of operational readiness.

Operational readiness is defined as the capability to function in a safe manner to accomplish mission objectives and meet Government and contract specifications.

4. If any contractor provided items (equipment, vessel, staff, etc.) are determined to not be in a state of readiness prior to or during the charter period, the contractor shall

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make every reasonable effort to quickly remedy the situation so as to continue contract performance. If contractor deficiencies prevent Government operations which are conducted on‐station (such as marine debris operations or other operations) from occurring for more than four (4) cumulative hours between 0600 to 1800 or prevent Government operations while underway (transits or other shipboard activities) for more than twelve (12) cumulative hours from 0000 to 2359, then the contractor shall be considered deficient and “off charter” for that entire day.

5. A status of operational non‐readiness in excess of four (4) cumulative days may be grounds for termination of the contract. In the event that the breakdown requires the vessel to return to port for repairs, the vessel will not be considered back on‐charter for billing purposes until the vessel returns to the site where the vessel originally went off‐charter.

6. The Government may require compensation from the contractor for Government incurred expenses associated with being off‐charter.

7. During field operations and transits, a charter day shall be based on 24 hours of operation. When the vessel is in‐port during mobilization/demobilization and/or staging of Government equipment and personnel, it is anticipated that only a partial charter day will be required. During in‐port charter days, access to the vessel by Government personnel will be requested primarily during normal business hours. The Chief Scientist will coordinate with the Captain regarding the loading of equipment and Government personnel prior to departure and the unloading after return.

8. Fishing is not permitted within the boundaries of the PMNM. When outside of the boundaries of the PMNM other fishing regulations may apply and shall be followed at all times. Fishing operations may also be constrained at the discretion of the Chief scientist based on scientific operations at times the vessel is operating in areas where fishing would otherwise be allowed.

9. Documents (e.g. liability waivers, rules of conduct, etc.) that the contractor will require embarking personnel to sign must be provided as part of the proposal and will be evaluated in terms of impact to the project and be reviewed by the Government’s legal counsel.

II. SPECIFICATIONS:

A. VESSEL REQUIREMENTS:

1. The vessel operator/owner shall obtain a permit allowing operations within the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument (PMNM). The vessel’s permit shall cover all activities related to vessel operations including but not limited to: navigation, access to the PMNM, overboard discharge, anchoring, prohibited fishing, pre‐trip inspections, and Vessel Monitoring System (VMS). The vessel shall undergo all PMNM required maintenance and inspection prior to the charter and provide appropriate documentation. The PMNM may be contacted for a full description of vessel

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permitting requirements. (A separate Scientific and/or Resource Management type of permit which will cover the Government’s personnel and operations will be obtained by the Government.)

2. Vessel must demonstrate compliance with USCG Shipping Regulations found in 46 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Parts 1‐199; vessel applicability of the various Subchapters as determined by the service employed in. Owner/operators may demonstrate regulatory compliance acceptable to the local USCG Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection (OCMI) as a USCG inspected vessel Certificated as a Passenger, Freight or Oceanographic Research vessel.

Note: USCG Certificated means the vessel is operating with a Certificate of Inspection issued by the USCG; demonstrating compliance with the applicable Subchapter inspection requirements found in 46 CFR Parts 1‐199.

3. Vessel shall be minimum 100 feet in length.

4. The vessel shall be able to maintain a minimum cruising speed of 8 knots in sea state 6 (sustained winds of 21 to 26 knots with 9 to 12 feet seas).

5. The vessel shall have sufficient fuel capacity and reserves to accommodate 30 days of continuous operations. Fuel consumption estimates can be based on 50% of the time transiting between locations and 50% of the time on‐station with all housekeeping, deck, electrical, and other necessary services available.

6. The vessel shall have sufficient endurance to depart Honolulu, conduct a minimum of 30 days of operations at sites as far away as Kure Atoll, and safely return to Honolulu.

7. The quote shall provide specifications for fuel capacity and fuel consumption rates for the vessel underway at 8 knots. These will be used as a factor in evaluating responses to the solicitation to assess the vessel’s endurance and the estimated cost of fuel for a given charter operation. This should not be misunderstood as a desire on the part of the Government to constrain the vessel’s speed to 8 knots. The vessel’s captain is expected to work with the Government to determine the most effective safe speed for vessel operation and fuel costs will be reimbursed based on actual expenses.

8. The vessel shall be equipped with the appropriate compliment of tools and spare parts necessary to maintain general vessel operations for the duration of the charter.

9. The vessel shall have seawater and freshwater deck hoses for rinsing equipment and processing scientific samples on a daily basis. An on/off switch or tap shall be readily available from the working deck.

10. The vessel shall have at least one compressed air hose near the on‐deck work area, capable of 125 psi.

11. The vessel shall have at least one standard 110V power outlet available on the working deck for the purpose of operating hand tools, shop vacuums, lights, etc. in the vicinity of the small boats.

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12. The vessel must be equipped with a crane that meets the American Bureau of Shipping standards for loading and off‐loading scientific equipment and supplies. The crane must be of suitable weight lifting capacity to safely load and off load supplies including secured pallets of gear, pallet tub totes, gasoline drums, marine debris, etc.

of up to 2000 pounds per load.

13. The vessel shall be able to carry, launch and recover at least four (4) small boats up to 19 ft. LOA and 4000 pounds each with attached outboard motors (provided by the Government), and loads of marine debris up to 2000 pounds. Launch and recovery operations and marine debris recovery operations must be able to be conducted in conditions up to sea state 5 (sustained winds of 16 to 20 knots with seas of 6 to 9 feet). Ability to launch and recover small boats in up to 25 knots sustained wind speed is desired if conducted in a protected area with calm sea state. All decisions regarding the suitability of launch and recovery conditions within these parameters will be made by the Chief Scientist in consultation with the vessel Captain. When launching and recovering boats with personnel aboard, all hoisting systems, harness components, and attachment points that have a safety factor of 6:1.

14. The vessel shall be equipped with all necessary deck hardware (cleats, bits, chocks, etc.) to properly accommodate all handling and control lines needed for safe small boat launch, recovery, and alongside‐ship operations. The Government will work with the contractor after the contract is awarded to evaluate suitability of deck hardware given the specific vessel’s deck layout, crane reach, and personnel/ladder cutout location.

15. The vessel shall provide deck storage area for the following:

a. At least 1200 sq. ft. for small boats, motors, scientific gear and accessories, and storage of marine debris (cargo nets and large bulk bags). The 1200 sq.

ft. includes space for four (4) small boats up to 19 ft. LOA. Deck storage area may be continuous or separated into sections throughout the vessel, such that a minimum continuous space provided is at least 200 sq. ft. All of this deck space needs to be accessible by crane.

b. Sufficient deck space for at least six (6) 20‐foot steel open or closed‐top shipping containers (20 feet long by 8 feet wide and 8.5 feet high) or equivalent deck and/or hold capacity for storage of scientific gear or marine debris. The vessel shall have the ability to safely secure containers while underway and when on work sites. The containers will be provided by the Government.

c. At least 300 sq. ft. for palletized storage of Government provided equipment with access to any of the pallets while underway and/or on‐ station. Pallet dimensions are approximately 4x4x4 feet.

16. The vessel shall have a dry storage area of at least 300 cu ft. in the interior of the

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vessel for holding scientific equipment, electronics, and other items. The dry storage area may be continuous or separated into sections throughout the vessel.

17. The vessel shall have an indoor dry counter work area suitable for placing Government provided computers, printers, and other electronic/office equipment and for performing office‐type duties. The workspace shall be at least 20 sq. ft. with adjacent electrical outlets (120VAC, 60 Hz).

18. The contractor shall provide clean and sanitary berthing accommodations and steward services for a minimum of twelve (12) and up to sixteen (16) male and female personnel. Berthing space shall contain at least one drawer or closet per occupant for stowage of clothing and personal gear, lighting, ventilation, and separated from machinery or fuel tanks. Quarters and furnishings shall contain fireproof installations where applicable. Containerized berthing accommodations are acceptable as long as they meet all regulations and requirements set forth by the USCG.

19. Berthing requirements, including number and gender of Government personnel, will be provided by the Chief Scientist, a minimum of 30 days prior to departure. The Chief Scientist and Captain shall work together on a detailed berthing plan to accommodate the gender mix of the Government personnel, taking into consideration the current compliment of the ship.

20. The vessel shall have a potable fresh water supply, including showers and laundry, for all personnel aboard for the duration of the charter. The potable water system shall have dedicated tanks (treated and coated), ventilated with insect screens installed (if appropriate), and a dedicated fresh water hose for rinsing boats, dive equipment, and engines.

21. The vessel shall provide clean linens including mattresses, clean fitted sheets, pillows, and towels for Government personnel.

22. The vessel shall have a minimum of two heads and two freshwater showers available to Government personnel. Additional heads/showers are desired but not required.

The vessel shall provide sufficient soap, toilet paper, and paper towels for the number of personnel on‐board and the duration of the charter.

23. All vessel workspaces, berthing, and galley spaces shall be adequately ventilated and free from tobacco smoke, excessive engine noise, and hydrocarbon fumes.

24. The vessel shall have a functioning washer and dryer for Government personnel laundry use. The vessel shall provide laundry detergent sufficient for the number of personnel on‐board and the duration of the charter.

25. The vessel shall be able to safely store and dispense a minimum of 1000 gallons of unleaded gasoline fuel to refuel Government provided small boats.

26. The vessel shall have a location to secure a Hazmat cabinet 4 ft. wide by 3 ft. deep and

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6 ft. tall. The cabinet will be provided by the Government for the storage of chemicals used in scientific operations.

27. The vessel shall be ballasted to maintain sea‐kindliness during the charter. The operating area is within the PMNM which has strict rules for discharge. Fuel considered as ballast shall not be considered in the vessel’s fuel‐endurance estimate;

freshwater considered as ballast shall not be considered in the vessel’s potable water estimate.

28. In an effort to reduce marine debris pollution, the Captain shall comply with waste management regulations as described in 33 CFR part 151 and MARPOL Annex V of MARPOL and as regulated by the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument (PMNM). The vessel shall have a storage facility, with or without a trash compactor, to retain all refuse so that it is not disposed of within the Marine National Monument. At no time shall plastic be discharged from the vessel. Household trash shall not be mixed with marine debris during transport.

29. The vessel shall meet all PMNM discharge requirements (e.g. grey water, black water, dive gear disinfection rinse water). The vessel shall minimize transits outside PMNM boundaries to discharge waste water by having sufficient holding capacity to store and/or treat wastewater. Any transits made outside the PMNM boundaries for the purpose of waste discharge shall not impact the Government’s ability to execute operations during core daylight operational hours (0700‐1700) as outlined in the project instructions unless approved by the Chief Scientist.

30. The vessel shall be equipped with a minimum of one anchor and sufficient ground tackle to safely and securely anchor the vessel. Consistent with mission objectives, the vessel and small boats will employ anchoring methods in accordance with the PMNM regulations to minimize damage to coral reef habitats during any anchoring operations.

31. The vessel shall be able to maintain underway status, including all engine‐room functionality the entire duration of the charter. The vessel shall be able to maintain all housekeeping, deck, and other necessary services while underway or while on‐station (at anchor or otherwise).

B. ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT and COMMUNICATION REQUIREMENTS:

1. The vessel shall have a minimum of two (2) VHF radios, one (1) of which shall be fixed mounted in the bridge. Two (2) additional VHF radios are required for each contractor provided skiff. The Government will provide VHF radios for the Government personnel and Government supplied boats.

2. The vessel shall have a minimum of two (2) long‐range communication devices, such as single side‐band HF radios or satellite communications.

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3. The vessel shall provide a competent watch stander on the bridge during all operations to monitor and respond to radio communications, check‐ins and/or emergency call‐ins with field personnel.

4. The vessel shall have a minimum of one (1) plotter (flatbed or CRT) with capability of plotting input from GPS.

5. The vessel shall have a minimum of two (2) GPS (Global Positioning System) units. GPS units must be in proper working order at all times during the charter to plot and automatically update the vessel’s position.

6. The vessel shall be equipped with a minimum of two (2) radar units suitable for marine vessels, with a minimum range of 24 nautical miles.

7. The vessel shall be equipped with a primary and a backup depth sounder to facilitate navigation and operations requiring information about the depth of water beneath the vessel. Depth sounders must report in units that match those on nautical charts.

8. The vessel shall be equipped with an electronic navigation/charting system with GPS NMEA input (or similar), that allows for continuous recording of the vessel’s position and track‐line. The vessel shall be equipped with a back‐up navigation system. When requested by the Chief Scientist, the Contractor shall provide the vessel’s geo‐ positional data during the charter period.

9. The vessel shall be equipped with a Vessel Monitoring System (VMS), in compliance with PMNM regulations.

10. The vessel shall have the capability to receive up‐to‐date weather information (e.g.

Weather fax or other system). The Captain shall download, discuss, and review the weather reports on a daily basis with the Chief Scientist.

11. The vessel shall have nautical paper charts (largest scale available) of the operational and transit areas.

12. The vessel shall have the capability for Government staff to send and receive emails necessary for mission‐related communication while underway. Full satellite internet access capabilities are desired but not required.

C. CREW REQUIREMENTS:

1. The contractor shall provide a Captain, appropriately licensed by the USCG for the gross tonnage of the vessel, for the duration of the charter. The Captain shall be competent in the use of navigation and safety equipment. The Captain shall have experience launching and recovering small boats; approaching islands, navigating unmarked channels; operating in the near shore environment. The Captain shall have the ability to

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compute and monitor the vessel’s trim and stability to make certain the vessel always remains within trim and stability guidelines. It is desired, but not required, that the Captain have experience in the Northwest Hawaiian islands, conducting debris removal, oceanographic and scientific operations.

2. The contractor shall provide adequate crew to effect the safe operation of the vessel and provide appropriate watch standing schedules. The contractor shall provide skilled individuals on the vessel capable of crane operations and line handling for launch and recovery of all small boats and cargo. Additional tasks will not interfere with mandatory rest periods as stipulated in 46 CFR 15.705. A small boat launch/recovery practice and risk‐assessment session may be required for all personnel in controlled conditions after the start of the charter, but prior to beginning actual small boat operations. This will take place at the discretion of the Chief Scientist.

3. In addition to crew listed above, the contractor must provide a certified medical professional (Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) level or above) that will sail with the vessel, to provide medical care in the event of injury or illness of contractor or government personnel while underway.

4.3. It is desired, but not required, that all vessel mates, operators and small boat coxswains have experience operating in near shore areas.

5.4. All vessel's crew and scientific staff shall comply with NOAA and PIFSC personal conduct policies including: EEO, workplace harassment, substance abuse, safety and environmental awareness. A zero tolerance policy will be enforced.

6.5. The contractor must provide safe, efficient working conditions and accommodations to the Government personnel free from violence, threats of violence, harassment (including sexual harassment), intimidation, and other disruptive behavior. The contractor, its agents, subcontractors, and employees, including the Captain and crew of the vessel shall not harass, assault, oppose, impede, intimidate, threaten, interfere with or make unwelcome advances toward any member of Government personnel. Violation may result in termination of the contract, and consequent liability of the contractor to the Government for any costs incurred, as well as debarment, suspension or similar action from future participation in Government contracts. Violation of the contractor’s obligations may result in criminal and/or civil prosecution of the person(s) involved by either the Government or affected Government personnel, as provided by applicable law, as well as adverse performance evaluation under the terms and conditions of this contract.

7.6. During the charter period, all firearms shall remain locked and secured by the Captain.

8.7. During the charter period, the possession or use of intoxicating alcohol and/or illegal drugs, by any person, is not permitted and may be grounds for termination of this contract by the Government.

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9.8. Presence of family members: unless serving as crew, the spouses or children of crewmembers or owner(s) may not accompany the vessel during the term of the charter without obtaining prior written approval from the Contracting Officer).

D. GOVERNMENT PERSONNEL:

1. The Government personnel may include both males and females. The Government personnel may consist of Government employees and/or employees of corporations, academic institutions, contractors, or other entities.

2. The Contracting Officer Representative (COR) is the primary point of contact for contract management issues, including contract performance and invoicing. On each charter one of the Government’s personnel will be designated Chief Scientist. The Chief Scientist will be on‐board and responsible for implementation of the Project Instructions, reporting compliance of vessel and crew with the contract terms, all scientific operations, and the conduct and performance of Government personnel aboard the vessel for the duration of the charter. The Chief Scientist and the Captain shall work together to achieve the goals of the Project Instructions (Reference Paragraph G.2) in a safe and cost‐effective manner. Any problems that cannot be resolved by the Chief Scientist and the Captain shall be referred to the COR, who will consult with and advise the Contracting Officer to determine a resolution.

3. Government personnel will provide safety, survival, and emergency equipment for operations conducted away from the vessel, i.e. in government‐provided small boats or on islands/atolls.

4. Government personnel will not be involved in responsibilities typical of the vessel’s crew, such as standing watch, cooking meals, cleaning, or operating mechanical or non‐

Government equipment.

E. OPERATING PROCEDURES:

1. The contractor shall provide all Government personnel three (3) nutritionally balanced meals and two (2) snacks served daily. Fresh food, hot entrees, fruits, and vegetables shall be a regular part of the meal service. Meal portions shall be sufficient to accommodate the needs of field personnel engaged in vigorous physical activity throughout the day. All meals shall include options with sufficient nutritional content to accommodate alternative dietary needs such as vegetarian or lactose free. Special dietary requirements of Government personnel will be provided to the vessel’s Captain at least seven days prior to charter departure.

2. The contractor shall make available drinking water and non‐alcoholic beverages at all times. Meal times shall be coordinated with the Chief Scientist to accommodate the need to complete operations and the time required for the steward to prepare meals.

At the discretion of the Chief Scientist, packaged meals and refreshments shall be provided for Government personnel and crew conducting operations away from the

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vessel. The Chief Scientist will notify the steward one day prior to needing packaged meals.

3. Meal service shall begin one hour before departure, extend throughout the charter, and end two hours after arrival to the final port. Meal service shall include in‐port days unless notified by the Chief Scientist.

4. The workday length and hours will be determined by the Chief Scientist in consultation with the Captain. The decision will be based on the type of operations expected (transiting, debris removal, etc.) as well as on the prevailing weather conditions and the Project Instructions. The length of the work day will generally range from dawn until dusk and will not exceed 12 hours, per NOAA regulations. The workday for the vessel’s crew will likely exceed that of the Government personnel, as they will be required to conduct wheelhouse/anchor watches and maintain the vessel's equipment. The Chief Scientist has the final authority for the scientific operations of the vessel and Government personnel, except in matters relating to safety of the vessel and personnel on board.

5. The Chief Scientist and Captain shall meet daily to discuss operations and weather forecasts; and to resolve any problems that occur.

6. Prior to the start of operations each day, all personnel involved in the day’s operations (both Government and Contractor staff) must attend a safety briefing led by the Chief Scientist to conduct risk assessment and discuss safety concerns.

7. The Chief Scientist and Captain shall work together to resolve all problems which occur regarding the charter and operations while underway. In the event the Chief Scientist and Captain are unable to resolve any problem which has the potential to significantly impact the scientific mission or threatens the safety of the Government personnel, the Chief Scientist under consultation with the COR and Contracting Officer, may direct the vessel to return to port where an acceptable solution will be arranged between the Government and the contractor, or the charter may be terminated. The vessel will be off‐charter if required to return to port and will remain off‐charter until the problem has been resolved and the vessel has returned to the survey area.

8. The Captain and crew shall exercise due caution and follow safety procedures as directed by the Chief Scientist to protect Government personnel and to help prevent damage or loss of Government gear and equipment. Specific safety procedures may be provided to the Captain by the Chief Scientist. Repair or replacement costs may be deducted from charter payments if loss or damage to Government equipment is the result of negligent disregard of such instructions and procedures.

9. All contractor and vessel equipment specified in the Government's statement of work and that which is not specified but is necessary for the safe and continuous operation of the vessel shall be operational at the beginning of the charter and maintained in working order throughout the duration of the charter.

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10. The contractor shall provide assistance in loading, off‐loading, and staging large gear/equipment in preparation for departure and upon return to port.

11. The government will stage all government provided gear and supplies, and embark all government personnel at the NOAA Inouye Regional Facility (IRC) at Ford Island, Pearl Harbor. The contractor shall load and offload all large government provided gear, and supplies at the NOAA IRC at Ford Island, Pearl Harbor. Government personnel shall load and offload small hand carried items. The Chief Scientist shall coordinate with the Captain to arrange appropriate times for mobilizing and demobilizing.

12. In the event of an incidental take of a marine mammal or federally listed wildlife species during the course of the charter, the Chief Scientist will report the incident to the PIFSC Science Director and Deputy Science Director immediately. The following definitions apply: Take – under section 3(18) of the Endangered Species Act (ESA), “…to harass, harm, pursue, hunt, shoot, wound, kill, trap, capture or collect, or to attempt to engage in any such conduct.” Incidental Take – take that is incidental to, but not the purpose of, otherwise lawful activities.

13. In accordance with NOAA Diving Program (NDP) Regulations, no diving (freediving, snorkel or SCUBA) outside of mission operations shall be conducted by the vessel crew or Government personnel. Any dives outside the scope of the charter and the direct mission will require approval by the PIFSC Unit Diving Supervisor (UDS). The contractor is responsible for providing diver support, if necessary, for vessel husbandry activities (hull maintenance, propeller or rudder de‐fouling, anchor maintenance, etc.)

14. During the charter, all small boat activities must be approved by the Chief Scientist and shall only be conducted in support of the scientific mission.

15. The vessel may be required to undergo a U.S. Customs and Immigration inspection in the event that port calls were made outside of the U.S. Customs boundary, including Midway Island.

F. SAFETY:

1. The Captain is responsible for all matters relating to safety of personnel, the vessel, and equipment operation. The Captain shall adhere at all times to Federal Navigation Regulations (33 CFR), COMDTINST M16672.2D, Navigation Rules (International ‐ Inland), the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, 1972 (72 COLREGS), and the Inland Navigation Rules. The Captain shall review all safety procedures and equipment with Government personnel at the beginning of the charter, and when new scientific personnel join the vessel.

2. The contractor must adhere to the safety and lifesaving requirements set forth in 46 CFR and/or as required by application of appropriate regulation.

3. The Captain must be proficient in written and spoken English. Deck crew shall be proficient in spoken English.

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4. The contractor shall conduct a pre‐charter shipboard and safety briefing for all crew and Government personnel. The following instructions/notices shall be posted or provided in English:

a. Muster list and emergency Instructions;

b. Life raft location, operating and launching instructions;

c. PFD and immersion suit location and use instructions; procedures for abandon ship, man overboard and fire safety.

5. Periodic and unannounced safety drills (organized by the Captain and Chief Scientist) shall be conducted during each leg of the charter (if necessary).

6. The Government may require the contractor to test/demonstrate the vessel’s safety equipment/procedures (e.g. emergency steering gear, etc.) prior to the charter.

7. The contractor must provide appropriate first aid and small boat emergency supplies for the contractor‐supplied small boat(s) when conducting operations away from the vessel.

The Government will provide emergency supplies and equipment for the Government‐ supplied small boats when conducting operations away from the vessel.

8. The vessel must be provisioned with appropriate first‐aid and medical supplies including adequate supplies to provide basic medical support for animal bites, common injuries (including slips, trips, falls, sprains, strains) and illness (including seasickness, common cold, food borne illness, etc.) and at least one Automated External Defibrillator (AED) unit. Additional medical supplies required for suspected COVID case described in section 1.B.4.g.

9. The contractor shall provide the Stability Letter from the vessel's Stability Report, certified by a licensed naval architect/marine engineer, which describes the vessel's stability characteristics for the intended charter operations. Recent stability or marine survey reports, pictures, drawings or blueprints should be included along with other required information to assist in the evaluation. Trim and Stability shall be recalculated when the vessel’s load or characteristics change, which may occur on a frequent basis when conducting field camp support or accumulating marine debris during operations and/or offloading field camp or scientific supplies.

10. The contractor shall provide a certified inspection of all fire screen and watertight doors, certified by a licensed naval architect/marine engineer.

11. All personnel working or being transported in a small boat(s) shall wear a USCG approved personal flotation device (PFD) and footwear that covers the toes and has a secure heel‐strap and shall abide by The NOAA Small Boat Standards and Procedures Manual, 4th Edition: https://www.omao.noaa.gov/find/media/documents/small‐boat‐ standards‐and‐procedures‐manual‐41‐edition. The contractor must comply with all NOAA requirements, including PFD use when launching and recovering boats, working with lines and gear over the side of the vessel, loading and offloading gear from boats alongside the vessel, and when operating small boats.

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12. Safety gear shall meet USCG standards. It is desired that safety gear is also SOLAS compliant.

13. All personnel engaged in deploying equipment over‐the‐side, including launch and recovery of boats, shall wear a USCG approved PFD and footwear that covers the toes and has a secure heel strap.

14. All personnel working on deck where loads shall be transferred overhead, either by crane or by hand, shall wear appropriate head protection provided by the contractor.

15. VHF radio contact shall be maintained between the vessel and small boat(s) while away from the vessel. The vessel shall provide a competent watch stander on the bridge at all times. During all small boat operations, the watch stander shall monitor and respond to VHF radio communications, check‐ins, and emergency call‐ins with Government personnel away from the vessel.

16. A Category I 406 MHZ EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon) must be affixed to the exterior of the vessel in a manner approved by the USCG.

17. At least one crew member shall have survival and firefighting training. EMT (Emergency Medical Technician) or greater advanced medical training for at least one crew member is desired.

18.17. “No Smoking” signs shall be posted near any fuel and hazardous material storage areas, SCUBA tanks, oxygen cylinders, air compressor and any other hazardous areas.

G. PRE/POST CHARTER MEETING, AND PROJECT INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Upon award of a contract and prior to the start of the charter, a post‐award meeting will be held to discuss the charter operations. The COR will schedule a mutually agreeable date, time, and location of the meeting in Honolulu, Hawaii or provide a platform for a virtual meeting. At a minimum, the COR and vessel Captain must be in attendance. At this time the government will conduct a readiness inspection and require documentation listed in the deliverables section of this contract. At this time the contractor shall facilitate a vessel readiness inspection, showing compliance with all aspects of the SOW, providing required documentation and inspection of the vessel.

2. The Chief Scientist will draft Project Instructions that will detail the mission, itinerary, scientific personnel, project provided equipment, and operations conducted on the charter. The Project Instructions will be provided to the contract vessel no later than 30 days prior to departure.

3. A pre‐charter meeting will be scheduled by the Chief Scientist with the Captain of the vessel to review the Project Instructions and discuss charter related issues and operations. Additional personnel may attend, including but not limited to: project

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leaders, NOAA representatives, Government personnel, and essential contract personnel.

4. After completion of the charter, a post‐charter debriefing will be held within ten (10) days of return to port to provide the charter operator an evaluation of the performance of the vessel and crew during the charter. The COR will schedule a mutually agreeable date, time, and location of the meeting in Honolulu, Hawaii. The Chief Scientist, Captain of the vessel and additional personnel may attend, including but not limited to project leaders, NOAA representatives, Government personnel, and essential contract personnel. Any concerns regarding unresolved issues that arose during the charter, efficiency, safety and suggestions for improving future charters may also be discussed at this time.

H. FUEL COSTS, MOORAGE FEES, AND COMMUNICATION FEES

1. The contractor shall provide for all operating expenses of the vessel and contractor supplied equipment.

2. Fuel and mooring fees specific and unique to the charter, and communication fees incurred by the Chief Scientist or authorized Government personnel will be reimbursed by the Government and based on the actual costs incurred and in accordance with the section of the contract titled, “Invoicing for Fuel and Moorage.” The contractor shall provide all supporting documentation required for reimbursements by the Government.

3. The vessel must start the charter adequately fueled at the contractor’s expense. The contractor shall provide the Government with verification of the actual fuel levels on‐ board. Fueling after the start of the charter shall be coordinated with the COR. Fuel shall be provided by a Government fuel contractor or shall be provided by the vessel contractor and reimbursed by the Government. Supporting documents must be provided for reimbursement. At the completion of the charter, the vessel shall be refueled to the level at which it was at the start of the charter by a Government fuel contractor or vessel contractor, at the expense of the Government.

I. GOVERNMENT‐PROVIDED EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES:

A comprehensive list of Government equipment and supplies will be provided to the contractor in the Project Instructions 30 days prior to charter departure.

J. DELIVERABLES

The following is a schedule of all deliverables, including administrative deliverables, required during the period of performance of this contract:

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Item Description Due Date Recipient Reference

SOW

Paragraph

Post‐award meeting

Meeting with COR and Captain

(at minimum) to discuss charter operations after the contract has been awarded.

following award COR II.G.1

Pre‐charter meeting

Meeting with Captain and

Chief scientist (at minimum) to discuss charter operations

14‐30 days prior to scheduled departure date.

COR and

Chief

Scientist

II.G.3

USCG Certificate of

Inspection

Available at post‐ award meeting

COR II.A.2

Certificate of

Insurance

Available at post‐ award meeting

COR II.D.1

Captain and crew qualifications

Available at post‐ award meeting

COR II.C.1

Vessel stability report

Available at post‐ award meeting

COR II.F.10

Rat inspection PMNM permit requirement 48 hours prior to departure

PMNM II.A.1

Hull inspection PMNM permit requirement 14 days prior to departure

PMNM II.A.1

PMNM permit Prior to scheduled departure date.

COR II.A.1

Post‐charter debrief meeting

Meeting with Captain, COR, and Chief scientist (at minimum) to debrief on charter operations

No more than 10 days post‐return.

COR and

Chief

Scientist

II.G.4

III. REFERENCES

1. 46 CFR 28.210 FIRST AID EQUIPMENT AND TRAINING

2. 46 CFR 28.265 EMERGENCY…