Smoke Detector J and A .docx

January 10, 2025

JUSTIFICATION AND APPROVAL (J&A)

FOR OTHER THAN FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION

UNDER THE AUTHORITY OF THE

MULTIPLE AWARD SCHEDULE PROGRAM FAR 8.401

1. The Office of Acquisition Management is conducting this acquisition for Smoke Detectors. This includes BRK Model – SMI100 Ionized smoke sensing detector on behalf of OBO/OPS/FIRE.

2.

3. Nature and/or description of the action being approved.

To exercise a one-time buy prior to submitting a full and open four-year solicitation. We urgently need to procure smoke detectors because they are required for ongoing projects. The original detector [BRK Model – FG250B] is now discontinued/obsolete and this model is an adequate replacement. Smoke Detectors have a 10-year service life and many Posts are replacing hundreds of outdated detectors all at once. The installation of smoke detectors is detrimental to preventing loss of life.

4. A description of the supplies or services required to meet the Department’s needs. OBO/OPS/FIRE provides parts for 280+ Posts worldwide. Given the number of units that exist in the field and the training provided to Post staff to install and maintain these units, it is essential to operations and safety to deploy a similar style and manufacturer. All Department of State principal buildings require alarm and detection systems to comply with adopted codes, standards, Department policy, and Federal laws. The part required by this J&A is essential to reducing life safety risks.

5. An identification of the statutory authority permitting other than full and open competition.

This purchase will be made under FAR 6.302-2 Unusual & Compelling Urgency. This requirement was awarded under purchase orders for FedBid/Unison, however the orders were terminated for lack of receipt of the alarms. The order were issued in FY 24. There is currently a backlog of alarms need worldwide.

5. A demonstration that the proposed contractor’s unique qualifications or the nature of the acquisition requires use of the authority cited.

This manufacturer’s product has been tested over time to be very reliable and more effective than other tried and tested units.

6. A description of efforts made to ensure that offers are solicited from as many potential sources as is practicable.

This requirement was awarded under purchase orders for FedBid/Unison, however the orders were terminated for lack of receipt of the alarms. The orders were issued in FY 24. There is currently a backlog of alarms need worldwide.

7. A determination by the Contracting Officer that the anticipated cost to the Government will be fair and reasonable.

A Fair and Reasonable Determination will be conducted and evaluated.

8. A description of the market survey conducted and the results or a statement of the reasons a market survey was not conducted.

Market research was conducted to find the best replacement for the discontinued model.

9. Any other facts supporting the use of other than full and open competition.

This requirement was awarded under purchase orders for FedBid/Unison, however the orders were terminated for lack of receipt of the alarms. The order were issued in FY 24. There is currently a backlog of alarms need worldwide.

10. A listing of sources, if any, that expressed, in writing, an interest in the acquisition.

N/A

11. A statement of the actions, if any, the agency may take to remove or overcome any barriers to competition before any subsequent acquisition for the supplies or services required. Include a statement that this J&A for other than full and open competition will be published.

None