P03_ Single Source Justification fully.pdf

VHAPG Part 813.106 Simplified Acquisition Procedures: Soliciting from a Single Source Single Source Justification for SAP under the SAT

Revision: 02 Effective Date: 12/30/2025 Page 1 of 1 Acquisition ID# 36C241-26-AP-2796

DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS

Justification for Single Source Awards IAW FAR 13.106-1 For

Over Micro-Purchase Threshold but Not Exceeding the SAT ($250K)

Acquisition Plan Action ID: 36C241-26-AP-2796

1. Contracting Activity: Network Contracting Office 1, Regional Procurement Office East on behalf of the Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Integrated Service Networks (VISN 1), White River Junction VA Medical Center 163 Veterans Drive White River Junction, VT 05001-0001. Funding 405- 26-3-4121-0025.

2. Brief Description of Supplies/ Services required and the intended use/Estimated Amount: This is a new, brand name requirement. The Contracting Activity intends to procure (8) Transcend Stair Chair, Model No. 0731406 manufactured by OEM LB Ferno‑Washington, Inc. 70 Weil Way Wilmington, Ohio, 45177 for White River Junction VA Medical Center. The FERNO Model 59E EZ‑Glide Evacuation Chair is a high‑performance emergency transport device engineered to safely move seated individuals’ downstairs and across flat surfaces during evacuations. It uses a belted EZ‑Glide track system that allows operators to glide rather than carry the patient, significantly reducing physical strain and improving safety for both operator and passenger. Estimated Amount

(IGCE) $38,985.44.

3. Unique characteristics that limit availability to only one source, with the reason no other supplies or services can be used: The FERNO Model 59E EZ‑Glide Evacuation Chair stands out for its advanced EZ‑Glide belted track system, which enables controlled, no‑lift stair descent that reduces operator strain and enhances safety during emergency evacuations. Its high 500‑lb weight capacity and ergonomic multi‑position lift handles allow operators to maintain proper posture while maneuvering patients of various sizes through tight or challenging spaces. The chair’s compact 10‑inch folding profile, responsive swivel wheels, reflective safety markings, and included restraint system make it a reliable, ready‑to‑deploy solution in facilities where rapid, safe vertical movement of immobile individuals is essential. The White River Junction VA Medical Center requires the procurement of Ferno evacuation chairs to ensure the safe, timely, and compliant evacuation of patients, visitors, and staff during emergency incidents. WRJ’s facility has multiple areas where patients with limited mobility would be unable to self-evacuate in the event of fire, power loss, elevator outages, or other emergencies requiring vertical movement. Evacuation chairs are an essential component of life safety compliance and directly support The Joint Commission, OSHA, NFPA 101 Life Safety Code, and VA emergency preparedness requirements. Currently, the facility does not have an adequate number of evacuation chairs strategically placed, and the existing chairs are outdated and require replacement to maintain operational readiness. White River Junction VA Medical Center is requesting the FERNO Model 59E EZ-Glide evacuation chair to maintain brand consistency across its facility. The site previously purchased the same model on October 12, 2010, under Purchase Card Order 405-P04166, and continuing with the identical brand and model ensures uniform functionality, standardized staff training, and compatibility with existing evacuation equipment already in service.

VHAPG Part 813.106 Simplified Acquisition Procedures: Soliciting from a Single Source Single Source Justification for SAP under the SAT

Revision: 02 Effective Date: 12/30/2025 Page 1 of 1 Acquisition ID# 36C241-26-AP-2796

4. Description of market research conducted and results or statement why it was not conducted:

The Contracting Activity initiated comprehensive market research to determine the availability of Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (SDVOSBs) and other small businesses capable of fulfilling the requirement for Stryker evacuation chairs, as mandated by VA’s Small Business First policy and federal acquisition regulations.

The first step was a search of the SBA database using NAICS code 339113 (Surgical Appliance and Supplies Manufacturing) with a filter for SDVOSB certification. This general search generated a broad pool of 1,204 SDVOSB contractors associated with this NAICS code. However, this only established the potential for SDVOSB involvement at the NAICS category level and did not confirm capability or authorization to distribute the specific brand and model of evacuation chair required.

The SBA DSBS database was queried using NAICS 339113 along with the keywords “Ferno Evacuation Chairs.” This targeted search yielded five profiles that generally matched the search criteria. Upon further investigation, only one of these entities were authorized distributors of Ferno evacuation chairs who was the manufacturer, FERNO WASHINGTON, INC. (UEI: L295YVKPFVS8)

A subsequent search using the keyword “Ferno EZ Glide” under Awarding Office 36C241 and NAICS 339113 in the ADDS UP system identified 13 contract actions for purchases of stair glides and ez access ramps which are unrelated to the Ferno EZ Glide Evacuation Chair. The majority of these previous procurements were sourced from Bruno Independent Living Aids Inc, a small business.

The NAC database was queried using catalog number “0731406,” resulting in 0 active items.

A GSA search with the keyword “Ferno” identified only one schedule contractor under the manufacturer FERNO WASHINGTON INC: BMK VENTURES, INC., an SDVOSB and authorized Ferno distributor.

Market research has identified two SDVOSB’s BMK Ventures Inc. and SEVA Technical Services who are capable of providing the required Ferno evacuation chairs. The rule of two has been met.

In compliance with federal regulations and VA policy, this procurement will be set aside for SDVOSB.

Accordingly, the contracting activity intends to publish a combined synopsis/solicitation on Contract Opportunities (SAM.gov) under solicitation ID 36C24126Q0463 with a set-aside for small business after approval of this approach.

5. Contracting Officer's Certification: Purchase is approved in accordance with FAR13.106-1(b). I certify that the foregoing justification is accurate and complete to the best of my knowledge and belief.

Phillip Crockett Date Contracting Officer

NCO 1/ RPO EAST