P09- PWS -Amended.pdf

B.2 Performance Work Statement

1. INTRODUCTION:

1.1. The Department of Veterans Affairs, VA Caribbean Healthcare System (VACHS), San Juan, Puerto Rico intends to negotiate and award a contract under the authority of The Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR) Part 12 and FAR Part 15. This solicitation is being conducted using the policies of FAR Part 12, Acquisition of Commercial Items, in conjunction with the policies and procedures for evaluation and award prescribed in FAR Part 15, Contracting by Negotiation.

1.2. The VA Caribbean Healthcare System (VACHS) is in need of acquiring unarmed security guard services at VA premises and certain space leased directly by VA for the delivery of medical care. Locations are as follows: San Juan Medical Center, Mayaguez, Ponce, Ceiba, Arecibo, Vieques, St. Thomas and St. Croix Community Based Outpatient Clinics (CBOC’s), Carolina Warehouse, and certain sites within the VACHS currently under construction. The contractor shall furnish all labor, managerial supervision, material, equipment, transportation and associated supplies necessary to provide unarmed security guard services at the specified locations.

1.3. Period of Performance and Schedule of Service: The Intended period of performance is a base period of three (3) months and four (4) option periods of twelve (12) months each from the date of award. The performance period will be divided as stated on price/cost schedule. The contractor must have all necessary insurance, licensing, and sufficient employees to perform the contract work upon award.

1.4. Background Information: Unarmed security guard services have been acquired by contract to compliment government security service for the VACHS facilities since 1994.

The projected contract is a follow-on effort intended to compliment VA Caribbean Healthcare System Security Services, in order to maintain the security of the facility to the highest security standards in accordance with 38 CFR 1.218 – Security and law enforcement at VA facilities and, DVA Security and Law Enforcement Circular letter 07- 91-1. Contractor security guards shall exercise any local law enforcement authority vested in them within the limits of their licensing or special police commissioning by the State in which located. This exercise of local law enforcement authority does not include authorization to bear firearms on VA owned/leased property or buildings.

1.5. State Licensing: As used in the PWS, the term “State” means Commonwealth of Puerto Rico and US Virgin Islands respectively.

1.5.1 Licensing of Security Guards: Contractor shall ensure all Security guards possess a current permit and the correspondent security guard license for the location where services will be performed (Commonwealth of Puerto Rico and/or US Virgin Islands). Federal immunity from state regulation is not applicable to this order. If the license is not obtained prior to performance start date, contractor will show proof of application submission with all fee payments and successful completion of all prerequisites for licensing. All guards, whether or not they have received a license, must be fully trained and qualified before posting.

1.5.2 Licensing of contractor: At the time of submitting the offer, the contractor shall possess a Security Agency license in accordance with Puerto Rico Law 108 and US Virgin Islands Code Title 23, Chapter 17. Contractor must possess Certificates and licenses to the extent such certificates or licenses are required to obtain security guard license for their employees before start of performance for both locations, Commonwealth of Puerto Rico and US Virgin Islands. Federal immunity from state regulation is not applicable to this task.

1.6. Type of Contract: VA anticipates the award of a Performance Based Firm-Fixed Price contract based on the contents of this solicitation.

1.7. VACHS Universal Mask Program is applicable to this contract. VACHS Universal Mask Program requires every health care worker (HCW) to wear a healthcare face mask while in VACHS. Health care worker is defined as any person required to work at a VACHS facility including contractors, must always wear a healthcare face mask while in

VACHS.

2. REQUIREMENTS: DESCRIPTION OF SERVICES:

2.1. The Contractor shall be licensed and certified in the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico and US Virgin Islands respectively and have experience in performing security services.

The Contractor shall provide licensed unarmed security guards trained and qualified on duty from the first day of performance through completion of the contract in accordance with the Performance Based Work Statement (PWS) and any other mandatory federal, state, local and VA regulation.

2.2. The Security Guard Agency/Company License shall be held by the Security Agency Principal executive officer as referenced in PR Law 108 section 285c. For the USVI the Security Guard Agency/Company license shall be held by the Security Agency Owner or by an employee occupying a Managerial position (i.e. Principal Officer, Vice President), contractor shall arrange to maintain License holder in place during the entire contract performance period. The term “Principal executive officer” refers to directors and managers of corporate affairs who establish policy, control ordinary affairs, and supervise the corporation. Company license shall be effective, without interruption;

during the entire contract performance period.

2.3. Security Guard 1 – Position No. 27101, as per Department of labor (DOL) Directory of Occupations, meets minimum requirements for this solicitation/contract.

2.4. Length of security guards shift assignments shall comply with federal and local labor laws.

2.5. Guards shall stagger their arrival time so as to work no more than eight (8) hours daily.

The contractor shall provide necessary guards to cover all posts without interruption.

Overtime (OT) hours are not contemplated in this contract.

2.6. Security services shall be provided at designated locations on a continuous basis.

2.7. POSTINGS AND SITE LOCATIONS: Site locations consist of the following:

Site #1 - VA Medical Center, San Juan, PR (Gate # 1) 10 Casia Street, San Juan PR 00921-3201 One (1) post, 24 hours, seven days a week including federal holidays.

Site #2 - VA Medical Center, San Juan, PR (Gate # 2) 10 Casia Street, San Juan PR 00921-3201 One (1) Post, 24 hours seven days a week including federal holidays

Site #3 - VA Medical Center, San Juan, PR (Gate # 3) 10 Casia Street, San Juan PR 00921-3201 One (1) post, Monday thru Friday, excluding federal holidays from: 4:00 am – 8:00 pm

Saturday and Sunday from: 5:00 am – 9:00 pm

Site #4 - VA Medical Center, San Juan, PR (Gate # 4) 10 Casia Street, San Juan PR 00921-3201 One (1) post, Monday thru Friday, excluding federal holidays from 5:00 am – 6:00 pm

Site #5 - VA Medical Center, San Juan, PR (Gate # 5-Exit Gate) 10 Casia Street, San Juan PR 00921-3201 One (1) post, Monday thru Friday, excluding federal holidays from 5:00 am – 6:00 pm

Site #6 - VA Medical Center, San Juan, PR (Traffic Circle) 10 Casia Street, San Juan PR 00921-3201 Monday thru Friday, excluding federal holidays from 6:00 am – 2:00 pm

Site#7 A - VA Medical Center, San Juan, PR (Multi-Level & Pedestrian Traffic) 10 Casia Street, San Juan PR 00921-3201 Monday thru Friday excluding federal holidays, 5:00 am – 9:00 am

Site#7 B - VA Medical Center, San Juan, PR (Multi-Level B) 10 Casia Street, San Juan PR 00921-3201 Monday thru Friday excluding federal holidays, 4:00 am – 8:00 pm

Site #8 A - AMA Parking Lot, San Juan, PR (AMA 1) off-site parking lot No. 37 De Diego Avenue, Monacillos Ward, San Juan, PR 00927 One (1) post, Monday thru Friday, excluding federal holidays from 4:00 am – 8:00 am

Site #8 B- AMA Parking Lot, San Juan, PR (AMA 3) off-site parking lot No. 37 De Diego Avenue, Monacillos Ward, San Juan, PR 00927 One (1) post, Monday thru Friday, excluding federal holidays from 5:00 am – 9:00 pm

Site #9 A - VA Warehouse, Carolina, PR (Carolina Warehouse) off-site warehouse 150 Jose Santana Ave. Warehouse Carolina, PR 00979 One (1) post, 24 hours, seven days a week including federal holidays.

Site #9 B – VA Warehouse, Carolina, PR (Carolina Warehouse) Off-Site 35 Tony Santana Ave., Carolina, PR 00979 One (1) post, 24 hours seven days a week including federal holidays

Site #10 - VA Medical Center, San Juan, PR (Loading Dock) 10 Casia Street, San Juan PR 00921-3201 One (1) post, Monday thru Friday, excluding federal holidays from 4:00 am – 6:00 pm

Site # 11 - VA Ceiba Community–Based Outpatient Clinic, Ceiba, PR (CCBOC) 311 Lauro Piñero, Ceiba PR 00735

One (1) post, Monday thru Friday, excluding federal holidays from 7:00 am – 11:00 am / 1:30 pm - 5:30 pm

Site # 12 - VA Ponce Outpatient Clinic, Ponce, PR (POPC) Paseo Del Veterano #1010 Ponce, PR 00716-2001 Two (2) posts Monday thru Friday excluding holidays as follows: One (1) post from 6:00 am – 2:00 pm and one (1) post from 10:00 am – 6:00 pm

Site # 13 - VA Mayagüez Outpatient Clinic, Mayaguez, PR (MOPC) 175 Avenida Algarrobo, Mayaguez, PR 00680-1507 Two (2) posts Monday thru Friday excluding holidays as follows: One (1) post from 6:00 am – 2:00 pm and one (1) post from 10:00 am – 6:00 pm

Site # 14 - VA Arecibo Community–Based Outpatient Clinic, Arecibo, PR (ACBOC) Calle Jose Rodriguez Irizarry #152, Arecibo; PR 00612 One (1) post, 24 hours seven days a week including federal holidays

Site # 15 - VA Vieques Rural Outpatient Clinic Centro de Salud Familiar Susana Centeno, Co. Destino Carretera #997, Vieques, PR 00765 One (1) post, 24 hours, seven days a week including federal holidays.

Site # 16- VA St. Thomas Community-Based Outpatient Clinic, St. Thomas (CBOC) VI Medical Foundation, Suite 101, 50 Estates Thomas, St. Thomas, U.S.V.I. 00802 One (1) post, Monday thru Friday, excluding federal holidays, from 8:00 am – 4:30 pm

Site # 17 - VA St. Croix Community-Based Outpatient Clinic, St. Croix (CBOC) The Village Mall #113 Kings Hill, St. Croix, USVI 00850-4701 One (1) post, Monday thru Friday, excluding federal holidays, from 8:00 am – 4:30 pm

2.8. ADDITIVE ALTERNATE POSTINGS AND SITE LOCATIONS: Due to the multiple ongoing construction projects being held at the VACHS, the Government may need to add, delete or transfer security guard posts within the VA Caribbean Healthcare System (VACHS) facilities. Facilities Additions, deletions or modifications of Posts and hours of coverage needed will be processed via supplemental agreement.

The Arecibo Clinic is currently operating on a temporary trailer village. Upon Government acceptance of a permanent clinic facility the location and post hours of services needed will be adjusted.

The VACHS is currently operating in response to COVID-19 Pandemic emergency and the need of Guard Posts to support those temporary emergency operations is being assessed periodically. Therefore, any COVID-19 Posts need (addition, deletion, change in hours, etc.) is to be processed via supplemental agreement based on facility emergency operations periodical assessment.

Addition, deletion and redistribution of Posts and Guards in response to an emergency, natural disaster, pandemics, or any other unforeseen event compromising the security of the facilities, veterans, employees and visitors will be processed via supplemental agreement.

2.9. Contractor shall provide backup guard service during periods of absence, vacation or sick leave. Back-up guards shall have all training required of the regularly scheduled guards.

Prior to utilizing back-up guards, the contractor shall notify the COR. No employee changes shall be issued without the authorization of the COR.

2.10. Productive man hours shall include only the actual working time of the employee performing the Services as specified on the individual Guard Post Assignment Record.

This record may be a VA Form 1433, or any other Contractor Form previously approved by the Contracting Officer. All contract employees shall sign-in and sign-out including lunch break during his/her work schedule.

2.11. Guards shall use systems for communication (i.e., two-way walkie-talkie, handheld radios) within and outside the property on the same frequency as the Government VA Police Officers. Government personnel as assigned, together with security contract; will operate handheld radios during emergencies. The Government will furnish all handheld radios with the Government VA Police frequency. The Contractor will furnish two-way walkie-talkie with a different frequency from the VA Police to perform task that require high radio traffic, thus avoiding congestion of the Government VA Police Frequency.

Contractor shall handle all radios in a responsible and save manner as to avoid equipment malfunction, damage or lost. Note: Contractor shall provide all equipment not otherwise furnished by the Government necessary to safely perform all task requirements set forth in this PWS.

2.12. All property furnished by the Government under this contract shall remain the property of the Government. Upon contract completion the contractor shall render an accounting of all property that has come into his/her possession under this contract. All equipment issued by the Government to the contractor shall be issued in accordance with VA Manual MP-2, Subchapter E, Subpart 1-8-27.5201 (copy on file at Administration Office) or at: vaww1.va.gov/vhapublications/publications.CFM?Pub=2

2.13. Any property furnished by the Government to fulfill contract requirements which is lost or damaged resulting from improper use or negligence by the contractor’s employee, shall be repaired or replaced by the Government and the cost of such repairs or replacement shall be deducted from the contractor’s invoice or the contract price. The contractor shall take all reasonable precautions to safeguard and protect Government property.

2.14. Government property shall be used for official Government business only in the performance of this contract. The contractor or contractor’s employees will not use government property for personal advantage, business gain or other personal endeavor.

2.15. Rules and Regulations governing Security and Law Enforcement and Standard of Conduct on Veterans Affairs Property (38 CFR 1.218-1.220) are posted in all buildings under the charge and control of the Veterans Affairs and are applicable to all persons entering in or on such property.

2.16. VHA Directive 0730 contains the basic procedures and forms to be used during the course of the contract and will be supplied by the Contracting Officer Representative (COR). While this Directive applies to VA Police Officers, it serves as a primary guide for VA contracted security services and shall be followed to the maximum extent practicable.

Information to be provide at post-award meeting, or as determined by the CO.

2.17. The Government shall have and exercise full and complete control over granting, denying, withholding or terminating clearance for contractor employees providing service under this contract. The Government will, as it deems appropriate, authorize and grant temporary clearance to employees of the contractor. However, the granting of a temporary clearance to any employee shall not assure a full clearance will follow, and the granting of either a temporary or full clearance shall not prevent, preclude or bar the withdrawal or termination of any clearance by the Government.

2.18. An officer’s duty book with Standard Operating Procedures will be furnished by the COR. This book shall be maintained by the contractor at a central control point. It will contain complete duty instructions for the post involved to include emergency procedures.

The officer’s duty book shall not be removed from government property or reproduced or copied in any manner unless properly authorized, in writing, by the COR.

2.19. The contractor shall assume full liability for any act of his/her employee in the exercise of any and all such police authority and duties exercised under this contract.

3. DEFINITIONS:

(a) Unarmed Guard: Person authorized to perform duties and responsibilities in the protection of lives, properties and crime prevention by local, state and federal regulations with proper issuance of license to performed security guards’ duties.

(b) C.I.P.: Any of commercially marketed aerosol type chemical canisters commonly referred as mace.

(c) Nightstick: Any commercially marketed clubs for police use including those made by wood and metal and other called batons.

(d) Contracting Officer (CO): The Contracting Officer is a person with the authority to enter into, administer, and/or terminate contracts and make related determinations and findings.

(e) Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR): Is responsible to furnish technical guidance and advice or generally monitor the work performed under the contract.

The term includes certain authorized representatives of the Contracting Officer acting within the limits of their authority as delegated by the Contracting Officer.

Representatives will not be authorized to make any commitments or changes, which will affect the price, quantity, and quality or delivery terms. (A Contracting Officer acting within his/her authority must authorize all changes to a contract.)

(f) Standard Operating Instruction (SOI): Administrative manual defining routine and standard procedures for handling situations and matters pertaining to service requirements.

(g) All-inclusive fee/price: Any equipment, supply, material, or services required in the performance of this contract (i.e. site visit to the VACHS for training the contractor, meeting, background investigation, etc.) shall be included in the price of the line items.

(h) Contractor: Commercial business awarded contract.

(i) VACHS or VA: Veterans Affairs Caribbean Healthcare System.

(j) MOPC: Mayaguez Outpatient Clinic

(k) POPC: Ponce Outpatient Clinic

(l) CCBOC: Ceiba Community–Based Outpatient Clinic

(m) ACBOC: Arecibo Community–Based Outpatient Clinic

(n) Federal Holidays: Legal holidays recognized by the Federal Government in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 6103, Executive Order 11582 and Public Law 94-97 or any other by the President of the United States to be a national holiday.

(o) Acceptance Signature: VA employee’s signature (COR or designee) on Contractor’s service report/documentation demonstrating service conclusions and accepting work as complete.

(p) Authorization Signature: COR signature indicates COR accepts work status as stated in Service Report.

(q) Quality Assurance: Those actions taken by the government to assure services meet the requirements of the Performance Work Statement (PWS).

(r) Those actions taken by a contractor to control the performance of services so that they can meet the requirements of the PWS.

4. CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION DATA:

4.1. The Contracting Officer is the only person authorized to approve changes or modify any of the requirements under this contract.

4.1. The Contractor shall communicate with the Contracting Officer on all matters pertaining to contract administration.

4.2. Only the Contracting Officer is authorized to make commitment or issue changes that will affect price, quantity or quality of performance of this contract.

4.3. In the event the Contractor effects any such change at the direction of any person other than the Contracting Officer, the change shall be considered to have been made without authority and no adjustment will be made in the contract price to cover any increase in cost incurred thereof.

4.4. The Contractor shall perform the specific services listed herein in a professional manner, in accordance with high quality standard practices and in accordance with local/federal laws and regulations.

5. HOLIDAYS: Work performance may or may not require work during U.S. federal Holidays.

Each post in the schedule of prices/services specifies the required working schedule.

In accordance with 5 U.S.C. 6103, Executive Order 11582 and Public Law 94-97 the following national holidays are observed and for the purpose of this contract are defined as "Legal Federal, official holidays”.

New Year’s Day January 1st.

Martin Luther King’s Birthday 3rd Monday in January Washington’s Birthday 3rd Monday in February Good Friday Memorial Day Last Monday in May Independence Day July 4th Labor Day 1st Monday in September Columbus Day 2nd Monday in October Veteran’s Day November 11th Thanksgiving Day Last Thursday of November Christmas Day December 25th

Or any other specifically declared by the President of the United States to be a National Holiday.

5.1 Emergency or Special Event Services. The contractor may often be required to work beyond the established normal duty hours or respond on short notice beyond normal duty hours in emergency or urgent situations. The contractor shall respond immediately to any emergency call. Deployment of security guard shall occur not later than one (1) hour following Government notification. All emergency or special event services will be processed as supplemental agreement.

6. GUARD QUALIFICATIONS AND CONTRACT STANDARDS:

6.1. Contractor shall insure all guards meet all training, licensing, and certification requirements as identified in the following supporting paragraphs.

6.2. Contractor employees performing guard services shall be U.S. citizens with a minimum of eighteen (18) years of age or as required by local laws.

6.3. Pre-Performance Training and Job Knowledge: Contractor provides all pre-performance and in-service training and is responsible for all associated expenses to include, but not limited to, state fees, license fees, and certification fees. A reasonable degree of proficiency and knowledge of the specific tasks and associated security guard skills identified under paragraph 7, Performance Requirements; are required under this contract. Contractor employees shall meet training requirements for the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico.

6.4. The contractor shall provide a certified instructor to conduct all training that directly pertains to the duties to be performed by the contractor guards. As a minimum the following trainings shall be provided:

• Use of Force/Rules of Engagement

• Emergency response

• Intruder confrontation

• Conflict resolution

• Interpersonal communication

• OSHA

• Physical security

• Customer Service

• Protective equipment and Procedures to include Blood Borne Pathogens

6.5. This can be a combination of Classroom Presentation, Video-based training, and assigned reading. Proof of training shall be provided for all attendees who participate in the training and pass the required performance test on the subject. Proof of the training will be in any form that documents the following: Company Name providing the training, Instructor and Participant names, lesson subject and training date.

6.6. All guards shall possess a valid license issued by the appropriate authority of the location in which it will perform its duties. Guards assigned to Puerto Rico facilities shall possess license as per Commonwealth of Puerto Rico Public Law 108 to exercise security guard duties and guards assigned to St. Thomas and St. Croix shall possess license as per US Virgin Islands Code of Law. Must possess a high school diploma or equivalency, and have two (2) years of experience demonstrating: the ability to meet and deal with general public; ability to read, understand and apply printed rules, detailed orders, instructions, and training materials; the ability to maintain poise and self-control under stress; ability to construct and write clear, concise, accurate and detailed reports.

6.7. Guards working under this contract shall not have felony convictions and no convictions that reflect on the individual's reliability.

6.8. Guards shall be literate in English to the extent of reading and understanding printed regulations, detailed written orders, training instructions and material, and shall be able to compose reports which convey complete information.

6.9. The contractor shall appoint a Lead Guard/Supervisor. This individual shall be skilled and trained to act on behalf of the Contractor for all matters relating to this contract. This person and his/her alternates shall maintain a presence at the VA Caribbean Healthcare System (San Juan facility) for a full 8-hours shift: Monday thru Friday on any consecutive 8 hours shift as coordinated with the COR and shall be on call the remainder of the 24-hour day, 7 days per week.

6.10. The Lead Guard shall be capable of interpreting and implementing all functions required within the contract specifications and shall ensure that other guards perform their duties as outlined in the PWS. The name of this individual shall be provided to the COR, in writing, prior to the appointment. This requirement applies to any replacement individual.

6.11. The Lead Guard shall have at least five (5) years of supervisory experience on projects of the same size and complexity to the Government requirement.

6.12. CONTRACTOR FURNISHED ITEMS: Contractor will ensure all contract guards are properly equipped in accordance with the requirements of this PWS. Contractor will ensure the contract guards are trained and certified in the proper use of any equipment and material item necessary in the performance of duties under this PWS. All guards must be fully equipped prior to posting.

6.13. Uniforms: The contractor will provide standard tactical security guard uniforms in accordance with commercial standards. The color of the uniform shall be any neutral color. Cold colors such as dark or light blue shall not be used since those colors are the ones used by the VA Police Officers and the PR Police Department. Contractor shall provide a complete uniform set sample (physical or digital image, see instructions to offerors evaluation factor for details) along with his proposal, for Government evaluation;

prior to purchase. Uniform set will be returned to offeror upon Government evaluation.

Contractor shall supply an appropriate number of uniforms per employee to ensure each employee reports for duty with a clean, neatly pressed uniform (see paragraph 17)

6.14. All guards shall wear, on the right breast of outer garment; identification Name badge, whether such garment is a shirt, overcoat, or raincoat. When contractor provides badges, they shall be worn on the left breast of outer garment. Uniform accessories will uniformly match, in standard black or brown in color. Standard security cap will be worn.

Cap shall identify the company and shall not use the wording “Police” in it or any other uniform accessory.

6.15. No guard shall enter on duty without wearing the proper uniform, including accessories. Guards shall wear their hair neatly fashioned and not to extend below the collar, female guards shall wear their hair neatly fashioned in a bun or similar for safety and security matters. Dark sunglasses shall not be worn when performing in-building duties. No more than two finger rings may be worn while on duty (e.g., wedding, class).

Male guards will not wear earrings. Female guards will be allowed to wear “stud” earrings not exceeding 1/8” in width; this is the only allowable pierced accessory. All guards shall be in uniform and ready to begin work promptly at the start of their shift and shall and remain on the job (with the exception of established breaks and/or lunch periods) and in full uniform until the end of their tour of duty.

6.16. The contractor is required to provide guards with supplementary equipment including, but not limited to, notebooks, pens, pencils, flashlights to include replacement batteries & bulbs, etc., and traffic control safety apparel (i.e. raincoats, reflective vests, flashlights etc.). Supplemental or personal equipment (concealed or unconcealed firearms, knives, “come-along” or other nonstandard items) are not authorized. Security guard equipment will not include firearms, nightsticks or mace.

6.17. Guards are required to adhere to the facility’s no smoking policy. There is no smoking in the building or corridors, this is a smoke free facility. Guards who smoke will be restricted to smoking only in the authorized exterior smoking areas. At no time will a guard have a cigarette, pipe, and cigar or chewing any type of tobacco or gum when offering information to patients, visitors or employees.

6.18. The use of personal cellphones is not authorized while guard is on duty.

6.19. Initial Startup: Before performance under the contract, for the purpose of performance orientation and site/equipment operation orientation; the contractor or his/her supervisor shall visit all VA Premises and Parking Spaces listed in paragraph 2.7 with the Contracting Officer and/or the COR.

7. PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS:

7.1. Guards shall be UNARMED. Assignments include but are not limited to the following;

Contractor shall:

7.2. Check in/out process: Each security guard shall report into the VA Police supervisor assigned to the shift, before beginning their tour and when ending the same.

7.3. Operate and enforce a system of personnel identification as necessary. All patients, staff and vendors will be asked for a valid ID as they enter any entry control point location.

7.4. Perform checks of individual identification for authenticity. The Contractor shall provide courteous and timely service continuously while maintaining control of all personnel during required document verification and or personnel identification processing prior to allowing entry to the premises.

7.5. Perform limited inspection of vehicles.

7.6. Perform package inspection when directed to do so.

7.7. Conduct random and established patrols in accordance with established site facility needs, routes and schedules.

7.8. Direct traffic at gates (vehicle and pedestrian), control parking.

7.9. Observe parking occupants and visitors for compliance with posted rules and regulations. Notify VA Police of any violation.

7.10. Parking lot security shall include continuous checks of the parking area to assure the following rules are adhere to:

a. Handicapped drivers use handicap parking only and all safety codes are being met in parking and driving areas.

b. Fire lanes are free of parked vehicles.

c. Reserved parking spaces for government vehicles and staff from visiting facilities are enforced.

d. Patrol government leased parking area at the minimum four times a day.

e. Persons who appear to be acting suspiciously are challenged.

f. Directs parking lot traffic and/or assists VA police in identifying traffic/parking violations.

g. Provide timely notification of parking accidents and/or infractions to VA police.

7.11. Keep guardhouse clean and orderly.

7.12. Maintain law and order within the areas of assignment. If assistance is necessary, call the Department of Veterans Affairs, Police Department at: (787) 641- 7582 ext. 131251, 131252, 131250 and 111648.

7.13. Discover and detain persons attempting to gain unauthorized access to the property.

7.14. Report potentially hazardous conditions to the COR.

7.15. Lost and Found: Direct any employee, patient or visitor who found a lost object to the appropriate area. Patient belongings office or the Admissions counter as applicable.

7.16. Perform emergency procedures for gate closures.

7.17. Prepare required reports at the required frequencies and maintain necessary records. Reports and records shall be provided to the COR as required.

7.18. Perform other functions as necessary in the event of situations or occurrences such as civil disturbances attempt to commit espionage, sabotage, or other criminal acts adversely affecting the security and/or safety of the Government, its employees, property and the general public lawfully in parking space under the control of the Government.

7.19. Respond to emergency situations, to include psychiatric emergencies, and provide appropriate assistance as stipulated and/or limited by State Statute, and immediately notify the COR of action taken.

7.20. All guards shall be in uniform and ready to begin work promptly at the start of their shift, and shall remain on the job and in full uniform until the end of their tour of duty (with the exception of established breaks and/or lunch periods).

7.21. In the event the contract security guard is unable to report to duty, he/she is responsible for notifying the contractor’s supervisor/lead guard, not VA personnel, with sufficient time for the contractor to provide a replacement guard without shift interruption. The contractor shall provide a replacement security guard prior to the on-duty guard being relieved of duty in the event of an emergency/illness.

7.22. Contractor is required to submit evidence demonstrating each guard has received the Required Federal and Local OSHA training; training in First Aid, Heat Stress, Blood Borne Pathogens, and Workplace Violence. Documentation of training will be completed prior to assignment of a guard to duty. Also provide annual training related to security and submit a copy of the training certificate to the COR.

7.23. Reporting Requirements: The Contractor shall report to the COR any information or circumstances which may pose a threat to the security and/or safety of VACHS personnel, Contractor personnel, resources, and or visitors.

7.24. Incident Reporting: The Contractor shall immediately report all incidents to the VA Police and document the incident in writing as per the established standard operating procedure. Incidents include but are not limited to weapons discharge, breach of security, accidents, procedural violations, or injury to persons or property. The Contractor and all employees will not discuss or provide any information concerning any incident with any other private, civil, or government organization without prior approval of the COR or the Contracting Officer.

7.25. Work Schedule: The contractor shall provide a monthly work schedule to the COR to include all post, guard assigned and tour of duty.

7.26. List of Employees: The contractor shall maintain a current listing of employees by installation, which must include employee’s full name, last four digits of social security number, date of hire, guard license number and date of birth. The list will be validated by the COR and provided to CO. The list shall be provided annually and updated whenever any employee’s status or information changes.

7.27. Performance Requirements Summary: See Performance Requirements Summary

8. HEALTH AND PHYSICAL FITNESS REQUIREMENTS:

8.1 All guards assigned by the Contractor to work under this contract shall be physically able to perform all general duties, functions, and activities; shall be free from any communicable disease (i.e., active tuberculosis, mumps, measles, viral conjunctivitis, varicella, etc.).

8.2 Guards shall be well proportioned as to height and weight; shall be in good general health without physical defects or abnormalities which would interfere with the performance of these duties.

8.3 Guards shall possess binocular vision correctable to 20/30; in the better eye and 20/40 in the other eye with eyeglasses or contact lenses. If uncorrected distance vision is not at least 20/40 in the better eye, the individual shall carry an extra pair of corrective lenses. Near visual acuity, corrected or uncorrected, shall be at least 20/40 in the better eye. Field of vision must be at least 70 horizontal meridians in each eye.

8.4 The ability to distinguish red, green, and yellow colors is required. Loss of vision in one eye is disqualifying. Glaucoma shall be disqualifying unless controlled by acceptable medical or surgical means, provided such medications, as may be used for controlling glaucoma do not cause undesirable side effects which adversely affect the individuals ability to perform assigned security job duties, and provided the visual requirements stated above are met. On-the-job evaluation shall be used for individuals who exhibit a mild color vision defect. The use of corrective eyeglasses or contact lenses shall not interfere with an individual's ability to effectively perform assigned security job duties during normal or emergency operations.

(a) Guards shall be capable of hearing ordinary conversation at 15 feet with either ear without benefit of a hearing aid. A hearing aid is acceptable provided suitable testing procedures demonstrate auditory acuity equivalent to the above stated requirement. The use of a hearing aid shall not decrease the effective performance of the individual's assigned guard duties during normal or emergency operations.

(b) Each guard service employee shall be in good physical condition; be able to protect themselves and others; and withstand sudden emotional stress and physical exertion in apprehension of suspects and violators. Pursuit may be on foot, requiring running, jumping, climbing, and/or crawling, followed by physical contact to overpower the violator as necessary

(c) The contractor’s employees shall undergo annual physical examinations, with results furnished to the Contracting Officer (CO) at least five (5) days prior to assignment of the guard to duty.

(d) Diseases: Individuals shall have no established medical history or medical diagnosis of epilepsy or diabetes, or, where such a condition exists, the individual shall provide medical evidence that the condition can be controlled with proper medication so that the individual will not lapse into a coma or unconscious state while performing assigned guard services duties.

(e) Other Physical Requirements: An individual who has been incapacitated due to serious illness, injury, disease, or operation, which could interfere with the effective performance of assigned guard services duties shall, prior to resumption of such duties, provide medical evidence of recovery and ability to perform such duties.

(f) Individuals shall have no established medical history or medical diagnosis of habitual alcoholism or drug addiction, or, where such a condition has existed, the individual shall provide certified documentation of having completed a rehabilitation program which would give a reasonable degree of confidence that the individual would be capable of performing assigned guard services duties.

(g) In addition, all contractor employees shall undergo a psychological assessment, with results furnished to the Contracting Officer (CO) at least five (5) days prior to assignment of the guard to duty. This psychological assessment must be carried out in accordance with accepted professional standards by a physician or licensed practitioner authorized to conduct such examinations. For detailed policy see the Federal Personnel Manual, Chapter 339, and Medical Qualification Determinations. Security guard duties include personal encounters with patients, visitors, and other employees. Encounters are often with mentally ill, irrational or disturbed persons who although assaultive or destructive, must be handled with understanding, full control of force, and unimpeded judgment. Any emotional or mental condition which could cause the applicant to be a hazard to others or self during stress situations and physical altercations will disqualify.

9. STANDARDS OF CONDUCT:

9.1. The Contractor shall maintain satisfactory standards of employee competency, conduct, appearance, and integrity, and for taking such disciplinary action against his/her employees as may be necessary. Each contracted employee is expected to adhere to standards of conduct that reflect credit on themselves, their employer and the United States Government.

The Contractor shall require his employees to comply with the instructions, pertaining to conduct and building regulations, issues by duly appointed officials, such as the COR, guards, inspectors, etc.

Guards must at all-time use politeness and courtesy when dealing with patients, visitors and employees to the Government’s facility. The Government reserves the right to direct the Contractor to remove an employee from the work site whose performance or appearance fails to meet the required prior listed standards. Such failures include, but are not limited to, falsifying a report or statement, mishandling a weapon, loss, destruction, or irresponsible use of government property or equipment, or other criteria identified in this PWS. When so instructed, the Contractor will immediately remove such individual in accordance with the Contracting Officer’s instructions. Permanent removal of guard personnel does not relieve the Contractor of any performance requirements or create an entitlement to an equitable adjustment. The contractor will not, without the Contracting Officer’s consent, reinstate on this contract any employee who has been permanently removed. The Contractor shall initiate immediate action to replace such an employee to maintain continuity of services at no additional cost to the Government.

(a) Appearance. The Government requires a favorable image and considers it to be a major asset of a protective force. The employee's attitude, courtesy, and job knowledge are influential in creating a favorable image. The Contractor shall ensure that guard personnel at all times present a neat appearance, paying particular attention to their personal hygiene, uniform and equipment.

(b) Neglect of duties shall not be condoned. This includes sleeping on duty, unreasonable delays or failures to carry out assigned tasks, conducting personal affairs during duty hours, and refusing to render assistance or cooperate in upholding the integrity of the work site security.

(c) Disorderly conduct, use of abusive or offensive language, quarreling, intimidation by words, actions, or fighting shall not be condoned. Also included is participation in disruptive activities, which interfere with normal and efficient Government operations.

(d) Intoxicants. The Contractor shall not allow any employee (while on duty) to possess, sell, consume, or be under the influence of intoxicants, drugs, or substances, which produce similar effects.

(e) Consumption of Alcohol. The drinking of alcoholic beverages while on duty or eight hours prior to assuming duty is prohibited. No guard who has consumed alcohol during this period will be allowed to post.

(f) Relief by an Intoxicated Person. If a security guard has reason to believe that their relief is intoxicated, the on-duty guard shall not allow themselves to be relieved and will immediately notify their supervisor for guidance

(g) Narcotics. The use of narcotics or other controlled substances without a prescription from a licensed physician is prohibited.

(h) Use of Prescription Drugs. The use of prescription drugs by a security guard must be reported through the supervisor before assuming guard duty.

(i) Criminal actions. Contractor employees may be subject to criminal actions as allowed by law in certain circumstances. These include, but are not limited to, the following:

Falsification or unlawful concealment, removal, mutilation, or destruction of any official documents or records or concealment of material facts by willful omission from official documents or records.

Unauthorized use of Government property, theft, vandalism, or immoral conduct.

Unethical or improper use of official authority or credentials.

Security violations.

10. SAFETY REQUIREMENTS:

10.1. The Department of Veterans Affairs has identified the minimum worker safety standards and related training that are required by State law. All contractors providing service at VA facilities shall be in compliance with Local Regulations. These regulations require the employer to develop, implement and document written programs, as well as requiring initial and recurrent employee training and record keeping.

10.2. Hepatitis B Vaccination: Puerto Rico Code of Regulations state employers shall make available the Hepatitis B Vaccine and vaccination series to all employees who have occupation exposure, and post-exposure evaluation and follow-up to all employees who have had an exposure incident. Under the terms of this contract, the contractor will either provide, at no expense to the Government, the required vaccination defined herein, or have a letter of declination on file with the contractor. A copy of this letter shall also be filed with the COR and placed in the official contract file.

10.3. Exposure to Hazardous Working Conditions: Contractor personnel may be required to perform work under potentially hazardous conditions. Contractor shall inform personnel of this and shall provide the requisite training in the techniques to recognize and deal with such situations so as to minimize personal risk, and they must adhere to standard techniques for personal protection.

10.4. Fire and Safety: In performance of this contract, the contractor shall take all safety precautions as necessary to protect the lives and health of occupants of the building(s). The contractor shall immediately correct any fire & safety deficiencies caused by its personnel. If the contractor fails or refuses to correct deficiencies promptly, contract default may occur. The contractor will comply with applicable Federal, State and local safety and fire regulations and codes, which are in effect at the beginning of the contract period. The contractor will keep abreast of and comply with changes in these regulations and codes applicable to this contract. The contractor’s personnel shall follow applicable facility policies concerning fire & safety issues.

11. CONTRACTOR PERSONNEL SECURITY AND SUITABILITY:

11.1 Access to VA Computerized System: A background investigation must be conducted on those employees requiring access to the VA system and/or on those employees handling sensitive information. The contractor must complete and submit all necessary paperwork to the contracting officer immediately after the award date of contract.

11.1.1. Risk Level Designation: The level of Background Investigation commensurate with the level of access needed to perform the statement of work is: National Agency Check with Written Inquiries (NACI). The position risk/suitability level that has been assigned to the positions under this contract is low risk.

11.1.2. Contractor Responsibilities

• The contractor shall bear the expense of obtaining background investigations. If the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) conducts the investigation, the contractor shall reimburse VA within 30 days.

• Contractor shall submit, for all contract employees, including any subcontract employees the following:

o Within five (5) business day of receiving the Notice of Award, a Complete Background Investigation Request to the VHA Service Center (VSC) Personnel Security Office via password protected or encrypted e-mail to VSCSecurity@va.gov or fax to (216) 447-8020 Note: Due to the personal information contained in the Background Investigation Request Worksheet, the information must be sent in a secure manner. Please do not e-mail a document containing social security number.

o Complete Special Agreement Check (Fingerprinting) and submit VHA Special Agreement Check (SAC) Memorandum.

o If the contract employees receive a favorable adjudication: Then, each contract employee shall complete and submit the VHA Service Center Contractor PIV Sponsorship Form and make an appointment to obtain a PIV card. This shall be completed within five business days of reciprocation or receiving notice of initiated BI and favorable SAC Adjudication.

o The Contract employee shall complete required security training as designated in the solicitation, sign the Contractor Rules of Behavior and submit completed training certificates and signed Rules of Behavior to the Contracting Officer and the COR.

o The Government may, as it deems appropriate, authorize and grand temporary suitability determinations to employees of the Contractor. However, the granting of a temporary suitability determination to any such employee shall not be considered as assurance that a favorable suitability determination will follow as a result or condition thereof and the granting of either temporary or full determination shall in no way prevent, preclude or bar the withdrawal or termination of any such determination by the Government.

mailto:VSCSecurity@va.gov

12. TRAINING: The Contractor shall comply with VACHS mandatory trainings for all contract employees. Government furnished training, shall be given to contractor personnel before they perform on their normal duty hours. Contractor employees shall access the VA Talent Management System (TMS) at https://www.tms.va.gov to take the following VHA mandatory trainings:

• VA Privacy and Information Security Awareness and Rules of Behavior (TMS #10176)

• Privacy and HIPAA Focused Training (TMS #10203)

• Customer Service: Basic Principles (TMS #8568)

• SAJ Infection control (TMS #3631005)

12.1 All guards shall be properly trained, experienced, and skilled for their respective duties.

12.2 The contractor shall certify the completion of the mandatory trainings as well as the follow-up orientation for each guard to the COR or Contracting Officer within 45 days following the assignment to duty.

13. COMPETENCY REQUIREMENTS:

13.1 The Contractor shall provide written confirmation that employees are competent to perform the task as described in the statement of work assigned on this contract (see below sample)

CERTIFICATION OF COMPETENCY

This is to certify that ______________________meets all qualifications requirement for the position of ____________is properly trained, has all applicable credentials and is competent to perform the tasks as described in the statement of work contract.

Signature: _______________________

Date: _______________________

13.2 This written confirmation shall specify in which areas each contract employees are competent. Upon contract award-the CO and/or COR will provide a Contract Employees handbook for contract references.

13.3 The Contractor shall be responsible to maintain the required documents: Health Certificate, Good Behavior Certificate from the Puerto Rico Police Department, educational documents, and evaluation methods and qualifications standards; on all Contract Employees as established.

13.4 If the CO receives an unsuitable report on any employee…