36C25226Q0295_8.docx

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GENERAL INFORMATION

36C252 115 South 84th Street, Suite 101

Milwaukee WI 53214-1476

POINT OF CONTACT*

Vernise L. Newton vernise.newton@va.gov

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

AGENCY’S URL

URL DESCRIPTION

AGENCY CONTACT’S EMAIL ADDRESS

EMAIL DESCRIPTION

DESCRIPTION

Q&A To ensure our submission is fully compliant, technically accurate, and priced appropriately, I respectfully request clarification on the following items:

1. Is the Visoria P configuration listed in the amendment considered brand‑name only, or will the VA accept brand‑name‑or‑equal products that meet all salient characteristics?

brand‑name‑or‑equal

1. Are substitutions allowed for any optical components (objectives, eyepieces, compensator plate, Bertrand lens, condenser, etc.) if they meet or exceed the listed specifications?

We are ok with substitutes as long as they meet the listed specifications and are appropriate for the NIOSH 9002 method.

1. Does the VA require any digital imaging, software, or documentation tools beyond the Basic Docu Tube POL BDTP 25?

NO

1. Should the system include image capture, measurement software, or reporting tools for asbestos analysis?

NO

1. Is on‑site installation required, or is delivery of a fully assembled and tested system acceptable?

On-site installation is not required as long as microscope is fully assembled.

1. Is user training required? If so, how many personnel and what duration.

NO – Although basic familiarization of components, that may differ from previous models would be useful.

1. Are there any preferred brands for the refractive index liquids, compensator plates, or dispersion staining components?

As far as we understand, RI liquids should all work equally with all PLM microscopes. No specific brand is listed for compensator plate or dispersion staining components.

1. Does the VA require polarization alignment verification or any specific optical performance testing beyond NIST calibration?

Yes, polarization alignment verification requested.

1. Should the quote include spare bulbs, filters, or maintenance kits?

NO

10. Should proof of compliance with NIOSH 9002 and EPA 600/R‑93 be submitted with the quote, or provided at delivery?

Provided at delivery

11. Will a factory calibration certificate with NIST‑traceable micrometer scale satisfy the requirement, or is third‑party calibration preferred?

Unclear what requirement is being referred to here. But Factory calibration certification with the NIST traceable micrometer scale is a requirement that is requested.

12. Does the VA require participation in any laboratory accreditation programs (e.g., NVLAP) for equipment validation?

We are in the AIHA PAT Program

13. Are there any VA‑specific documentation formats required for compliance certification?

No

14. Should the contractor provide a quality assurance plan or is it not required for this procurement? Yes you may if you would like to

15. The “Place of Performance” section is blank. Could you please confirm the delivery address, building, room number, and receiving hours? It is on the original solicitation pg. 5

16. Are there any special delivery requirements (e.g., liftgate, inside delivery, white‑glove handling, security check‑in)?no

17. Is there a required delivery timeline after award? Yes the 30 days standard

18. Does the VA require on‑site acceptance testing or a post‑delivery inspection? No

19. Should packaging include any hazard warnings due to refractive index liquids or other components? yes

20. Are there any restrictions on shipping chemical reagents (e.g., RI liquids, HCl, etc.) to the facility?no21.

21. Will this procurement be awarded as a firm‑fixed‑price purchase order?yes

22. Are there any additional vendor registrations required beyond SAM (e.g., TAA compliance, VA-specific vendor portals)?no

23. Does the VA require a warranty period, and if so, what duration?no24.

24. Are extended warranties or service agreements desired or optional?no

25. Is this requirement subject to Buy American, Trade Agreements Act, or other sourcing restrictions? Possibly depending on the number of vendors that send a quote

26. Will the VA accept electronic delivery of manuals, certifications, and documentation? No

27. Should pricing include shipping, installation, training, and calibration, or should these be listed as separate line items? However your quote will be set-up. Please send a quote to my email address vernise.newton@va.gov before the deadline listed on the amendment.

28. Does the VA require a breakdown of components, or is a single total price acceptable? No

29. Are there any budgetary constraints or maximum thresholds the VA can share? n/a

30. Should the quote remain valid for a specific period beyond standard terms? If you choose to do so

31. Is there any anticipated timeline for award after the April 27 deadline? No anticipated timeline available right now

32. Will the VA issue any additional amendments or clarifications before the due date? Not sure as this time

33. Is there a preferred point of contact for technical questions versus contractual questions? As long as questions are asked 24 hours before the deadline.

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