Derrek Patton

Procurement Specialist III

Procurement Department Office of the Chief Financial Officer

Procurement Department

Argonne National Laboratory

9700 South Cass Avenue, Bldg. 201

Lemont, IL 60439 dpatton@anl.gov

June 18, 2026

TO ALL OFFERORS:

Subject:

RFP Q&A and Proposal Due Date Extension Request for FORMDROPDOWN No. 6-P106-P-00110-00 Addendum No. 2 Attached herewith for your information and use in preparing your proposal for subject project is Addendum No. 2.

Kindly acknowledge receipt of this Addendum by signing and returning a copy of this letter via email.

Sincerely, Derrek Patton Procurement Specialist III Procurement Department

Receipt Acknowledged:

Company:

By:

cc:

File

CF

Addendum No. 2

TO

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL (RFP) 6-P106-P-00110-00

FOR

Argonne National Laboratory

BLDG. 201 OCF

9700 S. Cass Ave.

Lemont, IL 60439

June 18, 2026 This addendum is being issued to modify the subject FORMDROPDOWN as follows:

Proposal Due Date Extension:

· The RFP Due Date is extended from 5:00 PM Tuesday, June 23, 2026, to 5:00 P.M., local prevailing time, Tuesday, July 7, 2026.

Clarifications:

1. Contractor Question: Can the Laboratory clarify whether proposed Key Personnel must have prior, direct experience at the specific Site at proposal submission as this requirement highly favors the incumbent contractor creating unfair advantage? Or, if candidates with relevant DOE or similarly regulated environment experience will be considered acceptable?

Argonne Response: The Laboratory does not require proposed Key Personnel to possess prior direct experience at Argonne National Laboratory. Key Personnel will be evaluated in accordance with Criterion 3 and the qualifications identified in Exhibit 2. Experience in DOE, federal, critical infrastructure, research, or other similarly regulated environments will be considered relevant. The phrase "sufficient Site familiarity" is intended to describe an understanding of the operational environment necessary to perform the position and is not intended to require prior employment or assignment at Argonne.

2. Contractor Question: Are Key Personnel covered under the CBA?

Argonne Response: No, Key Personnel are considered bona fide professionals.

3. Contractor Question: Will the Laboratory confirm Key Personnel will be evaluated in accordance with Criterion 3? If so, can the Laboratory remove the “demonstrate sufficient Site familiarity” language from the Statement of Work?

Argonne Response: The phrase "sufficient Site familiarity" is intended to describe an understanding of the operational environment necessary to perform the position and is not intended to require prior employment or assignment at Argonne.

4. Contractor Question: For purposes of accurately estimating staffing levels and labor costs, particularly given wage differentials based on seniority under the applicable Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), can the Laboratory provide the current seniority roster (or distribution of employees by seniority band) for the covered CBA positions?

Argonne Response: Argonne is not able to provide this information.

5. Contractor Question: Can the Laboratory confirm 100% of the incumbent staff are fully trained per the requirements in the Statement of Work? If not, can the Laboratory specify the number of training hours required for the incumbent staff to fully trained to the new training standards?

Argonne Response: The Laboratory expects contractor personnel assigned to Protective Force duties to maintain the qualifications, certifications, and training requirements applicable to their assigned duties in accordance with contract requirements.

The Laboratory is not aware of any new training standards introduced by this solicitation that would require a defined block of additional training hours for currently qualified incumbent personnel. As with any Protective Force workforce, personnel training and qualification status may vary over time due to hiring, attrition, qualification cycles, leave, and other routine workforce factors.

Offerors should not assume that incumbent personnel will require a specific number of additional training hours to meet new contract requirements beyond the normal training, qualification, and certification requirements identified in the Statement of Work.

6. Contractor Question: Can the Laboratory provide the current turnover rate?

Argonne Response: Argonne is not able to provide the incumbent contractor’s turnover rate.

7. Contractor Question: The Sample Contract includes an optional CLIN for the price to implement a 30-day transition period. However, the pricing form does not include a separate CLIN for the 30 day transition. Also, Enclosure No. 3 Price Proposal form shows the base period of performance starting November 1st that conflicts with the December 1, 2026, term start date in the sample contract. Can the Laboratory clarify if a revised pricing form will be provided with the revised dates (term) and a separate transition CLIN?

Argonne Response: See revised Enclosure No. 3 Price Proposal Form to propose a price for the Transition Period and for the update to the term dates.

8. Contractor Question: Can the Laboratory clarify when the 30-day transition period will begin?

Argonne Response: The transition period, as applicable, would be expected to start November 1, approximately 30 days prior to the initial start of the contract.

9. Contractor Question: Are financial penalties tied to staffing shortages or performance issues? If so, what is the calculation methodology?

Argonne Response: The contract does not establish liquidated damages or other contractual financial penalties for performance issues. However, the Contractor is required to certify performance of the services required under the contract, including required staffing levels. Any staffing shortfalls or other services not provided must be reported on the Certification and Exception Report (see Enclosure No. 2.G. – Appendix “F” Certification and Exception Report for Services Performed). Reported exceptions are used to calculate an equitable price adjustment that reduces the amount invoiced for services not provided in accordance with the contract requirements.

10. Contractor Question: For CLIN 0002 (Labor Hour) – Special Events and Assignments, can the Laboratory clarify what is the advance notification for the Special Events and Assignments (i.e., 24 hours, 48 hours, 72 hours, or more)?

Argonne Response: The SOW does not establish a minimum advance notification period for CLIN 0002 special events or assignments. Notification timelines may vary depending on the nature of the requirement. Some activities may be planned and communicated well in advance, while others may arise on shorter notice due to operational needs, special events, emergent situations, or mission requirements.

11. Contractor Question: The contract states “No later than ten (10) business days after contract award, unless otherwise approved by the Laboratory, the Contractor shall assure that all information and forms required by the Laboratory to obtain clearances for its personnel are prompt, efficient, and complete submitted to the Laboratory to enable granting of the required clearances by the completion of the transition period as defined in Appendix “B” Statement of Work.” Can the Laboratory clarify if Security Officers/Seargent/Lieutenants can stand posts while clearances are pending?

Argonne Response: Security Officers, Sergeants, and Lieutenants may perform assigned Protective Force duties while their DOE access authorization is being processed, provided they satisfy all other applicable training, qualification, badging, and access requirements. Personnel may not independently perform duties that require DOE access authorization until the required clearance has been granted. Central Alarm Station (CAS) duties currently require a DOE Q-level clearance. During transition or while personnel are awaiting access authorization, the Contractor may utilize other qualified personnel who possess the required DOE Q-level clearance to perform those CAS functions that require Q-level and maintain operational coverage. The Contractor remains responsible for ensuring personnel obtain and maintain the required DOE access authorization in accordance with the requirements of the contract.

12. Contractor Question: Can the Laboratory clarify if recurrent training hours are billable?

Argonne Response: The SOW establishes training, qualification, and compliance requirements that are the responsibility of the Contractor. Recurrent training hours are not billable as an ODC under the anticipated fixed price contract.

13. Contractor Question: Can the Laboratory provide the Government Furnished Equipment for the performance of the Statement of Work?

Argonne Response: The Laboratory provides Government-Furnished Property necessary to support contract performance. As identified in Exhibit 1, this may include uniforms, equipment, vehicles, office space, office furnishings, and Laboratory-issued computer equipment required for contract performance.

The Laboratory does not currently maintain a detailed equipment inventory as part of the solicitation documents. The specific Government-Furnished Property provided to the successful contractor will be identified and managed in accordance with Laboratory processes following contract award.

14. Contractor Question: Can the Laboratory confirm all ODCs, equipment, supplies are billable separately from labor billable rates?

Argonne Response: The Laboratory’s standard terms and conditions for Labor Hour and Time and Materials Contracts identifies materials, supplies, and computer time as allowable costs under specified circumstances. However, the Protective Force SOW identifies categories of Government-Furnished Property that will be provided by the Laboratory, including vehicles, office space, office furnishings, and Laboratory-issued computer equipment. ODCs, equipment, supplies are not anticipated for reimbursement under the fixed price contract for fixed monthly price (CLIN 1) – less any exceptions or as fully burdened hourly rates only for Special Events and Assignments (CLIN 2).

15. Contractor Question: Under Enclosure 2B Appendix A-2, Section c) Travel, can the Laboratory clarify if travel will be required under this contract?

Argonne Response: The Protective Force services described in the SOW are primarily performed on Laboratory-controlled property, including the main campus, Argonne Park, the Guest House, and the Child Care Center. The SOW does not identify any routine travel requirements associated with contract performance. There could be limited cases where travel may be required for DOE NTC training and authorized under limited circumstances during contract performance. Historically, this has occurred only once during the last five years of contract performance, and the associated travel costs were paid by ANL. Based on that experience, it is not expected for offerors to build routine travel costs into their proposed pricing.

16. Contractor Question: Can the Laboratory clarify if training hours are billable? If so, can the Laboratory confirm training hours are not included in the Enclosure No 3 Price Proposal form hours?

Argonne Response: Training hours are not billable as an ODC under the contract. Training costs should be factored into the proposed price.

17. Contractor Question: Can the Laboratory confirm all refresher training is performed while on duty?

Argonne Response: The SOW establishes that annual refresher training is primarily delivered through daily roll call and on-shift training activities as directed by the Laboratory.

18. Contractor Question: Can the Laboratory confirm if refresher training outside the shift hours is required and should be billed separately?

Argonne Response: The Laboratory's normal approach is to conduct refresher training during scheduled duty hours whenever practicable. However, the SOW also allows alternate delivery methods when necessary to meet operational or scheduling requirements. To the extent offerors are seeking clarification regarding pricing, compensation, or billing of training hours occurring outside normal duty hours, would be CLIN II.

19. Contractor Question: Can the Laboratory clarify if fuel will be provided?

Argonne Response: The Laboratory provides Protective Force vehicles for performance of the contract. Fuel required for operation of Laboratory-furnished vehicles is provided by the Laboratory.

20. Contractor Question: Can the Laboratory clarify if communication equipment will be provided? If not, can the Laboratory confirm purchase of any Contractor-furnished communication equipment will be reimbursable?

Argonne Response: The Protective Force utilizes Laboratory communication systems and equipment in support of contract performance. Communication equipment is considered Government-Furnished Property under the contract.

21. Contractor Question: Can the Laboratory clarify if office consumables (paper, pens, toner, etc.) will be provided?

Argonne Response: The Laboratory provides routine office consumables necessary to support contract performance, such as paper, writing instruments, toner, and similar office supplies. Office consumables provided by the Laboratory are not separately reimbursable to the Contractor. Procurement and management of Laboratory-furnished office consumables remain the responsibility of the Laboratory. The Laboratory will determine the types, quantities, specifications, and procurement sources for such items based on operational needs and established Laboratory processes.

22. Contractor Question: Can the Laboratory confirm an equitable adjustment for all CBA wage and benefit increases will be granted for Year 2 of the Base Period?

Argonne Response: Clause 81, FAR 52.222-43, of the Appendix A Terms and Conditions covers price adjustment requirements for multi-year contracts that are CBA covered.

23. Contractor Question: Can the Laboratory clarify if there is a separate/different CBA covering for the CAS Officer? If so, can the Laboratory provide the CBA? If not, can the Laboratory provide the appropriate WD labor category mapping for this position?

Argonne Response: No, there is no other CBA, and a Register of Wage Determinations does not apply. There is only one CBA provided in the solicitation.

24. Contractor Question: Can the Laboratory clarify if relief for lunch and breaks is required?

Argonne Response: The Contractor is responsible for staffing and scheduling personnel in a manner that maintains required post coverage and operational readiness while complying with applicable labor requirements and the provisions of the contract. The SOW does not prescribe a specific relief staffing model for meal periods or breaks.

25. Contractor Question: Can the Laboratory clarify which posts/positions require relief for lunch and breaks?

Argonne Response: The SOW identifies required staffing levels and post assignments necessary to support Protective Force operations. Offerors are responsible for developing staffing and relief strategies that maintain required operational coverage throughout the work shift. The Laboratory does not prescribe specific relief positions for individual posts.

26. Contractor Question: Can the Laboratory clarify if Roving patrols can provide relief for lunch and breaks for the Security Officers and CAS Officers?

Argonne Response: The Contractor may utilize qualified personnel to provide operational coverage and relief, provided all post qualification, training, certification, clearance, and operational requirements are satisfied. Personnel assigned to perform Central Alarm Station (CAS) duties must meet all applicable qualifications and DOE access authorization requirements associated with those duties. The Laboratory does not prescribe a specific relief methodology and will evaluate contractor performance based on the Contractor's ability to maintain required staffing levels and operational coverage.

27. Contractor Question: Can the Laboratory confirm the additional 30 minutes is to cover the required billable guard mount/roll call time? If not, specify the use of the additional 30 minutes included in Enclose 2 and Enclosure 3.

Argonne Response: Yes. The additional thirty (30) minutes reflected in the scheduled shift durations is intended to accommodate required pre-shift roll call, The scheduled coverage periods reflected in the staffing exhibits include this time and do not represent additional staffing requirements beyond those identified in the solicitation.

28. Contractor Question: If sponsorship is available, how does the anticipated FCL and FOCI processing timeline reconcile with the requirement that the clearance be in place prior to contract award?

Argonne Response: The Laboratory anticipates initiating the FCL/FOCI review process as early as practicable once a successful offeror is identified. Offerors should not assume that final FCL/FOCI approval will be completed before contract award. The successful contractor will be required to satisfy the applicable security requirements within the timeframes established by the contract.

29. Contractor Question: Would an Offeror's use of a teaming partner or subcontractor that holds an active DOE FCL satisfy this requirement at award?

Argonne Response: The prime contractor must independently obtain and maintain the required FCL and favorable FOCI determination.

30. Contractor Question: Will a “plug number” of hours or Not To Exceed number be provided to support Special Event hours?

Argonne Response: Unclear if this question is regarding the pricing proposal form or the contract. The Enclosure No. 3 Price Proposal Form requests fully burdened hourly rates under CLIN 2.A. for Special Events and Assignments. The estimated hours are for proposal computational purposes as stated in the Evaluation Criteria.

31. Contractor Question: If a company intends to take exception(s) to any of the conditions or terms of the contract, where in the proposal should they be identified?

Argonne Response: Please review Enclosure No. 4 Evaluation Criteria, Section III.B. Sub-paragraph a) through h) must be addressed in the Business/Management proposal that includes sub-paragraph g) specifically covering any proposed deviations or exceptions to any terms or draft contract.

32. Contractor Question: Are all Security personnel required to possess a security clearance to include DOE Q clearance or just CAS Personnel?

Argonne Response:

Not all Protective Force personnel are required to possess a DOE Q clearance.

Personnel assigned to duties requiring access authorization must obtain and maintain the clearance level required by the Laboratory for performance of those duties. Central Alarm Station (CAS) personnel currently require a DOE Q clearance. In addition, supervisory and Key Personnel positions require a DOE Q clearance.

Offerors should review the qualification and clearance requirements identified in the Statement of Work and associated exhibits when developing their staffing approach.

33. Contractor Question: If incumbent personnel are retained, do they need to submit to and pass a ten-panel drug screening test prior to assignment at the Laboratory, including participation in new contractor orientation?

Argonne Response: Personnel retained by the successful offeror must satisfy the pre-employment requirements established by the contractor and the qualification requirements identified in the solicitation prior to performing duties under the contract.

Incumbent personnel who are retained are not required to repeat medical or psychological evaluations solely as a result of contract transition if they remain current and qualified in accordance with the applicable qualification requirements. Ongoing medical and psychological evaluations shall continue in accordance with the required qualification schedule.

34. Contractor Question: Can a contract company propose an alternative Staffing /Shift schedule or must the shifts be 12 hours?

Argonne Response: No. Offerors shall propose staffing in accordance with the shift schedules, staffing requirements, and post coverage requirements identified in the Statement of Work and associated exhibits.

The shift schedules identified in the solicitation were developed by the Laboratory to support operational, training, relief, and continuity requirements. Alternative shift schedules or staffing models will not be considered.

35. Contractor Question: Management Coverage and Staffing Support - In the event of staffing shortages, employee call-offs, emergency vacancies, or other circumstances requiring immediate coverage to maintain contractual staffing levels, are the Project Manager, Program Manager, Site Supervisor, or other executive/management personnel expected or authorized to perform post duties and provide direct security coverage?

Additionally, please clarify whether management personnel performing post coverage may be billed under the contract and, if so, under which labor category.

Argonne Response:

The Contractor is responsible for maintaining required staffing levels and operational coverage in accordance with the contract. The Statement of Work does not prescribe the specific staffing methods the Contractor must use to address absences, vacancies, or other staffing challenges.

Any individual performing Protective Force duties must satisfy all applicable qualification, certification, training, badging, and clearance requirements associated with the assigned post or function.

The Laboratory expects Key Personnel to perform the duties and responsibilities associated with their designated positions. Offerors should not assume that hours spent performing post coverage may simultaneously be credited toward fulfillment of Key Personnel position requirements.

Questions regarding labor category billing and reimbursement should be addressed in accordance with the pricing provisions of the solicitation and resulting contract.

36. Contractor Question: Staffing Expectations / Full-Time Equivalents (FTEs) - Please clarify the Government's and/or Prime Contractor's anticipated staffing level for contract performance. Specifically, how many Full-Time Equivalents (FTEs) are expected to support the contract, including any management, supervisory, relief, or administrative positions?

If an estimated staffing model has been developed, please provide the anticipated number of personnel by labor category and indicate whether the proposed staffing level is intended as a minimum requirement, an estimated baseline, or a recommended staffing approach for offerors.

Argonne Response: The SOW identifies required staffing levels and post assignments necessary to support Protective Force operations. Offerors are responsible for developing staffing and relief strategies that maintain required operational coverage throughout the work shift.

37. Contractor Question: If the Prime Contractor requires subcontractor personnel to wear the Prime Contractor's uniform and identification in lieu of the subcontractor's company identification, please confirm that:

· This requirement has been reviewed and determined to be compliant with all applicable Illinois IDFPR regulations governing licensed private security contractors and their employees;

· The Prime Contractor acknowledges that the subcontractor must maintain compliance with all state licensing requirements applicable to its personnel;

· The Prime Contractor will assume responsibility for any regulatory compliance issues, citations, penalties, or licensing concerns arising solely from the Prime Contractor's direction regarding uniform identification; and

· The specific contractual clause, regulatory authority, agency guidance, or legal basis supporting such a requirement can be provided.

Please clarify whether the subcontractor may display its company name, state license information (where applicable), and other identifying markings required to maintain compliance with Illinois law while simultaneously meeting any site-specific uniform standards established by the Prime Contractor or the Department of Energy.

Argonne Response:

The Statement of Work requires the use of Laboratory-furnished uniforms and equipment.

Contractors remain responsible for complying with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulations, licensing requirements, and employment obligations applicable to their personnel.

The Laboratory is not aware of any conflict between the uniform requirements contained in the solicitation and applicable licensing requirements. The Laboratory-furnished uniforms do not qualify as “military-style” uniforms that require contractor agency insignia. Contractors that identify a specific regulatory concern may submit it to the Laboratory for review.

38. Contractor Question: Please confirm new officers and incumbent officers must undergo a psychological evaluation as part of their medical certification.

Argonne Response: Yes. New officers must successfully complete all applicable DOE medical certification requirements, including the psychological evaluation components required as part of the pre-placement medical certification process.

Incumbent officers are not required to restart the initial evaluation process upon contract transition. Incumbent personnel will continue to complete medical and psychological evaluations in accordance with their established DOE medical certification and recertification schedule, provided their certifications remain current and uninterrupted.

39. Contractor Question: Salary positions require that bidders show “fixed monthly salary (billable).” Please confirm that Argonne National Labs is requesting the “fixed monthly BILL rate” not the wages paid to salary employees.

Argonne Response: Correct, a fixed monthly billable price.

40. Contractor Question: Will Argonne National Labs consider modifying enclosure No. 3 to include officer wage rates?

Argonne Response: Argonne is not able to modify the Enclosure No. 3 Price Proposal Form to include officer wage rates. The Price Proposal Form requires fully burdened rates.

41. Contractor Question: Please confirm that all pre-assignment training shall be at contractor expense.

Argonne Response: Contractors are responsible for compensating their employees for time spent completing required pre-assignment training, including Basic Security Officer Training (BSOT), on-the-job training (OJT), and other qualification requirements necessary for assignment to Protective Force duties.

Offerors should account for these costs in their proposed pricing. The Laboratory does not separately reimburse routine pre-assignment training costs outside the pricing structure established by the contract.

42. Contractor Question: It is our understanding that Argonne Labs requires pre-assignment training in excess of 160 hours. As this is a significant expense, please confirm that all officers must have at least 160 hours of pre-assignment training. If not, please provide bidders with a comprehensive list of training requirements so that they can accurately include this cost in their pricing.

Argonne Response: The solicitation does not establish a minimum or fixed number of pre-assignment training hours applicable to all personnel.

As stated in the Statement of Work, the anticipated duration for completion of Basic Security Officer Training (BSOT), on-the-job training (OJT), and required site-specific training prior to assignment in an official capacity is approximately twenty (20) working days. Actual training duration may vary based on individual performance, scheduling, regulatory requirements, qualification progress, or mission needs.

Offerors should develop their pricing based on the training and qualification requirements identified in the Statement of Work and their proposed approach for recruiting, training, qualifying, and maintaining personnel.

43. Contractor Question: Section 5.2 & 3.2 specifies pre-assignment and background checks, as well as ongoing quality assurance. These requirements are very extensive and will result in costs exceeding $25,000 annually. Please confirm that these requirements are firm and may not be negotiated after award.

Argonne Response: The requirements identified in the solicitation represent the Laboratory's current contract requirements and should be incorporated into the offeror's proposed approach and pricing.

Offerors should prepare their proposals based on the requirements contained in the solicitation and associated amendments. Any changes to contract requirements after award would be addressed in accordance with the terms and conditions of the resulting contract (Changes clause).

44. Contractor Question: Please advise what clearance level is required for K-9 services.

Argonne Response: K-9 services are not a routine staffing requirement under the contract and may be utilized on an as-needed basis at the discretion of the Laboratory.

Any personnel assigned to perform K-9 services must satisfy the qualification, training, badging, access, and clearance requirements applicable to the location, assignment, or duties being performed at the time of deployment.

The solicitation does not establish a specific DOE access authorization requirement applicable to all potential K-9 deployments.

45. Contractor Question: Exhibit 2 shows a day shift and night shift schedule, indicated by a graphical representation entitled “Day Shift: 12-Hour Platoon A&B”.

a. Please indicate which of these positions are post 91 and post 891.

i. Posts 91 and 891 are not assigned to specific positions within the staffing schedule. Offerors shall use the minimum staffing positions identified in the Day and Night staffing schedules to satisfy the post coverage requirements identified in the Stationary Duty Posts section of Exhibit 2.

b. Please confirm that this schedule is how bidders should base their pricing on.

i. Yes. Offerors shall develop pricing based on the staffing schedules, staffing levels, shift structures, and coverage requirements identified in Exhibit 2. The staffing schedules establish the minimum required staffing levels for this contract.

c. Exhibit 2 section “stationary duty posts” does not match this schedule. Please clarify.

i. The Stationary Duty Posts section identifies the required post coverage windows. The Day and Night staffing schedules identify the minimum staffing positions required to provide that coverage. These sections are intended to be read together. The Contractor is responsible for assigning personnel from the required staffing positions to satisfy all required post coverage windows and staffing requirements.

Argonne Response: See above for responses embedded within the questions.

46. Contractor Question: In order to bid does the company need to have a DOE Top Secret Facility Clearance?

Argonne Response: No, highest clearance required for a position is a Q Clearance.

The solicitation does not require an offeror to possess a DOE Top Secret Facility Clearance solely to submit a proposal. Offerors should review the facility clearance, FOCI, and security requirements contained in the solicitation regarding eligibility for award and contract performance.

47. Contractor Question: The CAS Operator position currently requires a DOE Q Clearance. Is that designation fixed for the duration of the contract, or is it subject to change based on DOE program decisions during the period of performance?

Argonne Response: The Central Alarm Station (CAS) Operator position currently requires a DOE Q clearance. Offerors shall develop their proposals and staffing plans based on the requirements identified in the solicitation.

The Laboratory anticipates that the DOE Q clearance requirement for CAS Operators will remain in effect; however, security clearance requirements are ultimately governed by DOE and Laboratory security requirements and may be modified if warranted by future security determinations, operational needs, or changes in applicable requirements. Any such changes would be addressed in accordance with the terms of the resulting contract (Changes clause).

48. Contractor Question: Post 291 appears on both day and night shifts but is not described elsewhere in the solicitation package. What are the responsibilities associated with Post 291, and does it require any specialized training or equipment?

Argonne Response: Post 291 is an operational Protective Force post that shall be staffed in accordance with the coverage requirements identified in Exhibit 2. Specific post responsibilities are addressed through site-specific training, post orders, written directives, and operational procedures provided following contract award and personnel qualification.

No training, certification, or equipment requirements beyond those identified in the solicitation are required for proposal preparation purposes. Offerors should base their proposals on the staffing, qualification, training, and equipment requirements identified in the solicitation.

49. Contractor Question: Security Officer 1 and Security Officer 2 positions appear only on the day shift and not on the night shift. Is this intentional, and if so, what accounts for the difference?

Argonne Response: Yes. The staffing schedules depicted in Exhibit 2 are intentional and represent the minimum staffing requirements established.

Security Officer 1 and Security Officer 2 are day-shift positions intended to support the daytime operational coverage requirements identified in Exhibit 2. Offerors shall develop their staffing plans and pricing based on the schedules and coverage requirements as presented in the solicitation.

50. Contractor Question: Section 4.2 requires one supervisor per platoon per shift. How many platoons are currently structured at the site?

Argonne Response: The staffing structure consists of four platoon assignments: Platoon A Day Shift, Platoon A Night Shift, Platoon B Day Shift, and Platoon B Night Shift.

In accordance with Section 4.2 and Exhibit 2, each platoon assignment shall be staffed with the required supervisory personnel. Offerors shall develop their proposals and pricing based on the staffing schedules, supervisory positions, and coverage requirements identified in the solicitation.

51. Contractor Question: Are CAS Operator positions included within the minimum staffing requirements identified in Exhibit 2, or are they additional staffing beyond required post coverage?

Argonne Response: Yes. CAS Operator positions are included within the minimum staffing requirements identified in Exhibit 2. Offerors shall develop their staffing plans and pricing based on all positions identified in Exhibit 2, including CAS Operators, Security Officers, Rover Patrols, Supervisors, and supplemental positions.

CAS Operator positions are not additional staffing requirements beyond the minimum staffing levels established in Exhibit 2.

52. Contractor Question: Is Argonne expecting offerors to populate the "Other Time Slot" section in CLIN 2B, and if so, is there guidance regarding what categories or scenarios should be included?

Argonne Response: Yes. Offerors should complete the "Other Time Slot" section of CLIN 2.B. if they propose labor categories and associated fully burdened hourly rates that may be required outside the Day Shift (0600-1800) and Night Shift (1800-0600) periods specifically identified in the pricing schedule.

The "Other Time Slot" section is intended to provide pricing flexibility for labor categories or coverage periods not otherwise identified in CLIN 2.B. Offerors should identify the applicable labor category and time slot for any proposed entries.

53. Contractor Question: Which labor categories are subject to the medical and psychological testing requirements under 10 CFR Part 1046?

Argonne Response: The medical and psychological qualification requirements identified in the solicitation apply to Protective Force personnel performing Security Officer, Central Alarm Station (CAS) Operator, Sergeant, and Lieutenant duties under the contract.

Offerors shall comply with the medical and psychological qualification requirements specified in the solicitation and applicable DOE requirements for personnel assigned to perform Protective Force duties.

These requirements do not apply to personnel utilized under CLIN 2.B unless specifically required by the Laboratory for a particular assignment.

54. Contractor Question: Please confirm which labor classification titles you are requesting turnover rates for.

Argonne Response: This would be for hourly security officers, hourly security officer supervisors, and key personnel.

55. Contractor Question: The SOW mentions reimbursement for the costs of obtaining security clearance under certain circumstances, why is that?

Argonne Response: The funds used to pay for the clearance costs are funded by Department of Energy and the site is managed by UChicago Argonne LLC, a University of Chicago company. If an individual doesn’t meet the required appointment term, reimbursement will be required as further defined in the SOW.

56. Contractor Question: Who at Argonne holds the clearance sponsor?

Argonne Response: DCSA and approved by Security Division Director. Also, for any offerors who already hold DOE or DOD security clearance, DOE will grant reciprocity.

57. Contractor Question: During the time it takes to obtain FOCI approval, is there work that can be done in the meantime?

Argonne Response: Based on the current SOW, the successful offeror must possess a DOE-issued Top Secret Facility Clearance (FCL) and a favorable FOCI determination prior to contract award. Offerors with an existing DCSA Facility Clearance and favorable DCSA FOCI determination may be eligible for DOE reciprocity consideration in accordance with DOE requirements. In such cases, the review process may involve evaluation and processing of reciprocity rather than establishment of an initial FCL or FOCI determination. Offerors that do not currently possess a cleared facility and favorable FOCI determination should carefully consider the time required to satisfy the applicable security requirements.

58. Contractor Question: Are the gate guard houses temperature controlled?

Argonne Response: Yes, they are air conditioned in the summer and heated in the winter (plus jackets provided)

59. Contractor Question: How many security guards in one shift?

Argonne Response: The minimum staffing requirements are identified in Exhibit 2. Offerors shall develop their proposals based on the staffing positions, schedules, and coverage requirements specified in the solicitation.

60. Contractor Question: How many man hours per shift?

Argonne Response: The SOW identifies required staffing levels and post assignments necessary to support Protective Force operations. Offerors are responsible for developing staffing and relief strategies that maintain required operational coverage throughout the work shift.

61. Contractor Question: How many alarm points are there onsite?

Argonne Response:The solicitation provides the staffing, qualification, training, and performance requirements necessary for proposal preparation. Additional information regarding site security system configuration and alarm system architecture is not required for proposal preparation and will not be provided.

62. Contractor Question: What are the gate hours?

Argonne Response: Only the main (north) gate is open 24/7; the East and West gates are open for set hours as specified in the SOW.

63. Contractor Question: Is there armed security onsite?

Argonne Response: Armed security is not a required component of the routine staffing identified in Exhibit 2. The Armed Security Guard labor category is included under CLIN 2.B to establish pricing should the Laboratory require armed security services during contract performance.

64. Contractor Question: On surge days how much additional support would be needed?

Argonne Response: The quantity of surge staffing required varies based on the nature, size, duration, and operational requirements of the event or activity. No minimum or maximum surge staffing level is guaranteed.

Offerors should use the estimated hours identified in CLIN 2 to develop their pricing. Actual usage may vary based on Laboratory requirements during contract performance.

65. Contractor Question: How many times a year are there big events?

Argonne Response: The number, size, and frequency of special events requiring supplemental staffing vary from year to year based on Laboratory activities and mission requirements. No minimum or maximum number of events is guaranteed during contract performance.

Offerors should utilize the estimated hours identified in CLIN 2 when developing their pricing and staffing approach.

66. Contractor Question: Is Active Shooter training required?

Argonne Response: Yes. Protective Force personnel are required to participate in Laboratory-directed active shooter/active threat training and exercises as part of the overall training and qualification program. Training may include classroom, online, practical, tabletop, drill, or exercise-based activities as determined by the Laboratory.

67. Contractor Question: Is there a fire station onsite?

Argonne Response: Yes. The Laboratory maintains an on-site fire department that provides fire suppression, emergency medical response, and related emergency services.

68. Contractor Question: In Exhibit 4 of the RFP, it states the Laboratory observes ten (10) holidays and lists them. In the CBA provided, the Union CBA recognizes these same ten holidays, plus Juneteenth, for a total of eleven holidays, plus two floating holidays. Does the Laboratory observe Juneteenth now, and if so, do the holiday hours and scheduling apply?

Argonne Response: The Laboratory does not observe the Juneteenth holiday. Therefore, Juneteenth is treated as a regular workday, and staffing and scheduling should be provided as required by the SOW.

69. Contractor Question: Can you provide the seniority list (dates) of the incumbent guard force so we might forecast vacation hours of retained employees per the CBA?

Argonne Response: Argonne cannot provide this information.

70. Contractor Question: Please confirm SPFPA Local 115 is the only applicable collective bargaining agreement for the security staff.

Argonne Response: Correct

71. Contractor Question: Please confirm which employee(s) or position(s) are non-union.

Argonne Response: The collective bargaining agreement provided with the solicitation identifies the bargaining unit positions covered by the agreement. Positions not included within the bargaining unit are not represented by the union.

72. Contractor Question: The Pricing Proposal form requests rates for 24 months. Please confirm these are to be inclusive of any merit increases or mandatory wage, health and welfare or other benefit increases as outlined in the applicable Collective Bargaining Agreement.

Argonne Response: All pricing must be fully burdened. Offerors shall propose fully burdened rates for the periods identified in the pricing proposal. Offerors are responsible for developing pricing based on their proposed approach and all applicable solicitation requirements.

73. Contractor Question: What percentage of the current workforce has historically remained during a contract transition?

Argonne Response: Argonne is not able to provide that information

74. Contractor Question: Will the awarded contractor be required to retain or interview incumbent employees during the transition?

Argonne Response: There is currently no required flowdown clause for non-displacement requirements.

75. Contractor Question: What costs are expected to be included in the transition period price?

Argonne Response: Offerors are expected to determine their cost that are allowable, allocable and reasonable to successfully assume the contract by December 1, 2026.

76. Contractor Question: Please clarify the meaning of "Hours Per Year" on Enclosure No. 3 for Pricing. Is this as-needed coverage without a weekly contracted schedule?

Argonne Response: Yes, this is as-needed coverage. Argonne provided estimated hours for CLIN 2 A and CLIN 2B for proposal evaluation purposes. Actual usage may exceed or fall short of these estimates.

77. Contractor Question: Can you provide historical overtime usage for this contract over the last 1–2 years?

Argonne Response: Argonne does not have this information to provide. Overtime rates are not compensable under the upcoming contract nor previous contracts.

78. Contractor Question: Are contractors expected to absorb call-outs, sick leave, and staffing shortages within the fixed monthly price, or can emergency staffing situations be billed separately under Contract Line Item Number II?

Argonne Response: Contractor responsibility for staffing, relief coverage, absenteeism, vacancies, call-outs, sick leave, and other routine workforce management requirements shall be provided in accordance with the contract requirements and fixed-price staffing obligations.

CLIN 2 is intended for Laboratory-requested special events, special assignments, surge support, and other services specifically authorized by the Laboratory. Routine staffing shortages, absenteeism, or contractor staffing challenges are not separately billable under CLIN 2.

79. Contractor Question: What are CLIN 2.A hours primarily intended for (e.g., emergency coverage, training backfill, special events, or temporary staffing)?

Argonne Response: CLIN 2.A is intended to provide the Laboratory with the ability to obtain temporary supplemental security staffing when operational requirements exceed the routine staffing requirements identified in Exhibit 2. Examples may include special events, emergency staffing requirements, increased security posture requirements, or other Laboratory-directed security support needs.

The estimated hours are provided for proposal evaluation purposes only and do not guarantee a minimum or maximum level of usage.

80. Contractor Question: Can you provide historical usage for CLIN 2.B services, such as K-9 teams, armed guards, and non-protective force security staffing?

Argonne Response: Argonne cannot provide historical usage and has only provided estimated usage for the upcoming contract. Although the estimates are mostly intended for proposal evaluation purposes and actual usage may exceed or fall short of these estimates.

81. Contractor Question: If additional duties are assigned during the contract, how will Argonne determine whether they fall within the existing scope or require additional compensation?

Argonne Response: The determination of whether a requested service falls within the existing contract scope will be made by the Laboratory based on the requirements of the contract, statement of work, and applicable contract provisions.

If the Laboratory determines that a requested service is outside the scope of the contract, the work will be addressed through the appropriate contractual mechanism before performance is authorized.

82. Contractor Question: What performance standards or KPIs will be used to evaluate the contractor monthly and annually?

Argonne Response: Contractor performance will be evaluated against the requirements of the contract, Statement of Work, applicable procedures, training and qualification requirements, staffing requirements, quality assurance requirements, and overall contract performance.

The solicitation does not establish specific monthly or annual key performance indicators (KPIs). Performance will be assessed based on the Contractor's ability to meet the contractual requirements and successfully perform the required services.

ALL OTHER TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF THE ABOVE REFERENCED RFP REMAIN THE SAME.

Attachments (3):

1. Enclosure No. 2.D - Appendix C Pricing Schedule (updated sample)

2. Enclosure No.3 - Pricing Proposal (updated template)

3. Pre-Proposal Meeting presentation slides (for attendees of the mandatory pre-proposal meeting) U. S. Department of Energy laboratory managed by UChicago Argonne, LLC