A14_SOURCES_SOUGHT_-_RadChem_1.pdf

SOURCES SOUGHT NOTICE DOIGFBO250046:

This is a SOURCES SOUGHT NOTICE. The Department of the Interior (DOI), U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), is conducting a MARKET SURVEY to determine the interest and capability of any small business or ISBEE small business firms eligible to compete under NAICS Code 541380 - Testing Laboratories with a Small Business Size Standard of $19.5M for an upcoming requirement for the USGS National Water Science Center located at the Denver Federal Center, Lakewood, CO, for Radiochemical Analyses of Environmental Samples.

Performance-Based Work Statement (PWS)

Radiochemical Analyses of Environmental Samples

1.0 Introduction and Background

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) Water Resources Mission Area (WMA), through the National Water Quality Laboratory (NWQL), conducts various types of scientific projects and has the obligation to provide chemical analyses of environmental matrixes, including but not limited to waters, sediments, suspended material, sludge, soil, and tissues or extracts from plants or animals, for chemical constituents.

In most cases, the use of standard analytical methods from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA), U.S. Department of Energy (USDOE), American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), American Public Health Association (APHA), or Standard Methods for legally defensible data meeting strict quality-assurance/quality-control standards are required for the examination of Water and Wastewater in accordance with the terms and conditions herein and the specifications set forth. The Offeror must provide analytical services, and supply deliverables for chemical and geotechnical analyses of environmental samples collected for USGS projects. The analytical results from these samples will be used by the USGS in support of scientific and regulatory investigations and monitoring of project sites located throughout the United States.

The purpose of this contract is to obtain services as described in this Performance-Based Work Statement (PWS) for (1) radiochemistry analysis, (2) requirements to meet USGS data-quality objectives, and (3) documentation, data, metadata, and technical support for data users. The contract will specify the analytical services with analytes, methods, schedules, procedures, and metrics to be used to evaluate successful performance.

2.0 Scope

The Offeror must provide and furnish all labor, materials, equipment, supervision, and facilities by the terms, conditions, and specifications set forth herein that are required for the chemical analyses. All required instruments and(or) equipment must be purchased, set up, verified, and approved for performance before the analysis of environmental samples are shipped from the USGS under this contract. If the Government determines at any time during the contract performance that property or services should be provided, such property or services will be provided and documented by issuance of a contract modification. The Offeror is to comply with the 40 CFR (Code of Federal Regulations) requirements, the USGS Interpreting and Reporting Radiological Water Quality Data TM5-B6_508.pdf (usgs.gov) including the Multi–Agency Radiological Laboratory Analytical Protocols Manual.

https://pubs.usgs.gov/tm/05b06/pdf/TM5-B6_508.pdf

(MARLAP - - http://www.USEPA.gov/radiation/marlap/manual.html) and the USEPA Certification for Drinking Water and maintain a successful accreditation with NELAC and/or ISO/IEC 17025 (general requirements for the competence of testing and calibration laboratories). Analytical services may be requested by the USGS for other regulatory-type projects located throughout the United States.

Applicable Documents: For all applicable documents see the attached referenced documents. In the event of a conflict between the referenced documents and the PWS, the contents of the PWS must be considered a superseding requirement.

1. The government will order from the Offeror non-personal analytical services specified herein for the USGS – WMA, Laboratory Analytical Services Division (LASD), for chemical and geotechnical analyses of environmental and associated quality-control samples. The samples are collected by USGS Water Science Centers (WSCs) and other USGS customers and require the use of USEPA methods or other standardized published analytical methods to meet 40CFR regulatory-level and project-specific analysis and quality-control requirements, and data deliverables.

2. Offeror must provide method documentation in the form of citable reference(s) and(or) standard operating procedures (SOPs) as described in the Methods of Analysis section, and the Offeror must provide demonstration data showing the capability of meeting quality-control requirements and performance criteria, as described in and sections for internal and external Quality Controls, prior to performing analyses of environmental samples under this contract.

3. Subcontracting may be permitted with prior written approval from the USGS Contracting Officer (CO). The approval process may include but not limited to proposed subcontractor demonstrating abilities to adequately perform the PWS requirements before subcontracting permission is granted.

3.0 Technical Requirements:

3.1 Use specified analytical methods to perform analysis of environmental samples.

3.1.1 The Offeror must use analytical methods specified in Appendix A – Price Schedule for the analysis of environmental samples collected for USGS projects. Each analyte/method pair offered by the contracting lab must adhere to the proficiency testing requirements described in 40 CFR, at a minimum an annual successful performance evaluation (PE) or performance test (PT) for the analyte/method pair must be always maintained by the contract lab. Final audit/certification reports must be sent to the USGS NWQL Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR) within five (5) business days of receipt. Should a provisional permit be issued to the contract lab by the primary/auditing body for any analyte/method pair, the contracting lab must notify the COR in writing describing the reason for the lapse in certification and the quote to correct the findings as well as the date of expected completion. Analysis of samples by the Offeror during a lapse in certification must be subject to approval by the government. Upon resolving the issue and obtaining full certification by the primary agency/accrediting body certificate must be made available to the

COR.

http://www.usepa.gov/radiation/marlap/manual.html

The analytical methods listed in Appendix A – Price Schedule are USEPA analytical methods or other published, standardized analytical methods used routinely for the analysis of environmental samples of water, wastewater, or sediment. Formal (published or promulgated) updates or revisions to existing analytical methods and associated analytical method numbers included in the Pricing Schedule may occur during the period of this contract. Analytical methods and results must be performed and provided in accordance with USGS TM 5-B6 (pubs.usgs.gov/tm/05b06/pdf/TM5- B6_508.pdf). The Offeror must inform in writing within 5 business days to the COR when there are updates or revisions to the analytical methods and associated method numbers listed in Appendix A – Price Schedule.

3.1.2 Within the general scope of this contract, it may be necessary to modify existing analytical methods specified in Appendix A – Price Schedule to meet specific data quality objectives, quality assurance project plans, or Department of Defense, USEPA, or other regulatory requirements for specific USGS projects. The Offeror must discuss this with the COR and receive formal COR approval at least two weeks in advance before modifications to analytical methods or procedures specified in the Pricing Schedule are used for USGS projects. Data required for approval of modifications will be subject to approval by Government. A copy of any modified method must be provided to the COR. Use and cost of modified analytical methods and procedures must be the subject of negotiations between the Government and Offeror. Formal updates or revisions to analytical methods in the Pricing Schedule are not considered to be “modifications”, as described in this subsection.

3.1.3 Because of the need to meet project-specific requirements, Federal and State requirements, new USEPA requirements, or new technology, there may be situations where USGS projects will need to request analytical methods not listed specifically in the Pricing Schedule. The Offeror must discuss this with the COR and receive formal COR approval in advance and in writing before analytical methods or procedures not specified in the Pricing Schedule are used for USGS projects. Use and cost of these miscellaneous analytical methods and procedures must be the subject of negotiations between the Government and Offeror.

3.1.4 Consideration for Unacceptable Performance will be invoked if the USGS is required to recollect samples or if the analyses are determined to be unacceptable based on the project data quality objectives or regulatory-program requirements because the Offeror used non-specified analytical methods that were not approved by the COR. Analysis of the recollected samples by approved methods must be completed within the specified holding-time limits and must be at no cost to the Government.

3.1.5 Performance standards, performance assessment methods, and performance objectives are described in the Quality Assurance Surveillance Procedures (QASP, section 4.0).

3.2 Offeror must perform required analyses of USGS environmental samples in accordance with the scope defined herein.

3.2.1 The environmental samples to be analyzed by the Offeror will be collected by the USGS to meet project objectives or regulatory-program requirements and will be sent to the Offeror as they are collected. The Offeror must establish a system of security and safeguarding that must prevent analytical data, which will be Government property, from being released to unauthorized persons or entities (Federal Acquisition Regulation FAR 52.204-21). In the event of a termination, the Offeror will provide a copy of the USGS data including metadata, attachments, instrument raw data, and data packages associated with work performed under the contract in a media that can be read by standard business software (not proprietary or encrypted data). Sample collection and shipment will vary in both quantity and types of analysis needed. Field quality-control samples including, but not limited to ambient blanks, equipment blanks, field-spiked samples, and trip blanks are to be treated and tested as environmental samples under the scope of this contract.

3.2.2 Advance notice of rough estimated sampling schedules for a given Government fiscal year (October 1st through September 30th) for individual USGS projects can be provided to the Offeror by the COR, if adequate information is available to the COR.

3.2.3 The Offeror will specify the sample container required for each analysis, including volume, type, and any other relevant QC criteria. The USGS will be responsible for supplying its own sample containers. Advance notice of sample shipments can be provided to the Offeror by the COR by email if applicable. In some cases, sample collection may be based on specific climatic, hydrological, or logistical conditions and advance notice for sample collection and shipment may be limited.

3.2.4 Some samples collected by the USGS may contain hazardous and/or toxic materials. The concentrations of hazardous materials in any sample are expected to be low (micrograms to milligrams per liter levels for aqueous samples); however, some samples may contain concentrations high enough to be harmful, and all samples should be handled with appropriate safety procedures to minimize exposure to personnel. The USGS will keep the Offeror informed of the samples that may contain high concentrations of such materials. It is the responsibility of the Offeror to take the appropriate safety precautions to ensure the safety of employees if a sample does contain unexpectedly high concentrations of hazardous or biohazardous materials.

3.2.5 The Offeror must obtain the appropriate approval and permits from the Deputy Administrator, Plant Protection and Quarantine Programs, U.S. Department of Agriculture to be able to handle the soil samples collected by the USGS from outside the continental United States (CONUS) or from regulated areas within the United States. Disposal of any remaining sample and sample extracts must meet regulatory guidelines and is the responsibility of the Offeror.

3.2.6 The analytical requirements and the number of sample containers for each environmental sample must depend upon the analytical needs of each USGS project. The specific analyses requested for each sample sent to the Offeror must be documented on an analytical services request (ASR) form, commonly used in most cases lieu of a chain-of-custody (COC) record form sent by the USGS with the environmental samples; see attachment Appendix E: Analytical Services Request (ASR) Form, for a template of a blank ASR form. The Offeror must perform all the specific analyses of environmental samples that are properly requested and documented on the COC form.

3.2.7 The Offeror must notify the USGS COR daily and within 24 hours of samples received the previous business day and indicate issues with the ASR information and(or) samples. If sample analyses are properly requested and documented on a COC form but are not analyzed by the Offeror, the Offeror must notify the COR in writing with the reason (lost sample due to accident, etc.) and a Credit for Unacceptable Performance will be requested if USGS is required to recollect samples.

Analysis of the recollected samples must be completed within the specified holding-time limits and must be at no cost to the Government. Excessive failures to test sample(s) due to Offeror lab accidents>10% within a given month warrants a discussion and can lead to contract termination.

3.2.8 In most cases, the environmental samples will be sent to the Offeror directly from the USGS Science Center project sites through an overnight delivery service. The samples should be delivered to the Offeror as soon as possible following sample collection to meet holding times requirements.

The samples must be in the appropriate sample bottles, properly preserved and labeled, and shipped in sample coolers (when applicable) with sufficient ice to maintain integrity. The Offeror must be accountable for all the USGS samples received at their laboratory facilities. The Offeror must be available Monday through Friday (excluding Federal holidays) 8 AM to 5 PM, Offeror’s Local Time, to receive sample shipments. The Offeror must be available to receive samples on Saturdays for special projects upon COR request with prior notification at an additional cost to the Government.

The Offeror must be available on Saturdays to perform analyses that have 24- or 48-hour holding times from the time of sample collection at no additional cost to the Government. Coolers that are property of the USGS and are used for sample shipment to the Offeror must be returned to the designated address within ten (10) business days of receipt at the Offeror's expense. Samples may also be shipped in sampling kits and coolers provided by the Offeror. The USGS will return coolers from the Offeror within ten (10) business days at the Government’s expense.

3.2.9 The USGS sampling entity will include unique identifiers with each environmental sample.

Identifiers will include a station or location identifier, date and time each sample was collected, and medium of each sample; all identifiers will be documented on the ASR, each sample bottle label, and, if used, a COC form. The unique sample identifying information as assigned by the USGS must be used by the Offeror on all records, analytical reports, and deliverables pertaining to the sample.

The Offeror must maintain an internal tracking system to always ensure accountability of the samples and data. The Offeror must be provided visibility to the status of samples within the tracking system to the Government by means of a report or access to an online tracking system.

3.2.10 The Offeror must properly document the custody of USGS samples on the ASR/COC form(s) by recording the date and time of delivery, cooler temperature upon sample receipt and note any problems with the condition of the samples received. The signature of person receiving custody of the samples must also be included on the COC. The Offeror must enter into their LIMS system each sample identifying information, the name of the person receiving custody of the samples, the status of custody seal, and the cooler temperature.

3.2.11 Upon receipt of the samples, the Offeror must complete the “CoLabs Radiochem Daily Sample Receipt” (attachment Appendix C: Daily Receipts File Example) file and send to the COR the next business day by email. This log is to maintain a record of all samples received as well as condition of the samples and any issues with ASR such as analyses requested or other documentation, or potential difficulties performing requested analyses. The total samples should also be compared to current task order issued as not to exceed authorized quantity ordered.

3.2.12 The CoLabs Radiochem Daily Sample Receipt report must include the date of receipt, the contract laboratory ID, work order number (if applicable), the USGS station ID number, date collected, time collected, method name, analyte name (lab schedule, when applicable), status of sample (A=acceptable, U=unacceptable), general comments, and non-conformance comments for unacceptable samples. The Offeror must also send the COR the following: (1) a copy of the sample confirmation report and (2) a copy of the USGS ASR/COC form, within a business day (see Subsection 3.5.2).

3.2.12.1 Should a subcontractor be approved by the CO, the primary Contractor must require the delivery of the same report from its subcontractor in the same file, under a separate tab with the same information as the primary Contractor.

3.2.13 Samples analyzed by USEPA analytical methods or other published, standardized analytical methods must be in compliance with 40 CFR and the requirements of those analytical methods.

3.2.14 The Offeror must store all USGS samples and sample extracts at 4 ± 2 degrees Celsius until analysis, unless specified otherwise in the analytical-method documentation.

3.2.15 The unused portion of the sample remaining after completion of all analyses must be properly stored by the Offeror for ninety (90) days following submission of the laboratory analytical-results report to the USGS. After ninety (90) days, both the sample and the sample container must be disposed of properly at Offeror's expense. It must be the sole responsibility of the Offeror to ensure that all applicable regulations are followed in the disposal of samples, containers, and related chemicals. If the USGS should request return of analyzed or unanalyzed sample(s) prior to the expiration of the ninety (90)-day interval, they must be returned at USGS expense in a manner that meets Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations.

3.2.16 Performance standards, and performance assessment methods for each performance requirement are described in section 4.0 PWS Quality Assurance Surveillance Procedures (QASP).

3.3 Perform analysis of environmental samples within holding times specified by analytical method or procedure, or applicable regulatory program.

3.3.1 The Offeror must analyze the environmental samples within the preparation and analysis holding-time limits specified by the analytical method or procedure.

3.3.2 If the Offeror cannot meet specified holding-time limits, the Offeror must qualify the data produced.

3.3.3 If the Offeror knows in advance that sample analyses will not be completed within specified preparation or analysis holding-time limits, the Offeror must discuss anticipated sample preparation or analysis delays with the COR within one (1) business day in writing. The USGS may request the Offeror to proceed with the analyses even though holding times cannot be met. In the event that the

USGS does not respond within one (1) business day, the Offeror is to assume that the sample is to be analyzed outside of hold time and will qualify data appropriately.

3.3.4 If sample analyses are not completed within specified holding-time limits due to errors or delays by the Offeror, a refund for Unacceptable Performance can be requested. The USGS may instead recollect samples for the analyses determined to be unacceptable. Analyses of the recollected samples will be completed within the specified holding-time limits and must be at no additional cost to the Government.

3.4 Sample Preparation (as applicable per published and USGS accepted Method as defined in Appendix D.)

3.4.1 As applicable per method, samples for dissolved analysis must be submitted filtered and preserved with acid to a pH < 2, ready for analysis. The pH of each sample is to be checked upon receipt at the lab. If any samples are not preserved, the COR is to be notified and the Offeror must add Ultrex nitric acid at that time to achieve the appropriate pH.

3.4.2 Samples for whole water analysis must be submitted preserved with acid to a pH < 2. These samples are to be filtered at the contract lab through a 0.45-micrometer filter, the suspended portion acid digested, this digested portion added to the filtrate, and the combined sample taken through the appropriate analytical procedure.

3.4.3 Samples for suspended analysis must be submitted on filter paper. The sample is to be acid digested and taken through the appropriate analytical procedure. Analysis of these samples must begin within one week of receipt at the contract laboratory unless holding times require more rapid analysis (e.g. Radium-224, Radon-222).

3.4.4 Samples for sediment analyses must be submitted in a suitable container. If necessary, these samples must be dried overnight in an oven at 105o C. The dried sample must then be pulverized with a mortar and pestle, picking out any wood fragments, shells, roots, etc., until a homogenous sample matrix is achieved. The sample is then to be sieved to the fraction specified on the ASR. A suitable aliquot must then be taken for analysis.

3.4.5 Whole-water samples may be submitted unfiltered with the request that the lab filters the sample and analyzes the filtered portion as well as the suspended. Both the filtered and suspended results are to be reported. These samples will not be field acidified and must be filtered before acidification by the lab.

3.4.6 Methods and details of sample preparation techniques must be performed in accordance with the published method requirements and the Offeror must be able to accommodate the specific requirements listed in this section or specified in Section 3.4.5. Any deviation in sample preparation technique from the approved method, during the life of the contract, must require written notification by email to the USGS Contracting Officer or COR, and approval received prior to an actual change occurring.

3.4.7 The list of previously accepted methods and Minimal Detectable Concentrations (MDCs) are described below. See section 3.8.13 for additional information on the calculation of MDC values.

The Offeror must be able to conduct the listed method/analyte or 40 CFR accepted alternative and meet the proposed MDC if in agreement with the most current published and 40 CFR accepted method.

3.4.8 Gross alpha and gross beta (Method reference USEPA 900.0—Required for this contract)

3.4.8.1 MDCs for waters either filtered or whole, gross alpha: 3 pCi/L; gross beta 4 pCi/L

3.4.8.2 MDCs for suspended material or sediment: gross alpha 6 pCi/g; gross beta 3 pCi/g

3.4.8.3 The sample residue weight for gross alpha must not exceed 100 mg. The sample residue weight for gross beta must not exceed 300 mg. If necessary, separate aliquots must be taken for gross alpha and gross beta as to optimize the volume used while not exceeding the maximum weights. THE USE OF 2-INCH

PLANCHETS IS MANDATORY

3.4.8.4 Thorium-230 is to be used for alpha calibration curves. Cesium-137 is to be used for beta calibration curves.

3.4.8.5 For 72-hour samples – the samples are to be prepared immediately upon receipt at lab to allow counting within 72 hours of time of collection as specified on the ASR. The planchets are to be held and recounted after 30 days. Both the initial and 30-day data are to be reported. This 72-hour/30-day gross alpha/gross beta is required for this contract.

3.4.8.6 If a volume less than 50 mLs is required to prevent the gross alpha weight from exceeding 100 mg, then the Offeror must annotate the ASR and analyze the sample by the high-solids method (3.4.9 below). The COR is to be notified immediately by email of this change.

3.4.8.7 Both the 72-hour and 30-day analyses/calculations are to be programmed to avoid the need for manual entry for the 30-day.

3.4.9 Gross alpha and gross beta (high solids-method reference USEPA 00-02 coprecipitation).

This method is required for this contract.

3.4.9.1 MDCs for water either filtered or whole: gross alpha 3 pCi/L; gross beta 4 pCi/L.

3.4.9.2 Separate aliquots are to be taken for gross alpha and gross beta. The gross beta must follow USEPA 900.0 THE USE OF 2-INCH PLANCHETS IS

MANDATORY

3.4.9.3 Thorium-230 is to be used for alpha calibration curves. Cesium-137 is to be used for beta calibration curves.

3.4.9.4 For 72-hour samples – the samples are to be prepared immediately upon receipt at lab to allow counting within 72 hours of time of collection as specified on the ASR. The planchets are to be held and recounted after 30 days. Both the initial and 30-day data are to be reported.

3.4.9.5 Both the 72-hour and 30-day analyses/calculations are to be programmed to avoid the need for manual entry for the 30-day.

3.4.10 Total alpha isotopes of radium (Method reference USEPA 903.0). This method is required for this contract.

3.4.10.1 MDCs

For water either filtered or whole: 0.4 pCi/L

For suspended material or sediment: 0.2 pCi/g

3.4.10.2 Samples are to be analyzed immediately upon receipt at lab to allow counting within 96 hours of collection time.

3.4.11 Radium-226 (Method reference USEPA 903.1—This method is required for this contract.

3.4.11.1 MDCs

For water either filtered or whole: 0.1 pCi/L

For suspended material: 0.1 pCi/g.

For sediment: 0.8 pCi/g (See below for method)

3.4.11.2 For sediment, the sample is to be gamma counted and reported with radium-228.

3.4.12 Radium-224 and radium-226 (Method - Alpha Spectrometry—Required for this contract)

3.4.12.1 MDCs, for water either filtered or whole: 1.0 pCi/L for each isotope

3.4.12.2 Samples are to be analyzed immediately upon receipt at the lab to allow counting within 96 hours of collection time as specified on the ASR.

3.4.12.3 Results for CSU, ssMDC, and ssLc are to be reported for each isotope.

3.4.13 Radium-228 (Method reference USEPA 904.0—This method is required for this contract)

3.4.13.1 MDCs

For water either filtered or whole: 1.0 pCi/L

For suspended material: 0.1 pCi/g

For sediment: 0.8 pCi/g. (See below for method)

3.4.13.2 For sediment, the sample is to be gamma counted and reported with the Radium- 226.

3.4.14 Uranium – Isotopic (Method reference ASTM D 3972)

3.4.14.1 MDCs

For water either filtered or whole: 0.1 pCi/L for each isotope

For suspended material or sediment: 0.1 pCi/g for each isotope

3.4.14.2 Uranium-234, Uranium-235, and Uranium-238 are all to be reported.

3.4.15 Strontium-90 (Method reference USEPA 905.0)

3.4.15.1 MDCs

For water either filtered or whole: 0.5 pCi/L

For suspended material or sediment: 0.5 pCi/g

3.4.16 Total radioactive strontium (Method reference USEPA 905.0)

3.4.16.1 MDCs

For water either filtered or whole: 0.5 pCi/L

For suspended material or sediment: 0.5 pCi/g

3.4.17 Gamma

3.4.17.1Varies with nuclide, matrix, and project requirements

3.4.17.2 Method considerations: Characteristic detector-efficiency curves must be determined for each sample geometry, type, and mass by preparing standards for each geometry, sample type and mass. Enough sample in an appropriate geometry must be counted long enough to ensure that the gamma-ray peak and search routine can identify and quantify Cs-137 at the MDC level of 0.05 pCi/g for sediment and 0.1 pCi/L for water. For the same spectrum, all true gamma-ray peaks that are found by the gamma-ray peak search routine must be identified by nuclide and the nuclide concentrations, measurement uncertainty and MDC calculated and reported. When multiple peaks are found for the same nuclide, it is permissible to quantify the nuclide concentration, measurement uncertainty and MDC based on a weighting routine related to the branching ratio for counts in the peaks found. For the natural decay series of the U, Th, and Ra elements, only the inferred equilibrium concentration, measurement uncertainty and MDC of the parent nuclide need to be reported. It may be required that specific nuclides, regardless of concentration (even if negative), be reported for specific projects. This will be specified when the samples are submitted.

3.4.18 Lead-210 Dating

3.4.18.1 For core samples submitted for dating purposes, results for lead-210, radium- 226, and cesium-137 concentrations must be reported.

3.4.18.2 MDCs

For cesium-137: 0.05 pCi/g

For lead-210: 0.1 pCi/g

For radium-226: 0.4 pCi/g

3.4.19 Lead-210 – (Method—Eichrom followed by liquid scintillation counting (LSC)—This method is required for this contract)

3.4.5.19.1 MDCs

For water either filtered or whole: 1.0 pCi/L

For suspended material or sediment: 0.1 pCi/g

3.4.20 Polonium-210 (Method—Alpha Spectrometry-This method is required for this contract)

3.4.20.1 MDCs

For water either filtered or whole: 1.0 pCi/L

For suspended material or sediment: 0.1 pCi/g

3.4.20.1 Aqueous samples are to be treated as follows immediately upon receipt at lab – Check for preservation and then pour the sample into a suitable beaker. Add 50 mLs of concentrated HNO3 (Ultrex or equivalent) to the container, cap, and shake/roll for one minute, let sit for 10-15 minutes. Shake /roll for an additional minute. Pour and rinse (take care to record the amount of rinse acid) the sample into the now modified container. Shake/roll for one minute to composite the acid and sample. Withdraw aliquot for analysis, taking care to correct sample aliquot for acid dilution. The analysis is to be started and the sample counted within 8 days (192 hours) of collection time as specified on the ASR. (Alternate treatment, if described and approved by the USGS COR prior to analysis, may be permitted)

3.4.21 Thorium (Method—Alpha Spectrometry)

3.4.21.1 Isotopes thorium-228, thorium-230, and thorium-232 are to be reported

3.4.21.2 MDCs

For water either filtered or whole: 0.4 pCi/L for each isotope

For suspended material or sediment: 0.1 pCi/g for each isotope

3.4.22 Americium-241 (Method—Alpha Spectrometry)

3.4.22.1 MDCs

For water either filtered or whole: 0.1 pCi/L

For suspended material or sediment: 0.1 pCi/g

3.4.23 Plutonium (Method reference DOE EML: Pu-12-RC or Se-03)

3.4.23.1 MDCs for water either filtered or whole:

Plutonium-238: 0.1 pCi/L

Plutonium-239 and plutonium-240: 0.1 pCi/L

3.4.23.2 MDCs for suspended material or sediment:

Plutonium-238: 0.1 pCi/g

Plutonium-239 and plutonium-240: 0.1 pCi/g

3.4.24 Cesium-137 (Method—Gamma Spectroscopy)

3.4.24.1 MDC for core or sediment: 0.05 pCi/g

3.4.25 Radon (Method Reference ASTM D 5072)

3.4.25.1 MDC is to be 50 pCi/L if sample is received by the laboratory within 36 hours of collection.

3.4.25.2 Samples are to be counted the day received at the lab.

3.4.25.3 Samples will be submitted in a scintillation vial with the appropriate cocktail, ready for counting.

3.4.26 Iodine-129 and chlorine-36 (Method reference USEPA 902.0 for Iodine-129, accelerator mass spectrometery (AMS) for Chlorine-36)

3.4.26.1 MDCs for water, either filtered or whole

Iodine-129: 10 pCi/L

Chlorine-36: 6 pCi/L

3.5 Provide analytical results of environmental sample analyses in specified reporting limits, reporting conditions, and reporting units.

3.5.1 The Offeror must determine detection limits (DLs) for the target analytes for the analytical methods requested in accordance with the method requirements and 40 CFR regulations. A common approach is the establishment of Method Detection Limits (MDL) is described in 40 CFR 136 Appendix B revision 2 and must be used as applicable. The Offeror is to report MDL values for all analytes. Additionally, associated documentation supporting the establishment of the MDLs, such as raw results and calculations, must be made available to the USGS COR upon request.

3.5.2 The Offeror must also provide each result with the reporting limits (RLs), which are often identified as the lowest reporting level that can be reliably achieved within specified limits of precision and accuracy during routine laboratory operating conditions. In most cases, RLs are based on method detection limits established for individual analytes. The Offeror must notify the COR of any changes in the existing or established RLs for any of the target analytes for the methods listed in the Pricing Schedule.

3.5.3 Project-specific reporting limits (PSRLs) may be required for some USGS projects when Applicable or Relevant and Appropriate Requirements (ARARs), Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs), or project-specific data quality objectives (DQOs) are required. In advance of sample delivery to the Offeror, the COR will notify the Offeror if PSRLs are needed for a USGS project.

3.5.4 Unless notified in advance by the COR to not perform this requirement, the Offeror must report analytical results of USGS sample analyses down to the established MDLs for the individual target analytes for the analytical methods requested. The Offeror must include the established RLs and appropriate MDL with the analytical results for each target analyte analyzed. All analytical values reported below the established RL, and at or above the MDL, must be qualified by the Offeror with a flag code and documented as an “estimated result” or similar comment. Results can be reported via Electronic Data Deliverable (EDD) file, Appendix B: EDD File Example, for an example of this deliverable (the final one will not contain headers). However, upon the establishment of the contract the data deliverable format can be re-negotiated to find efficiencies for both parties, as long as all required data and metadata are provided with proper coding. Combined Standard Uncertainties, sample specific Minimum Detectable Concentrations, and sample specific Critical Levels, the contract lab will use nationally recognized equations (ASTM or MARLAP Manual and Supporting Documents | US EPA).

3.5.5 In special circumstances, some USGS projects may require that the analytical results of sample analyses are not reported below the established RLs. In advance of sample delivery to the Offeror, the COR will request that the Offeror not report analytical results below the established RL.

3.5.6 The Offeror must report all analytical results of solid-sample analyses in accordance with the method requirements and on a wet-weight basis if requested in advance by the COR. A moisture content determination must be completed and reported with all solid-sample analyses.

https://www.epa.gov/radiation/marlap-manual-and-supporting-documents

3.5.7 The Offeror must use the specified reporting units when reporting the analytical results of USGS environmental samples for the following general types of radiochemistry analyses:

Sample Matrix General Types of Analyses Reporting units

Aqueous Radioactive analytes pCi/L

Solids/Semisolids Radioactive analytes pCi/g

3.5.8 Other reporting units may be required to meet project-specific or regulatory requirements for some USGS projects. The USGS COR will provide a minimum 30-day notice of special projects with non-routine units or additional calculations.

3.6 Provide analytical results of environmental sample analyses and other required data results in specified data deliverables.

3.6.1 The Offeror must be able to provide the analytical results of USGS samples and other specified and associated data results for analyses in the following data deliverables:

(1) analytical-results report (PDF)

(2) raw-data report (Microsoft Excel or CSV), and

(3) two electronic data deliverable (EDD) files (TXT).

Data deliverables for analytical results must include similar analytical report and EDD files with no discrepancies between results. Results can be reported via Electronic Data Deliverable (EDD) file, Appendix B: EDD File Example, for an example of this deliverable (the final one will not contain headers). Potential alternative of data delivery format will be considered upon establishing the contract. All deliverables will be sent to the COR via email to colabhelp@usgs.gov.

The Offeror must be able to produce the following elements in routine analytical results reports:

a. Cover page including client name and address, client-designated individual receiving the report, laboratory name and address, project name/number, laboratory order #, date received, date reported, number of samples received, notes applicable to the types of samples, signature, and title of reviewer.

b. Title and Laboratory Order #

c. Sample Identification Contract Lab ID

d. USGS Station ID

e. Date of Collection

f. Time of Collection

g. Matrix

h. Air Volume Information – where applicable

i. Test Name

j. Method Name References

k. Analytes Reported and Reporting Units

l. Final Results including surrogate recoveries and control limits – where applicable.

mailto:colabhelp@usgs.gov

m. Percent Recovery per batch of Limits of Detection, Reporting Limit verification standard.

n. One-sigma-combined standard uncertainty (CSU)

o. Sample-specific critical level (ssLc)

p. Yield (as applicable per method)

q. Yield uncertainty (as applicable per method)

r. Method blank concentration

s. Date and Time Analyzed

t. Analyst

u. Dilution Factor

v. Qualifier Flags

w. Page Numbers

x. Chain of Custody Record

y. Definitions

z. Quality Control summary that includes, where applicable, the results, percent recovery and control limits for; Method blanks, Laboratory Control Samples (secondary source standards), Matrix Spike/Matrix Spike Duplicates (RSD percent recovery), Duplicate samples (where applicable), and other QC samples such as continuing calibration verifications (CCV), Dilution, ssMDC, CSU, etc.

aa. Sample Summary – when requested.

bb. Dates Report. Includes preparation, extraction and analysis dates for holding time verification.

cc. Case Narrative.

3.6.2 If requested by the COR, the specified data deliverables must be prepared by the Offeror based on a sample delivery group (SDG). An SDG usually consists of a set of environmental samples (commonly of the same matrix and processed/analyzed using the same methods, procedures, reagents, and standards within the same time period) from one USGS project that is received by the Offeror on a single day. An SDG must be assigned a unique SDG number by the Offeror. For some USGS projects, an SDG may include samples received by the Offeror over multiple days. In advance of sample delivery to the Offeror, the COR will notify the Offeror if samples that are shipped to the Offeror over multiple days need to be batched into one SDG. The above procedure for an SDG remains the same as other routine samples.

3.6.3 For each order, the Offeror must provide the analytical results of the environmental samples and associated laboratory QC results and metadata in an EDD file in one standard text format (spreadsheet compatible) at no additional cost. The type of data needed on the EDD files will be determined by the format needed. Additional EDD files in other optional formats may be requested for specific USGS projects with applicable charges as per the Price Schedule. The Offeror must have the capability to generate EDD files of the analytical results for each order in the following required EDD file formats:

a. The version at time of analysis of the USGS National Water Information System (NWIS) format for entering data into the Water-Quality system.

Specifications for the data-record names, codes, record (field) size, and other applicable information required for the EDD standard text format and the optional EDD file formats for NWIS upload will be provided to the Offeror by the COR.

3.6.4 The Offeror must provide an additional copy of the analytical-results report and raw-data report in a portable document format (PDF) file at no additional charge.

3.6.5 As requested by the COR, the Offeror must provide the requested EDD files either via email, or other electronic file transfer protocol (FTP) at no additional cost.

3.6.6 Advance notice about the type and number of the data deliverables required for individual USGS projects will be provided to the Offeror by the COR in some type of data-deliverable summary listing. If there are changes to the data-deliverable requirements for an individual USGS project, the COR will provide revised data-deliverable information to the Offeror within three (3) business days of notification.

3.6.7 Under certain circumstances, the USGS may require data deliverables to be prepared in formats equivalent to a USEPA Contract Laboratory Program (CLP). Additional charges to prepare required data deliverables in the CLP format are subject to price negotiation upon need.

3.6.8 Under certain circumstances, the USGS may require data deliverables to be prepared in non-specified, custom formats to meet project-specific or regulatory needs. The COR will notify the Offeror 30 days in advance on any specialized, custom data deliverables needed for specific USGS projects. Use and cost of non-specified, custom data deliverables must be negotiated between the Government and the Offeror.

3.7 Provide analytical results of environmental sample analyses and data deliverables within specified time schedules.

3.7.1 The Offeror must complete the requested analyses and required data deliverables within 45 CALENDAR DAYS (not including contract-specified holidays) after receipt of samples at the Offeror laboratory facility. All prices for analyses listed in the Price Schedule are based on a 45-day turn-around time (TAT). The Offeror must notify the COR when work orders are completed for portal retrieval or email a copy of data deliverable within 45 days after sample receipt.

If the data deliverables are provided to the USGS from 46 to 90 days from sample receipt, a 25% late-delivery penalty reduction fee will be assessed for the invoiced charges. If the data deliverables are provided to the USGS more than 90 days from sample receipt, a 50% late-delivery penalty reduction fee will be assessed for the invoiced charges. If extenuating circumstances for late delivery are explained and negotiated by the Offeror in a letter to the COR, the late-delivery penalty may be waived subject to review and approval by the USGS COR and CO.

3.7.2 For some emergency USGS projects, accelerated TATs for sample analyses may be needed to meet project-specific needs or regulatory requirements. Accelerated TATs are available only when the COR and the Offeror mutually agree to in writing the accelerated TAT request in advance of sample receipt. The accelerated TATs are based on calendar days (not including contract-specified holidays-- “Legal Federal Holidays”) after receipt of the sample. The TAT surcharge will be listed in the Price Schedule. The Offeror must deliver to the COR the required data deliverables within three days after completion of any analyses subject to accelerated TAT.

3.7.3 The Offeror must make every effort to meet all accelerated TATs. In the event the accelerated TAT is not met, the following must apply: If the Offeror cannot meet the mutually agreed upon accelerated TAT, the unit-price surcharge must be adjusted to reflect the actual TAT provided.

3.7.4 For emergency USGS project results, preliminary (before final review by Offeror) and final analytical results may be requested to be sent to the COR by email before the final data deliverables at no additional cost to the Government. If the files are too large to be delivered by email, it is acceptable to notify the COR that the results can be retrieved online.

3.7.5 If the Offeror cannot meet the standard or agreed accelerated TAT and data deliverables will not be completed within specified time schedules, the Offeror must formally notify the COR in writing within one day, by email, of anticipated delays in the delivery of the data deliverables.

3.8 Perform all analytical services under an established and documented quality system with specified quality-control procedures and measures.

3.8.1 The Offeror must perform all analytical services required in this contract under an established and well-documented quality-management system (QMS). The quality system must meet or exceed requirements outline in the 40 CFR, USEPA, accrediting body, and must include quality assurance (QA) policies, quality control (QC) procedures, and laboratory acceptance criteria used for data approval and release, which must be described in the Offeror’s Laboratory Quality Manual (LQM) or similar QA document and followed to ensure and document the quality of the analytical data.

3.8.2 The LQM must describe in detail the quality system implemented at individual laboratory facilities and must be compliant with the published EPA-approved methods with the USEPA Certification for Drinking Water requirements. Moreover, the LQM must comply with the National Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Conference (NELAC), Multi-Agency Radiological Laboratory Analytical Procedures Manual (MARLAP), or ISO17025 accreditation for radiochemistry methods. The Offeror must provide the COR with a copy of the LQMs on an annual basis.

3.8.3 The Offeror must prepare and use standard operating procedures (SOPs) for all methods and procedures performed in the laboratory facilities. SOPs must provide clear and comprehensive directions for the step-by-step execution of an operation, procedure, or analysis. Copies of the SOPs must be available to the COR on request.

3.8.4 The Offeror must have detailed written protocols for and must apply and monitor the following essential quality-control measures:

a. Positive and negative controls such as blanks and spikes to monitor analytical methods and results.

b. Duplicate and replicate analyses to define and evaluate the variability and repeatability of the analytical results as required by the method, 40 CFR and/or or accreditation body.

c. Measures including initial calibration, continuing calibrations, use of certified reference materials, secondary source standards and proficiency test samples to ensure the accuracy of the analytical methods and results.

d. Use of appropriate measures such as regression analysis, comparison to tracer standard calculations, and other statistical analysis to reduce raw data to final analytical results.

3.8.5 The Offeror must evaluate continually the quality-control measures and acceptance criteria used to assess the quality of the analytical results. Unless specified by regulatory program or project-specific requirements, the Offeror must use historical data to statistically establish and continually re-evaluate the QC acceptance limits for individual analytical methods. If the laboratory-derived QC limits are less precise than the method-specified QC limits, the method-specified QC limits must be used.

3.8.6 When USGS projects require regulatory-type compliance, the Offeror will be notified and must follow the QC measures and data requirements specified by each program. For all other USGS projects not requiring specific regulatory program compliance, the Offeror must follow the QC data requirements and guidance for USEPA or other published, standardized analytical methods.

3.8.7 The Offeror must analyze the appropriate laboratory QC samples, including method blanks (no data batches with blanks above the reporting limit must be issued to the USGS as final results by the contract laboratory unless the COR accepts the deviation in writing; more than two consecutive batches or two batches within a single quarter with blanks reported above the MDL warrant corrective action by the contracting laboratory to avoid blank contamination), laboratory control samples, surrogate spikes, and matrix spikes with the analyses of all USGS environmental samples.

At a minimum, the Offeror must analyze the laboratory QC samples specified at the frequency indicated by the published analytical method or specified by the regulatory program. The Offeror may supplement the laboratory QC samples required by the analytical method to ensure accurate and precise data. For some USGS projects, other types of laboratory QC sample analyses also may be requested based on project-specific needs and requirements. The cost to analyze these project-specific, specialized QC samples must be negotiated between the Government and the Offeror, and agreement must be conducted in writing.

3.8.8 The Offeror must analyze method blanks for every 20 samples that are prepared, extracted, or tested per matrix type for each analytical method a minimum of one within 24 hours. The method-blank results are used to identify any potential interferences or contamination of the analytical system that may cause the reporting of elevated analyte concentrations or false positive data. Unless other criteria are specified by the regulatory program, project-specific requirements; or analytical method (1) target analytes detected in the method blank at values at or greater than the MDLs must be investigated and corrected by the contract laboratory, results for samples associated with a failed blank are to be reported with preapproved USGS COR written permission.