Brand_Name_Justification_Sample_Instrument_and_Lab_equipment.pdf

United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agriculture Research Services (ARS)

Brand Name Justification

Authority: This document is prepared in accordance with the requirements of FAR 11.105(a) (1) and FAR 13.106-3(b) (3) (i).

“Agency requirements shall not be written so as to require a particular brand name, product, or feature of a product, peculiar to one manufacturer, thereby precluding consideration of a product manufactured by another company unless –

(a) The particular brand-name, product, or feature is essential to the Government’s requirements, and market research indicates other companies’ similar products, or products lacking the particular feature, do not meet, or cannot be modified to meet, the agency’s needs. . .”

Nature and Description: The USDA/ARS seeks to procure a quantity of (1) PRIMUS PSS5-A Steam Sterilizer with boiler.

Identification and Justification rationale: FAR 11.105(a) (1)

Rational: The requested Sterilizer is needed to support ARS research program in the Animal Biosciences and Biotechnology Laboratory. This Sterilizer will serve as a replacement for an old worn out Sterilizer. This Sterilizer has a unique interior design that promotes greater sterility and longevity of instruments. Additionally, the Primus Sterilizer fits into the current laboratory setup and replaces a like kind piece of equipment. A different brand of sterilizer would require additional changes in laboratory setup and configuration which could add additional costs. Also with a change in the setup additional training and familiarity would be required by all facility personnel.

Determination: The ordering activity determines the brand name source requirement represents the best value to the government. After an internal discussion among ARS research division employees it was determined that Primus branded equipment would be the best choice to provide Sterilizer functionality to the ARS user base.

Price reasonableness: Based on agency market research and current price comparisons we conclude and determine the price is fair and reasonable and in the best interest of the government.

Contacting Officer’s Determination: Based on the information provided above, in accordance with FAR 11.105(a) (1) and FAR 13.106-1(b) (1) I hereby determine that the proposed source is the only source reasonably available. Further, in accordance with FAR 13.106-3(a) (2) I hereby determine that the price of this order is fair and reasonable.

Signature: Date:

Contracting Officer