Attachments-RFQ-36C24825Q0285-Cable Drops Installation Services at VACHS-F Rev 2-6-25.pdf

36C24825Q0285

Combined Synopsis/Solicitation 36C24825Q0285 Cable Drops Installation Services at VACHS

This document includes:

Attachment B:

Price/Cost Schedule

Blanket Purchase Agreement (BPA) Administrative Information

Performance Work Statement (PWS)

Attachment C: Contract Clauses

Attachment D: Wage Determination

Attachment E Solicitation Provisions

E.1.1 Instructions to Offerors

Table of Contents

ATTACHMENT B

B.1 PRICE/COST SCHEDULE

ITEM INFORMATION

B.2 TERMS AND CONDITIONS

B.3 ADMINISTRATIVE DATA

B.4 PRICING DATA

B.5 OPTION TO EXTEND THE TERM OF THE BPA

B.6 GENERAL SERVICES ORDERS

B.7 NONPERSONAL SERVICES

B.8 AUTHORIZED LIMITS

B.9 OBLIGATION OF FUNDS

B.10 PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE

B.11 AUTHORIZED INDIVIDUALS

B.12 ORDER FORMAT

B.13 AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVES

B.14 FEDERAL HOLIDAYS

B.15 MANAGEMENT CONTROL

B.16 INVOICES

B.17 PRECEDENCE

B.18 PERFORMANCE WORK STATEMENT

SECTION C - CONTRACT CLAUSES

C.1 52.212-4 CONTRACT TERMS AND CONDITIONS—COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS

AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES (NOV 2023)

C.2 VAAR 852.219-73 VA NOTICE OF TOTAL SET-ASIDE FOR CERTIFIED

SERVICE-DISABLED VETERAN-OWNED SMALL BUSINESSES (JAN 2023)

(DEVIATION)

C.3 VAAR 852.219-75 VA NOTICE OF LIMITATIONS ON SUBCONTRACTING—

CERTIFICATE OF COMPLIANCE FOR SERVICES AND CONSTRUCTION (JAN 2023)

(DEVIATION)

C.4 52.252-2 CLAUSES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE (FEB 1998)

C.5 VAAR 852.232-72 ELECTRONIC SUBMISSION OF PAYMENT REQUESTS (NOV

2018)

C.6 52.212-5 CONTRACT TERMS AND CONDITIONS REQUIRED TO IMPLEMENT

STATUTES OR EXECUTIVE ORDERS—COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS AND

COMMERCIAL SERVICES (JAN 2025)

SECTION D - CONTRACT DOCUMENTS, EXHIBITS, OR ATTACHMENTS

WAGE DETERMINATION

SECTION E - SOLICITATION PROVISIONS

E.1 52.212-1 INSTRUCTIONS TO OFFERORS—COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS AND

COMMERCIAL SERVICES (SEP 2023)

E.2 52.204-24 REPRESENTATION REGARDING CERTAIN TELECOMMUNICATIONS

AND VIDEO SURVEILLANCE SERVICES OR EQUIPMENT (NOV 2021)

E.3 52.204-29 FEDERAL ACQUISITION SUPPLY CHAIN SECURITY ACT

ORDERS—REPRESENTATION AND DISCLOSURES (DEC 2023)

E.4 52.252-1 SOLICITATION PROVISIONS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE (FEB

1998)

E.5 52.212-3 OFFEROR REPRESENTATIONS AND CERTIFICATIONS—

COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES (MAY 2024)

ATTACHMENT B

B.1 PRICE/COST SCHEDULE

ITEM INFORMATION

ITEM

NUMBER

DESCRIPTION OF

SUPPLIES/SERVICES QUANTITY UNIT UNIT PRICE AMOUNT

1.00 EA ______________ _______________

Data Drops Installations as per PWS in VACHS facilities located throughout Puerto Rico Contract Period: Base POP Begin: 03-01-2025 POP End: 02-28-2026 PRINCIPAL NAICS CODE: 238210 - Electrical Contractors and Other Wiring Installation Contractors PRODUCT/SERVICE CODE: N040 - Installation of Equipment - Rope, Cable, Chain, and Fittings

1.00 EA _______________ _______________

in the US Virgin Islands (St Thomas and St. Croix Clinics) Contract Period: Base POP Begin: 03-01-2025 POP End: 02-28-2026 PRINCIPAL NAICS CODE: 238210 - Electrical Contractors and Other Wiring Installation Contractors throughout Puerto Rico Contract Period: Option 1 POP Begin: 03-01-2026 POP End: 02-28-2027 PRINCIPAL NAICS CODE: 238210 - Electrical Contractors and Other Wiring Installation Contractors in the US Virgin Islands (St Thomas and St. Croix Clinics) Contract Period: Option 1 POP Begin: 03-01-2026 POP End: 02-28-2027 PRINCIPAL NAICS CODE: 238210 - Electrical Contractors and Other Wiring Installation Contractors throughout Puerto Rico Contract Period: Option 2 POP Begin: 03-01-2027 POP End: 02-29-2028 PRINCIPAL NAICS CODE: 238210 - Electrical Contractors and Other Wiring Installation Contractors in the US Virgin Islands (St Thomas and St. Croix Clinics) Contract Period: Option 2 POP Begin: 03-01-2027 POP End: 02-29-2028 PRINCIPAL NAICS CODE: 238210 - Electrical Contractors and Other Wiring Installation Contractors throughout Puerto Rico Contract Period: Option 3 POP Begin: 03-01-2028 POP End: 02-28-2029 PRINCIPAL NAICS CODE: 238210 - Electrical Contractors and Other Wiring Installation Contractors in the US Virgin Islands (St Thomas and St. Croix Clinics) Contract Period: Option 3 POP Begin: 03-01-2028 POP End: 02-28-2029 PRINCIPAL NAICS CODE: 238210 - Electrical Contractors and Other Wiring Installation Contractors throughout Puerto Rico Contract Period: Option 4 POP Begin: 03-01-2029 POP End: 02-28-2030 PRINCIPAL NAICS CODE: 238210 - Electrical Contractors and Other Wiring Installation Contractors in the US Virgin Islands (St Thomas and St. Croix Clinics) Contract Period: Option 4 POP Begin: 03-01-2029 POP End: 02-28-2030 PRINCIPAL NAICS CODE: 238210 - Electrical Contractors and Other Wiring Installation Contractors throughout Puerto Rico Contract Period: 52.217-8 POP Begin: TBD POP End: TBD PRINCIPAL NAICS CODE: 238210 - Electrical Contractors and Other Wiring Installation Contractors

1.00 EA ______________ ______________

in the US Virgin Islands (St Thomas and St. Croix Clinics) Contract Period: 52.217-8 POP Begin: TBD POP End: TBD PRINCIPAL NAICS CODE: 238210 - Electrical Contractors and Other Wiring Installation Contractors

GRAND TOTAL _______________

B.2 TERMS AND CONDITIONS

The Contractor agrees to the following terms of a Blanket Purchase Agreement (BPA) EXCLUSIVELY WITH the Department of Veterans Affairs:

B.3 ADMINISTRATIVE DATA

A Blanket Purchase Agreement (BPA) is hereby established between TO BE DETERMINED (TBD) and the Department of Veterans Affairs under the following terms and conditions incorporated in this BPA:

Primary Point of Contact: TBD

Alternate Point of Contact: TBD

System for Award (SAM) Unique Entity ID (EUI): TBD

Cognizant Office (Include complete address):

Department of Veterans Affairs Network Contracting Office 8 (NCO 8) VA Caribbean HCS (Admin Bldg) #10 Calle Casia Suite #4M440 San Juan PR 00921-3201

B.4 PRICING DATA

1. The prices included on the BPA list (or applicable "discounted" rates submitted in a quotation response to an RFQ resulting in award) that are in effect on the effective date of an order shall govern that order's basic performance period. With regard to any option years, which are later exercised, the proposed option year rates as incorporated into the order award are in effect until such time, if applicable, that the contractor has been authorized a rate increase culminating from a negotiation with the Contracting Officer.

2. The BPA holder can voluntarily reduce offered prices at any time by giving 24-hour advance notice (by facsimile or electronic-mail) to the Department of Veterans Affairs/Contracting Officer.

This BPA also allows for additional discounts if a "large order" is placed at one time. An advanced notice is not required for discounts offered for only an individual order. Whether an order is large enough to warrant such a discount is subject to the discretion of the BPA holder.

3. The BPA holder may also increase BPA prices at any time. Any BPA price increase shall not take effect until the Department of Veterans Affairs Contracting Officer receives written notification (U.S. mail, facsimile, or electronic-mail). Any order already issued shall not be affected by any change to BPA pricing. The prices offered under this BPA will undergo annual review by the Department of Veterans Affairs Contracting Officer.

B.5 OPTION TO EXTEND THE TERM OF THE BPA

a. The Government may extend the term of this BPA by written notice to the Contractor at any time prior to the expiration of the BPA, provided that the Government shall give the Contractor a preliminary written notice of its intent to extend at least 30 days before the BPA expires. The preliminary notice does not commit the Government to an extension.

b. If the Government exercises this option, the extended BPA shall be considered to include this option provision.

B.6 GENERAL SERVICES ORDERS

a. The BPA holder shall furnish all the necessary qualified personnel, materials, facilities and management resources to furnish the services set forth in the Statement of Objectives (SOO) or the Performance Work Statement (PWS) within the terms specified and at the price(s) stated.

b. It is understood and agreed that the BPA holder shall provide Fixed-Price quotation when requested by the Contracting Officer (CO). The contractor's proposal shall be priced using labor rates and labor categories here in provided. The CO will issue Fixed Priced Orders upon completion of negotiations of contractor proposals.

B.7 NONPERSONAL SERVICES

a. In performance of this contract, the BPA holder will provide services as required by program offices to support management of their overall mission. This will be based upon the order's performance work statement for the specific effort. Orders will be formally issued to the BPA holder as opposed to individual BPA holder employees.

b. The services required under the Agreement constitute professional and management services within the definition provided by FAR 37.201. Under this Agreement the Government will obtain professional services, which are essential to the Department of Veterans Affairs mission but not otherwise available within Department of Veterans Affairs.

c. The Government will neither supervise BPA holder employees nor control the method by which the BPA holder performs the required tasks. Under no circumstances shall the Government assign tasks to, or prepare work schedules for, individual BPA holder employees.

It shall be the responsibility of the BPA holder to manage their employees and to guard against any actions that are of the nature of personal services, or give the perception of personal services. If the BPA holder feels that any actions constitute, or are perceived to constitute personal services, it shall be the BPA holder's further responsibility to notify the Contracting Officer immediately.

d. These services shall not be used to perform work of a policy/ decision making or management nature. All decisions relative to programs supported by BPA holders will be the sole responsibility of the Government. Support services will not be ordered to circumvent personnel ceilings, pay limitations, or competitive employment procedures.

B.8 AUTHORIZED LIMITS

The Government estimates, but does not guarantee, that individual BPA Orders placed against this Agreement may reach $60,000.00/per Order. This Order Limit may be increased by mutual agreement of the parties as necessary, in whole or part. The authorized Ceiling Limit of the Agreement is set at $300,000.00 over the period covered by the Agreement; this ceiling is also not a guarantee. The Ceiling Limit may also be raised in association with Order Limit increases or other conditions which, by mutual agreement of the parties, maybe considered necessary.

Authorization for individual orders above the stated order and/or Ceiling Limits must be coordinated through the Contracting Officer before larger valued orders can be issued and prior to commencement of work. All unauthorized work, regardless of amount, will be processed through the ratification process.

B.9 OBLIGATION OF FUNDS

This BPA does not obligate any funds. The Government is obligated only to the extent of authorized orders actually issued under the BPA by the Contracting Officer.

B.10 PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE

This BPA expires on TBD or such later ending date as determined by the exercise of any option.

B.11 AUTHORIZED INDIVIDUALS

Individuals Authorized to Place Orders:

DVA authorizes the following entities to place orders:

Department of Veterans Affairs Network Contracting Office 8 (NCO-8) San Juan Commodities & Services Team VA Caribbean Healthcare System (VACHS) Admin Bldg 10 Casia Street Suite 4M440, San Juan, PR 00921

B.12 ORDER FORMAT

Orders will be placed against this BPA via e-mail, Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), FAX, or in hardcopy format. Each individual BPA Order will describe the tasks, services and deliverables required.

B.13 AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVES

The primary Contracting Officer (CO) for this Agreement is:

Aurea Gonzalez Contracting Officer Department of Veterans Affairs Network Contracting Office 8 (NCO 8) VA Caribbean HCS (Admin Bldg) #10 Calle Casia Suite #4M440 San Juan, PR 00921-3201 Aurea.Gonzalez@va.gov

The Primary Point of Contact (POC) for services projects under this Agreement is:

Carlos Ruiz Rosado 787-641-7582 Ext. 110238 Carlos.RuizRosado@va.gov

The Secondary Point of Contact (POC) for services projects under this Agreement is: TBD

The Primary and/or Secondary POC will be responsible for technical monitoring of the contractor's performance and deliveries. The POC and the Contractor's Representative shall work together to ensure that all contractual requirements are being met. The POC will interpret specifications or technical portions of the work. The POC is not authorized to perform, formally or informally, any of the following actions:

(1) Promise, award, agree to award, or execute any contract, contract modification, or notice of intent that changes or may change this contract;

(2) Waive or agree to modification of the delivery schedule;

(3) Make any final decision on any contract matter subject to the Disputes Clause;

(4) Terminate, for any reason, the contractor's right to proceed;

(5) Obligate in any way, the payment of money by the Government. Only a warranted Contracting Officer is authorized to obligate funds on this or any other contract action.

The contractor shall immediately notify the Contracting Officer in writing if the COR has taken an action (or fails to take action) or issues directions (written or oral) that the contractor considers to exceed the above limitations.

The contractor shall provide the Contracting Officer information copies of all correspondence to the POC.

B.14 FEDERAL HOLIDAYS

Unless specifically authorized in writing by the Contracting Officer, no services will be provided and no charges will be incurred and/or billed to any order on this contract on any of the Federal Holidays listed below.

New Year’s Day Labor Day Birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr. Columbus Day Washington’s Birthday Veterans' Day Memorial Day Thanksgiving Day Juneteenth Christmas Day Independence Day

B.15 MANAGEMENT CONTROL

The BPA holder shall provide to the Contracting Officer (CO) a list of all teaming partners or subcontractors within 5 calendar days after order award. As subcontractors and/or teaming partners are added, and/or deleted, an updated listing will be provided to the CO within 5 calendar days of such change. All BPA holder personnel shall display identification badges at all times while charging hours to the order or at a government or government contractor location. Authorized Government personnel shall accompany all visits to Department of Veterans Affairs Program Offices, unless other specific arrangements have been made.

B.16 INVOICES

a. Inspection and acceptance shall be accomplished as follows: The Government, for all services furnished under any resulting order, hereby designates the POC in the program office as the point of final inspection and acceptance. The BPA holder will submit a draft invoice, including all back-up data, to the POC for review and concurrence. When the POC receives an accurate and complete invoice, he/she will accept/reject the invoice to the BPA holder within five

(5) working days. If the invoice is incomplete or inaccurate, the POC will return the unsigned invoice to the BPA holder for correction. Once the invoice is accepted, the BPA holder will submit it via the Tungsten Network along with all supporting documents. The POC will have seven (7) calendar days to accept/reject it. Final payment for each order will be accomplished by final invoice accompanied by a service report.

b. An itemized invoice shall be submitted to the POC at least monthly (when there is an open BPA Call/Order) or upon expiration of this BPA, whichever occurs first, for all services made during a billing period and for which payment has not been received. Copies of service tickets shall support these invoices.

B.17 PRECEDENCE

The Terms and conditions included in this BPA apply to all purchases made pursuant to it. In the event of an inconsistency between the provisions of this BPA and the Contractor's invoice, the provisions of this BPA will take precedence.

B.18 PERFORMANCE WORK STATEMENT

Data and Voice Cabling Drops Installation

1.0 INTRODUCTION.

1.1. The VA Caribbean Healthcare System (VACHS) requires services for data and voice cabling for the VA Caribbean Healthcare System and its associated Outpatient Clinics and offices including, but not limited to those listed in Section 5.1.

2.0. DESCRIPTION

2.1. The Contractor shall provide all labor, equipment, tools, material, supervision and other items and services necessary to perform the work as defined in this Performance Work Statement. The contractor shall provide the necessary services to install, remove, and repair data and voice cabling.

2.1.1. The contractor shall meet the following minimum requirements:

The cabling shall consist of, but not be limited to, multimode fiber optic and Category 6a (Systimax) cable punched on B configuration on RJ45 wall jack and terminated on an Ipatch panel (if Systimax panel available); Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP) for the purpose of data and voice transmissions. All installed cable shall be plenum rated and conform to the VACHS color code scheme. With the exception of patch panel cables, the contractor shall provide all of the materials for each installation or repair, including but not limited to cable, terminal connectors, wall jacks, and Velcro for cable management.

The vendor shall adhere to the specifications as stated herein.

Contractor shall have certified fiber optic technicians (OSP/ISP etc.), and certified Systimax technicians to include design, installation and maintenance.

All work shall be performed at the VACHS to include associated clinics and off-sites listed in section 5.1 and shall comply with current codes and standards as they relate to the respective facility.

The contractor shall be able to provide service in the geographical area of Puerto Rico for scheduled service and emergency service calls with on-site technical assistance available within a twenty-four (24) hours response time.

Contractor shall have previous experience working with Asbestos Containing Materials (ACM) and/or Presumed Asbestos-Containing Materials (PACM).

The period of performance for this contract shall be for a base period of one (1) year from date of Contract award, with four (4) additional one (1) year options to be exercised at the Government’s discretion.

IT Specialist or designee will be the VA official responsible for verifying contract compliance. After contract award, any incidents of contractor noncompliance as evidenced by the monitoring procedures will be forwarded immediately to the Contracting Officer.

2.1.1.2. All required licenses and local permits shall be the responsibility of the Contractor. In addition, the contractor shall adhere to all local Infection Control Risk Assessment (ICRA) requirements for work performed at this facility. The contractor shall check in with the Program Manager and/or designated point of contact (POC) prior to commencing work. All personnel shall be in uniform with a visible contractor badge during work hours.

3.0 APPLICABLE DOCUMENTS.

3.1. The following laws, regulations, policies, and procedures in effect on date of contract issuance and all subsequent changes or updates apply:

FAR Federal Acquisition Regulation

VAAR Veterans Administration Acquisition Regulation

SCA DOL Website Service Contract Act (SCA) Directory of Occupations (Fifth Edition) http://www.dol.gov/whd/contracts/sca.htm

VA Directive 6500 Department of Veterans Affairs Information Security Program

ANSI/TIA-568, TIA-

569, TIA-942

Telecommunications Industry Association cabling standards for Building Infrastructure, Data Centers

IEEE 802 Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers network standards

FIPS Federal Information Processing Standard

3.2. Glossary. Acronyms used in this PWS are listed below for easy reference:

COR Contracting Officer’s Representative

FAR Federal Acquisition Regulation

ID Interior Design

ECU Environmental Control Unit

ICRA Infection Control Risk Assessment

4.0. PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS.

A. The contractor shall install, repair, and remove cabling following the guidelines identified in Section 4.1, Contractor Responsibilities.

B. The contractor shall test each installed or repaired cable to ensure the installation meets TIA standard transmission requirements. The contractor shall then certify the work for use, and provide a report detailing standards compliance in written or electronic format to the COR, Program Manager or designated POC.

4.1 CONTRACTOR RESPONSIBILITIES

A. FIBER OPTIC CABLING: The contractor shall use the VA installed wire mesh cable runways for fiber runs unless otherwise specified. All fiber runs shall start from the Main Distribution Frame (MDF) fiber patch panels in room 341 or 330 and terminate in an Intermediate Distribution Frame (IDF) closet. Termination in locations other than an IDF closet may be authorized for special projects. Fiber runs shall have no splices.

B. CABLE RUNS: The following cable jacket color code shall be followed for all installations:

Blue for Voice and Data communication. Fiber Optic cable will be Orange in color.

1. All twisted pair cable runs shall be routed through the VA installed wire mesh flexible cable runway and must be plenum rated. A standard “cable drop” consists of two blue Category 6A cables terminated to and run from the IDF patch panel/punch down block to the terminal location. By definition, a “drop” includes all labor, material and RJ45 modules required to install the ports.

2. All twisted pair cable runs shall be routed through the VA installed wire mesh flexible cable runway and must be plenum rated. A standard “cable drop” consists of two blue Category 6a cables terminated to and run from the IDF patch panel/punch down block to the terminal location. By definition, a “drop” includes all labor, material and RJ45 modules required to install the ports.

3. CAT6a cables shall be terminated with RJ45 connectors to the T568B standard, and fiber optic cables will be terminated with SC connectors, unless otherwise specified by the government designated POC.

4. All cabling that leaves the wire mesh runways shall be neatly bundled and enclosed in electrical Educators Technology Assessment tubing and routed through an insulated connector. The tubing shall be in accordance with Electronic Industries Alliance Telecommunications Industries Association (EIA/TIA) 568 Bulletin Table 4.4-1, page 36 and be ¾, 1, 1 ¼, 1 ½ inches. No enclosure shall be smaller than one half inch. Runs from cable runways to a drop location shall be enclosed in electrical conduit and shall be concealed above the ceilings. All electrical conduit runs that pass through or run down a concrete or cinder block wall shall be channeled and filled with appropriate material, unless surface mounting is specifically authorized. Electrical tubing runs in a concrete wall shall terminate in an Educators Technology Assessment enclosed box 4" X 4" X 2" and furnished with a single gang concrete adapter. All electrical conduit runs in sheet rock shall run to the nearest point above the drop location and run down the inside of the wall in the same size tubing. Such runs shall terminate in a 2" X 3" X 2" box, which shall be properly supported. Surface runs of electrical conduit are not allowed unless pre-approved by the POC. When necessary and pre-approved, surface runs shall be in exterior channeling and surface mount boxes to coordinate with the decorum of the room.

5. All runs shall have a slack of one foot at the terminal end and shall not be spliced. All cables must be neatly routed and strapped with Velcro strips following the existing service loop in the IDF closet, resulting in an IDF service loop of not less than 1 meter.

Cabling must be installed in a neat and workmanlike manner and shall not follow a path to inhibit future installations or access to existing infrastructure cabling.

C. INSTALLATION: All cable installation shall be fully coordinated with the designated Program Manager or POC prior to installation.

1. The Contractor shall provide new installations or repairs conforming to current and accepted telephone and digital industry/commercial standards.

2. The Contractor shall be responsible for complete knowledge of the space and cable pathways (i.e. equipment rooms, telephone closets (TCs), conduits, wire ways.) of the facility.

3. The system cables shall be protected by cable duct, trays, wire ways, conduit (rigid, thin wall, or flex), and when specifically approved, flexible inner duct. Contractor shall confirm all contract drawings and facility physical layout to determine the necessary cable protective devices to be provided. If flexible inner duct is used, it shall be installed in the same manner as conduit described herein.

4. Cable installed within the system (i.e. backbone, outside plant, inside plant, and station cabling) shall conform to accepted industry and original equipment manufacturer (OEM) standards as to size, color code, and insulation. All cabling shall meet Category 6A requirements for SYSTIMAX Solution Design & Installation. The pair twists of any pair shall not be exactly the same as any other pair within any unit or sub-unit of cables that are bundled in 25 pairs or less. The absence of specifications regarding Educators Technology Assessment shall imply that best general industry practices shall prevail, and that first quality material and workmanship shall be provided. Certification Standards, (i.e., BICSI, Consultative Committee International Telegraph and Telephone Standards Committee, Federal Information Processing Standards (FIPS), SYSTIMAX Solutions, SYSTIMAX Structured Connectivity Solutions, Performance Specifications, (and Addendum) Latest Issue and National Fire Protection Association regulation) shall prevail.

5. Some areas of this Facility may be considered "plenum", including all above-ceiling grid spaces. All wire and cable used in support of the installation in those areas shall be in compliance with national and local codes pertaining to plenum environments. Contractor shall review VA’s cable and wire requirements with the Program Manager or POC prior to installation to confirm the type of environment present at the installation location. PVC jacketed data cable shall not be used.

6. All Educators Technology Assessment cable sheaths shall be grounded by the Contractor (i.e. risers, underground, station wiring.) as described herein.

7. If temporary cable and wire pairs are used, they shall be installed to not represent a pedestrian safety hazard. The Contractor shall be responsible for all work associated with the temporary installation, and for removal when no longer necessary. Temporary cable installations are not required to meet Industry standards; but must be reviewed and approved by the Program Manager or POC.

8. Conductors shall be cabled to ensure against induction in voice and data circuits.

Crosstalk attenuation within the system shall be in excess of -80 dB throughout the frequency ranges specified.

9. Measures shall be employed by the Contractor to minimize the radiation of radio frequency noise generated by the system equipment so as not to interfere with audio, radio, video, data, computer main distribution frame (MDF), telephone customer service unit (CSU), and electronic private branch exchange (EPBX) equipment the system may service.

10. Each cable end shall be labeled by the Contractor. The Contractor shall update the as-built drawings inside each IDF closet upon installation. The Contractor shall legibly label the patch panel and the wall jack frame using a mechanically prepared (handwritten not acceptable) label that fits inside the manufacturer’s label window. Labeling shall follow the existing naming convention. The Program Manager or POC will permanently update the drawings upon work acceptance.

11. Each cable shall be fully tested and certified in writing by the Contractor to the PROGRAM MANAGER OR POC before proof of performance testing can be conducted.

Minimum test requirements are for impedance compliance, inductance, capacitance, signal level compliance, opens, shorts, cross talk, noise and distortion, and split pairs on all cables. The tests required for data cable shall be made to guarantee the operation of this cable at Category 6a Ethernet standards, not less than 1000 Mhz full bandwidth, fully channel loaded. All cable installation and test reProgram Manager or POCds shall be provided to the Program Manager or POC for acceptance and shall thereafter be maintained electronically. Electronic reports must be readable without proprietary software, preferably saved in “Word” or “Portable Document Format" (.pdf).

12. The Contractor shall provide and use industry recognized test equipment to guarantee that cable pairs meet each OEM's standard transmission requirements and guarantee the cable will carry data transmissions at the required speeds, frequencies, and fully loaded bandwidth.

13. New installations and repairs must be compatible with existing systems. Terminal jacks shall be mounted in a suitable location as determined by governing regulation codes and the Program Manager or POC.

14. All contractors and service personnel shall be required to complete an “Above the Ceiling Work Permit” prior to the removal of ceiling tiles in any facility that is owned or leased by the Department of Veterans Affairs. Contractor or service personnel shall also have completed the16 hour Asbestos Operations and Maintenance training prior to the commencement of any work in the above ceiling area. If new penetrations are made in the smoke/fire walls, they must be sealed with UL approved fire sealant. Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for UL approved fire sealants shall be attached to the Above the Ceiling Work Permit. If existing cable trays or existing conduit pipes are to be used, this will not constitute a new penetration. However, “Above Ceiling Work Permits” shall be completed and signed off by the Safety Supervisor and/or Program Manager or POC of the project and shall be displayed at the site where work is being done. Further, when contractors or service personnel are working above the ceiling on a ladder, they shall have a barricade around the area in which they are working in order to separate themselves from the employees, patients and visitors at the VA owned or leased facility.

Contractors or service personnel shall not leave the area while ceiling tiles are left open.

15. The Contractor employees shall be responsible for knowledge of and compliance with safe working procedures. The Contractor shall work in compliance with OSHA standards, including but not limited to the Standard 1926 “General Safety and Health Provisions” for personal protective equipment, eye protection, tools, and ladders.

16. The Program Manager or POC, in coordination with facility Infection control personnel, will assess work activity and the physical installation areas and complete an Infection

Control Risk Assessment (ICRA). Contractors shall abide by infection control precautions as determined in the ICRA prior to, during and after work. These precautions may include HEPA vacuuming, mopping, disinfecting, blocking air vents, sealing an area with plastic sheeting, use of a contractor provided Environmental Containment Unit (ECU) and covered removal of the Contractor’s work debris. The Contractor shall provide all labor and materials necessary for compliance with infection control precautions as determined in the ICRA.

17. The Contractor shall not store any tools or materials onsite unless specifically authorized by the PROGRAM MANAGER OR POC. The Contractor is responsible for securing their property at all times to prevent theft.

18. All job-related refuse must be taken offsite and disposed of properly by the Contractor.

19. Any sub-contractor or personnel who will assist the contractor in performance of this work shall be required to have the same training and certification as the contractor and shall abide by all regulations and procedures applicable to the contractor.

D. TASK ORDERS: Task orders shall be based on individual projects and may be issued from date of contract award and within the twelve months period of performance, and/or during exercised option period. Period of performance for base period will be twelve (12) months from the award date, and four option periods of twelve (12) months each.

The PROGRAM MANAGER OR POC will request written estimates for task(s), from the contractor. Once the requirements of the task(s) have been reviewed, the contractor shall submit written cost estimate via email or in person to the PROGRAM MANAGER OR POC. The estimate provided by the vendor shall include materials needed, an estimated time to complete the work, and shall be firm fixed price based on the contract’s price schedule. Work shall not commence until written approval has been given by PROGRAM MANAGER OR POC. The Contractor will reference the PO number on the invoice as a condition of payment, and all invoices shall be submitted to Austin, Texas not later than 30 days after acceptance of the work by the Government.

E. RESPONSE TIME

1. Regular tasks will be scheduled by the PROGRAM MANAGER OR POC no less than one week in advance. The estimate shall be determined by a contractor survey of the site and submitted to the PROGRAM MANAGER OR POC within 2 working days, via e-mail for tracking purposes. The contractor shall complete regular tasks scheduled by the PROGRAM MANAGER OR POC within the timeline specified.

2. When Emergency tasks arise, the PROGRAM MANAGER OR POC will contact the contractor via telephone; followed by email for tracking purposes, to determine the shortest possible response time. Response to Emergency tasks shall not exceed one (1) business day. Any extension of time to complete tasks must be coordinated with the PROGRAM MANAGER OR POC. Work which requires completion during periods other than normal business hours shall be coordinated with the PROGRAM MANAGER OR

POC.

3. Normal business hours of the VA Caribbean Healthcare System are 7:30 a.m. through 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Federal Holidays are:

New Year’s: Day 1 January

Martin Luther King Jr. Birthday: 3rd Monday in January Washington’s Birthday: 3rd Monday in February Memorial Day: Last Monday in May Juneteenth: 19 June Independence Day: 4th of July Labor Day: 1st Monday in September Columbus Day: 2nd Monday in October Veterans Day: 11th of November Thanksgiving Day: 4th Thursday in November Christmas Day: 25 December

If the holiday falls on Saturday, the Federal Government observes the day on the preceding Friday, if the holiday falls on Sunday it is observed on the following Monday.

4. If the Contractor believes that the schedule cannot be met for a particular task because of extenuating circumstances, the contractor shall notify the PROGRAM MANAGER OR POC of those circumstances as soon as they are known with a new estimate of the completion date. The contractor shall adhere to the timeline for other work.

F. FLAT RATE

A flat rate will be paid for the work involved in this contract as provided in the Schedule of Prices/Costs.

NOTE: OFFEROR SHOULD INCLUDE TASK ORDER SITE VISITS, TERMINATIONS, LABOR

AND MATERIALS AND ANY OTHER EXPECTED COSTS IN THEIR PRICING.

G. GUARANTEE

All work shall be guaranteed by the contractor to meet all Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineering (IEEE) specifications for data and voice cabling.

H. INVOICES

The contractor shall provide an invoice following Section B.16 guidance. The VA Caribbean Healthcare System is exempt from all sales taxes. The Contractor will reference the PO number assigned on the BPA Call/Order on the invoices submitted.

I. BACKGROUND INVESTIGATIONS

1) All contractor employees requiring access to Federal facilities shall be the subject of a background investigation and must receive a favorable adjudication from the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) prior to contract performance. This requirement shall be applicable to subcontractor personnel requiring the same access. Contractor shall provide a roster of employees names assigned to the contract to the Contracting Officer within five (5) days of the contract being award. Position Sensitivity has been designated as Low Risk. The level of background investigation commensurate with the required level of access is Special Agency Check (SAC). A fee of $24.25 (subject to change) for this investigation shall be borne by the contractor. Contractor employees may have their fingerprints taken electronically at a local VA

Medical Center after coordination with the Contracting Officer and VA Police Service or at a local Police Department using form number FD-258 (Rev. 5-11-99) Forms (available from VA Security Investigation Center/SIC, 2200 Fort Roots Drive, Bldg 192, North Little Rock, AR, 72114.'

2) Contractor employees will be issued a “Contractor” Identification badge by the VA Caribbean Healthcare System Facility Police Service upon completion of a favorable adjudicated SAC.

This badge shall be worn by contractor personnel at all times while on government property.

All identification badges provided by the VA shall be returned to the PROGRAM MANAGER OR POC upon expiration of the contract or upon termination of contract employee’s services.

3) The Contractor shall familiarize his/her staff as necessary to any Government drawings, specifications, or standards that may be provided for areas and other configurations to meet this requirement. Incorrect installation shall be reworked at the expense of the contractor.

4) References and resources to aid in the completion of this project include, but are not limited to, the following:

- Applicable building codes

- VA Office of Health and Safety (OHS)

- Construction Infection Control Risk Assessment Memorandum

- National Fire Protection Code

5) The Contractor shall be responsible for providing and wearing all safety equipment required in the performance of the contract. The Contractor shall also take all safety precautions necessary. All electrical cords used in the performance of the contract will be inspected and maintained to ensure integrity and proper grounding. The Contractor shall take such safety precautions as the Contracting Officer and/or PROGRAM MANAGER OR POC may determine to be reasonably necessary to protect the lives and health of occupants of the building. The PROGRAM MANAGER OR POC shall notify the Contractor of any safety issues and the action necessary to correct them.

6) The PROGRAM MANAGER OR POC shall identify and document deficiencies in the quality of services performed. This documentation shall be made available to the Contracting Officer upon request. Any deficiencies (Damaged/improperly installation, etc.) that are found in conjunction with the Inspections shall be corrected within three (3) days of the original work performed at the Contractor expense.

Performance Location and Hours.

1. Primary place of performance is the VA Caribbean Healthcare System. 10 Casia Street San Juan, PR 00921 and the below listed clinics:

Arecibo Community Based Outpatient Clinic Calle San Millan Hato Abajo, Arecibo, P.R. 00613

Comerio Rural Outpatient Clinic 15 De Diego Street Comerio, PR 00782

Guayama Community Based Outpatient Clinic FISA Bldg. 1st Floor, Paseo Del Pueblo, km 0.3, Lote no 6 Guayama, PR 00784

Mayaguez Community Based Outpatient Clinic State road PR #2

Km. 149.9 Ave. Algarrobo, Bo. Sabanetas Mayagüez, PR 00680

Utuado Rural Outpatient Clinic Isaac Gonzalez Street Esquina Ledesma Utuado, PR 00641

Ponce Community Based Outpatient Clinic 1802 Calle Navarra Ponce PR 00716

Ceiba Community Based Outpatient Clinic

311 Lauro Piñeiro Pueblo Ward, Ceiba, PR

Vieques Rural Outpatient Clinic Co.Destino Carretera #997 Vieques, PR 00765

St. Thomas Community Based Outpatient Clinic Medical Foundation Building Suite 101 St. Thomas, VI 00802

St. Croix Community Based Outpatient Clinic Box 12, RR-02, The Village Mall #113 Kings Hill, VI 00850-4701

Carolina Warehouse La Ceramica Industrial Park Lote 1C Calle Lorencita Carolina, PR 00983

New Carolina Warehouse Caribbean Airport Facilities, Building C1 10 Sector Central Carolina, PR 00983

Vet Center San Juan

SAN PATRICIO OFFICE CENTER

1ST FLOOR,# 7 TABONUCO ST

GUAYNABO PR.00968

Vet Center Ponce

1010 Avenida del Veterano Ponce PR 00716-2914

Vet Center Arecibo 50 Calle Gonzalo Marin Arecibo, PR 00612

VACHS Mental Health Domiciliary 653 Ave. Muñoz Rivera San Juan, PR 00918

2. Normal working hours are from 7:30 am to 4:00 pm Monday to Friday. However, due to the need of servicing the veterans in clinical spaces were direct patient care is required;

occasionally work will have to be performed after close of business Monday through Friday as well as weekends with the exception of Federal holidays. Contractor access and escorts will be provided by the Government during these instances. A list of specific installers shall be provided to the Government 24 hours prior to commencing any given task. The contractor and crew of installers shall wear uniforms with the Contractors name and VA assigned badge visible.

Facilities may be deleted or added to adapt to the Government need. Also, the above address of facilities that are currently operating from a location not owned by the Government (i.e. Vet Centers) may be subject to relocation at any point during the contract.

5.0. DELIVERABLES.

5.1. Project Management Plan. The Contractor shall prepare a Project Management Plan (PMP) describing the technical approach, use of organizational resources, and management controls to be employed to meet the requirements of this PWS at the time of offer. The PMP shall detail the products, methods for allocation of staff and other resources necessary to meet the requirement of the PWS. The Government shall receive the revised PMP in both hard copy and electronic form not later than ten days after contract award. Based on the PMP, the Contracting Officer Representative (PROGRAM MANAGER OR POC) will provide approval to move forward on activities planned. The Contractor shall request prior approval on all activities not included in the plan or any modifications to the plan it has been approved.

5.2 Daily Status / Progress Report. A daily status report shall be provided to the PROGRAM

MANAGER OR POC.

6.0 KEY PERSONNEL REPLACEMENT AND SUBSTITUTION.

6.1. Requests for approval of substitutions shall be in writing and shall provide a detailed explanation of the circumstances necessitating the proposed substitutions. The request shall contain a complete resume for the proposed substitute, and any other information requested or required by the Contracting Officer to approve or disapprove the request. Proposed substitutes shall have qualifications that are equal to or higher than the personnel being augmented.

The Contracting Officer or his/her authorized representative shall evaluate such requests and promptly notify the Contractor in writing whether the proposed substitution is acceptable.

6.2. If the Contracting Officer determines that, (1) suitable and timely replacement of personnel who have been reassigned, terminated or have otherwise become unavailable for the contract work is not reasonably forthcoming, or (2) the resultant substitution would be so substantial as to impair the successful completion of the contract or the delivery order in accordance with the proposal accepted by the Government at time of contract award, the Contracting Officer may, (1) terminate the contract for default or for the convenience of the Government, as appropriate, or (2) at his discretion, if he finds the Contractor at fault for the condition, equitably adjust the contract price downward to compensate the Government for any resultant delay, loss or damage.

6.3. The Contractor shall replace any absent individual for any period greater than one workday (may be changed) so as to leave a full complement of trained qualified personnel at all times with no disruption of services.

7.0 CONTRACTOR PERSONNEL AND MANAGEMENT.

7.1 Post Award Conference/Performance Evaluation Meetings. Post Award Conference / Performance Evaluation Meetings. The Contractor shall attend the post award conference convened by the contracting activity or contract administration office in accordance with Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Subpart 42.5. Written minutes of such meetings will be recorded by the Contractor and signed by the Program/Project Manager and the contracting Officer (CO), or PROGRAM MANAGER OR POC and distributed within five (5) workdays after the meeting.

7.2 Performance/Progress Meetings will be held as necessary. There may be occasions when subsequent meetings will be called by either party to reconfirm mutual understandings and/or address deficiencies in the Quality Control (QC) system or procedures which may require corrective action by the Contractor. The Contractor Representative shall meet with the PROGRAM MANAGER OR POC and/or CO as required. A mutual effort will be made to resolve all problems identified. The Contractor Representative and the PROGRAM MANAGER OR POC shall sign the written minutes of these meetings.

7.3 Contract Administration. Notwithstanding the contractor’s responsibility for total management during the performance of this contract, the administration of the contract requires maximum coordination between the government and the contractor.

7.4 Contracting Officer (CO). The CO is the only person authorized to direct changes in any of the requirements under this contract, and, notwithstanding any provisions contained elsewhere in this contract, said authority remains solely in the CO. In the event the contractor effects any such change at the direction of any person other than the CO, the change will be considered to have been made without authority and solely at the risk of the contractor. All contract administration will be effected by the CO. Communications pertaining to contractual administrative matters shall be addressed to the CO. No changes in or deviation from the terms and conditions shall be affected, without a written modification to the contract, executed by the CO authorizing such changes.

7.5 Contracting Officer's Representative (COR). In accordance with Veteran Affairs Acquisition Regulation (VAAR) Clause 852.270-1, Representatives of the Contracting Officers, the CO reserve the right to designate representatives to act for him/her in furnishing technical guidance and advice or generally monitor the work to be performed under this contract. Such designation will be in writing and will define the scope and limitation of the designee’s authority. A copy of the designation shall be furnished to the contractor.

7.6 Contractor Employees. The contractor shall accomplish the assigned work by employing and utilizing qualified personnel with appropriate combinations of education, training, and experience. The contractor shall match personnel skills to the work specified herein. The contractor shall ensure the labor categories/occupation code as defined by the Department of Labor are aligned to those tasks delineated in this PWS. The contractor shall comply with the minimum rates established in the applicable wage determination for this service. The Contractor shall provide the necessary resources and infrastructure to manage, perform, and administer the contract.

7.7 Contractor Identification. All contract personnel shall be identified as a Contractor (i.e., badge, company logo, or uniform). All contract personnel are required to identify themselves such that they avoid creating an impression in the minds of members of the public that they are Government officials. They must also ensure that all correspondence (documents, emails etc.)

or reports produced by the Contractor are suitably marked as Contractor products or that Contractor participation is appropriately disclosed.

7.8 Key Personnel. The contractor shall provide a single point of contact to administer this contract. All key personnel shall have means of verbal and e-mail communication with the PROGRAM MANAGER OR POC. Key personnel and alternates must be able to communicate fluently in English both verbally and in writing.

7.9 Safety/Security Requirements. The Contractor shall comply with all applicable federal, state and local laws and ensure performance is secure while protecting material, equipment, and supplies from damage and loss. Government security personnel shall have the express right to inspect for security violations at any time during the term of the contract.

7.10 All information generated in performance of this contract becomes property of the Government and must be surrendered upon request and/or completion of the contract.

The Contractor must protect against the destruction and/or misplacement of all information produced under this contract, unless directed under local policy to destroy. This includes both hard and soft copies of data.

7.11 The Contractor shall not release any information (including photographs, files, public announcements, statements, denials, or confirmations) on any part of the subject matter of this contract or any phase of any program hereunder without the prior written approval of the

PROGRAM MANAGER OR POC.

7.12 Standards of conduct.

7.12.1 Conduct of Personnel. Contractor personnel shall conduct themselves in a professional manner (i.e. timeliness, communication; spoken and written etc.). The Contracting Officer may require the Contractor to remove from the job site any employee working under this contract for reasons of suspected misconduct, a suspected security breach, or suspected to be under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or any other incapacitating agent. Contractor employees shall be subject to dismissal from the premises upon determination by the Contracting Officer that such action is necessary in the interests of the Government. The hospital director or designated representative has the authority to bar individuals from the Government facility.