Q&A.docx

Q. Could you please tell me if the Combined Synopsis/Solicitation posted as solicitation number FA485519RA010 on FBO contains requirements similar to any work performed currently or in the past, or will this be a new requirement?

A. There is no current contract for this work, this will be a new requirement.

Q. If possible, can you please provide the most recent contract or task order number?

A. This is a new requirement with no recent contracts.

Q. Is there a particle size requirement?

A. Normal Unclassified shredding is acceptable.

Q. Are these 29 bins spread out over a large area, have stairs, elevators or extreme distance from each other?

A. The bins are all brought down to a single hallway for collection/switch out. MDG staff then come down to get their own containers back. The only containers that cannot be brought down are the freestanding cabinet units in the Command Section. These are upstairs. Usually the driver is escorted upstairs with a wheeled bin via the elevator. He then empties the four bins into the larger wheeled bin then brings it back down via elevator.

Q. The PWS states in 1.3 Background that there should be twenty-five (25) 96 gallon wheeled bins and four (4) 55 gallon standalone cabinets. Are the sizes of the bins a requirement or can more bins be supplied to provide the same volume? Our company standard bin is a 66 gallon wheeled bins that are more secure than the industry's 96 gallon (most manufacturers are actually 95 gallon). The 55 gallon standalone cabinet may not exist. I have been in this industry 17 years and have never seen one. I reached out to my contacts in the bin manufacturing and they do not know of one either. Typical size for a cabinet (also called a console) is 32 gallon. Some consoles may be 35 gallon. Consoles were paired down in size the past few years to meet JCAHO (Joint Commission Accreditation of Health Care) and CARB 2(California Air Resources Board) standards.

A. Industry standard wheeled bins and consoles are fine. 66 and 32 gallons sounds right.

(Updated PWS Dated 24 JUL and Combo 22 Jul to match and reflect correct size.)

Q. The PWS states in 2.3.3 that the contractor should call in advance to ensure the bins are "in place". Does this mean the bins will be in gathered in one central area for servicing?

A. The containers are gathered the morning of service. It’s good to have advance notice so we ensure every container is brought to the Logistics hallways for the driver to pick up/swap out.