Final.RFQ.pdf

RFQ IFB RFP

WOMEN-OWNED SMALL BUSINESS

(WOSB) ELIGIBLE UNDER THE WOMEN-OWNED

SOLICITATION/CONTRACT/ORDER FOR COMMERCIAL ITEMS

OFFEROR TO COMPLETE BLOCKS 12, 17, 23, 24, & 30

1. REQUISITION NUMBER PAGE OF

2. CONTRACT NO. 3. AWARD/EFFECTIVE

DATE

4. ORDER NUMBER 5. SOLICITATION NUMBER 6. SOLICITATION ISSUE

DATE

7. FOR SOLICITATION

INFORMATION CALL:

a. NAME b. TELEPHONE NUMBER (No collect calls)

8. OFFER DUE DATE/

LOCAL TIME

9. ISSUED BY

13b. RATING

14. METHOD OF SOLICITATION

CODE

15. DELIVER TO 16. ADMINISTERED BY CODE

18a. PAYMENT WILL BE MADE BY CODEFACILITY

CODE

CODE

TELEPHONE NO.

17b. CHECK IF REMITTANCE IS DIFFERENT AND PUT SUCH ADDRESS IN

OFFER

18b. SUBMIT INVOICES TO ADDRESS SHOWN IN BLOCK 18a UNLESS BLOCK

BELOW IS CHECKED

SEE ADDENDUM

19.

ITEM NO.

20.

SCHEDULE OF SUPPLIES/SERVICES

21.

QUANTITY

22.

UNIT

23.

UNIT PRICE

24.

AMOUNT

(Use Reverse and/or Attach Additional Sheets as Necessary)

25. ACCOUNTING AND APPROPRIATION DATA 26. TOTAL AWARD AMOUNT (For Govt. Use Only)

28. CONTRACTOR IS REQUIRED TO SIGN THIS DOCUMENT AND RETURN

DELIVER ALL ITEMS SET FORTH OR OTHERWISE IDENTIFIED ABOVE AND ON ANY

ADDITIONAL SHEETS SUBJECT TO THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS SPECIFIED

29. AWARD OF CONTRACT: REF.

DATED . YOUR OFFER ON SOLICITATION

(BLOCK 5), INCLUDING ANY ADDITIONS OR CHANGES WHICH ARE

SET FORTH HEREIN, IS ACCEPTED AS TO ITEMS:

30a. SIGNATURE OF OFFEROR/CONTRACTOR

30b. NAME AND TITLE OF SIGNER (Type or print) 30c. DATE SIGNED

31a. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA (SIGNATURE OF CONTRACTING OFFICER)

31b. NAME OF CONTRACTING OFFICER (Type or print) 31c. DATE SIGNED

AUTHORIZED FOR LOCAL REPRODUCTION

PREVIOUS EDITION IS NOT USABLE

STANDARD FORM 1449 (REV. 2/2012)

Prescribed by GSA - FAR (48 CFR) 53.212

COPIES TO ISSUING OFFICE. CONTRACTOR AGREES TO FURNISH AND

OFFER

13a. THIS CONTRACT IS A

RATED ORDER UNDER

DPAS (15 CFR 700)

11. DELIVERY FOR FOB DESTINA-

TION UNLESS BLOCK IS

MARKED

SEE SCHEDULE

12. DISCOUNT TERMS

ARE ARE NOT ATTACHED

ARE ARE NOT ATTACHED

27a. SOLICITATION INCORPORATES BY REFERENCE FAR 52.212-1, 52.212-4. FAR 52.212-3 AND 52.212-5 ARE ATTACHED. ADDENDA

27b. CONTRACT/PURCHASE ORDER INCORPORATES BY REFERENCE FAR 52.212-4. FAR 52.212-5 IS ATTACHED. ADDENDA

17a CONTRACTOR/

OFFEROR.

CODE

8 (A)

SIZE STANDARD:

NAICS:

% FOR:SET ASIDE:UNRESTRICTED OR

SERVICE-DISABLED

VETERAN-OWNED

SMALL BUSINESS

HUBZONE SMALL

BUSINESS

SMALL BUSINESS

10. THIS ACQUISITION IS

EDWOSB

SMALL BUSINESS PROGRAM

SCHEDULE Continued

ITEM NO. SUPPLIES/SERVICES QUANTITY UNIT UNIT PRICE AMOUNT

BASE YEAR - Provide on site Safety Training for NEFOP Observers in accordance with attached Statement of Work (SOW). Trainings are broken down in accordance with the following subclins:

0001 Safety Training 1

Period of Performance: 08/14/2020 to 08/13/2021

6.00 EA

0002 Safety Training II

Period of Performance: 08/14/2020 to 08/13/2021

1.00 EA

0003 Safety Training III

Period of Performance: 08/14/2020 to 08/13/2021

1.00 EA

0004 OPTIONAL QUANTITIES BASE PERIOD - Safety Training I - The Contractor shall provide One (1) additional Safety Training I during the base period as needed. It is anticipated that the quantities will not exceed a total of four (4) additional trainings.

Period of Performance: 08/14/2020 to 08/13/2021

1.00 EA

0005 OPTIONAL QUANTITIES BASE PERIOD - Safety Training II - The Contractor shall provide One (1) additional Safety Training II during the base period as needed. It is anticipated that the quantities will not exceed a total of two (2) additional trainings.

Period of Performance: 08/14/2020 to 08/13/2021

1.00 EA

0006 OPTIONAL QUANTITIES BASE PERIOD - Safety Training III - The Contractor shall provide One (1) additional Safety Training III during the base period as needed. It is anticipated that the quantities will not exceed a total of two (2) additional trainings.

Period of Performance: 08/14/2020 to 08/13/2021

1.00 EA

OPTION YEAR 1 - Provide on site Safety Training for NEFOP Observers in accordance with attached Statement of Work (SOW). Trainings are broken down in accordance with the following subclins:

OPT

1001 Safety Training I

Period of Performance: 08/14/2021 to 08/13/2022

6.00 EA

OPT

1002 Safety Training II

Period of Performance: 08/14/2021 to 08/13/2022

1.00 EA

OPT

1003 Safety Training III

Period of Performance: 08/14/2021 to 08/13/2022

1.00 EA

OPT

1004 OPTIONAL QUANTITIES - OPTION YEAR 1 - Safety

Training I - The Contractor shall provide One (1) additional Safety Training I during Option Year 1 performance period as needed. It is anticipated that the quantities will not exceed a total of four (4) additional trainings.

1.00 EA

PAGE 2 OF 77 1305M220QNFFM0201

Period of Performance: 08/14/2021 to 08/13/2022

OPT

1005 OPTIONAL QUANTITIES - OPTION YEAR 1 - Safety

Training II - The Contractor shall provide One (1) additional Safety Training II during Option Year 1 performance period as needed. It is anticipated that the quantities will not exceed a total of two (2) additional trainings.

Period of Performance: 08/14/2021 to 08/13/2022

1.00 EA

OPT

1006 OPTIONAL QUANTITIES - OPTION YEAR 1 - Safety

Training III - The Contractor shall provide One (1) additional Safety Training III during Option Year 1 performance period as needed. It is anticipate that the quantities will not exceed a total of two (2) additional trainings.

Period of Performance: 08/14/2021 to 08/13/2022

1.00 EA

OPTION YEAR 2 - Provide on site Safety Training for NEFOP Observers in accordance with attached Statement of Work (SOW). Trainings are broken down in accordance with the following subclins:

OPT

2001 Safety Training I

Period of Performance: 08/14/2022 to 08/13/2023

6.00 EA

OPT

2002 Safety Training II

Period of Performance: 08/14/2022 to 08/13/2023

1.00 EA

OPT

2003 Safety Training III

Period of Performance: 08/14/2022 to 08/13/2023

1.00 EA

OPT

2004 OPTIONAL QUANTITIES - OPTION YEAR 2 - Safety

Training I - The Contractor shall provide One (1) additional Safety Training I during Option Year 2 performance period as needed. It is anticipated that the quantities will not exceed a total of four (4) additional trainings.

Period of Performance: 08/14/2022 to 08/13/2023

1.00 EA

OPT

2005 OPTIONAL QUANTITIES - OPTION YEAR 2 - Safety

Training II - The Contractor shall provide One (1) additional Safety Training II during Option Year 2 performance period as needed. It is anticipated that the quantities will not exceed a total of two (2) additional trainings.

Period of Performance: 08/14/2022 to 08/13/2023

1.00 EA

OPT

2006 OPTIONAL QUANTITIES - OPTION YEAR 2 - Safety

Training III - The Contractor shall provide One (1) additional Safety Training III during Option Year 2 performance period as needed. It is anticipated that the quantities will not exceed a total of two (2) additional trainings.

PAGE 3 OF 77 1305M220QNFFM0201

Period of Performance: 08/14/2022 to 08/13/2023

OPTION YEAR 3 - Provide on site Safety Training for NEFOP Observers in accordance with attached Statement of Work (SOW). Trainings are broken down in accordance with the following subclins:

OPT

3001 Safety Training 1

Period of Performance: 08/14/2023 to 08/13/2024

6.00 EA

OPT

3002 Safety Training II

Period of Performance: 08/14/2023 to 08/13/2024

1.00 EA

OPT

3003 Safety Training III

Period of Performance: 08/14/2023 to 08/13/2024

1.00 EA

OPT

3004 OPTIONAL QUANTITIES - OPTION YEAR 3 - Safety

Training I - The Contractor shall provide One (1) additional Safety Training I during Option Year 3 performance period as needed. It is anticipated that the quantities will not exceed a total of four (4) additional trainings.

Period of Performance: 08/14/2023 to 08/13/2024

1.00 EA

OPT

3005 OPTIONAL QUANTITIES - OPTION YEAR 3 - Safety

Training II - The Contractor shall provide One (1) additional Safety Training II during Option Year 3 performance period as needed. It is anticipated that the quantities will not exceed a total of two (2) additional trainings.

Period of Performance: 08/14/2023 to 08/13/2024

1.00 EA

OPT

3006 OPTIONAL QUANTITIES - OPTION YEAR 3 - Safety

Training III - The Contractor shall provide One (1) additional Safety Training III during Option Year 3 performance period as needed. It is anticipated that the quantities will not exceed a total of two (2) additional trainings.

Period of Performance: 08/14/2023 to 08/13/2024

1.00 EA

OPTION YEAR 4 - Provide on site Safety Training for NEFOP Observers in accordance with attached Statement of Work (SOW). Trainings are broken down in accordance with the following subclins:

OPT

4001 Safety Training 1

Period of Performance: 08/14/2024 to 08/13/2025

6.00 EA

OPT

4002 Safety Training II

Period of Performance: 08/14/2024 to 08/13/2025

1.00 EA

OPT

4003 Safety Training III 1.00 EA

PAGE 4 OF 77 1305M220QNFFM0201

Period of Performance: 08/14/2024 to 08/13/2025

OPT

4004 OPTIONAL QUANTITIES - OPTION YEAR 4 - Safety

Training I - The Contractor shall provide One (1) additional Safety Training I during Option Year 4 performance period as needed. It is anticipated that the quantities will not exceed a total of four (4) additional trainings.

Period of Performance: 08/14/2024 to 08/13/2025

1.00 EA

OPT

4005 OPTIONAL QUANTITIES - OPTION YEAR 4 - Safety

Training II - The Contractor shall provide One (1) additional Safety Training II during Option Year 4 performance period as needed. It is anticipated that the quantities will not exceed a total of two (2) additional trainings.

Period of Performance: 08/14/2024 to 08/13/2025

1.00 EA

OPT

4006 OPTIONAL QUANTITIES - OPTION YEAR 4 - Safety

Training III - The Contractor shall provide One (1) additional Safety Training III during Option Year 4 performance period as needed. It is anticipated that the quantities will not exceed a total of two (2) additional trainings.

Period of Performance: 08/14/2024 to 08/13/2025

PAGE 5 OF 77 1305M220QNFFM0201

Section I Statement of Work

1305M2-20-Q-NFFM-0201

National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS)

Northeast Fisheries Science Center (NEFSC) For

Observer Safety Training

1. INTRODUCTION

The Northeast Fisheries Science Center (NEFSC) has a requirement to perform Observer Safety Training Support Services.

2. BACKGROUND

The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) has an extensive program to monitor and observe living marine resources and associated communities to provide information on biota, their habitats, and the human activities and actions that may impact coastal and ocean ecosystems. Data are the foundation of scientific advice, which provides information to management to support decision-making. A more consistent flow of high quality, credible information is required to improve decision-making. To collect the quantity and quality of data necessary, NMFS intends to improve its capacity to conduct surveys, research, and studies for better understanding of ecosystems. These efforts rely on extensive collaboration with fisheries participants and other stakeholders involved in the living marine resource decision process.

Observers are the only independent data source for certain types of at-sea information such as bycatch composition and mortality, and marine mammal, sea bird and sea turtle interactions. Although vessel self-reporting is often utilized, only limited data collection demands can be reasonably placed on the captain and crew. In addition, the reliability of self-reported information is a concern for scientists and policy makers, who use the data to make fishery management decisions for the purpose of maintaining the nation’s marine resources.

Currently, there are an estimated 140 observers who are deployed in three (3) observer programs (Northeast Fisheries Observer Program (NEFOP), Industry Funded Scallop (IFS) Program, and the At- Sea Monitoring (ASM) Program) administered through the Fisheries Sampling Branch (FSB) of the Northeast Fisheries Science Center (NEFSC). The FSB places observers on commercial fishing vessels operating in waters off Maine through North Carolina, completing between 10,000 and 12,000 sea days per year as defined by the annual Standardize Bycatch Reduction Methodology (SBRM) Seaday Schedule (Attachment 1, 2019-2020 SBRM Seaday Schedule). Additional fisheries or new programs may be added as needed. Commercial fishing is an inherently dangerous occupation, perhaps the most dangerous occupation in the United States. The importance of providing observers with up to date and high quality safety training is critical to NOAA’s mission principals.

NMFS observer data coverage is essential to reliably estimate catch and bycatch and helping to implement programs to reduce bycatch. Additional benefits of enhanced observer programs are near real-time monitoring of biological and environmental conditions and sampling opportunities not available from dockside sampling. This includes information on marine mammals, turtles and seabirds, resource abundance, contaminants, habitat, life history, and other basic biological information.

NMFS is required to collect scientific, management, regulatory compliance, and economic data for fisheries by placing observers aboard U.S. domestic fishing vessels. These data cannot be obtained at the dock or on Government research vessels. These data are needed for the management of fisheries occurring in the U.S. Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and the high seas beyond the EEZ.

NMFS requires Contractor support, as described below, to satisfy these requirements.

3. SCOPE AND OUTCOMES

The Contractor shall provide and retain the necessary qualified personnel, material, equipment, services, and facilities (except as otherwise specified) to conduct observer safety training for the NEFSC. The Contractor shall conduct approximately 10-15 trainings per year, comprised of Safety I, II, and III. Safety I and Safety II shall be, at a minimum, two (2) day trainings 18 and 16 hours total respectively). Safety III shall be at a minimum, one (1) day training nine (9) hours total). Class size will range from six (6) to 24 students. The provider will be given at a minimum 30 days’ notice before a safety training class is scheduled. Safety I will be scheduled approximately every one (1) to three (3) months. Safety II and Safety III will be scheduled approximately every three (3) to four (4) months. Scheduling may vary and is dependent on program needs and observer attrition. The NMFS maintains a projected training schedule each year to help predict future trainings and to communicate that information to staff, observer providers, and observers (Attachment 2, 2019 FSB Projected Training Schedule). The provider shall utilize the projected training schedule to help predict and plan for safety training needs on an annual basis.

4. OBJECTIVES

It is critical that consistent safety training is provided to all fisheries observers, and that safety training adheres to minimum national standards that NOAA Fisheries Service has determined are appropriate for preparing observer for the hazards associated with commercial fishing operations (Attachment 3, NOAA Fisheries Observer Safety Training Standards). The purpose of the procedure directive is to establish national safety training standards for what NOAA Fisheries consider to be the core curriculum topic for observer safety training. The provider will be responsible for conducting safety training for observers in coordination with NMFS staff that is consistent with the requirements outlined by the National Observer Program1 in an effort to properly supply observers with the skillset needed to perform their duties appropriately. FSB Observer Safety training consists of an initial safety training (Safety I), refresher safety training (Safety II) and advanced safety training (Safety III).

Observer Safety Training adheres to minimum national standards set forth by the National Observer Program (NOP) and is therefore subject to critical updates regarding protocols, standards and instruction.

The Contractor shall work closely with NMFS staff to organize and conduct safety training for observers.

NMFS staff will play an active role in safety training planning, logistics, and implementation. NMFS staff, and contracted staff, may also assume permanent roles or take over portions of safety training as necessary.

5. POLICIES AND REGULATIONS

In addition to the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) clauses referred to and listed in the Request for Quotation (RFQ), the Contractor shall comply with the Federal Regulations, Acts, Executive Orders, Special Publications, Guidelines, NOAA Directives and Policies and standards listed below. This listing

1 The National Observer Program is currently undergoing an Observer Safety Program Review. The provider shall abide by the most current safety standards and shall update protocols, standards, and curriculum as required once the review is complete.

is not all-inclusive and is not intended to relieve the Contractor of its responsibilities for identification of applicable statutes, regulations and procedures and compliance therewith, when performing work under this SOW.

● Magnuson-Stevens Fishery, Management, and Conservation Act (MSA)

● Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA)

● Endangered Species Act (ESA)

● Data Quality Control Act (P.L. 106-514)

● Information Technology Security Policy

● Fisheries Management Plans (FMP)

● Biological Opinions (BO)

● Take Reduction Team (TRT)

● NOAA Safety Standards

● Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA)

● Service Contract Act (SCA)

● Department of Labor Wage Determinations

● Applicable Federal and State labor laws

● Observer Health and Safety regulations

● Federal, state, and local safety regulations

● Merchant Marine Act (Jones Act) and General Maritime Law

● U.S. Longshore and Harbor Worker’s Compensation Act

6. SPECIFIC TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Safety Trainer’s Professional Development and Maintenance Requirements

The Contractor shall conduct all safety training(s) in accordance with the requirements listed below. The requirements listed below follow guidance provided by the National Observer Program. NOAA Fisheries had determined that, at a minimum, observer safety trainers shall be required to meet the following criteria.

● The Contractor shall provide at a minimum at least two (2) instructors that maintain current accredited Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), First Aid, Automated External Defibrillator (AED) and U.S. Coast Guard approved Marine Safety Instructor Training (MSIT) certifications.

Copies of certifications shall be included with proposals.

● Safety trainers shall have experience at-sea and provide resume or curriculum vitae (CV) documenting relevant experience.

● Safety trainers shall be required to teach or co-teach at least one (1) marine safety topic every year and provide proof of completion to NMFS.

● Safety trainers shall be required to attend 24 hours of refresher training on relevant topics every three

(3) years and provide proof of completion to NMFS. Topics to be covered during refresher training shall be at the discretion of the Contract Officer Technical Representative (COR) and may include, but are not limited to:

o Enhancing methods of instruction.

o Techniques of adventure education and/or experiential education.

o Accident prevention and risk management.

o Learning to lead; learning to manage risk for beginners.

o Marine safety and survival skills (advanced topics).

o Enhancing methods of assessment and testing.

● All safety trainings that occurs in a pool setting shall include a trainer to trainee ratio that does not exceed 1:6 (not including a lifeguard).

● All safety trainings that occur in an open-water setting shall include a trainer to trainee ratio that does not exceed 1:5 (not including a lifeguard).

● NMFS Marine Safety Instructor Training (MSIT) certified NMFS staff, and/or contracted staff, may help the Contractor meet the trainer to trainee ratio, if approved by the COR.

● Safety trainers shall be responsible for all preparation, set-up, and clean up processes and logistics for each training session.

Safety Checklists for Practicals Training

Marine safety training includes training in skills that trainees must not only practice, but also demonstrate competency in, as part of the training. This type of training, also referred to as practicals training, poses inherent risks to the instructors and trainees. Therefore, NMFS has developed checklists to ensure that adequate safeguards are taken by the instructors and students to minimize risks during practical training.

● The provider shall use the safety checklists to ensure that proper procedures are followed and ensure safety equipment is on hand to minimize training risks

● The provider shall use checklists as a tool for raising the awareness of students regarding the risks associated with safety training

At a minimum the provider shall reference and use the following checklists for practicals training;

Transportation Checklist

NMFS requires that trainers ensure that all NMFS policies and procedures outlined in NOAA Administrative Order 217-106, Transportation of Non-Government Personnel as Passengers on NOAA Vessels, Aircraft, and Motor Vehicles (http://www.corporateservices.noaa.gov/ames/administrative_orders/chapter_217/217- 106.html) be followed regarding use of government vehicles, if and when these vehicles are used to transport trainees, assistants, and/or guest instructors. Use of 15-person vans is prohibited.

If the policy does not address the following items, the observer program should verify, at a minimum, that:

● The driver is a NMFS employee (or an employee of the Contractor, if authorized by the contract and if the Contractor is made aware of observer program van use policy).

● The driver has a valid driver’s license.

● All passengers use seat belts at all times.

● The driver obeys all traffic laws.

● There are no outstanding traffic warrants against the driver.

● The driver does not have an excessive number of recent moving violations (e.g. more than three (3) in the past year).

● The driver is not under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Water Skills Checklists

Pool/Open Water Checklist http://www.corporateservices.noaa.gov/ames/administrative_orders/chapter_217/217-106.html) http://www.corporateservices.noaa.gov/ames/administrative_orders/chapter_217/217-106.html)

● Identify pool/open water hazards as a group exercise upon arrival.

● Trainer-to-trainee monitor ratio does not exceed 1:6 (not including lifeguard).

● Identify individuals who cannot swim, are confined-space or water phobic, have respiratory impairments, or other medical conditions that may require additional attention.

● Lifeguard or trained rescue swimmer must be present at all times.

● At least one person on-site shall have training in rescue breathing and first aid.

● Throwable rescue device is on-hand.

● First aid kit is on hand.

● Shelter must be provided (can include vehicles).

● Indemnity agreement with pool is in place.

● Trainees are paired off, and each individual is aware of medical or physical needs or conditions of their partner.

● Trainees know who their monitor is.

● Pool rules are covered.

● All pool activities must have an educational purpose.

● Trainees and trainee monitors must wear PFDs at all times while in the water, unless donning an immersion suit while in the water or when participating in a swim test.

● Communications equipment is on hand that can request emergency assistance.

● Checklist is reviewed with trainees.

In addition, safety trainers should encourage trainees to bring medical or other concerns regarding the pool practical to their attention well in advance of the pool time so that additional teaching assistance can be sought if required.

Open-water Checklist

Same as above, with the following modifications:

● Identify open-water hazards as a group exercise upon arrival (e.g., lightning, animals, piers, boats, underwater obstructions).

● Instructor verifies in advance that area has been checked for hazards.

● Instructor ensures safe entrance and egress.

● Instructor notifies relevant authorities that training will be conducted.

● Indemnity agreement may not be applicable.

● Trainer-to-trainee monitor ratio does not exceed 1:5 (not including lifeguard).

● Instructor identifies self-rescue areas.

● Instructor identifies off-limits areas.

● Open-water rules are covered.

● All open-water activities must have an educational purpose.

● Trainees do not enter cold water (<700 F) without immersion suit unless there is an additional educational component that warrants this activity and additional safety procedures are in place.

Flares Checklist

● Secure a safe site in advance.

● Notify relevant authorities that training will be conducted.

● Identify hazards as a group exercise upon arrival.

● Flares used must be no more than three years out of date.

● No parachute flares shall be ignited unless done in conjunction with United States Coast Guard

(USCG).

● Trainees made aware that they can opt out of the exercise.

● All participants must wear closed-toed shoes.

● Flammability of different types of clothing should be considered (i.e., fleece, wool, cotton).

● 1:1 instructor-to-trainee ratio.

● Second instructor or monitor is present (crowd control is critical).

● Safe disposal for used flares.

● Fire extinguisher is present.

● Eye protection and heavy gloves are provided for each trainee.

● Communications equipment (e.g., VHF) is available for marine users.

● Security plans are available pre- and post-drill.

● First aid kit is available.

● Lights are provided for reading (if at night).

Fires and Fire Extinguishers Checklist

● Secure a safe site in advance.

● Notify relevant authorities that training will be conducted.

● Identify hazards as a group exercise upon arrival.

● Trainees made aware that they can opt out of exercise.

● All participants must wear closed-toed shoes.

● Flammability of different types of clothing should be considered (i.e., fleece, wool, cotton).

● 1:1 instructor-to-trainee ratio.

● Second instructor or monitor is present with backup fire extinguisher (crowd control).

● Fight fire in pairs with instructor nearby.

● Rest of class must stay well back and upwind.

● Ensure cars are away from site.

● Metal burn container is available.

● Float Class B flammables on water.

● Pole, duct tape, and flare are available to ignite fire.

● Pole attachment available for adding fuel.

● Eye protection and heavy gloves are provided for each trainee.

● Water hose if available.

● Communications equipment (e.g., cell phone) available.

● Security plans are available pre- and post-drill.

● First aid kit is available.

● Absorbent pads are available.

Personal Safety Equipment

Safety equipment is critical to surviving an emergency. The following is a list of equipment that each observer must have prior to deployment, whether furnished by NMFS, the observer’s employer, or self-purchased.

Safety trainers are required to instruct observers on the proper use and maintenance of personal safety equipment as part of the safety training curriculum.

Required equipment;

● Working Personal Flotation Device (PFD) with whistle

● Immersion suit with strobe, whistle and signal mirror

● Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs)

● Weather jacket and pants.

● Boots

● Gloves

● Batteries for strobe

Safety Training Curriculum

The safety training topics presented in this section represent what NMFS considers to be the core curriculum for observer safety training, recognizing that in some programs, additional safety topics are taught that further enhance risk awareness and safety skills that may be more specific to certain regions or fisheries.

Each core curriculum topic includes the goals and objectives for training. For certain safety topics, competency in completing safety skills must be demonstrated by the trainee in order to pass the safety training.

These safety skills are highlighted in bold and are identified separately in a sample “Skills Checklist” (Attachment 3, Appendix A, NMFS Observer Safety Skills Checklist).

The order of topics presented is not intended to represent guidance in what sequence these topics should be taught, as many of these topics may be better taught in a different sequence or may be integrated as appropriate into other areas of observer training. NMFS estimates the minimum time needed to cover these topics and lists those hours according to the specific safety training. Curriculum hours are exclusive of assessment time, breaks, lunch, and travel time. 20 calendar days prior to each class, the Contractor will provide NEFOP with an training agenda listing subjects to be covered, intended method of instruction (i.e., video, lecture, PDFs, hands-on, etc.), approximate start and finish times for each topic, and list of materials and/or equipment participants are required to wear/bring.

Safety I (18 hours)

The Contractor shall provide approximately 18 hours of safety training two (2), nine (9) hour days including, but not limited to, the following topics:

General Health and Safety

First Aid

Goal: Provide observers with an understanding of how to self-treat minor injuries and what should not be done in treating personal injuries.

Objectives: By the end of this presentation, the trainee will be able to:

● Describe and demonstrate the proper method for applying pressure bandages and identify pressure points (upper and lower torso) to stop bleeding.

● List five items that should be purchased during training for the observer’s personal first aid kit (not typically included in Red Cross or American Heart Association (AHA) training).

● Describe three methods for treatment of strains and sprains.

● Describe and demonstrate the proper method for making a simple sling.

● Describe and demonstrate methods for proper cleaning and treatment of cuts and burns.

● Recognize when cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) should be given to cold-water (<700 F) drowning victims.

● Identify the role of first responder (reference additional objectives, as appropriate, from Red Cross or

AHA first aid training).

● Describe the program’s reporting requirements for injuries.

Suggested time: 60 minutes

Infections

Goal: Be able to identify fisheries or human-related situations that may result in infections, and ways to prevent and treat infections.

● List the causes of fisheries or human-related infections.

● Identify ways to prevent contact that could result in infections.

● Identify the types of treatment to prevent infection.

● List the indications of an infection.

● List the methods for treating an infection.

Suggested time: 15 minutes

Survival Training

Seven Steps to Survival

Goal: Introduce trainees to the Seven Steps to Survival.

Objective: By the end of the presentation, the trainee will be able to:

● Name and discuss the seven steps to survival

Suggested time: 15 minutes.

Survival Kit

Goal: Introduce trainees to personal survival kits.

Objective: By the end of this presentation, the trainee will be able to:

● List the general requirements for the contents of a survival kit and discuss appropriate storage

Safety Concerns on Commercial Fishing Vessels

Scope of Duties

Goal: Understand an observer’s scope of duties as it relates to safety onboard a vessel.

● List tasks that are routinely performed by observers.

● List the tasks that should not be performed (except in an emergency).

● Identify potential safety hazards involved in performing assigned tasks (may be used as a lead-in to biological hazards or other topics).

● Identify safety concerns on a vessel that does not have an operational Marine

Sanitation Device (MSD), e.g. toilet, head, and latrine.

Suggested time: 30 minutes

Seasickness

Definition: Disturbance of the inner-ear balance system that leads to nausea.

Goal: Understand the symptoms, prevention of, and remedies for seasickness; to be aware of program’s reporting requirements regarding prolonged seasickness.

● List the symptoms of seasickness.

● List actions observers can take to minimize the likelihood of becoming seasick.

● Identify the most important things to do in the event of seasickness.

● Identify the advanced stages of seasickness.

● State the program’s reporting requirements regarding prolonged seasickness.

Fatigue/Sleep Deprivation

Definitions: Sleep deprivation: The disturbance of an individual’s circadian sleep cycle.

Fatigue: Physical or mental exhaustion due to prolonged exertion.

Goal: Understand the effects of sleep deprivation and fatigue and understand how to mitigate the impacts on safety, data collection tasks, and data quality.

● Define sleep deprivation

● Define fatigue

● List symptoms of sleep deprivation and fatigue

● List possible effects of sleep deprivation and fatigue

● List strategies or remedies to mitigate sleep deprivation and fatigue.

Vessel Drug/Alcohol Issues

Goal: Recognize the risks associated with alcohol and drug use by the crew and/or captain. Curriculum and instruction should align with NMFS’s polices and guidance taught during initial trainings.

● Describe how an observer’s safety might be compromised by onboard use of alcohol or drugs.

● List the effects of alcohol and drugs on performance.

● State the legal blood alcohol limit for commercial vessel operators.

● Describe options the observer has when the crew and/or captain are using or are under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

● Describe the program’s reporting requirements regarding onboard use of drugs or alcohol.

Appropriate Clothing

Goal: Recognize what is appropriate clothing (e.g., safety, warm, etc.) for fisheries observers and its benefits.

● Identify regionally appropriate clothing for deployment

● Identify three pieces of inappropriate clothing for deployment

● Reinforce NMFS policy for dressing appropriately

Hypothermia

Goal: Understand the causes and dangers of hypothermia and be able to prevent, recognize, and treat it.

● Define hypothermia.

● List the body’s main areas of heat loss.

● Identify the body area of primary importance for heat loss and explain why.

● List procedures to prevent hypothermia.

● Describe signs and symptoms of hypothermia.

● Describe the hypothermia treatment guidelines for the first responder.

● Describe the effects of conduction on a body out of water versus in the water.

Suggested time: 30 minutes.

Cold-Water Survival Skills

Goal: Understand the effects of immersion in cold water and the general principles of surviving a cold-water emergency.

● List the general factors necessary to survive a cold-water emergency.

● List the “stay rules,” for surviving a cold-water emergency.

● Describe the techniques that increase survival time in cold water and explain how they work.

● Describe the equipment necessary to maintain the HELP position.

Embark/Disembark

Goal: Recognize and minimize the effects of inherent dockside and at-sea transfer hazards during embarking or disembarking a commercial fishing vessel.

● List dockside and at-sea transfer boarding and disembarking hazards (embark and disembark safety, getting observer issued gear onboard, gangways, ice and snow, embarking rafted vessels, use of dingy for transport, etc.).

● List ways to reduce dockside and at-sea transfer risks during embarking and disembarking a commercial fishing vessel.

Suggested time: 15 minutes.

Sampling Safety

Goal: Understand and mitigate hazards associated with sampling (general overview recognizing deck hazards, vessel stability, proper lift techniques, etc.).

● Identify hazards to avoid when setting up a sampling station.

● List criteria for selecting and creating a safe workspace.

● List on-deck hazards related to working on a commercial fishing vessel.

● Identify situations when assistance may be needed with sampling.

● Demonstrate proper lifting techniques.

● Describe how weather and other factors may affect sampling safety.

● Describe conditions or situations that might require abandoning sampling.

Hazardous Marine Organisms

Goal: Be prepared to deal with hazardous marine organisms.

● Identify dangerous marine organisms.

● List practical procedures for handling or avoiding dangerous marine organisms.

● List pain relieving remedies for stings and bites from marine organisms.

Vessel and Rigging Hazards

Goal: Be able to identify and respond appropriately to potential vessel and rigging hazards and risks.

● Identify potential hazards to watertight/weather integrity.

● List signs of inadequate maintenance and upkeep.

● Identify hazardous chemicals and/or gases that may be present on commercial fishing vessels.

● Identify the signs of deteriorating vessel stability.

● List situations that can decrease the stability of a vessel.

● Identify the appropriate responses to vessel hazards.

● State the program’s reporting requirements for vessel hazards.

● Identify areas on a vessel to avoid entering alone.

● Identify subjective and objective risks on a vessel.

Suggested time: 45 minutes.

Gear Hazards

Goal: Be able to identify potential gear hazards and ways to avoid or minimize injuries caused by them.

● Identify the potential hazards associated with gear deployment, operation, and retrieval.

● Identify the safe locations during gear deployment, operation, and retrieval according to FSB protocols and policies.

● Discuss how those locations may change during periods of inclement weather.

Falls and Slips

Goal: Minimize accidents resulting from falls and slips.

● Discuss what is meant by “one hand for the boat and one hand for yourself”.

● Identify factors that increase the likelihood of slips and falls.

● List ways to minimize slips and falls.

Person Overboard (POB)

Goal: Understand how to properly respond to potential and real POB situations.

● List practices that will reduce the risk of going overboard.

● List the steps in POB recovery.

● Discuss the importance of a Personal Floatation Device (PFD) in surviving a POB situation.

● Recognize the roles and procedures for POB recovery and treatment.

Abandon Ship

Goal: Understand when it is time to abandon ship and how to do so safely.

● Identify the abandon ship signal.

● Discuss the risks of abandoning ship.

● Identify when to abandon ship.

● List the steps to safely abandon ship.

Safety Regulations and USCG Procedures

Commercial Fishing Vessel Safety Regulations (see also specific Safety Equipment topics)

Goal: Understand the importance of commercial fishing vessel safety regulations. This content will be formally presented by NMFS staff but regulations regarding specific Safety Equipment should be emphasized during those individual sections.

● List the resources for obtaining commercial fishing vessel safety regulations.

● List the USCG’s safety equipment requirements that, when missing or out of service, will lead to the termination of the fishing trip and a documented offense. (These requirements are usually referred to as the Big Five (5), and may vary depending on the size of the vessel, water temperature, area of operation, number of people on vessel, fishery, or region).

● Reference the NMFS requirements regarding safety.

● State the observer program’s requirements for a USCG Safety Examination Decal and the procedures to follow in the event that a vessel does not have a current and valid Safety Examination Decal.

USCG Helicopter Evacuations

Goal: Understand the hazards and procedures during a USCG helicopter evacuation.

● Describe the inherent dangers of a USCG helicopter evacuation.

● List the procedures involved in preparing a vessel for a helicopter evacuation.

● List the procedures in preparing a patient for a helicopter evacuation.

Teaching Resource: Alaska Marine Safety Education Association DVD on helicopter evacuations (12 (twelve) minutes).

Suggested time: 20 minutes.

Safety Orientation

Pre-trip Vessel Safety Checklist (PTVSC)

Goal: Understand what a PTVSC (Attachment 4, Pre-Trip Vessel Safety Checklist) is, its function within the observer program, the observer’s requirement for checking safety items, and how to complete the checklist correctly. NMFS staff will present material regarding the PTVSC.

● Explain the difference between a USCG vessel examination/inspection and a PTVSC.

● Describe the observer program’s requirements regarding the function of a PTVSC.

● Describe the procedures completing a PTVSC.

● Understand the observer’s role versus the USCG and the NMFS Office of Law Enforcement regarding the PTVCS.

● Describe some of the problems or obstacles in completing the PTVSC, and explain steps to overcome them.

● Complete a PTVSC onboard a commercial fishing vessel (or simulate completion of a checklist if a vessel is not available).

Simulated Orientation or Dockside Tour

Goal: Be familiar with safety/survival items and procedures when boarding a vessel or when on the docks.

Recognize the risk of entrapment and the importance of knowing escape routes from all areas of the vessel.

● List the points to be covered during a vessel safety orientation.

● State the observer’s role and duties in vessel emergencies.

● Identify the location of the onboard safety instructions or station billet.

● Perform and/or participate in a vessel (or simulated) orientation.

● List possible occurrences that indicate an escape plan is needed.

● Identify primary and secondary escape routes.

● Identify the potential hazards or obstructions to an escape route.

● Increase situational awareness when boarding a vessel to prepare for an escape.

Suggested time: 90 minutes.

Safety Equipment

Personal Flotation Devices (PFD)

Goal: Understand the function, correct use, and maintenance of PFDs.

● Discuss the various USCG types of PFDs.

● Given the type of PFD used by your observer program, state one advantage and one limitation.

● List the signaling devices available for PFDs.

● Demonstrate the correct use and adjustment of a PFD.

● Describe procedures for inspecting and properly maintaining PFDs.

● If your program issues Type II, III, or V PFD, state the importance of the inflation collar or bladder.

● If your program issues Type II, III, or V PFD, demonstrate how to inflate the PFD.

● Discuss NOAA and NMFS PFD policy for wearing a PFD while on deck.

● Demonstrate the “HELP” position with a PFD on in the water.

● Demonstrate the “huddle” position with a PFD on in the water.

Suggested time: One (1) hour

Immersion Suits

Goal: Understand the function, correct use, and maintenance of immersion suits.

● State the functions and features of an immersion suit.

● Demonstrate proper donning of an immersion suit within 60 seconds.

● Demonstrate how to inspect, maintain, and stow an immersion suit while underway.

● Demonstrate oral inflation of floatation collar or bladder.

● Demonstrate proper water entry techniques wearing an immersion suit.

● Demonstrate swimming on your back while wearing an immersion suit.

● Discuss the complications involved in donning an immersion suit in the water. If conditions allow, it is recommended that this skill be practiced in the water.

● Demonstrate tandem and chain swimming while wearing an immersion suit in the water.

● Demonstrate “rafting” an injured person while wearing an immersion suit in the water.

● Discuss safety equipment that should be considered for attachment to an immersion suit (whistle, light, strobe, mirror, Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), etc.).

Suggested time: Two (2) hours

Life Raft/Hydrostatic Release

Goal: Understand the correct mounting, release, launch, and boarding of a life raft.

● List the steps to properly release and launch a life raft.

● Demonstrate the proper securing and release of the hammer type hydrostatic release and identify hydrostatic release and raft service expiration dates.

● Recognize situations that may affect the safe launching of a life raft.

● Board a life raft from the water (with or without assistance).

● Demonstrate righting a capsized life raft.

● Identify life raft capacity.

● Describe proper installation of a “float free” life raft with weak link.

Suggested time: 20 minutes.

Valise Life Raft

Goal: Understand the purpose and proper storage and use of a valise life raft.

● Demonstrate the proper way to transport and stow the life rafts onboard a vessel.

● Describe the steps to properly launch a valise life raft.

● Recognize the various types of valise life rafts and identify which require a ditch kit.

● Locate inspection expiration date and life raft capacity.

Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) Kits

Goal: Recognize where SOLAS kits are located, what they contain, and how the items contained in them work.

● Locate the inspection date, capacity, and type of SOLAS kit.

● Demonstrate the function of equipment in a SOLAS A kit.

● List the items found in a SOLAS A kit that are not found in a SOLAS B kit.

● Identify a Thermal Protective Aid (TPA).

Suggested time: 40 minutes.

Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRB)

Goal: Understand the function and correct use of an EPIRB Search and Rescue (SAR) system.

● List the advantages of the 406 EPIRB SAR system over other systems.

● Identify the difference between a Category I and II 406 EPIRB.

● Identify the components of an EPIRB SAR system.

● Describe the important aspects of the proper use of an EPIRB.

● Demonstrate the proper technique for activating an EPIRB.

● Identify the expiration dates for an EPIRB hydrostatic release, device battery, and NOAA SARSAT registration.

Personal Locator Beacon (PLB)

Goal: Understand the function and correct use of a PLB.

● Recognize the different types of PLBs.

● Demonstrate the proper technique for testing and activating a PLB.

● Identify the expiration dates for device battery and NOAA SARSAT registration.

● Recognize situations in which it would be appropriate to activate a PLB.

Fires and Fire Extinguishers

Goal: Understand fire hazards and basic firefighting techniques.

● List the critical elements of a fire.

● List the fire hazards aboard a fishing vessel.

● List the classifications of fire and acceptable extinguishing agents for each class.

● Describe (or if possible, demonstrate) the steps in the proper use of a fire extinguisher.

● List the safety considerations in fighting a fire.

● Identify the observer program’s recommendations regarding the role of the observer in fighting fires.

● Discuss how to identify fire extinguishers that are properly maintained, mounted, and in serviceable condition.

Suggested time: 60 minutes.

Communication Equipment and Mayday Calls

Goal: Understand how to locate and use communication equipment, the steps in making a proper Mayday call, and to read and understand an electronic positioning system onboard a fishing vessel.

● Demonstrate a proper MAYDAY call.

● List the types of communication equipment and the proper distress channel.

● Identify the types of emergency broadcasts.

● Determine a fishing vessel’s location by using an electronic positioning device or by dead-reckoning.

Flares

Goal: Understand the safe and proper procedure for handling, firing, and disposing of pyrotechnic devices and when to use each type.

● Describe the safe and proper steps for firing the parachute type flare.

● Describe the safe and proper steps for firing handheld flares and smoke pyrotechnic devices.

● Describe the safe and proper steps for disposing pyrotechnic devices.

● Identify the conditions for using different types of flares.

● Identify the location of expiration dates on each type of flare.

Signaling Devices

Goal: Understand the general principles for signaling for help in an emergency.

● Describe the difference between active and passive signals.

● Discuss the importance of using both during emergencies.

● List the elements of an effective signal.

● Demonstrate proper use of a signal mirror.

De-watering Pump

Goal: Understand how to use a USCG issued dewatering pump in an emergency.

● Demonstrate the proper retrieval, assembly, and use of a USCG de-watering pump.

Every trainee will demonstrate proper techniques for the following emergency procedures and skills in the pool/open-water:

● PFDs – test various types of PFDs.

● “HELP” and “huddle” positions while wearing a PFD.

● Wave spray protection.

● Swimming through oil, fire and debris.

● Emergency/improvised floatation – types/techniques.

● Immersion suits – don at pool side and properly enter water, don in-water, manually inflate bladder, float on back, individual and chain swim, towing/rafting a non-swimmer or injured person, group survival and signaling techniques.

● Deploy (inflate) a life raft, swim to a capsized life raft, egress from underneath raft, right and board from the water and perform the initial and secondary life raft actions.

● Swim 50 yards and tread water for three(3) minutes

● Wearing an immersion suit, swim 25 yards using proper stroke.

● Enter pool wearing foul weather gear.

● Use of a ring buoy/life sling.

All equipment used in the pool/open-water will be thoroughly rinsed.

Safety II (16 hours)

All students attending Safety II training must have successfully completed the 16 hour Safety I training completed with the NEFOP. This course is designed for observers who have considerable at sea experience on commercial fishing vessel. Equivalent training will be considered on a case by case basis.

Safety II training will be at a minimum 16 hours long. In general, the training will an overview of topics observers have already been taught and trainees should come prepared to discuss their pre-assigned topics.

Instructor led topics/discussions minimized and hands-on demonstrations, water exercises, and simulated emergency drills. NMFS shall contract a commercial fishing vessel to be utilized whenever possible to simulate the comprehensive vessel safety emergency drills including: Person Overboard, Fire, Flooding, and Abandon Ship.

The Contractor shall, within the framework of classroom discussions, hands-on demonstrations, water exercises and simulated emergency drills, cover the following topics:

● Review building layout and safety concerns.

● Review and sign training acknowledgement of risk (Attachment 5, Northeast Fisheries Science Center, Fisheries Sampling Branch Program Standards).

● At sea medical emergencies: At-sea first aid; identify risk of infections and ways to prevent and treat them; understand symptoms, prevention of, remedies, and reporting requirements for seasickness.

● Helicopter evacuations: identify situations in which a helicopter evacuation may occur, describe necessary preparation for vessel and patient and identify potential dangers.

● Sleep deprivation: explain the effects of sleep deprivation and fatigue and ways to mitigate the impacts of it on observer duties.

● Personal survival kits.

● Dressing for the job: review appropriate clothing for observers and its benefits.

● Vessel drug and alcohol issues: describe the risks associated with drug and alcohol use by…