GFHNRC- SOW Cabling Network Infrastructure Upgrade.pdf

USDA, ARS, Plains Area, Grand Forks Human Nutrition Research Center Information Technology (IT) Modernization; Network Infrastructure Upgrade

STATEMENT OF WORK

United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Research Service (ARS)

Office of the Chief Information Officer (OCIO)

1 Project Description

This is the USDA, ARS, Plains Area (PA) Statement of Work (SOW) for Network Infrastructure Upgrade task per the direction given in the sections below.

1.1 Project Title

USDA, ARS, PA, Grand Forks Human Nutrition Research Center Information Technology (IT) Modernization; Network Infrastructure Upgrade

1.2 Purpose

The USDA, ARS has requirements for more efficient ways to improve network and internet access to its locations, while ensuring the stability, security and speed needed to support mission-critical operations and other business functions.

The purpose of this SOW is to acquire contractor assistance and involves the purchase and installation network infrastructure cabling and network hardware components for the USDA, ARS located at the Grand Forks Human Nutrition Research Center (GFHNRC) in Grand Forks, ND.

1.3 Introduction and Background

The Clinger-Cohen Act of 1996 established the position of the Chief Information Officer (CIO). The CIO implements the provisions of the Clinger-Cohen Act of 1996 and the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 regarding the acquisition, management, and use of information technology (IT) resources; manages United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Agricultural Research Service (ARS) compliance with the Computer Security Act of 1987, the Federal Information Security Management Act of 2002 (FISMA), Homeland Security Presidential Directive 7 of December 17, 2003, and Presidential Decision Directive 63 of May 22, 1998, Critical Infrastructure Protection; and implements the Office of Management and Budget Circular A-130, Management of Federal Information Resources. The CIO serves as the principal advisor to the Agency on information resources and information systems management, and strives to improve the operations and service delivery of ARS's programs through the effective use of technology. The CIO directs ARS's Office of the CIO (OCIO), which supports these activities.

USDA, ARS, Plains Area, Grand Forks Human Nutrition Research Center Information Technology (IT) Modernization; Network Infrastructure Upgrade

1.3.1 Organization and Mission

The Agricultural Research Service (ARS) is the U.S. Department of Agriculture's chief scientific in-house research agency. Our job is finding solutions to agricultural problems that affect Americans every day from field to table. Here are a few numbers to illustrate the scope of our organization:

690 research projects within 17 National Programs 2,000 scientists and post docs 6,000 other employees 90+ research locations, including overseas laboratories

ARS conducts research to develop and transfer solutions to agricultural problems of high national priority and provide information access and dissemination to:

Ensure high-quality, safe food, and other agricultural products;

Assess the nutritional needs of Americans;

Sustain a competitive agricultural economy;

Enhance the natural resource base and the environment;

Provide economic opportunities for rural citizens, communities, and society as a whole; and Provide the infrastructure necessary to create and maintain a diversified workplace.

1.4 Objectives

The objective of this SOW is to acquire contractor assistance to modernize network infrastructure needed to support ARS facilities located at GFHRNC in Grand Forks, ND.

Upon completion of the tasks within this SOW will improve and enhance network communications needed to support mission-critical operations and other business functions for the location.

1.5 Scope of Work

The Contractor shall participate with the ARS in one or more planning sessions to be scheduled by the ARS Office of the Chief Information Officer (OCIO) at time of award. The purpose of the planning session(s) is to identify key USDA personnel point of contacts (POC) and ensure a common understanding of task deliverables, schedules, and processes.

The Contractor shall work closely with designated Government representatives. The Contractor will operate per the direction given in 2 Tasks section and will provide Government Representatives with plans and drawings, work schedules with

USDA, ARS, Plains Area, Grand Forks Human Nutrition Research Center Information Technology (IT) Modernization; Network Infrastructure Upgrade milestones, host visual inspections of work as it progresses, and host regular meetings to exchange information and identify issues related to findings and discoveries.

This work will be conducted in accordance with industry best practices. It is the intent of the ARS to establish standard configurations for selected information technology products to ensure a uniform Agency deployment that is fully interoperable and easily maintainable. Configurations, brand names, or technical specifications for some products on this contract may be mandated in the Standards (where available). The Contractor must limit purchases of standardized products to the specifications established in the Standards. Questions on product applicability to the Standards should be addressed to the Contracting Officer Technical Representative (COTR).

Exceptions to the Standards may be granted for testing or other purposes.

Where possible, work will be performed using schedule and methods to minimize the impact to business/research at the location. Site personnel may be required to facilitate "after hours" access to the complete this work with minimal impact.

1.5.1 Required Skills:

The Contractor shall establish a Project Management (PM) function to provide management and operations support to the Agency and serve as a single point of contact for the Agency to manage and administer the SOW.

A. The contractor shall provide project management support that includes management and oversight of all activities performed by contractor personnel, including subcontractors, to satisfy the requirements identified in this SOW.

B. The contractor shall identify a Project Manager (PM) by name, to provide management, direction, administration, quality assurance, and leadership for the execution of this task order. The PM will be the primary point of contact for all program activities.

C. The PM shall maintain a Project Management Professional Certification (PMP) with 10 years minimum knowledge of Federal Government scientific research mission, programs, priorities and IT interrelationships and requirements.

D. The PM shall establish and execute a Project Management Plan to ensure that all activities from the kick-off meeting to the ongoing management of the network assessment is executed properly as planned and on schedule.

E. The Project Management Plan shall serve as a repository documenting the processes and methodology for meeting the requirements of each task described in this SOW.

1.5.2 Scope Boundaries

The GFHNRC is a large singular 3 floor facility that is unmatched in its capacities for conducting state-of-the-art nutritional analyses and physiological

USDA, ARS, Plains Area, Grand Forks Human Nutrition Research Center Information Technology (IT) Modernization; Network Infrastructure Upgrade evaluations as part of our studies with human volunteers, and animal and cultured cell models. This includes the ability to assess body composition, fitness status, responses to physical activity and energy metabolism.

Additionally they conduct human diet and physical activity intervention studies addressing the prevention of obesity and related disorders. This comprises a range of studies involving human volunteers.

1.5.3 Site Survey

A site survey will be held at 10:00 a.m., TBD located at the GFHNRC located at 2420 2nd Avenue North, Grand Forks, ND. 58203. Any contractors or vendors interested in quoting on this project are encouraged to attend.

2 Tasks

This request for proposal is comprised of the following specific tasks which have been identified as an Information Technology (IT) Modernization Network Infrastructure Upgrade for the USDA, ARS GFHNRC.

1. Inter-building and Backbone Fiber cabling

2. Fiber Termination and Testing Requirements

3. Deliverables and Expected Outcomes

4. Knowledge Transfer

Proposed Physical Network Design (Final)

USDA, ARS, Plains Area, Grand Forks Human Nutrition Research Center Information Technology (IT) Modernization; Network Infrastructure Upgrade

2.1 Approach and General Requirements

Provide all labor, material, supplies, tools, equipment, and supervision necessary to complete the work described and shown in the drawings, specifications, accordance with the manufacturer’s most current specifications and details to ensure the requirements in the contract documents, meet or exceed best practices as recommended by manufacture(s), NEC, BOCA, NFPA, UL, ASTM and other standard not specifically listed.

The contractor shall be fully knowledgeable of all requirements of the contract documents and shall make themselves aware of all job site conditions that will affect their work.

The existing system(s) shall remain active throughout the installation of the new solution until any cutover is scheduled and complete.

2.1.1 Coordination of Work and Workmanship

A. All work shall be of highest quality and in strict accordance with the latest codes, professional institutes, manufacturer’s published specifications and to the building owner’s satisfaction, whichever is stricter.

B. The Government prefers that the Contractor have certification under the International Standards Organization (ISO) 9001:2000 guidelines. ISO accreditation provides assurances to the Government that the Contractor has adopted an integrated process approach to effectively deliver managed services to meet customer requirements and exceed customer expectations.

C. The contractor shall perform all work described in this Statement of Work in accordance with all applicable Federal, State, and local laws, regulations, codes, technical specifications, manufacturers guidelines, USDA, REE, and the ARS mission.

D. Unless otherwise agreed upon by ARS and the Contractor, there shall be a site superintendent on the job site at all times while work is in progress. Site superintendent shall be an employee of the general contractor. Worker and sub- contractor shall not be permitted on the site without the presence of the designated site superintendent.

2.1.2 Quality Assurance

All goods provided to the ARS shall be free from defects in materials and workmanship, given normal use and care, over the period of the manufacturer warranty.

A. Unless otherwise noted in the contract documents, contractor shall comply with the manufacturer’s current specifications and details.

B. Provide adequate number of experienced workmen regularly engaged in this type of work who are skilled in the application techniques of the

USDA, ARS, Plains Area, Grand Forks Human Nutrition Research Center Information Technology (IT) Modernization; Network Infrastructure Upgrade materials specified. Provide at least one thoroughly trained and experienced lead technician on the job at all times when work is in progress. Once the site lead technician has been identified, he/she shall remain on the project until completion. Any changes to the site lead technician shall require written notification at least two working days in advance of proposed change.

C. There shall be no deviations made from this specification or the approved shop drawings without the prior written approval of the COR. Any deviation from the manufacturer’s installation procedures must be supported by a written certification on the manufacturer’s letterhead and presented for the specifier’s consideration.

D. The contractor shall be fully knowledgeable of all requirements of the contract documents and shall make themselves aware of all job site conditions that will affect their work. All work shall be of highest quality.

E. All substitutions requests for products, equipment, materials and methods described within the contract documents shall be submitted to the COR.

Substitutions request are not permitted prior to the Notice to Proceed.

Substitute products will be considered when the request is submitted in writing to the COR.

The COR will have seven (7) working days to approve /disapprove substitution request. Substitution request shall not result in schedule extensions. Substitution request shall include:

1. Two complete copies of the manufacturers technical data and cut sheets, with sufficient information and product data to allow the COR to make a timely decision,

2. The reason for the substitution,

3. A comparison of delivery time,

4. Samples,

5. Substitutions shall meet or exceed all requirements of specified materials, products, equipment and methods described within the contract documents,

6. Contractor shall not be entitled to extra compensation for substitution request whether approved or disapproved,

7. If the cost of the substitution is less than the specified products, materials, equipment or methods the difference in cost shall be credit to the government.

8. Certified cost of specified and proposed products, equipment, materials and methods.

2.1.3 Safety

A. The contractor shall be responsible for all means and methods as they relate to safety and shall comply with all applicable OSHA, NEC, NFPA, EPA 40 CFR Part 745, local, state and federal requirements. Safety shall be the responsibility of the general contractor. All related personnel shall be instructed daily to be mindful of the full time requirement to maintain a safe environment for the

USDA, ARS, Plains Area, Grand Forks Human Nutrition Research Center Information Technology (IT) Modernization; Network Infrastructure Upgrade facilities occupants including staff, visitors, customers and the occurrence of the general public on or near the site.

B. The contractor shall keep the project site in a neat an orderly condition at all times.

C. The contractor shall submit a safety plan to include but not limited to, debris, cleanup, and emergency procedures.

D. It is the contractor’s responsibility to ensure all employees; sub-contractors, venders, and other company representative adhere to all safety rules, regulations, policies and practices.

2.1.4 COVID-19 Job Site-Specific Safety Protective Measures

A. General Safety Policies and Rules

a. The contractor will establish a daily screening protocol for arriving staff to ensure that potentially infected staff do not enter the jobsite. If a contractor employee answers ‘yes” to any of the following questions, he/she should not be permitted access to the jobsite:

1. Have you been confirmed positive for COVID-19?

2. Are you currently experiencing, or recently experienced, any acute respiratory illness symptoms such as fever, cough, or shortness of breath?

3. Have you been in close contact with any persons who has been confirmed positive for COVID-19?

4. Have you been in close contact with any persons who have traveled and are also exhibiting respiratory illness symptoms?

5. Any prime contractor, subcontractor employee or visitor showing symptoms of COVID-19 will be asked to leave the jobsite and return home

b. If contractor employees leave the jobsite and return the same day, establish a cleaning and decontamination protocol prior to entry and exit of the jobsite. Post the daily screening protocol at all entrances and exits to the jobsite.

B. A social distancing protocol be implemented and monitored to ensure the safety of all government workers, contractors, vendors and visitors to the jobsite.

C. Site deliveries will be permitted but should be properly coordinated in line with minimal contact and cleaning protocols. Delivery personnel should remain in their vehicles if at all possible.

D. Contractors must avoid physical contact with others and shall direct others (co-workers/contractors/visitors) to increase personal space to at least 6 feet, where possible.

E. All in-person meetings will be limited and social distancing will be observed.

F. Access to running water for hand washing may not be available. Employees should be provided with alcohol-based hand sanitizers and/or wipes.

G. In lieu of a common source of drinking water, such as a cooler, employees should use individual water bottles.

USDA, ARS, Plains Area, Grand Forks Human Nutrition Research Center Information Technology (IT) Modernization; Network Infrastructure Upgrade

H. Personal Protective Equipment and Work Practice Controls. In addition to regular PPE for workers engaged in various tasks (fall protection, hard hats, safety glasses etc.) the company will also provide:

a. Face coverings e.g. masks must be worn by all contractor employees

b. Ensure that contractor employees are trained in the use of PPE

c. Prohibit sharing of PPE

I. Institute a rigorous housekeeping program to reduce dust levels on the jobsite.

J. The contractor will ensure that any disinfection needed shall be conducted using one of the following:

a. Common EPA-registered household disinfectant

b. Alcohol solution with at least 60% alcohol; or

c. Diluted household bleach solutions (ensure this use is compatible with the surface to be disinfected) K. The contractor will maintain Safety Data Sheets for all disinfectants used on site.

2.1.5 Government-Furnished Property, and Material

ARS will provide information as to a proposed Bill of Materials (BOM), building diagrams in available etc. needed in fulling the tasks identified in this SOW. All other equipment, supplies and materials shall be provided by the contractor.

2.1.6 Contractor-Acquired, Material, Equipment

Refer to the Bill of Materials (BOM) for additional information. Supply and install as needed but not limited to:

Supply and install but not limited to:

A. Fiber 6 strand 50/125 OM4 armored Fiber Optic cable B. Fiber patch panel w/ Lucent Connector (LC), splice tray and fiber adapter for fiber termination (12 port patch panels), as needed C. Fiber patch cable 2M 50/125 OM4, as needed D. Amphenol cable(s), as needed E. Amphenol patch panel(s), as needed F. Crossover cable(s), as needed G. Wire management (Rack cable managers), as needed H. Two post relay and/or wall mount racks I. J-hooks, velcro, waterfalls and supports J. Wire moldings as needed, K. Cable trays as needed, L. All other materials, labor, supplies, services not specifically described in the contract documents but inherently required to complete the project per contracts documents, meet all listed associations, institutes, codes and professional standards.

2.1.7 Labeling Requirements

USDA, ARS, Plains Area, Grand Forks Human Nutrition Research Center Information Technology (IT) Modernization; Network Infrastructure Upgrade

The contractor shall develop and submit for approval a labeling scheme for the cable installation. Voice and Data outlets and cables shall be labeled using the same labeling scheme.

Proposed wording and/or numbering schemes for labeling will meet ANSI/TIA-606-A & B and be provided to the Government (USDA) for review and written approval prior to procurement or installation.

The Government will negotiate an appropriate labeling scheme with the successful contractor. At a minimum, the labeling system shall clearly identify all components of the system: racks, cables, panels and outlets. The labeling system shall designate the cable origin and destination and a unique identifier for each cable within the system.

Racks and patch panels shall be labeled to identify the location within the cabling system infrastructure. All labeling information shall be recorded on the as-built drawings and all test documents shall reflect the appropriate labeling scheme. The labeling shall be machine-generated and affixed to the cable, faceplate, patch panel, rack or other hardware.

2.2 General Cabling Requirements

LAN cabling consists of those cable and termination components required to provide access to the physical network at points within the Center campus facilities. Cabling must be capable of providing data connectivity at the appropriate data rate to support the research activities that are ongoing in this facility.

Applicable standards for copper and fiber cable performance, installation methods for copper and fiber cable, and testing guidelines for copper and fiber cable are presented in ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-A Commercial Building Telecommunications Cabling Standard (latest amendment and applicable addenda) and ISO/IEC 11801 (International) Generic Cabling for Customer Premises Standard (latest amendment and applicable addenda).

The contractor will conduct a complete survey of the campus prior to commencement of the structured cabling project. The purpose of the survey is to investigate site conditions and Owner requirements before addressing system modifications and determine the exact number and location of all data drops and fiber runs. Any additional cost for this survey must be identified in the contractor’s proposal.

If awarded under this SOW, the contractor shall follow these general principles and practices when installing cabling, including but not limited to:

A. Installation of appropriate wire management equipment to ensure orderly

USDA, ARS, Plains Area, Grand Forks Human Nutrition Research Center Information Technology (IT) Modernization; Network Infrastructure Upgrade cable routing and to prevent interruption of service due to inadvertent cable breakage and to avoid potential interference.

B. Removal of old wiring/network cable plant where physically assessable during the course of the new wire/cable installation.

C. Provide cleanup of existing cabling in closets and data centers, as required.

D. Certify newly installed cabling to support required data/signaling rates.

E. Cable test results shall be printed directly from the test unit or from a download file using an application from the test equipment manufacturer. The printed test results shall include all tests performed, the expected test result and the actual test result achieved. Upon completion, test results shall be provided to the ARS OCIO.

F. All penetrations and sleeving must be approved by the Lessor prior to installation.

G. Seal all openings and penetrations created during the installation to meet or exceed applicable local fire code regulations.

2.2.1 Task 1: Inter-building Cabling Requirements

Inter-building cabling consists of those cable and termination components needed to extend the LAN from Main Distribution Frame (MDF) to Intermediate Distribution Frame (IDF) and any out-buildings within the facility, by providing an interconnection between physical network switches installed in the buildings.

A. Upgrade the GFHNRC backbone to accommodate redundancy and higher network transfer rates 10Gbps with the ability to upgrade to 40Gbps in the future using existing conduits and pathways to facilitate the installation of six (6) Multimode 6 strand 50/125 OM4 armored Fiber Optic cable runs.

a. Install/Provide new 6 strand 50/125 OM4 armored Fiber Optic cable between MDF room 103 and IDF1 room 151A. Install/Provide new 6 port fiber patch panel in IDF1 room 151A with LC type connectors.

b. Install/Provide new 6 strand 50/125 OM4 armored Fiber Optic cable between MDF room 103 and IDF2 room 159. Install/Provide new 6 port fiber patch panel in IDF2 room 159 with LC type connectors.

c. Install/Provide new 6 strand 50/125 OM4 armored Fiber Optic cable between MDF room 103 and IDF3 room 251. Install/Provide new 6 port fiber patch panel in IDF3 room 251 with LC type connectors.

d. Install/Provide new 6 strand 50/125 OM4 armored Fiber Optic cable between MDF room 103 and IDF4 room 252G. Install/Provide new 6 port fiber patch panel in IDF4 room 252G with LC type connectors.

e. Install/Provide new 6 strand 50/125 OM4 armored Fiber Optic cable between MDF room 103 and IDF5 room 266A. Install/Provide new 6 port fiber patch panel in IDF5 room 266AIDFIDF1 with LC type connectors.

USDA, ARS, Plains Area, Grand Forks Human Nutrition Research Center Information Technology (IT) Modernization; Network Infrastructure Upgrade

f. Install/Provide new 6 strand 50/125 OM4 armored Fiber Optic cable between MDF room 103 and IDF6 room 301. Install/Provide new 6 port fiber patch panel in IDF6 room 301 with LC type connectors.

B. Install/Provide new 36 port fiber distribution patch panel in MDF room 103 with LC type connectors.

C. Cable must be installed in existing conduit or new conduit where it would otherwise be exposed to the elements and homed run back to the MDF to all extent possible.

D. Outdoor exposers such as direct burial or aerial cable shall be armored jacket in order to protect it from the elements.

E. Installation of new Patch Panels to support the termination of Fiber Optic cable in all MDF’s and IDF’s. Terminations shall be of type LC connectors.

F. Installation of fiber patch cables and interface connectors (GBICs) where applicable. Patch cables shall be of type SMF LC-LC 1 meter in length or as needed to ensure orderly routing.

2.2.2 Task 2: Fiber Optic Cable Termination and Testing

Requirements

Each fiber strand shall be tested for attenuation with an optical power meter and light source. Cable length shall be verified using sheath markings. The fiber optic link attenuation shall be tested using a Light Source and Power Meter (LPSM). If splices are used, splice attenuation shall be verified with an Optical Time Domain Reflectometer (OTDR).

Horizontal distribution multimode optical fiber attenuation shall be measured in bi- direction at either 850 nanometers (nm) or 1300 nm using an LED LPSM.

Single mode optical fiber attenuation shall be measured in bi-direction at 1310 nanometers (nm) or 1550 nanometers (nm) using an LASER LPSM. OS1 is defined in ISO/IEC 11801, and OS2 is defined in ISO/IEC 24702.

Backbone multimode fiber shall be tested at both 850 nm and 1300 nm in one direction. Test set-up and performance shall be conducted in accordance with ANSI/TIA/EIA-526-14 Standard, Method B.

TIA-568-C.0 recommends the following be included in the optical documentation.

For OTDR test results:

• Date of the test

• Test personnel

• Description of the field instrument used (manufacturer model number and serial number)

USDA, ARS, Plains Area, Grand Forks Human Nutrition Research Center Information Technology (IT) Modernization; Network Infrastructure Upgrade

• Test equipment calibration date

• Type and length of the launch cables

• Fiber ID

• Trace file

• Tested wavelengths

• Measured loss

Fiber Cable References

A. ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-C.0-2 Generic Telecommunications Cabling For

Customer Premises - Addendum 2, General Updates B. ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-C.1 Commercial Building Telecommunications Cabling

Standard C. ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-C.3 Optical Fiber Cabling Components Standard D. ANSI/TIA/EIA-526-7 (OFSTP-7) Measurement of Optical Power Loss of

Installed Single-mode Fiber Cable Plant E. ANSI/TIA/EIA-526-14 (OFSTP-14) Optical Power Loss Measurements of

Installed Multimode Fiber Cable Plant F. AEN 068: Improving Multimode Fiber Testing Accuracy with Mandrel

Wrapping G. AEN 104: Standards Compliant Optical Test Equipment and Test Procedures H. AEN 115: Plug & Play™ Link Loss Budget Determination I. AEN 129: What is Encircled Flux and other related questions J. AEN 134: OTDR Testing Basics K. AEN 135: Fiber Optic System Testing Tutorial

2.3 Task 3: Deliverables and Expected Outcomes

Deliverable Submitted To Due By Project Management Plan Contracting Officer’s

Representative Two weeks after award of contract

Project Schedule Contracting Officer’s Representative

Two weeks after award of contract

Project Risks Contracting Officer’s Representative

Two weeks after award of contract

Substitutions requests for products, equipment, materials and methods

Contracting Officer’s Representative

Two weeks after award of contract

Safety plan Contracting Officer’s Representative

Prior to commencing any work

Labeling scheme, if applicable Contracting Officer’s Representative

Contractor personnel listing to include names and phone numbers

Contracting Officer’s Representative

USDA, ARS, Plains Area, Grand Forks Human Nutrition Research Center Information Technology (IT) Modernization; Network Infrastructure Upgrade

Software Line Item Pricing, if applicable Contracting Officer’s

Within 10 Days of Award, or Within 10 Days of Software Activation for Licenses Provided After Award Date

Network diagrams, hardware inventory, hardware configuration, Heat map, training materials, if applicable

Contracting Officer’s Representative

Within 3 weeks following completion of project

Customer Network Administrator Training, if applicable

Local Customer Representative

Prior to cutover and completion of project

Customer End User Training, if applicable

Local Customer Representative

Prior to cutover and completion of project

Warranties, Software Licenses and Maintenance Agreements

Contracting Officer’s

Within 2 weeks following completion of project

Copper cabling test and termination results, if applicable

Contracting Officer’s Representative

Within 2 weeks following completion of project

Fiber cabling test and termination results, if applicable

Contracting Officer’s Representative

Within 2 weeks following completion of project

Upon completion of this task shall result in a fully functional local area network and voice system for the Center. It should also include compiled and updated network diagrams, system and end user documents, etc. and deliver to ARS OCIO but not limited to:

A. Provide technical documentation, as-built, network diagrams (Visio), updated

LAN/WLAN equipment, topologies and network device configurations for all areas within the scope of work, including a Heat Map if applicable, to ARS OCIO at the conclusion of the installation.

B. The contractor will provide Client equipment inventory spreadsheets, which include inventory number, serial number, part number, MAC, and campus location for all equipment configured and deployed during this project if applicable, to ARS OCIO at the conclusion of the installation.

C. The contractor will provide system settings, device configurations, and overall LAN/WLAN architecture documentation if applicable, to ARS OCIO at the conclusion of the installation.

D. Provide cabling certification reports to ARS OCIO at the conclusion of the installation.

E. Provide technical documentation, network diagrams, topologies and network device configurations for all areas within the scope of the RF Validation service to ARS OCIO at the conclusion of the installation.

F. Any presentation and/or training materials provided or documentation needed in supporting the LAN/WLAN network infrastructure or components to ARS OCIO at the conclusion of the installation.

2.3.1 Warranties, Licenses and Maintenance Agreements

The infrastructure and network components described in this SOW is essential to Government operations. Upon completion of task, the contractor shall

USDA, ARS, Plains Area, Grand Forks Human Nutrition Research Center Information Technology (IT) Modernization; Network Infrastructure Upgrade submit all documentation to support the warranty in accordance with the manufacturer’s warranty requirements, and to apply for said warranty on behalf of the customer. The system warranty will cover the components and labor associated with the repair/replacement of any failed link as a result of a defective product when a valid warranty claim is submitted within the warranty period.

The Contractor shall offer manufacturer extended warranties for products on this contract, where applicable and available, in accordance with AMS T3.10.4 (5d Commercial Items). Extended warranties shall be made available at the time of product purchase.

The contractor shall submit all documentation to support the warranty in accordance with the manufacturer’s warranty requirements, and to apply for said warranty on behalf of the customer. The system warranty will cover the components and labor associated with the repair/replacement of any failed link as a result of a defective product when a valid warranty claim is submitted within the warranty period.

The contractor shall offer a manufacturer's extended warranty of no less than [15, 20, 25] years for any installed cabling system, in addition to its own warranty. The contractor shall comply with all manufacturer requirements so that the installed system will be eligible for the manufacturer's extended warranty.

Maintenance agreements that extend support beyond the warranty period may be procured through this contract with the stipulation that any payments beyond the first year of maintenance shall be exercised as options by the Government.

2.3.2 Software Licensing

In accordance with Office of Management and Budget Memorandum M-16-12, Category Management Policy 16-1: Improving the Acquisition and Management of Information Technology: Software Licensing, USDA must maintain an inventory of its software licenses, including pricing data. The contractor shall provide line item pricing data on all software licenses provided to USDA at award and/or during performance of the contract/order. The attachment entitled “Software Template Line Item Pricing” must be completed and provided to the Contracting Officer’s Representative within 10 days of award, or within 10 days of activation for licenses provided after the award date.

2.3.3 Compliance with Internet Protocol version 6 (IPv6) in

Acquiring Information Technology

A. Any system, hardware, software, firmware or networked component (voice, video or data) developed, procured or acquired in support or performance of

USDA, ARS, Plains Area, Grand Forks Human Nutrition Research Center Information Technology (IT) Modernization; Network Infrastructure Upgrade this contract shall be capable of transmitting, receiving, processing, forwarding and storing digital information across system boundaries utilizing system packets that are formatted in accordance with commercial standards of Internet Protocol (IP) version 6 (IPv6) as set forth in the USGv6 Profile (NIST Special Publication 500-267) and corresponding declarations of conformance defined in the USGv6 Test Program. In addition, this system shall maintain interoperability with IPv4 systems and provide at least the same level of performance and reliability capabilities of IPv4 products:

B. Specifically, any new IP product or system developed, acquired, or produced must:

1. Interoperate with both IPv6 and IPv4 systems and products, and

2. Have available contractor/vendor IPv6 technical support for development and implementation and fielded product management.

C. As IPv6 evolves, the Contractor commits to upgrading or providing an appropriate migration path for each item developed, delivered or utilized at no additional cost to the Government.

D. The Contractor shall provide technical support for both IPv4 and IPv6.

E. Any system or software must be able to operate on networks supporting

IPv4, IPv6 or one that supports both.

F. Any product whose non-compliance is discovered and made known to the

Contractor within one year after acceptance shall be upgraded, modified or replaced to bring it into compliance at no additional cost to the Government.

2.3.4 Cleanup and Removal

At the completion of each day's work, all rubbish resulting from the system installation shall be removed from the premises, particularly from all offices and hallways. Upon project completion, decommission and removal of old system components, end-points, 66 and/or 110 blocks, wiring/network cable plant components, etc. no longer deemed necessary for use by the new system. Customer is responsible for excessing and disposing of any old system components or equipment.

2.3.5 First Day of Business Support

On the first business day after successful test and turn-up, the lead technician will be available during regular business hours to support and answer any questions or address any issues related to the services provided.

2.3.6 Performance Inspection and Acceptance

The acceptance of deliverables and satisfactory work performance required herein shall be based on the timeliness, accuracy and standards as specified in the requirements of this performance based SOW. The specific deliverables and schedule for delivery shall be as agreed upon and documented in Work Request.

USDA, ARS, Plains Area, Grand Forks Human Nutrition Research Center Information Technology (IT) Modernization; Network Infrastructure Upgrade

Client agency reserves the right to prioritize work requests and negotiate delivery dates. In the absence of other agreements negotiated with respect to time provided for Government review, deliverables will be inspected and the contractor notified of the COR’s findings within seven (7) calendar days of a the review.

2.3.7 Acceptance of Work Requests and Deliverables

ARS will review the contractor deliverables in accordance with all specifications stated in this SOW and the deliverables. Deliverables will be monitored and tracked by the COR and designated government personnel. The designated government personnel will assist the COR in prioritization of the requests, providing quality assurance input to the COR for acceptance of completed work and actual closure of work requests. Only the Government Representative or designated authorized alternate and the Contracting Officer have the authority to inspect and accept or reject deliverables.

The acceptance of deliverables and satisfactory work performance required herein shall be based on the timeliness and accuracy of the products requested by client.

If applicable, specific deliverables will be itemized and explained in individual Work Requests. Upon review and acceptance of the individual Work Request deliverable and the monthly deliverables the Client Representative will assign a performance assessment. A composite performance assessment value will be provided for the monthly reporting of all deliverables. The delivery performance assessment values will be the percentage of acceptance and amount available for invoicing by the vendor.

2.4 Task 4: Knowledge Transfer

Knowledge transfer refers to sharing or disseminating of knowledge and providing inputs to problem solving. Like knowledge management, knowledge transfer seeks to organize, create, capture or distribute knowledge and ensure its availability for future users.

Knowledge transfer is one method for ensuring that accumulated wisdom does not leave the ARS once the contractor moves on. The Contractor shall develop a Knowledge Transfer Program to describe the approach for bringing IT managers, end users and other technical personnel to a familiar level of understanding with how the new system works and how it differs from the system being replaced.

Throughout the duration of the contract, the Contractor shall continually use the Knowledge Transfer Program to ensure that the ARS does not lose this valuable information and data of the ARS’ IT investment. This may be in addition to any of the requirements for the documentation below but are not limited to:

USDA, ARS, Plains Area, Grand Forks Human Nutrition Research Center Information Technology (IT) Modernization; Network Infrastructure Upgrade

A. Knowledge bases, guides and references.

B. How-to documents, lessons learned and online discussion communities.

C. Best practices as recommended by manufacture(s), NEC, BOCA, NFPA, UL, ASTM and other standards not specifically listed.

D. Enable IT personnel to operate, maintain, configure and modify the new systems including operation of the testing tools, supporting infrastructure, and security.

E. Well documented processes and procedures provide a foundation for training, troubleshooting, and optimized workflow.

F. Mentoring for IT Managers to operate, support and maintain system.

G. Training course materials used in all areas within the scope to conduct administrative and end-user training on use and features of the systems.

H. Supporting procedures to allow the system to be recovered and reconstituted to a known secure state following a disruption or failure.

I. Instructions and procedures in obtaining extended warranty after the initial warranty period has expired.

3 Site Restrictions

All work to be performed under this SOW will be done Monday – Friday between the hours of 8:00 am and 4:00 pm, with the exception of the actual cutover if applicable, which will occur after hours in order to minimize downtime and customer support. The Government will provide any security personnel, codes, badges or other access methodology required for staging, installation, and training.

4 Place of Performance

All work associated with this SOW will be performed on or near the campus of the GFHNRC located at 2420 2nd Avenue North, Grand Forks, ND. 58203.

5 Period of Performance

The period of performance is (to be determined)

6 Method of Performance

This task is a firm fixed price task.

7 Task Management

The Government shall identify a Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR). The COR will participate in project meetings, represent the CO in the technical phases of the work, and receive task order deliverables. The COR will provide technical

USDA, ARS, Plains Area, Grand Forks Human Nutrition Research Center Information Technology (IT) Modernization; Network Infrastructure Upgrade assistance and clarification required for the performance of this task. The COR will not provide any supervision or instructional assistance to contractor personnel.

8 Contracting Officers Representative (COR) Designation

After task order award, the Contracting Officer will appoint a COR and issue a COR Designation Letter stating the authority of the COR. The contractor will receive a copy of the written designation.

The COR is not authorized to change any terms or conditions of the Contract or task order. Changes in the task order requirements, price or terms and conditions shall only be made by the CO via properly executed modifications to the Contract or task order.

9 Modification Authority

Notwithstanding any of the other provisions of this Task Order, the Contracting Officer shall be the only individual authorized to modify any term or condition of this Task Order.

10 Data Ownership

All configurations, diagrams, conclusions, data, reports, and briefings developed and/or obtained by the Contractor or his subcontractors, in fulfilling the requirements of this Task Order, shall be owned by the Government.

11 Physical Security of the Contractor's Facilities

The Contractor's facilities or offices shall have sufficient physical security system to protect sensitive information that may be kept or located there during performance of assigned tasks. Such sensitive information may include retained electronic media as well as in print format.

12 Contractor's Organizational Requirements

In fulfilling the requirements of this Task, it is of paramount importance that the Contractor operates in the public interest. For purposes of definition, public interest includes complete objectivity and independence, free from any organizational, profit- related, or market-related conflicts of interest. Therefore, the Contractor, and employees and agents of the Contractor shall be, and shall remain, with respect to operations under this Task, free from organizational conflicts of interest, whether real or apparent, and whether financial or not financial.

USDA, ARS, Plains Area, Grand Forks Human Nutrition Research Center Information Technology (IT) Modernization; Network Infrastructure Upgrade

13 Access to Government Supplied Resources, Property, Personnel and Facility Security Requirements

The government shall provide workspace, computer, and telephone access to the contractor. Government furnished resources can be obtained between the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday unless otherwise agreed upon by ARS and the Contractor.

The Contractor shall have access to Government property, personnel facilities, and data as may be required to discharge its responsibilities in effective and efficient manner.

Any activity under this Task, which is performed by the Contractor or any if its subcontractors, on premises under government control, is subject to the provisions of any resultant contract.

All contractor personnel who work at USDA must have approval for facility access. Prior to work starting, the contractor must supply the names of those employees selected to perform the work. Due to security requirements, pre-notification of all visitors to the USDA facilities is required. Anyone requiring access must obtain approval prior to arrival to the location.

14 Applicable Documents and References

A partial set of tenant blueprints that include sections for the electrical plans, furniture layout, and systems diagrams. The electrical plan identifies the locations of data outlets on fixed walls. The systems diagrams locate the cable tray system, if existing. Drawings and floorplans identifying corresponding cabling requirements.

1. http://csrc.nist.gov/groups/STM/cmvp/standards.html#02,

2. http://nvlpubs.nist.gov/nistpubs/SpecialPublications/NIST.SP.800-53r4.pdf

3. http://www.ocio.usda.gov/policy-directives-records-forms/directives-categories#3600

4. http://www.ocio.usda.gov/policy-directives-records-forms/directives-categories#3500

5. http://nvlpubs.nist.gov/nistpubs/SpecialPublications/NIST.SP.800-70r3.pdf

6. http://csrc.nist.gov/fdcc/faq-common_security_configurations.html

7. ARS Guidance on Implementation of Wireless Networks

15 508 Section - Accessibility of Electronic and Information

Technology

This group of quotes is subject to Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 794d) as amended by the workforce Investment Act of 1998 (P.L.

105-220). Specifically, subsection 508(a)(1) requires that when the Federal Government procures Electronic and Information Technology (EIT), the EIT must allow Federal employees and individuals of the public with disabilities http://csrc.nist.gov/groups/STM/cmvp/standards.html#02 http://nvlpubs.nist.gov/nistpubs/SpecialPublications/NIST.SP.800-53r4.pdf http://www.ocio.usda.gov/policy-directives-records-forms/directives-categories#3600 http://www.ocio.usda.gov/policy-directives-records-forms/directives-categories#3500 http://nvlpubs.nist.gov/nistpubs/SpecialPublications/NIST.SP.800-70r3.pdf http://csrc.nist.gov/fdcc/faq-common_security_configurations.html

USDA, ARS, Plains Area, Grand Forks Human Nutrition Research Center Information Technology (IT) Modernization; Network Infrastructure Upgrade comparable access to and use of information and data that is provided to Federal employees and individuals of the public without disabilities. (b) The EIT accessibility standards at 36 CFR Part 1194 were developed by the Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board ("Access Board") and apply to contracts and task/delivery orders, awarded under indefinite quantity contracts on or after June 25, 2001. (c) Each Electronic and Information Technology (EIT) product or service furnished under this contract shall comply with the Electronic and Information Technology Accessibility Standards (36 CFR 1194), as specified in the contract, as a minimum. If the Contracting Officer determines any furnished product or service does not comply with the contract, the Contracting Officer will promptly inform the Contractor in writing. The Contractor shall, without charge to the Government, repair or replace the non-compliant products or services within the period to be specified by the Government in writing. If such repair or replacement is not completed within the time specified, the Government shall have the following recourses:

1. Cancellation of the contract, delivery or task order, purchase or line item without termination liabilities; or

2. In the case of custom Electronic and Information Technology (EIT) being developed by a contractor for the Government, the Government shall have the right to have any necessary changes made or repairs performed by itself or by another firm for the noncompliant EIT, with the contractor liable for reimbursement to the Government for any expenses incurred thereby.

(d) The contractor must ensure that all EIT products that are less than fully compliant with the accessibility standards are provided pursuant to extensive market research and are the most current compliant products or services available to satisfy the contract requirements. (e) For every EIT product or service accepted under this contact by the Government that does not comply with 36 CFR 1194, the contractor shall, at the discretion of the Government, make every effort to replace or upgrade it with a compliant equivalent product or service, if commercially available and cost neutral, on either a contract specified refresh cycle for the product or service, or on a contract effective option/renewal date; whichever shall occur first.

Section 508 Compliance for Communications

The vendors in the attached quotes shall comply with the standards, policies, and procedures below. In the event of conflicts between the referenced documents and this collection of quotes the quote shall take precedence.

Rehabilitation Act, Section 508 Accessibility Standards

1. 29 U.S.C. 794d (Rehabilitation Act as amended)

2. 36 CFR 1194 (508 Standards)

3. www.access-board.gov/sec508/508standards.htm (508 standards)

USDA, ARS, Plains Area, Grand Forks Human Nutrition Research Center Information Technology (IT) Modernization; Network Infrastructure Upgrade

4. FAR 39.2 (Section 508)

5. USDA Standards, policies and procedures (Section 508)

In addition, all contract deliverables are subject to these 508 standards as applicable.

Regardless of format, all Web content or communications materials produced, including text, audio or video - must conform to applicable Section 508 standards to allow federal employees and members of the public with disabilities to access information that is comparable to information provided to persons without disabilities.

All contractors (including subcontractors) or consultants responsible for preparing or posting content must comply with applicable Section 508 accessibility standards, and where…