HSBP1016R0004_-_Attachment_1_(SOW).pdf

HSBP1016R0004 - Attachment 1 STATEMENT OF WORK

DHS BODY ARMOR LEVEL IIIA

1. BACKGROUND

1.1 This requirement is for the procurement of soft, torso protecting body armor which offers National Institute of Justice (NIJ) certified Type IIIA threat level ballistic protection in support of the mission of officers and agents in the various components of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), as well as, potentially, the mission of non-DHS federal law enforcement agencies. It describes lightweight, flexible, and comfortable body armor intended primarily for law enforcement use.

1.2 Relevant components within DHS and without may include but are not limited to the following listed in

Table 1.2, below. This contract shall be awarded and administered by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).

Table 1.2

Agencies and Abbreviations

DHS Component Abbreviation U.S. Customs and Border Protection CBP U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement ICE Transportation Security Administration TSA U.S. Federal Protective Service FPS U.S. Coast Guard USCG Federal Emergency Management Agency FEMA Other DHS Components or Non-DHS Agencies TBD

2. SCOPE

2.1 The intent of DHS is to contract for National Institute of Justice (NIJ) Certified threat level IIIA body armor.

2.2 The body armor shall be side opening, with ballistic panels available in both a concealable cut and

Special Operations Forces Equipment Advanced Requirements (SPEAR) Body Armor/Load Carriage System (SPEAR/BALCS) cut shape.

2.3 The body armor shall be NIJ designated gender specific and be certified to sizes C1 through C5.

2.4 Vendors shall include separate “Male” and “Female” designated armor models. Armor models do not need to be identical in build specifications.

2.5 Concealable cut armor shall be either custom tailored for each individual or appropriately fit using standardized sizing, as specified by the DHS component or agency in the request for quotation for each delivery order.

2.6 SPEAR/BALCS cut armor shall be available in all standard SPEAR/BALCS sizes.

2.7 This Statement of Work (SOW) shall include multiple carrier options as well as additional items such as carry bags, outer carriers, modular pouches, and moisture wicking undergarments. (All references to “left or right” in product descriptions shall be from the vantage of looking at the item, not wearing the item.)

2.8 The body armor shall have a manufacturer’s ballistic warranty of 7 years. Warranty commences at date of acceptance by the Government.

2.9 Additional administrative support shall be required, including but not limited to measuring/sizing services, customer service support, web based ordering and invoicing/payment support.

2.10 The armor will be issued to students at the various academies of the components within DHS, as well as to officers and agents in the field requiring initial armor issuance or replacement armor due to the expiration or deterioration of their current armor.

2.11 CBP will endeavor to ensure the safety of all officers and agents within DHS by initiating a systematic life cycle quality assurance testing program to verify that body armor performs according to initial ballistic standards throughout its warranty period.

3.0 APPLICABLE DOCUMENTS/STANDARDS:

3.1 Ballistic Resistance of Body Armor, NIJ Standard-0101.06, US Department of Justice

3.2 DHS Handbook for Safeguarding Sensitive Personally Identifiable Information (Mar. 2012) (available at https://www.dhs.gov/dhs-security-and-training-requirements-contractors)

3.3 Safeguarding Sensitive But Unclassified (For Official Use Only) Information, DHS Management

Directive No. 11042.1 (Jan. 6, 2005) (available at https://www.dhs.gov/dhs-security-and-training-requirements-contractors)

3.4 Standard Test Method for Thickness of Textile Materials, D1777-96, ASTM International

3.5 Standard Test Methods for Mass Per Unit Area (Weight) of Fabric, D3776/D3776M-09a, ASTM

International

4.0 TECHNICAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE REQUIREMENTS:

4.1 BALLISTIC PERFORMANCE AND TESTING

4.1.1 The standard(s) for testing and performance of ballistic panels submitted for this solicitation shall be those established by the NIJ Standard-0101.06.

4.1.2 All body armor packages submitted for consideration shall be certified by the NIJ to have met the NIJ Ballistic Resistance of Body Armor standard for Threat Level IIIA. The Government shall require vendors to provide an NIJ “Notice of Compliance” certification letter for all packages submitted for evaluation.

4.1.3 Body armor shall remain certified as compliant throughout the life of the contract (including the warranty period which may extend beyond the period of performance of the contract). The NIJ Standard-0101.06 shall be the standard of record.

4.1.4 The Government shall require vendors to provide complete NIJ Compliance Test Reports.

4.1.5 All ballistic testing, described within the SOW, shall be required and shall take place at an independent NIJ approved laboratory, and shall be at no cost to the Government.

4.1.6 Table 4.1.6, below, shows the NIJ test rounds and velocity standards for personal body armor with respect to Threat Level IIIA.

Table 4.1.6 https://www.dhs.gov/dhs-security-and-training-requirements-contractors

NIJ Test Rounds and Velocities for Threat Level IIIA Body Armor

Threat Level

Test Round

Test Velocity (Feet Per Second)

Armor Condition

Level IIIA

.357 Sig 125 Grain FMJ FN 1470 fps ± 30 New

.357 Sig 125 Grain FMJ FN 1410 fps ± 30 Conditioned .44 Magnum 240 Grain JHP 1430 fps ±30 New .44 Magnum 240 Grain JHP 1340 fps± 30 Conditioned

4.1.7 The Government shall require that all body armor submitted for consideration shall demonstrate V05 Ballistic Limit Performance at or above 1625 feet per second for the .357 Sig. The V05 velocity included on the Ballistic Limit Summary Data page (NIJ Compliance Test Report) for the .357 Sig shall be the official V05 velocity of record.

4.1.8 The Government shall require that all body armor submitted for consideration shall demonstrate V50 Ballistic Limit Performance at or above 1700 feet per second for the .357 Sig. The V50 velocity included on the Ballistic Limit Summary Data page (NIJ Compliance Test Report) for the .357 Sig shall be the official V50 velocity of record.

4.1.9 The Government shall require that the ballistic panels meet the NIJ Standard-0101.06

Perforation and Backface Signature (P-BFS) Test for the following rounds and velocities listed in Table 4.1.9. Test sample sizes for each round shall generally be in accordance with Section 4.1.1.1, Table 1 of the NIJ Standard-0101.06 (to exclude Ballistic Limit Testing), but see Addendum 1 of this SOW for additional test sample specifications specific to this SOW.

Vendors shall provide test results for these rounds for all packages submitted for evaluation.

Table 4.1.9 DHS Handgun Rounds and Velocities (Feet per Second)

Round Reference Velocity Bullet

9mm 124 grain GDHP 1153 fps +/- 30 fps Speer 53617 .40S&W 180 grain JHP 1015 fps +/- 30 fps Federal XM40HC

.357SIG 125 grain GDHP 1350 fps +/- 30 fps Speer 54234

4.1.10 The Government shall require that armor submitted for consideration is tested against fragmentation and meets the following requirements.

4.1.10.1 Fragmentation or Right Circular Cylinder (RCC) testing will be conducted utilizing the

2 grain RCC, 4 grain RCC, 16 grain RCC, and 64 grain RCC.

4.1.10.2 V50 velocities for each size RCC must meet or exceed the following:

Table 4.1.10.2 DHS Right Circular Cylinder (RCC) sizes and Velocities (Feet per Second)

Round Minimum Velocity 2 grain RCC 2530 fps 4 grain RCC 2240 fps 16 grain RCC 1900 fps 64 grain RCC 1575 fps

4.1.10.3 Vendor shall provide test results showing the armor meets or exceeds the minimum V50’s listed in Table 4.1.10.2.

4.1.10.4 Except where specified below, V50 Ballistic Testing shall be done in accordance to and in compliance with the Ballistic Limit Determination Test protocol found in NIJ Standard-0101.06, Section 7.9.

4.1.10.5 All fragmentation testing shall be done utilizing 15” x 15” shoot packs. The shoot packs must be identical in construction and build specifications to the armor package being submitted for consideration.

4.1.10.6 The minimum allowable penetration results for determining each RCC’s ballistic limit shall be three perforations, six stops, and 3 either; within a velocity range of 90 ft/s.

4.1.11 The Government shall require that armor submitted for consideration is tested using the following modified conditioning protocol based on the protocol found in the NIJ Standard-

0101.06 and meet the following ballistic requirements. (The below is in addition to all conditioned testing required during the NIJ Certification process.)

4.1.11.1 Conditioning shall be in accordance with Section 5 of NIJ Standard-0101.06, Flexible

Armor Conditioning Protocol, with the exception of Section 5.2.3.4 Test Duration.

4.1.11.2 The test duration shall last a total of 14 Days ± 1 hour.

4.1.11.3 Test sample sizes for each test round shall be generally in accordance with Section

4.1.1.1, Table 1 of the NIJ Standard-0101.06 (to exclude Ballistic Limit Testing for the .44 Mag), with the following modified specifications: 4 samples for .357 Sig and 3 samples for .44 Mag, for a total of 7 armor samples. Template sizes shall include both C-1 and C-5.

4.1.11.4 Conditioned armor shall meet NIJ Perforation standards for the following rounds and velocities listed in Table 4.1.11.4. BFS shall be recorded but an excessive BFS measurement shall not constitute a failure.

` Table 4.1.11.4

Round Reference Velocity .357 Sig 125 Grain FMJ FN 1386 fps ± 30 .44 Magnum 240 Grain JHP 1304 fps ± 30

4.1.12 Throughout the contract, the Government intends to pull from its stock of new and used body armor for quality assurance (QA) testing. Body armor shall be provided to the vendor who shall be responsible for facilitating testing as well as all expenses incurred, including shipping, with the exception of the cost for the Government’s initial shipping of the body armor to the vendor, which cost will be at the Government’s expense.

QA testing must be performed at an NIJ approved laboratory and include both P-BFS testing and ballistic limit testing. The Government shall determine the breakdown of test type at the time test armor is provided to the vendor. The purpose of this testing is to determine if the ballistic panels are performing in accordance with the parameters of this specification throughout the warranty period and are not experiencing excessive degradation in performance. The Government shall only test armor that is considered serviceable for continued use by officers and agents.

4.1.12.1 The number of armors to be tested each year shall consist of 5 body armor vests for each cumulative year the contract has been in place. Each body armor vest shall be comprised of 2 ballistic panels, for a total of 10 ballistic panels per year. For example, year 3 of the contract would allow for 15 body armor vests or 30 ballistic panels (3 years X 5 vests per year).

4.1.12.2 Vendors shall only be responsible for testing body armor they provided through the contract.

4.1.12.3 The testing process shall be initiated by the vendor within 10 business days of receipt of body armor from the Government.

4.1.12.4 Vendors shall provide the results of all testing to the COR within 2 business days of receipt from the NIJ approved laboratory.

4.1.12.5 Body armor shall remain property of the Government until testing is complete and the

COR releases the armor in writing. At such time, the vendor shall dispose of the body armor, and provide the COR written notification documenting the destruction (including all serial numbers).

4.1.12.6 P-BFS testing will be performed on new and used armor pulled from stocks throughout the warranty period.

4.1.12.7 The test velocity for new armor shall be the NIJ reference velocity for new armor (±

30 fps). The test velocity for used armor shall be the SOW reference velocity for conditioned armor listed in Table 4.1.11.4 (± 30 fps).

4.1.12.8 Any body armor vest that is within 60 days of acceptance by DHS at the time it is sent to the vendor, and is in the original packaging, shall constitute a “new” vest. All other body armor vests shall be considered “used” for the purpose of testing.

4.1.12.9 A single failure for perforation of new and/or used vests shall result in additional testing of three vests from the same production lot.

4.1.12.10 For new vests only, a single failure for backface deformation in excess of 44 mm at

NIJ test velocities may result in the testing of three additional vests from the same production lot. For used vests, BFS shall be recorded but an excessive BFS measurement shall not constitute a failure.

4.1.12.11 A single P-BFS failure shall be treated as a warranty violation and shall require a replacement vest from the vendor at no cost to the Government.

4.1.12.12 P-BFS failure of more than one test vest within a lot shall be treated as a warranty failure and, at the discretion of the Government, shall require replacement of the production lot by the vendor at no cost to the Government.

4.1.12.13 P-BFS failure of more than one lot shall be treated as a model failure and shall result in a negotiated remedy between the Government and the vendor or the exercise of other contractual rights by the Government.

4.1.12.14 V50 Ballistic Limit performance testing will also be conducted on new and used vests pulled from stocks throughout the warranty period.

4.1.12.15 The V50 velocities for new vests shall meet the initial performance requirements of

1700 fps or greater, for the .357 Sig. test round. The V50 velocities for used vests shall not drop below 1616 fps for the .357 Sig. test round at any time during the warranty period.

4.1.12.16 No perforation shall occur at less than the velocity identified in Table 4.1.9 above

(plus 30 fps) for new armor and the velocity identified in Table 4.1.11.4 above (plus 30 fps) for used armor.

4.1.12.17 A violations of the applicable V50 performance standard shall result in the additional testing of three vests from the same production lot.

4.1.12.18 A single V50 failure will be treated as a warranty failure and shall require a replacement vest by the vendor at no cost to the Government.

4.1.12.19 V50 failure of more than one vest within a lot shall be treated as a warranty failure and, at the discretion of the Government, shall require replacement of the lot by the vendor at no cost to the Government.

4.1.12.20 V50 failure of more than one lot shall be treated as a model failure and shall result in a negotiated remedy between the Government and the vendor or the exercise of other contractual rights by the Government.

4.2 BALLISTIC PANELS

4.2.1 Ballistic panels shall be available in both concealable cut and SPEAR/BALCS cut shapes

(2012 version or later).

4.2.2 Concealable cut ballistic panel side joints shall overlap 2” (± ½ inch) when worn, based on the initial end user measurements, with the front panel overlapping the back panel. Butt joints are not acceptable.

4.2.3 Concealable cut ballistic panels shall be gender specific and shall include both “Male” designated planar (or non-structured) ballistic panels and “Female” designated non-planar (or structured) ballistic panels. A “Neutral” classification may be substituted for “Male” as long as the panel is non-structured or planar; however, a separate “Female” designated armor model must be included.

4.2.4 SPEAR/BALCS panels shall be designated either “Male” or “Neutral”.

4.2.5 There is no requirement that “Male” designated ballistic panels and “Female” designated ballistic panels be constructed of the same materials.

4.2.6 Sizing shall be in accordance with section 4.12 “Measuring/Sizing” of this SOW.

4.2.7 Ballistic panels shall be comfortable, flexible and (for concealable cut ballistic panels) cut to maximize coverage area while minimizing restriction of movement and chafing around the neck, collar and arms. Weight reduction is desirable but should not negatively impact flexibility and comfort.

4.2.8 There is no requirement that ballistic panels be of homogeneous construction. Hybrid vests, containing more than one type of constituent product, are acceptable, as are homogeneous (one type of ballistic fabric only) vests.

4.2.9 Vests are required to meet additional technical standards as described in Tables 4.2.9, below. Testing for both Thickness and Areal Density shall be performed at an NIJ approved laboratory.

Table 4.2.9

Ballistic Panel Technical Requirements

NIJ Threat Level Requirement Level IIIA

Maximum Thickness 0.30 in.

Maximum Areal Density 1.05 lbs/ft²

4.2.10 Thickness shall be measured to the nearest 0.01 inch when tested according to ASTM D1777, Table 1, Testing Option 1 for 3(qty) 15”x15” shoot packs. The ballistic panel cover shall be removed prior to measurement and the average of the 3(qty) shoot packs shall determine if the requirement is met. The shoot packs must be identical in construction and build specifications to the armor package being submitted for consideration. Testing shall be done at an approved NIJ laboratory.

4.2.11 Areal density shall be measured to the nearest 0.01 pound per square foot in accordance with

ASTM D3776 for 3(qty) 15”x15” shoot packs. The ballistic panel cover shall be removed prior to measurement and the average of the 3(qty) shoot packs shall determine if the requirement is met. The shoot packs must be identical in construction and build specifications to the armor package being submitted for consideration. Testing shall be done at an approved NIJ laboratory.

4.2.12 Ballistic panel covers shall be constructed of a lightweight, opaque material designed to limit ultra violet light exposure and exhibit waterproof performance throughout the warranty period.

4.2.13 Ballistic panel coverings shall exhibit high standards of construction, particularly the sealed edges. There shall be nothing sewn or stitched to the ballistic panel cover as this would compromise the waterproof integrity of the panel cover.

4.2.14 Ballistic panels shall be suspended inside the concealable carrier from the top corner areas of the panels, so as to prevent sagging and curling of the bottom panel edge. The method of suspension is up to the vendor, provided that it does not affect the waterproof nature of the panel cover.

4.2.15 Labels, produced in accordance with the NIJ Standard-0101.06, Section 4.1.5, shall be affixed to the ballistic panel cover in a manner that shall assure adherence throughout the warranty period, and not compromise the waterproof integrity of the panel cover. Generic terms such as “Custom” are not acceptable for the “size” portion of the label. See Section 4.12, “Measurements/Sizing,” of this SOW for size labeling requirements.

4.2.16 Labels shall be produced in a manner that shall ensure readability throughout the warranty period.

4.2.17 In addition to the NIJ labeling requirements, the ballistic panel cover labels shall also include care instructions for the ballistic panels, and the additional statements: “Ballistic performance is warranted for seven years” and “Property of U.S. Government”.

4.2.18 Aside from the contents of the label, there shall be no writing or other markings (e.g., manufacturer identification or branding) on the outside faces of the ballistic panel covers.

4.2.19 There shall be no additional covering of the panel. The sealed, waterproof panel cover must be visible to facilitate the visual inspection of the cover itself.

4.2.20 Build specifications described in the NIJ Compliance Testing Program Build Sheet shall match the physical construction of the ballistic panels throughout the period of performance of the contract.

4.3 TRAUMA PADS

4.3.1 Trauma pads shall be 6” X 8” in size.

4.3.2 Trauma pads shall exhibit the same construction, materials, layer counts, covering, attention to detail and quality as the ballistic panels with which they are supplied.

4.3.3 Trauma pads shall be labeled with their date of manufacture, associated vest model number, and proper orientation to the wearer (“This side toward body”). Attachment of the label shall not affect the waterproof integrity of the trauma pad cover.

4.3.4 Trauma pads are not subject to NIJ certification.

4.3.5 Trauma pads shall be replaced as warranty items when vests are replaced as warranty items.

4.4 CONCEALABLE CARRIERS

4.4.1 The concealable carrier is intended to be worn under a garment such as a dress or uniform shirt and shall be available for both concealable and BALCS cut ballistic panels.

4.4.2 Each concealable carrier shall be side opening, consisting of two separate panels attached by straps. One panel shall comprise the front of the carrier, and one panel shall comprise the back of the carrier.

4.4.3 Concealable carriers shall be sized specifically for their corresponding ballistic panels so as to limit movement of the panels within the carrier.

4.4.4 Concealable carriers shall be adjustable both at the sides (front and back) and the shoulders (front and back).

4.4.5 Carriers shall have a single, independent/removable strap (1.5” minimum width) attaching the front and back panels at each shoulder. Carriers shall have both a single, independent/removable strap (4.0” minimum width) and an alternate set of independent/removable double straps (1.5” minimum width) securing the front and back panels along each side. Both the shoulder and side straps shall have hook attachment points at both ends. Hook material shall be the same width as the strap and be of sufficient length to prevent unintentional disengagement from the corresponding loop material. Both front and back carrier panels shall have loop shoulder attachment points (1.5” minimum width, 4.0” minimum length) located on the shoulder tabs. There also shall be 6” wide loop attachment across the entire width of the front and back panel, just above the bottom edge of the panels.

Strap material may be elastic, neoprene, or an alternate material that facilitates adjustability and/or comfort.

4.4.6 Concealable carriers shall be constructed of a soft, thin, breathable fabric that ideally wicks moisture away from the wearer. Outer facing material and inner facing material may be different to facilitate durability while still maintaining comfort.

4.4.7 The carrier should be constructed so that it is minimally visible when being worn (no obvious bulges or protrusions with the possible exception of the side overlap).

4.4.8 Concealable carriers shall allow for easy removal and insertion of ballistic panels at or near the bottom of the carrier panel via a hook and loop sealed opening. The opening shall be centered and span at least ¾ of the width of the carrier panel when measured along the bottom edge.

4.4.9 The carrier opening shall be oriented in the same direction as the ballistic panel label.

4.4.10 The carrier shall be constructed such that the ballistic panels cannot fall from the carrier if the carrier panel were to come unsealed accidentally.

4.4.11 All closure mechanisms shall be constructed of hook and loop material, with the hook portion facing towards the ballistic panels.

4.4.12 There shall be no labels, tags, or other markings on the exterior of the carriers. Labels shall be attached to the inside of the front and back carriers, along the edge of the carrier opening.

4.4.13 Carrier labels shall contain manufacturer’s name, warning statement indicating that the carrier itself provides no ballistic protection, care instructions for the carrier, model name and/or number, cover material, date of manufacture, and the panel size associated with that carrier.

(Generic terms such as “Custom” are not acceptable.) The carrier label shall NOT contain a serial number.

4.4.14 Carriers shall contain either a 6” X 8” or 7” X 9” pouch for the insertion of a trauma pad. 6” X 8” pouch size shall be the default size unless otherwise specified by the purchasing agency.

4.4.15 Carriers shall include split front and solid back shirttails.

4.4.16 Carrier colors are agency specific and are generally (but not limited to) dark shades of primary and secondary colors (e.g., dark blue, dark green), black, tan or white. Vendor shall coordinate with agencies to insure that correct colors and shades are used in the manufacture of concealable carriers.

4.4.17 Darker color carriers such as green, blue, grey or black may use straps and hook/loop material that is either black or the same color as the carrier. Lighter color carriers such as tan or white shall use straps or hook/loop that is the same color as the carrier.

4.4.18 To eliminate potential confusion, an agency representative/COR shall provide vendor with a swatch of material of the desired color, and in return the vendor shall provide a swatch of the intended color to the agency/COR for final approval before starting production. Vendor shall make a good faith effort to match the color as best as possible given the latitudes of color reproducibility with various fabrics.

4.4.19 Concealable carriers shall exhibit high standards of construction: consistent color, no loose threads, no stitching errors, runs or fabric imperfections.

4.5 FORMAL OUTER GARMENT CARRIERS (FOGC)

4.5.1 The Formal Outer Garment Carrier is intended be worn over a dress uniform shirt and to resemble the purchasing component’s dress uniform shirt as closely as possible. An agency representative/COR shall provide vendor with an exemplar shirt and name plate upon issuance of a delivery order for use in material selection and overall appearance. In turn, the vendor shall provide a first article sample for final approval before starting production. FOGC shall be available for both concealable and BALCS cut ballistic panels.

4.5.2 The FOGC shall be constructed of fabric that closely resembles the provided exemplar shirt.

This includes denier and color. The general appearance, to include pleating and button style/color, shall also closely resemble the provided exemplar shirt.

4.5.3 FOGC shall be side opening and adjustable, with the front and back permanently connected at the shoulders.

4.5.4 Where possible, shoulder material must fit under the buttoned down epaulet contained on a uniform shirt.

4.5.5 To minimize ballistic panel movement, the FOGCs shall be sized so that the edge of the ballistic panel pockets extends no more than 1” beyond the perimeter of the ballistic panels when the panels are inserted and centered in the panel pocket. Exceptions may be made for the top of the shoulders.

4.5.6 Ballistic panels shall overlap front to back at the sides of the carrier in accordance with Section

4.2.2.

4.5.7 Carrier sides, however, shall be affixed using a separate forward pull (i.e. back to front) attachment system. This attachment system shall have hook and loop “birdmouth” attachment points located at the sides of the front panel and be adjustable for increases/decreases in girth, in the back. All mechanisms for adjustability shall be hidden (tunnel type system) to provide a clean look. Tunnel openings shall be located on each side no further laterally than the narrowest point of the carrier, to allow for maximum adjustability. Front attachment points shall also provide for a clean look, with no hook or loop exposed when affixed. Visible material for the attachment system shall be identical to the rest of the carrier’s fabric.

4.5.8 The front of the FOGC shall have a faux buttoned down opening along its vertical center line.

4.5.9 The front of the FOGC shall have two pockets, one on each side of the faux buttoned down opening. Pockets shall be functional and shall have button down flaps which cover the pocket openings.

4.5.10 The front of the FOGC, located above the left pocket, shall have two horizontal attachment points for the acceptance of name tag push pins. The backside of these attachment points shall be accessible from the inside of the ballistic panel pocket so as to attach backings to the pushpins. Attachment point locations shall fit the provided exemplar name plate.

4.5.11 The front of the FOGC, located above the right pocket, shall have two vertical attachment points for the acceptance of a badge pin. Attachment points shall match the corresponding attachment points on the exemplar uniform shirt.

4.5.12 FOGCs shall allow for easy removal and insertion of ballistic panels at or near the bottom of the carrier panel via a hook and loop sealed opening. The opening shall be centered and span at least ¾ of the width of the carrier panel when measured along the bottom edge.

4.5.13 The FOGC shall be constructed such that the ballistic panels cannot fall from the carrier if the carrier panel were to come unsealed accidentally.

4.5.14 All closure mechanisms shall be constructed of hook and loop material, with the hook portion facing towards the ballistic panels.

4.5.15 There shall be no labels, tags, or other markings on the outer sides of the FOGCs. Labels shall be attached to the inside of the front carrier, along the edge of the carrier opening.

4.5.16 FOGC labels shall contain manufacturer’s name, warning statement indicating that the carrier itself provides no ballistic protection, care instructions for the carrier, model name and/or number, cover material, date of manufacture, and the panel size associated with that carrier (generic terms such as “Custom” are not acceptable. The carrier label shall NOT contain a serial number.

4.5.17 FOGCs shall contain either a 6” X 8” or 7” X 9” pouch for the insertion of a trauma pad. Pouch shall be accessible from within the ballistic panel pouch. 6” X 8” pouch size shall be the default size unless specified by the purchasing agency.

4.5.18 FOGC’s shall exhibit high standards of construction: consistent color, no loose threads, no stitching errors, runs or fabric imperfections.

4.6 STANDARD OUTER GARMENT CARRIERS (SOGC)

4.6.1 Standard Outer Garment Carriers are intended to be worn over rough duty uniforms, providing a platform for the carriage of ballistic panels, ballistic plates (not included in this SOW), as well as the attachment of ID placards and accessories, while still keeping a clean, simple, professional look. SOGC shall be available for both concealable and BALCS cut ballistic panels.

4.6.2 SOGC’s shall be side opening, adjustable, and consist of two separate panels attached along the sides and at the shoulders. One panel shall comprise the front of the carrier and one panel shall comprise the back of the carrier.

4.6.3 To minimize ballistic panel movement, the SOGCs shall be sized so that the edge of the ballistic panel pockets extends no more than 1” beyond the perimeter of the ballistic panels when the panels are inserted and centered in the panel pocket. Exceptions may be made for the top of the shoulders.

4.6.4 The strike face side of the SOGC shall be constructed of 1000-denier Cordura® nylon or equivalent. The inner face of the carrier shall be constructed of a lighter weight, solid material that is durable but non abrasive and have a minimum denier of 400.

4.6.5 All outer seams shall have 1-inch binding tape or be otherwise constructed in a method that ensures strength, longevity, and a clean look.

4.6.6 SOGC shall have adjustable shoulder straps that use a forward pull (i.e. back to front) motion.

Webbing, if used, shall not exceed 2” wide. Any buckles and/or attachment pieces used to accomplish this shall be made of high impact nylon material. Hook and loop is also acceptable in the construction of the strap assembly. One end of each strap must be permanently affixed to the carrier and alternate strap ends shall not flop insecurely when in use. Padding is not required but is acceptable.

4.6.7 SOGC shall have a microphone attachment point located on the front facing portion of both the left and right shoulder strap assemblies.

4.6.8 Ballistic panels shall overlap front to back at the sides of the carrier in accordance with Section

4.2.2 of this SOW.

4.6.9 Carrier sides, however, shall be affixed using a separate forward pull (i.e. back to front) attachment system. This attachment system shall have hook and loop “birdmouth” attachment points located at the sides of the front panel and be adjustable for increases/decreases in girth, in the back. All mechanisms for adjustability shall be hidden (tunnel type system) to provide a clean look. Tunnel openings shall not be located on each side any further laterally than the narrowest point of the carrier, to allow for maximum adjustability. Front attachment points shall also provide for a clean look, with no hook or loop exposed when affixed. Visible material for the attachment system shall be identical to the rest of the carrier’s fabric and shall include 3 rows of MOLLE webbing (or equivalent). Two rows may be used in limited circumstances when carrier size becomes a limiting factor.

4.6.10 SOGC shall allow for easy removal and insertion of ballistic panels at or near the bottom of the carrier panel via a hook and loop sealed opening. The opening shall span at least ¾ of the width of the carrier panel when measured along the bottom edge, be centered, and not be located on the outer face of either carrier panel. The carrier shall be constructed such that the ballistic panels cannot fall from the carrier if the carrier panel were to come unsealed accidentally.

4.6.11 SOGC shall have top loading plate pockets to accommodate Level III/IV ballistic plates (the procurement of which is not included in this SOW) in both the front and back carrier panels.

The horizontal opening for the pockets shall be located on the exterior strike face side of the front and rear panels, approximately 2” below the lowest point of the carrier neckline. On the front carrier strike face, there shall be a flap, at least 10” (W) and 4” (H), that is affixed to the carrier strike face just above the horizontal plate pocket opening. The flap shall fold down over the opening and secure to the carrier strike face via a 2” (H) hook and loop strip that spans the width of the flap close to the bottom edge of the flap. The hook portion shall be located on the carrier strike face and the loop portion shall be located on the back of the flap.

On the rear carrier strike face, there shall be a flap, at least 10” (W) and 6” (H), that is affixed to the carrier strike face just above the horizontal plate pocket opening. The flap shall fold down over the opening and secure to the carrier strike face via a 2” (H) hook and loop strip that spans the width of the flap close to the bottom edge of the flap. The hook portion shall be located on the carrier strike face and the loop portion shall be located on the back of the flap.

The interior of the pocket shall be capable of holding and securing both 10”x12” or 8”x10” ballistic plates up to 1 ¼” thick, with little to no movement when inserted; as well as an additional pocket intended to secure either a 6” X 8” trauma or 7” X 9” trauma pad. (The trauma pad pouch is only required on the front carrier panel and its size shall be at the discretion of the purchasing agency. If no specific size is specified, the default size for the trauma pad pouch is 6” X 8”). Carriers that are too small to fit a 10”X12” plate pocket shall include only the 8” X 10” pocket and the trauma pad pocket. Vendor shall attempt to make the flap width for these smaller carriers as wide as possible, as to best fit the placards described below.

4.6.12 SOGC shall have a 3” wide elastic inner cummerbund with hook and loop attachment. The hook portion shall face away from body, the loop portion shall face towards body, and the hook and loop portion of the cummerbund shall be a minimum of 6 Inches long.

4.6.13 The rear carrier panel shall have a horizontal drag handle located at the top, center of the panel. The handle shall be made of 1.0-inch wide nylon webbing and be securely affixed to the carrier. The handle shall be at least as wide as the neck opening of the carrier at its widest point, not extend over the lowest point of the panel neck line, and shall not protrude more than ½ in. The drag handle shall be capable of dragging an individual of 250 lbs, for 25ft over flat ground, without breakage.

4.6.14 Vendor shall provide for a MOLLE system (or equivalent) for attachments and pouches on the

SOGCs. “Equivalent” systems must accept all standard MOLLE accessories. The vendor shall make every effort to maximize the number of rows and loops possible located below the front and back carriers panels. Rows may vary in length if necessary due to shape and size restraints of the carrier panel, but a neat appearance is desired. MOLLE rows on the front carrier panel shall contain as many loops as will fit based on the size of the carrier panel.

MOLLE shall be included on any flaps that are part of the carrier side attachment system.

MOLLE rows on the back carrier panel shall be uniform in width and contain as many loops as will fit at the narrowest point of the carrier panel.

4.6.15 SOGC shall have a loop attachment affixed to the front plate pocket flap face for an agency badge. The loop attachment shall be 3”(W) X 4”(H) in size. The top and bottom edge of the attachment shall be aligned with the top and bottom edge of the flap. The right edge of the attachment shall be aligned with the right edge of the flap.

4.6.16 SOGC shall have a loop attachment affixed to the front plate pocket flap for a small front identity marking (agency placard). The loop attachment shall be 6”(W) X 4”(H) in size. The top and bottom edge of the attachment shall be aligned with the top and bottom edge of the flap.

The left edge of the attachment shall be aligned with the left edge of the flap.

4.6.17 SOGC shall have loop attachment affixed to the entire back plate pocket flap for a large identity marking (agency placard). The loop attachment shall cover the entire back plate pocket flap.

4.6.18 Vendor shall be required to produce agency specific placards (silkscreen or embroidered at the discretion of the agency) and embroidered agency badges to be included with each SOGC. Agency placards shall be backed with hook attachment and shall be 6” (W) X 3”(H) for the front placard and 10”(W) X 6”(H) for the rear placard. Agency badges shall be backed with hook attachment and be approximately 2”(W) X 3”(H) in size. Examples and specific descriptions of identity markings and badges for each agency shall be provided to vendors at the pre-production meeting.

4.6.19 With the exception of agency specific markings, there shall be no labels, tags, or other markings on the exterior of the SOGCs. Vendor labels shall be attached to the inner (body) side of the back carrier panel.

4.6.20 Carrier label shall contain the manufacturer’s name, warning statement indicating that the carrier itself provides no ballistic protection, care instructions for the carrier, model name and/or number, cover material, date of manufacture, and the panel size associated with that carrier (generic terms such as “Custom” are not acceptable for panel size.) The carrier label shall NOT contain a serial number.

4.6.21 SOGC shall exhibit high standards of construction: consistent dyes (when applicable), no loose threads, no stitching errors, runs or fabric imperfections.

4.6.22 SOGC colors are agency specific and are generally (but not limited to) dark shades of primary and secondary colors (e.g., dark blue, dark green), black, tan, or white. Vendor shall of SOGCs.

4.6.23 SOGC, straps, MOLLE and hook/loop attachment shall be of the same color. Unless the

SOGC is black or grey, black straps, MOLLE and hook/loop attachments are unacceptable. To eliminate potential confusion, an agency representative/COR shall provide vendor with a swatch of material of the desired color, and in return the vendor shall provide a swatch of the intended color to the agency/COR for final approval before starting production. The vendor shall make a good faith effort to match the color as best as possible given the latitudes of color

4.7 TACTICAL OUTER GARMENT CARRIERS (TOGC)

4.7.1 Tactical Outer Garment Carriers are intended to be worn over rough duty uniforms, providing a robust, heavier duty platform for the carriage of ballistic panels, ballistic plates (not included in this contract), as well as the attachment of ID placards and accessories. TOGC shall be available for both concealable and BALCS cut ballistic panels.

4.7.2 TOGC’s shall be side opening, adjustable, and consist of two separate panels attached along the sides and at the shoulders. One panel shall comprise the front of the carrier and one panel shall comprise the back of the carrier.

4.7.3 TOGC shall be scalable to accept the attachment of ballistic accessories contained in section 4.8.

4.7.4 TOGC shall contain an emergency quick release system which will allow the front and rear panels to separate and drop away from the user. Quick release system shall be configurable by the user for left or right, single handed operation. Release pull tab (or equivalent) shall not be located along the center of the vest, but to either side, and should allow for the unhindered use of longarms by the user. All portions of the system, except for the release pull tab, shall be hidden to provide a clean look. The system must allow for the end user to reset the mechanism after deployment for continued wear.

4.7.5 To minimize ballistic panel movement, the TOGCs shall be sized so that the edge of the ballistic panel pockets extends no more than 1” beyond the perimeter of the ballistic panels when the panels are inserted and centered in the panel pocket. Exceptions may be made for the top of the shoulders.

4.7.6 The strike face sides of the TOGC shall be constructed of 1000-denier Cordura® nylon or equivalent. The inner faces of the carrier shall be constructed of a lighter weight material and shall have a mechanism (such as channels or a mesh standoff) to facilitate the flow of air between the user and the panel face. This mechanism may also contain closed cell foam or other materials in its construction, so long as it includes a solid barrier shielding the ballistic panels from dirt or debris.

4.7.7 All outer seams shall have 1-inch binding tape or be otherwise constructed in a method that ensures strength, longevity, and a clean look.

4.7.8 TOGC shall have adjustable shoulder straps. Webbing, if used, shall not exceed 2” wide. Any buckles and/or attachment pieces used to accomplish this shall be made of high impact nylon material. Hook and loop is also acceptable in the construction of the strap assembly. One end of each strap must be permanently affixed to the carrier and alternate strap ends shall not flop insecurely when in use. Padding is not required but is acceptable.

4.7.9 Ballistic panels shall overlap front to back at the sides of the carrier in accordance with Section

4.2.2 of this SOW.

4.7.10 Carrier sides, however, shall be affixed using a separate forward pull (i.e. back to front) cummerbund attachment system. Material for the attachment system shall be identical to the rest of the carrier’s outward facing fabric and shall include 3 rows of MOLLE webbing (or equivalent) on both the outward and inward face of the cummerbund. (Two rows may be used in very limited circumstances when carrier size becomes a limiting factor.) The cummerbund shall contain a removable stiffener, but shall maintain the ability to contour to the body. The cummerbund shall also have pull tab or handle made from 1” webbing located at the front edge of both cummerbund sides to facilitate donning and doffing. The attachment system shall have a single hook and loop “birdmouth” attachment point centered on the front panel and be adjustable for increases/decreases in girth, in the back. All mechanisms for adjustability shall be hidden (tunnel type system) to provide a clean look. Tunnels shall not begin on each side any further laterally than the narrowest point of the carrier, to allow for maximum adjustability.

Front attachment points shall also provide for a clean look, with no hook or loop exposed when affixed. The “birdmouth” flap shall have a pull tab made from 1” webbing centered at the bottom of the flap, to facilitate donning and doffing.

4.7.11 TOGC shall allow for easy removal and insertion of ballistic panels at or near the bottom of the carrier panel via a hook and loop sealed opening. The opening shall span at least ¾ of the width of the carrier panel when measured along the bottom edge, be centered, and not be located on the outer face of either carrier panel. The carrier shall be constructed such that the ballistic panels cannot fall from the carrier if the carrier panel were to come unsealed accidentally.

4.7.12 TOGC shall have plate pockets/mechanisms to accommodate Level III/IV ballistic plates (not included in this SOW) in both the front and back carrier panels. These pockets shall be bottom loading from within the ballistic panel pocket. The interior of the pocket shall be capable of holding and securing 10”x12” ballistic plates up to 1 ¼” thick, with little to no movement when inserted; as well as an additional pocket intended to secure either a 6” X 8” trauma or 7” X 9” trauma pad. (The trauma pad pouch is only required on the front carrier panel and its size shall be at the discretion of the purchasing agency. If no specific size is specified, the default size for the trauma pad pouch is 6” X 8”). Carriers that are too small to fit a 10”X12” plate pocket shall include an 8” X 10” pocket and the trauma pad pocket. Plate pockets/mechanisms shall ensure positioning for proper organ coverage as well as insertion and removal without struggle or force.

4.7.13 TOGC shall have a 3” wide elastic inner cummerbund with hook and loop attachment. The hook portion shall face away from body, the loop portion shall face towards body, and the hook and loop portion of the cummerbund shall be a minimum of 6 inches long.

4.7.14 The rear carrier panel shall have a horizontal drag handle located at the top, center of the panel. The handle shall be made of 1.0-inch wide nylon webbing and be securely affixed to the carrier. The handle shall be at least as wide as the neck opening of the carrier at its widest point, not extend over the lowest point of the panel neck line, and shall not protrude more than ½ in. The drag handle shall be capable of dragging an individual of 250 lbs. for 25 feet over flat ground, without breakage.

4.7.15 Vendor shall provide for a MOLLE system (or equivalent) for attachments and pouches on the

TOGCs. The vendor shall make every effort to maximize the number of rows and loops possible located on both the front and back panels. This includes the flap that is a part of the side attachment system. The cummerbund MOLLE requirements have been previously specified in section 4.7.10. Rows may vary in length if necessary due to shape and size restraints of the carrier panel, but a neat appearance is desired.

4.7.16 TOGC shall come with a small placard base for the mounting of a front ID Placard. The base shall be 6” (W) X 3”(H), be faced completely with loop, contain a stiffener, and be attachable using MOLLE straps.

4.7.17 TOGC shall come with a large placard base for the mounting of a rear ID Placard. The base shall be 10”(W) X 6”(H), be faced completely with loop, contain a stiffener, and be attachable using MOLLE straps.

4.7.18 TOGC shall come with a badge base for the mounting of an agency badge. The base shall be

2”(W) X 3”(H), be faced completely with loop, and be attachable using MOLLE straps.

4.7.19 Vendor shall be required to produce agency specific placards (silkscreen or embroidered at the discretion of the agency) and embroidered agency badges to be included with each TOGC. Agency placards shall be backed with hook attachment and shall be 6” (W) X 3”(H) for the front placard and 10”(W) X 6”(H) for the rear placard. Agency badges shall be backed with hook attachment and be approximately 2”(W) X 3”(H) in size. Examples and specific descriptions of identity markings and badges for each agency shall be provided to vendors at the pre-production meeting.

4.7.20 With the exception of agency specific markings, there shall be no labels, tags, or other markings on the outer sides of the TOGCs. Vendor labels shall be attached to the inner (body) side of the back carrier panel.

4.7.21 Carrier label shall contain the manufacturer’s name, warning statement indicating that the carrier itself provides no ballistic protection, care instructions for the carrier, model name and/or number, cover material, date of manufacture, and the panel size associated with that carrier (generic terms such as “Custom” are not acceptable for panel size.) The carrier label shall NOT contain a serial number.

4.7.22 TOGC shall exhibit high standards of construction: consistent dyes (when applicable), no

4.7.23 TOGC colors are agency specific and are generally (but not limited to) dark shades of primary and secondary colors (e.g., dark blue, dark green), black, tan, or white. Vendor shall of SOGCs.

4.7.24 TOGC, straps, and hook/loop attachment shall be of the same color. Unless the TOGC is black or grey, black straps and hook/loop attachments are unacceptable. To eliminate potential confusion, an agency representative/COR shall provide vendor with a swatch of material of the desired color, and in return the vendor shall provide a swatch of the intended color to the agency/COR for final approval before starting production. The vendor shall make a good faith effort to match the color as best as possible given the latitudes of color

4.8 BALLISTIC ACCESSORIES

4.8.1 Ballistic accessories are intended for integrated use with the TOGC; but must be separate, removable items.

4.8.2 Ballistic accessory panels shall exhibit the same construction, materials, layer counts, covering, attention to detail and quality as the ballistic panels with which they are supplied.

4.8.3 Sizing shall be in accordance with Section 4.12 “Measuring/Sizing” of this SOW.

4.8.4 Ballistic accessories shall be labeled with their date of manufacture, associated vest model number, and proper orientation to the wearer (“This side toward body”).