MMSC PM Crew - Industry Day 3 - Q-A.pdf

11-12 DEC 2024, Industry Day

MMSC Professional Mariner Crew QuesƟonnaire Q&A

Industry feedback from the Professional Mariner Crew Draft SOW: Industry indicated no significant concerns regarding the draft SOW but emphasized the importance of attracting and retaining a high-quality crew. Cost, while a factor, is not the primary concern, but crew wages and benefits are anticipated to be the largest cost drivers. Industry recommended establishment of a baseline crew complement for pricing and evaluation purposes, with offerors able to propose adjustments as needed.

Will this procurement be a Small Business Set-Aside?: The Government has not yet determined if this procurement will be a Small Business Set-Aside.

Industry feedback on Reduced Operating Status (ROS) and its impact on contract performance:

Industry recommended a non-ROS ship condition in order to support recruitment and retention of personnel. Industry also recommended off-ship housing during PSA since the ship will be uninhabitable.

Procurement of food to support ship operations: Industry in attendance stated they have extensive experience in sourcing and delivering food for large groups, including 100+ shipboard personnel.

Sourcing flexibility exists in choosing between commercial vendors or DLA, depending on what is most cost-effective for the specific location and operational needs.

Industry experience subcontracting support functions (i.e. cleaning, maintenance, ship husbandry etc.): Industry in attendance stated they have extensive experience in subcontracting support functions, including cleaning, maintenance, and ship husbandry. Industry recommended having mariner crew clean public spaces on the ship, as this is typically handled by the crew. For personal services, such as stateroom cleaning, laundry, etc., Industry recommended subcontracting to ensure quality and efficiency.

Industry recommendations on how to reduce PM Crew turnover: Industry stated that stability and predictability will reduce crew turnover. Unpredictable scheduling, such as sending crew home unexpectedly, is a major risk for turnover. To mitigate this, Industry recommend ensuring clear schedules, stable operations, fair wages, reimbursement programs, and union support.

Additionally, Industry recommended amenities such as Star Link service for PM crews. Star Link offers a more reliable solution for both business and personal communication. Having separate networks for work and recreation is seen as a way to improve crew satisfaction and reduce turnover.

Contractor providing required tools to perform planned maintenance: Industry does not anticipate any problems providing the required tools to perform planned maintenance, as ships are typically outfitted with the necessary tools. If additional tools are needed, Industry expressed confidence in being able to acquire them.

Handling of ordnance for stowage by PM Crew if properly trained: The PM crew will not be required to handle ordinance.

Industry feedback regarding requirement for PM Crew personnel to hold security clearance:

Industry stated that only key personnel would need clearances. As such, cost would not be significantly affected since security clearances would not be required for the entire crew.

Industry feedback regarding Insurance: Industry stated that they would carry a range of insurance to cover liabilities related to ship operations and crew safety, including general liability, workers’ compensation, and specific coverage for incidents like crew injuries. Industry recommended that a solicitation for PM Crew include minimum required insurance values to ensure sufficient coverage for the scope of work.

11-12 DEC 2024, Industry Day

Regarding liability for damage due to crew error, Industry suggested indemnification for the PM Crew.

Medical Person In Charge (MPIC): Industry views the role of the MPIC primarily serving as a communicator between the ship and a doctor onshore. The MPIC would not provide direct medical care but would rely on a contracted medical advisory team ashore to guide the next steps in case of a medical situation. The MPIC would facilitate communication with the shore-based team but would not be directly responsible for making medical decisions independently.

Safety Management System (SMS): Industry recommend making the SMS a requirement in the solicitation and that offerors must have a Document of Compliance (DOC) from a third-party system that meets SMS standards.

Crew Roles/Training: In terms of firefighting, Industry stated that basic and advanced training should be expected to be provided, with the level of training based on leadership roles. Regarding drills, the SMS includes a table outlining the quarterly drills required. The need for additional training or drills would be discussed between the owner and the operator, as they don't always conduct OEM training.

Berthing: Industry recommended that the RFP provide a more detailed berthing plan/layout to assist offerors in planning for a mixed-gender crew.