Request For Quotes.docx

SAP

State of South Carolina

Request for Quotes

Solicitation:

Date Issued:

Procurement Officer:

Phone:

E-Mail Address:

Mailing Address:

5400030335 10/16/2026

NATHAN DAWSON

(803) 896-1161 nathan.dawson@admin.sc.gov Department of Administration 4430 Broad River Rd Columbia SC 29210

DESCRIPTION: ASCO Maintenance Service and Parts

USING GOVERNMENTAL UNIT: Dept of Administration - Office of Technology & Information Services

SUBMIT YOUR OFFER ON-LINE AT THE FOLLOWING URL: http://www.procurement.sc.gov

SUBMIT OFFER BY (Opening Date/Time): 10/30/2026 11:00 am (See "Deadline For Submission Of Offer" provision)

QUESTIONS MUST BE RECEIVED BY: 10/23/2026 5:00 pm (See "Questions From Offerors" provision)

NUMBER OF COPIES TO BE SUBMITTED: One online submission

CONFERENCE TYPE: N/A

DATE & TIME: N/A

LOCATION: N/A

You must submit a signed copy of this form with Your Offer. By signing, You agree to be bound by the terms of the Solicitation. You agree to hold Your Offer open for a minimum of 30 calendar days after the Opening Date.

(See "Signing Your Offer" provision.)

NAME OF OFFEROR

(full legal name of business submitting the offer) Any award issued will be issued to, and the contract will be formed with, the entity identified as the Offeror. The entity named as the offeror must be a single and distinct legal entity. Do not use the name of a branch office or a division of a larger entity if the branch or division is not a separate legal entity, i.e., a separate corporation, partnership, sole proprietorship, etc.

AUTHORIZED SIGNATURE

(Person must be authorized to submit binding offer to contract on behalf of Offeror.)

DATE SIGNED

TITLE

(business title of person signing above)

STATE VENDOR NO.

(Register to Obtain S.C. Vendor No. at www.procurement.sc.gov)

PRINTED NAME

(printed name of person signing above)

STATE OF INCORPORATION

(If you are a corporation, identify the state of incorporation.)

OFFEROR'S TYPE OF ENTITY: (Check one) (See "Signing Your Offer" provision.)

___ Sole Proprietorship ___ Partnership ___ Other_____________________________

___ Corporate entity (not tax-exempt) ___ Corporation (tax-exempt) ___ Government entity (federal, state, or local)

COVER PAGE - ON-LINE ONLY (MAR. 2015)

SAP

PAGE TWO

(Return Page Two with Your Offer) HOME OFFICE ADDRESS (Address for offeror's home office / principal place of business)

NOTICE ADDRESS (Address to which all procurement and contract related notices should be sent.) (See "Notice" clause)

_________________________________________________ Area Code - Number - Extension Facsimile

_________________________________________________ E-mail Address

PAYMENT ADDRESS (Address to which payments will be sent.) (See "Payment" clause)

____Payment Address same as Home Office Address ____Payment Address same as Notice Address (check only one) ORDER ADDRESS (Address to which purchase orders will be sent) (See "Purchase Orders and "Contract Documents" clauses)

____Order Address same as Home Office Address ____Order Address same as Notice Address (check only one)

ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF AMENDMENTS

Offerors acknowledges receipt of amendments by indicating amendment number and its date of issue. (See "Amendments to Solicitation" Provision)

DISCOUNT FOR PROMPT PAYMENT

(See "Discount for Prompt Payment" clause)

PREFERENCES - A NOTICE TO VENDORS (SEP. 2009):

** PREFERENCES DO NOT APPLY TO A PROCUREMENT CONDUCTED UNDER SECTION 11-35-1550(2)(b)**

PREFERENCES - ADDRESS AND PHONE OF IN-STATE OFFICE:

** PERPREFERENCES DO NOT APPLY TO A PROCUREMENT CONDUCTED UNDER SECTION 11-35-1550(2)(b). **

____In-State Office Address same as Home Office Address ____In-State Office Address same as Notice Address (check only one)

PAGE TWO (SEP 2009)

End of PAGE TWO

Table of Contents

I. SCOPE OF SOLICITATION

ACQUIRE SERVICES and SUPPLIES / EQUIPMENT (JAN 2006)

The purpose of this Request For Quotes is to establish a one-year contract with a qualified contractor to provide brand name maintenance services and replacement parts for the Department of Administration’s (Admin) Emergency Equipment manufactured by ASCO Power Technologies.

The State has determined, pursuant to the South Carolina Procurement Regulations on Specifications, that a brand-name specification is necessary for this procurement to meet unique operational and compatibility, and to ensure proper operation of the current system without void of any current warranties. Accordingly, the State is soliciting only for ASCO equipment and related management/installation support. The Procurement Officer’s written determination justifying this restrictive specification is available upon request.

SAP

II. INSTRUCTIONS TO OFFERORS - A. GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS

DEFINITIONS, CAPITALIZATION, AND HEADINGS (MAY 2024)

CLAUSE HEADINGS USED IN THIS SOLICITATION ARE FOR CONVENIENCE ONLY AND WILL NOT BE USED TO CONSTRUE MEANING OR INTENT. EVEN IF NOT CAPITALIZED, THE FOLLOWING DEFINITIONS APPLY TO ALL PARTS OF THE SOLICITATION, UNLESS EXPRESSLY PROVIDED OTHERWISE.

AMENDMENT means a document issued to supplement the original solicitation document.

AUTHORITY means the State Fiscal Accountability Authority or its successor in interest.

BUSINESS means any corporation, partnership, individual, sole proprietorship, joint stock company, joint venture, or any other legal entity. [11-35-310(3)] CHANGE ORDER means any written alteration in specifications, delivery point, rate of delivery, period of performance, price, quantity, or other provisions of any contract accomplished by mutual agreement of the parties to the contract. [11-35-310(5)] CONTRACT See clause entitled Contract Documents & Order of Precedence.

CONTRACT MODIFICATION means a written order signed by the procurement officer, directing the contractor to make changes which the clause of the contract titled “Changes,” if included herein, authorizes the Procurement Officer to order without the consent of the contractor. [11-35-310(9)] CONTRACTOR means the Offeror receiving an award as a result of this solicitation.

COVER PAGE means the top page of the original solicitation on which the solicitation is identified by number. Offerors are cautioned that Amendments may modify information provided on the Cover Page.

OFFER means the bid or proposal submitted in response this solicitation. The terms Bid and Proposal are used interchangeably with the term Offer.

OFFEROR means the single legal entity submitting the offer. The term Bidder is used interchangeably with the term Offeror. See bidding provisions entitled Signing Your Offer and Bid/Proposal As Offer To Contract.

PAGE TWO means the second page of the original solicitation, which is labeled Page Two.

PROCUREMENT OFFICER means the person, or his successor, identified as such on either the Cover Page, an amendment, or an award notice.

YOU and YOUR means Offeror.

SOLICITATION means this document, including all its parts, attachments, and any Amendments.

STATE means the Using Governmental Unit(s) identified on the Cover Page.

SUBCONTRACTOR means any person you contract with to perform or provide any part of the work.

US or WE means the using governmental unit.

USING GOVERNMENTAL UNIT means the unit(s) of government identified as such on the Cover Page. If the Cover Page identifies the Using Governmental Unit as “Statewide Contract,” either optional or mandatory, the phrase “Using Governmental Unit” means any South Carolina Public Procurement Unit [11-35-4610(5)] that has submitted a Purchase Order to you pursuant to the contract resulting from this solicitation. Reference the clauses titled “Purchase Orders” and “Statewide Contract.”

WORK means all labor, materials, equipment, services, or property of any type, provided or to be provided by the Contractor to fulfill the Contractor’s obligations under the Contract.

[02-2A003-4]

AMENDMENTS TO SOLICITATION (MODIFIED)

A. The Solicitation may be amended at any time prior to opening. All actual and prospective Offerors should monitor the following web site for the issuance of Amendments: www.procurement.sc.gov.

B. Offerors shall acknowledge receipt of any amendment to this solicitation:

(1) by signing and returning the amendment;

(2) by identifying the amendment number and date in the space provided for this purpose on Page Two;

(3) by letter; or

(4) by submitting a bid that indicates in some way that the bidder received the amendment.

C. If this solicitation is amended, then all terms and conditions which are not modified remain unchanged.

AUTHORIZED AGENT (FEB 2015)

All authority regarding this procurement is vested solely with the responsible Procurement Officer. Unless specifically delegated in writing, the Procurement Officer is the only government official authorized to bind the government with regard to this procurement or the resulting contract. [02-2A007-1]

AWARD NOTIFICATION (MODIFIED FOR SMALL PURCHASE)

Notice regarding any award, cancellation of award, or extension of award will be posted at the location and on the date specified on the Cover Page or the most recent notice of extension. The effective date will be stated in the final award. If the total actual or potential value exceeds $50,000, notice of award will also be communicated to all bidders on the date award is made, as required by Regulation 19-445.2100(A)(6).

BID / PROPOSAL AS OFFER TO CONTRACT (JAN 2004)

By submitting Your Bid or Proposal, You are offering to enter into a contract with the Using Governmental Unit(s). Without further action by either party, a binding contract shall result upon final award. Any award issued will be issued to, and the contract will be formed with, the entity identified as the Offeror on the Cover Page. An Offer may be submitted by only one legal entity; “joint bids” are not allowed. [02-2A015-1]

BID ACCEPTANCE PERIOD (JAN 2004)

In order to withdraw Your Offer after the minimum period specified on the Cover Page, You must notify the Procurement Officer in writing. [02-2A020-1]

BID IN ENGLISH and DOLLARS (JAN 2004)

Offers submitted in response to this solicitation shall be in the English language and in US dollars, unless otherwise permitted by the Solicitation. [02-2A025-1]

CERTIFICATE OF INDEPENDENT PRICE DETERMINATION (MAR 2024)

GIVING FALSE, MISLEADING, OR INCOMPLETE INFORMATION ON THIS CERTIFICATION MAY RENDER YOU SUBJECT TO PROSECUTION UNDER SECTION 16-9-10 OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA CODE OF LAWS AND OTHER APPLICABLE LAWS.

(a) By submitting an offer, the offeror certifies that-

(1) The prices in this offer have been arrived at independently, without, for the purpose of restricting competition, any consultation, communication, or agreement with any other offeror or competitor relating to—

(i) Those prices;

(ii) The intention to submit an offer; or

(iii) The methods or factors used to calculate the prices offered.

(2) The prices in this offer have not been and will not be knowingly disclosed by the offeror, directly or indirectly, to any other offeror or competitor before bid opening (in the case of a sealed bid solicitation) or contract award (in the case of a negotiated solicitation) unless otherwise required by law; and

(3) No attempt has been made or will be made by the offeror to induce any other concern to submit or not to submit an offer for the purpose of restricting competition.

(b) Each signature on the offer is considered to be a certification by the signatory that the signatory-

(1) Is the person in the offeror’s organization responsible for determining the prices being offered in this bid or proposal, and that the signatory has not participated and will not participate in any action contrary to paragraphs (a)(1) through (a)(3) of this certification; or

(2) (i) Has been authorized, in writing, to act as agent for the offeror’s principals in certifying that those principals have not participated, and will not participate in any action contrary to paragraphs (a)(1) through (a)(3) of this certification [As used in this subdivision (b)(2)(i), the term “principals” means the person(s) in the offeror’s organization responsible for determining the prices offered in this bid or proposal];

(ii) As an authorized agent, does certify that the principals referenced in subdivision (b)(2)(i) of this certification have not participated, and will not participate, in any action contrary to paragraphs (a)(1) through (a)(3) of this certification; and

(iii) As an agent, has not personally participated, and will not participate, in any action contrary to paragraphs (a)(1) through (a)(3) of this certification.

(c) If the offeror deletes or modifies paragraph (a)(2) of this certification, the offeror must furnish with its offer a signed statement setting forth in detail the circumstances of the disclosure. [02-2A032-1]

CERTIFICATION REGARDING DEBARMENT AND OTHER RESPONSIBILITY MATTERS (JAN 2004)

A. (1) By submitting an Offer, Offeror certifies, to the best of its knowledge and belief, that-

(i) Offeror and/or any of its Principals-

(a) Are not presently debarred, suspended, proposed for debarment, or declared ineligible for the award of contracts by any state or federal agency;

(b) Have not, within a three-year period preceding this offer, been convicted of or had a civil judgment rendered against them for: commission of fraud or a criminal offense in connection with obtaining, attempting to obtain, or performing a public (Federal, state, or local) contract or subcontract; violation of Federal or state antitrust statutes relating to the submission of offers; or commission of embezzlement, theft, forgery, bribery, falsification or destruction of records, making false statements, tax evasion, or receiving stolen property; and

(c) Are not presently indicted for, or otherwise criminally or civilly charged by a governmental entity with, commission of any of the offenses enumerated in paragraph (a)(1)(i)(B) of this provision.

(ii) Offeror has not, within a three-year period preceding this offer, had one or more contracts terminated for default by any public (Federal, state, or local) entity.

(2) "Principals," for the purposes of this certification, means officers; directors; owners; partners; and, persons having primary management or supervisory responsibilities within a business entity (e.g., general manager; plant manager; head of a subsidiary, division, or business segment, and similar positions).

B. Offeror shall provide immediate written notice to the Procurement Officer if, at any time prior to contract award, Offeror learns that its certification was erroneous when submitted or has become erroneous by reason of changed circumstances.

C. If Offeror is unable to certify the representations stated in paragraphs (a)(1), Offer must submit a written explanation regarding its inability to make the certification. The certification will be considered in connection with a review of the Offeror's responsibility. Failure of the Offeror to furnish additional information as requested by the Procurement Officer may render the Offeror non-responsible.

D. Nothing contained in the foregoing shall be construed to require establishment of a system of records in order to render, in good faith, the certification required by paragraph (a) of this provision. The knowledge and information of an Offeror is not required to exceed that which is normally possessed by a prudent person in the ordinary course of business dealings.

E. The certification in paragraph (a) of this provision is a material representation of fact upon which reliance was placed when making award. If it is later determined that the Offeror knowingly or in bad faith rendered an erroneous certification, in addition to other remedies available to the State, the Procurement Officer may terminate the contract resulting from this solicitation for default.

[02-2A035-1]

CODE OF LAWS AVAILABLE (JAN 2006)

The South Carolina Code of Laws, including the Consolidated Procurement Code, is available at:

http://www.scstatehouse.gov/code/statmast.php

The South Carolina Regulations are available at:

http://www.scstatehouse.gov/coderegs/statmast.php [02-2A040-2]

DISCLOSURE OF CONFLICTS OF INTEREST OR UNFAIR COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE (JUL 2023)

(“OCI FAQ for Contractors” is available at www.procurement.sc.gov)

(a) You certify that, after reasonable inquiry, to the best of your knowledge and belief:

(1) your offer identifies any services that relate to either this solicitation or the work and that have already been performed by you, a proposed subcontractor, or an affiliated business or consultant of either; and

(2) there are no relevant facts or circumstances that may give rise to an actual or potential organizational conflict of interest, as defined in S.C. Code Ann. Reg. 19-445.2127, or that your offer identifies and explains any unfair competitive advantage you may have in competing for the proposed contract and any actual or potential conflicts of interest that may arise from your participation in this competition or your receipt of an award.

(b) If you, a proposed subcontractor, or an affiliated business or consultant of either, have an unfair competitive advantage or an actual or potential conflict of interest, the State may withhold award. Before withholding award on these grounds, the State will notify you of the concerns and provide a reasonable opportunity for you to respond. The State may consider efforts to avoid or mitigate such concerns, including restrictions on future activities.

(c) The certification in paragraph (a) of this provision is a material representation of fact upon which the State will rely when considering your offer for award. [02-2A047-3]

DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSION OF OFFER (JAN 2004)

Any offer received after the Procurement Officer of the governmental body or his designee has declared that the time set for opening has arrived, shall be rejected unless the offer has been delivered to the designated purchasing office or the governmental body's mail room which services that purchasing office prior to the opening.

[R.19-445.2070(G)] [02-2A050-1]

DRUG FREE WORKPLACE CERTIFICATION (JAN 2004)

By submitting an Offer, Contractor certifies that, if awarded a contract, Contractor will comply with all applicable provisions of The Drug-free Workplace Act, Title 44, Chapter 107 of the South Carolina Code of Laws, as amended. [02-2A065-1]

DUTY TO INQUIRE (FEB 2015)

Offeror, by submitting an Offer, represents that it has read and understands the Solicitation and that its Offer is made in compliance with the Solicitation. Offerors are expected to examine the Solicitation thoroughly and should request an explanation of any ambiguities, discrepancies, errors, omissions, or conflicting statements in the Solicitation. Failure to do so will be at the Offeror's risk. All ambiguities, discrepancies, errors, omissions, or conflicting statements in the Solicitation shall be interpreted to require the better quality or greater quantity of work and/or materials, unless otherwise directed by amendment. Offeror assumes responsibility for any patent ambiguity in the Solicitation that Offeror does not bring to the State's attention. See clause entitled "Questions from Offerors." [02-2A070-2]

ETHICS CERTIFICATE (MAY 2008)

By submitting an offer, the offeror certifies that the offeror has and will comply with, and has not, and will not, induce a person to violate Title 8, Chapter 13 of the South Carolina Code of Laws, as amended (ethics act). The following statutes require special attention: Section 8-13-700, regarding use of official position for financial gain; Section 8-13-705, regarding gifts to influence action of public official; Section 8-13-720, regarding offering money for advice or assistance of public official; Sections 8-13-755 and 8-13-760, regarding restrictions on employment by former public official; Section 8-13-775, prohibiting public official with economic interests from acting on contracts; Section 8-13-790, regarding recovery of kickbacks; Section 8-13-1150, regarding statements to be filed by consultants; and Section 8-13-1342, regarding restrictions on contributions by contractor to candidate who participated in awarding of contract. The state may rescind any contract and recover all amounts expended as a result of any action taken in violation of this provision. If contractor participates, directly or indirectly, in the evaluation or award of public contracts, including without limitation, change orders or task orders regarding a public contract, contractor shall, if required by law to file such a statement, provide the statement required by Section 8-13-1150 to the procurement officer at the same time the law requires the statement to be filed. [02-2A075-2]

MULTIPLE OFFERS (MODIFIED FOR RFQ)

Offerors may submit more than one Offer, provided that each Offer has significant differences other than price. Each separate Offer must satisfy all Solicitation requirements. Each separate Offer must be submitted or uploaded as a separate document and must clearly indicate that it is a separate Offer. [Based on 02-2A079-1]

OMIT TAXES FROM PRICE (JAN 2004)

Do not include any sales or use taxes in Your price that the State may be required to pay. [02-2A080-1]

PRICING (MAR 2024)

(a) Fixed Price. If a fixed price is required, award will not be made on an Offer if the total possible price to the State cannot be determined.

(b) Price Reasonableness: Any offer may be rejected if the Procurement Officer determines in writing that it is unreasonable as to price.

(c) Unbalanced Pricing. The State will analyze all offers with separately priced line items or subline items to determine if the prices are unbalanced. Unbalanced pricing exists when, despite an acceptable total evaluated price, the price of one or more line items is significantly over or understated. The responsible procurement officer may reject an offer as unreasonably priced if she determines that unbalanced pricing increases performance risk (e.g., it is so unbalanced as to be tantamount to allowing an advance payment) or could result in payment of unreasonably high prices. S.C. Code Ann. Reg. 19-445.2122C.

[02-2A082-2]

PROHIBITED COMMUNICATIONS AND DONATIONS (FEB 2015)

Violation of these restrictions may result in disqualification of your offer, suspension or debarment, and may constitute a violation of law.

(a) During the period between publication of the solicitation and final award, you must not communicate, directly or indirectly, with the Using Governmental Unit or its employees, agents or officials regarding any aspect of this procurement activity, unless otherwise approved in writing by the Procurement Officer. All communications must be solely with the Procurement Officer. [R. 19-445.2010]

(b) You are advised to familiarize yourself with Regulation 19-445.2165, which restricts donations to a governmental entity with whom you have or seek to have a contract. You represent that your offer discloses any gifts made, directly or through an intermediary, by you or your named subcontractors to or for the benefit of the Using Governmental Unit during the period beginning eighteen months prior to the Opening Date. [R. 19-445.2165] [02-2A087-1]

QUESTIONS FROM OFFERORS (MODIFIED)

(a) Any prospective offeror desiring an explanation or interpretation of the solicitation, drawings, specifications, etc., must request it in writing. Questions regarding the original solicitation or any amendment must be received by the Procurement Officer no later than five days prior to opening unless an earlier date is stated on the Cover Page.

(b) Oral explanations or instructions will not be binding. [See R. 19-445.2042(B)] Any information given a prospective offeror concerning a solicitation will be furnished promptly to all other prospective offerors as an Amendment to the solicitation if that information is necessary for submitting offers or if the lack of it would be prejudicial to other prospective offerors. See clause entitled "Duty to Inquire." We will not identify you in our answer to your question.

(c) The State seeks to permit maximum practicable competition. Offerors are urged to advise the Procurement Officer -- as soon as possible -- regarding any aspect of this procurement, including any aspect of the Solicitation that unnecessarily or inappropriately limits full and open competition. [See R. 19-445.2140]

REJECTION/CANCELLATION (JAN 2004)

The State may cancel this solicitation in whole or in part. The State may reject any or all proposals in whole or in part. [SC Code Section 11-35-1710 & R.19-445.2065] [02-2A100-1]

RESPONSIVENESS (MAR 2024)

(a) Award will not be made on a nonresponsive offer. An offer is nonresponsive (i) if it does not constitute an unambiguous offer to enter into a contract with the State, or (ii) if it imposes conditions inconsistent with, or does not unambiguously agree to, the solicitation’s material requirements.

(b) Bid as Specified. Offers for supplies or services other than those specified will not be considered unless authorized by the Solicitation. [02-2A105-3]

SIGNING YOUR OFFER (JAN 2004)

Every Offer must be signed by an individual with actual authority to bind the Offeror. (a) If the Offeror is an individual, the Offer must be signed by that individual. If the Offeror is an individual doing business as a firm, the Offer must be submitted in the firm name, signed by the individual, and state that the individual is doing business as a firm. (b) If the Offeror is a partnership, the Offer must be submitted in the partnership name, followed by the words by its Partner, and signed by a general partner. (c) If the Offeror is a corporation, the Offer must be submitted in the corporate name, followed by the signature and title of the person authorized to sign. (d) An Offer may be submitted by a joint venturer involving any combination of individuals, partnerships, or corporations. If the Offeror is a joint venture, the Offer must be submitted in the name of the Joint Venture and signed by every participant in the joint venture in the manner prescribed in paragraphs (a) through (c) above for each type of participant. (e) If an Offer is signed by an agent, other than as stated in subparagraphs (a) through (d) above, the Offer must state that is has been signed by an Agent. Upon request, Offeror must provide proof of the agent's authorization to bind the principal. [02-2A115-1]

STATE OFFICE CLOSINGS (JAN 2004)

If an emergency or unanticipated event interrupts normal government processes so that offers cannot be received at the government office designated for receipt of bids by the exact time specified in the solicitation, the time specified for receipt of offers will be deemed to be extended to the same time of day specified in the solicitation on the first work day on which normal government processes resume. In lieu of an automatic extension, an Amendment may be issued to reschedule bid opening. If state offices are closed at the time a pre-bid or pre-proposal conference is scheduled, an Amendment will be issued to reschedule the conference. Useful information may be available at:

http://www.scemd.org/planandprepare/disasters/severe-winter-weather [02-2A120-3]

DISCLOSURE OF YOUR BID / PROPOSAL and SUBMITTING CONFIDENTIAL DATA (FEB 2021)

(a) According to Section 11-35-410, any person submitting a document in response or with regard to any solicitation or other request must "comply with instructions provided in the solicitation for marking information exempt from public disclosure. Information not marked as required by the applicable instructions may be disclosed to the public." IF YOU IDENTIFY YOUR ENTIRE RESPONSE AS EXEMPT FROM PUBLIC DISCLOSURE, OR IF YOU DO NOT SUBMIT A REDACTED COPY AS REQUIRED, THE STATE MAY, IN ITS SOLE DISCRETION, DETERMINE YOUR BID OR PROPOSAL NONRESPONSIVE AND INELIGIBLE FOR AWARD. (b) By submitting a response to this solicitation or request, Offeror (1) agrees to the public disclosure of every page, or portion thereof, of every document regarding this solicitation or request that was submitted at any time prior to entering into a contract (including, but not limited to, documents contained in a response, documents submitted to clarify a response, and documents submitted during negotiations), unless the page, or portion thereof, was redacted and conspicuously marked "Trade Secret" or "Confidential" or "Protected", (2) agrees that any information not redacted and marked, as required by these bidding instructions, as a "Trade Secret" is not a trade secret as defined by the Trade Secrets Act, and (3) agrees that, notwithstanding any claims or markings otherwise, any prices, commissions, discounts, or other financial figures used to determine the award, as well as the final contract amount, are subject to public disclosure. (c) If your offer includes any information that you claim is exempt from public disclosure, you must submit one complete copy of your offer from which you have removed or concealed such information (the redacted copy). Except for the information removed or concealed, the redacted copy must be identical to your original offer. (d) Do not mark your entire response (bid, proposal, quote, etc.) as confidential, trade secret, or protected. If only portions of a page are subject to some protection, do not redact the entire page. The redacted copy must reflect the same pagination as the original and show the empty space from which information was redacted. The Procurement Officer must be able to view, search, copy and print the redacted copy without a password. If your response, or any part thereof, is improperly marked as confidential or trade secret or protected, the State may, in its sole discretion, determine it nonresponsive. (e) On the redacted copy, you must identify the basis of your claim by marking each redaction as follows: You must separately mark with the word "CONFIDENTIAL" every page, or portion thereof, that you redacted and claim as exempt from public disclosure because it is either (1) a trade secret as defined in Section 30-4-40(a)(1) of the Freedom of Information Act, or (2) privileged and confidential, as that phrase is used in Section 11-35-410. You must separately mark with the words "TRADE SECRET" every page, or portion thereof, that you redacted and claim as exempt from public disclosure as a trade secret pursuant to Section 39-8-20 of the Trade Secrets Act. You must separately mark with the word "PROTECTED" every page, or portion thereof, that you redacted and claim as exempt from public disclosure pursuant to Section 11-35- 1810. All markings must be conspicuous; use color, bold, underlining, or some other method in order to conspicuously distinguish the mark from the other text. (f) In determining whether to release documents, the State will detrimentally rely on your redaction and marking of documents, as required by these bidding instructions, as being either "Confidential" or "Trade Secret" or "Protected". By submitting a response, you agree to defend, indemnify and hold harmless the State of South Carolina, its agencies, officers and employees, from every claim, demand, loss, expense, cost, damage or injury, including attorney's fees, arising out of or resulting from withholding information by the State of South Carolina or any of its agencies, that you have redacted or marked as "Confidential" or "Trade Secret" or "Protected". (All references to S.C. Code of Laws.) [02-2A125-3]

SUBMITTING A PAPER OFFER OR MODIFICATION (MAR 2015)

Unless specifically instructed otherwise in the solicitation, you should submit your offer or modification in accordance with the clause titled "ON-LINE BIDDING INSTRUCTIONS." Paper offers are discouraged. If you must submit a paper offer or modification the following instructions apply. (a) All prices and notations should be printed in ink or typewritten. Errors should be crossed out, corrections entered and initialed by the person signing the bid. Do not modify the solicitation document itself (including bid schedule). (b) (1) All copies of the offer or modification, and any other documents required to be submitted with the offer shall be enclosed in a sealed, opaque envelope or package. (2) Submit your offer or modification to the address on the Cover Page. (3) The envelope or package must show the time and date specified for opening, the solicitation number, and the name and address of the bidder. If the offer or modification is sent by mail or special delivery service (UPS, Federal Express, etc.), the outermost envelope or wrapper must be labeled "OFFER ENCLOSED" on the face thereof. (c) If you are responding to more than one solicitation, submit each offer in a separate envelope or package. (d) Submit the number of copies indicated on the Cover Page. (e) Facsimile or e-mail offers, modifications, or withdrawals, will not be considered unless authorized by the Solicitation. [02-2A130-2]

VENDOR REGISTRATION MANDATORY (MAY 2024)

You must have a state vendor number to be eligible to submit an offer. To obtain a state vendor number, visit www.procurement.sc.gov and select Doing Business with Us. Then select New Vendor Registration. (To determine if your business is already registered, go to "Vendor Search"). Upon registration, you will be assigned a state vendor number. Note that your vendor registration submission may take up to 30 days to process due to high numbers of registrants. Vendors must keep their vendor information current. If you are already registered and know your User ID and Password, you can update your information by selecting Update Vendor Registration. If you need to update information but do not have your User ID/Password, you must complete a new vendor registration and On Step 9 – Messages to Administration indicate “Update vendor number” with your existing 10-digit vendor number. (Please note that vendor registration does not substitute for any obligation to register with the S.C. Secretary of State or S.C. Department of Revenue. You can register with the agencies at South Carolina Business One Stop, http://scbos.sc.gov) [02-2A145-2]

WITHDRAWAL OR CORRECTION OF OFFER (JAN 2004)

Offers may be withdrawn by written notice received at any time before the exact time set for opening. If the Solicitation authorizes facsimile offers, offers may be withdrawn via facsimile received at any time before the exact time set for opening. A bid may be withdrawn in person by a bidder or its authorized representative if, before the exact time set for opening, the identity of the person requesting withdrawal is established and the person signs a receipt for the bid. The withdrawal and correction of Offers is governed by S.C. Code Section 11-35-1520 and Regulation 19-445.2085. [02-2A150-1]

II. INSTRUCTIONS TO OFFERORS -- B. SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS

ON-LINE BIDDING INSTRUCTIONS (MODIFIED)

(a) Mandatory Registration. You must register before you can submit an offer on-line See clause entitled “VENDOR REGISTRATION MANDATORY.”

(b) Steps for On-Line Bidding

1) 1 The link provided on the solicitation’s Cover Page will take you to our web based on-line bidding system, where you will enter and/or upload your offer.

2) Follow the general user instructions posted at www.procurement.sc.gov under the heading “Doing Business with Us” and then “Submitting Offers.”

3) Confirm your offer has a status of “submitted” by refreshing the “RFx and Auctions” screen.

a. Only offers with a status of “submitted” have been received by the State.

b. Offers with a status of “saved” have not been received.

4) Save or print a copy of your offer using the “Print Preview” button after your offer has been submitted.

(c) If you have issues entering an online offer, you must contact the SCEIS Help Desk for assistance at (803) 896-0001 and follow the prompts. You may also contact the SCEIS Help Desk on-line at http://www.sceis.sc.gov/vendorrequests/.

Do NOT contact the Procurement Officer with problems entering an offer into the system. Only questions regarding the solicitation document should be addressed with the Procurement Officer.

(d) Do not wait until the last minute to submit your offer. If an online offer is not completed and in a submitted status prior to the submission deadline, the offer will not be considered for award.

SAP

III. SCOPE OF WORK/SPECIFICATIONS

The Division of Technology Operations (DTO) is a major operating unit of the South Carolina Department of Administration (Admin). DTO is responsible for providing enterprise-level technology services to state agencies, supporting the efficient, secure, and cost-effective use of information technology. Its responsibilities include oversight of the DTO’s emergency power control system which is critical in maintaining the agency’s Data Center functions.

DTO intends to solicit quotes from qualified Offerors to provide preventative maintenance, repair services, and parts for ASCO Power Control System as outlined below.

Nothing in this Solicitation is intended, nor should it be construed, to limit competition. Rather, this process is designed to ensure the fair, impartial, and competitive procurement of services that meet the actual needs of the State and its users. Offerors are encouraged to notify the State if any requirement, language, or condition appears unduly restrictive or fails to represent a cost-effective procurement approach.

3.1 Eligibility

The Contractor must:

· Be an authorized and registered ASCO vendor

· Maintain ASCO vendor status throughout the contract term

· Serve as the primary point of contact between DTO and ASCO

· Ensure all services are performed in accordance with manufacturer standards

· Provide ASCO parts for all repairs and replacements that are compatible with the existing power supply system.

3.2 Scope of Services

1. The list of DTO equipment is provided in Attachment A to this solicitation.

2. The Contractor shall facilitate the maintenance and repair services offered under the Essential Program as outlined in Attachment B to this solicitation. At a minimum, these services will include the procedures detailed in Attachment C to this solicitation.

a. DTO is aware that replacement parts are not available for the following units:

Therefore, DTO is not requesting parts service for these units.

3. The Contractor shall facilitate any routine preventative maintenance on a schedule as agreed between the parties.

4. Before any repairs are made, the Contractor will obtain DTO’s written approval of both the proposed work and the method of procedure for performing it. DTO’s technical approval authorizes performance only within the awarded scope and pricing and does not authorize additional charges or amend the Contract. Any change in scope, price, or contract term requires a written contractual change approved by the Procurement Officer before the changed work is performed.

5. The Contractor will provide written verification that all repairs meet manufacturer specifications, and that the equipment has been restored to proper operating conditions.

6. The Contractor will be available and respond to requests for service seven days a week, twenty-four hours a day, three hundred and sixty-five days a year (24/7/365), including all weekends and all holidays.

7. Upon notification of an emergency from DTO, the Contractor will coordinate with ASCO and ensure an ASCO-certified technician is dispatched within four hours of notification.

8. The Contractor shall provide status updates to DTO at regular intervals throughout any emergency repair activity until that repair is completed and the equipment is operating again as intended.

9. All labor associated with maintenance and repair services under this contract shall be:

· Coordinated and managed by the Contractor.

· Performed by ASCO or ASCO-authorized personnel.

SITE ACCESS AND PROTECTION OF INFORMATION (MODIFIED)

Contractor and its subcontractors shall comply with the State’s applicable site access, escort, safety, and security requirements furnished for performance of the work. Contractor shall coordinate with DTO before any planned equipment shutdown or interruption, comply with the approved method of procedure, and promptly report any unsafe condition or incident affecting equipment, facilities, or information. Access to State networks, systems, credentials, or information beyond that necessary for the approved work is prohibited without DTO’s prior written authorization. Information concerning State systems or facilities obtained in performing the work shall be used only to perform the Contract and shall not be disclosed except to personnel who need it for that purpose and are subject to equivalent restrictions, or as required by law.

QUALITY -- NEW (MODIFIED)

All repair parts must be new, genuine ASCO manufactured parts.

SAP

IV. INFORMATION FOR OFFERORS TO SUBMIT

INFORMATION FOR OFFERORS TO SUBMIT -- GENERAL (MAR 2015)

You shall submit a signed Cover Page and Page Two. If you submit your offer electronically, you must upload an image of a signed Cover Page and Page Two. Your offer should include all other information and documents requested in this part and in parts II.B. Special Instructions; III. Scope of Work; V. Qualifications; VIII. Bidding Schedule/Price Proposal; and any appropriate attachments addressed in Part IX. Attachments to Solicitations. You should submit a summary of all insurance policies you have or plan to acquire to comply with the insurance requirements stated herein, if any, including policy types; coverage types; limits, sub-limits, and deductibles for each policy and coverage type; the carrier's A.M. Best rating; and whether the policy is written on an occurrence or claims-made basis. [04-4010-2]

V. QUALIFICATIONS

QUALIFICATIONS OF OFFEROR (MAR 2015)

(1) To be eligible for award, you must have the capability in all respects to perform fully the contract requirements and the integrity and reliability which will assure good faith performance. We may also consider a documented commitment from a satisfactory source that will provide you with a capability. We may consider information from any source at any time prior to award. We may elect to consider (i) key personnel, any predecessor business, and any key personnel of any predecessor business, including any facts arising prior to the date a business was established, and/or (ii) any subcontractor you identify.

(2) You must promptly furnish satisfactory evidence of responsibility upon request. Unreasonable failure to supply requested information is grounds for rejection.

(3) Corporate subsidiaries are cautioned that the financial capability of an affiliated or parent company will not be considered in determining financial capability; however, we may elect to consider any security, e.g., letter of credit, performance bond, parent-company corporate guaranty, that you offer to provide. Instructions and forms to help assure acceptability are posted on procurement.sc.gov, link to "Standard Clauses & Provisions." [05-5005-2]

QUALIFICATIONS - SPECIAL STANDARDS OF RESPONSIBILITY (MODIFIED)

(a) This section establishes special standards of responsibility. UNLESS YOU POSSESS THE FOLLOWING MANDATORY MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS, DO NOT SUBMIT AN OFFER:

1. Offerors submitting quotes must be an authorized and registered ASCO vendor

(b) Provide a detailed, narrative statement with adequate information to establish that you meet all the requirements stated in subparagraph (a) above. Include all appropriate documentation. If you intend for us to consider the qualifications of your key personnel, predecessor business(es), or subcontractor(s), explain the relationship between you and such person or entity.

[R. 19-445.2125(F)] [05-5010-2]

QUALIFICATIONS -- REQUIRED INFORMATION (MODIFIED)

If requested by the Procurement Officer, you must submit the following information or documentation for you and for any subcontractor (at any tier level) that you identify pursuant to the clause titled Subcontractor - Identification. Err on the side of inclusion. You represent that the information provided is complete.

(a) The general history and experience of the business in providing work of similar size and scope.

(b) Information reflecting the current financial position. Include the most current financial statement and financial statements for the last two fiscal years. If the financial statements have been audited in accordance with the following requirements, provide the audited version of those statements. [Reference Statement of Financial Accounting Concepts No. 5 (FASB, December, 1984), as amended.]

(c) A detailed, narrative statement listing the three most recent, comparable contracts (including contact information) which have been performed. For each contract, describe how the supplies or services provided are similar to those requested by this solicitation, and how they differ.

(d) A list of every business for which supplies or services substantially similar to those sought with this solicitation have been provided, at any time during the past three years.

(e) A list of every South Carolina public body for which supplies or services have been provided at any time during the past three years, if any.

(f) List of failed projects, suspensions, debarments, and significant litigation.

SUBCONTRACTOR – IDENTIFICATION (FEB 2015)

If you intend to subcontract, at any tier level, with another business for any portion of the work and that portion either (1) exceeds 10% of your cost, (2) involves access to any “government information,” as defined in the clause entitled “Information Security - Definitions,” if included, or (3) otherwise involves services critical to your performance of the work (err on the side of inclusion), your offer must identify that business and the work which they are to perform. Identify potential subcontractors by providing the business name, address, phone, taxpayer identification number, and point of contact. In determining your responsibility, the state may contact and evaluate your proposed subcontractors. [05-5030-2]

VI. AWARD CRITERIA

AWARD CRITERIA -- BIDS (JAN 2006)

Award will be made to the lowest responsible and responsive bidder. [06-6020-1]

AWARD TO ONE OFFEROR (JAN 2006)

Award will be made to one Offeror. [06-6040-1]

CALCULATING THE LOW BID

The amount entered as the TOTAL price in the Bidding Schedule will be used to evaluate the bids received.