RFQ 123A9425Q0027 Hazardous Waste Removal.pdf

SEE ADDENDUMIS CHECKED

CODE 18a. PAYMENT WILL BE MADE BY

CODE

FACILITYCODE

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

OFFEROR

FSIS-ASD-ACQUISITION

BELTSVILLE MD 20705-5230

5601 SUNNYSIDE AVENUE

MAILDROP 5230

USDA, FSIS, ASD, ACQUISITIONS

CODE 16. ADMINISTERED BYCODE

X

X

562112

SIZE STANDARD:

% FOR:SET ASIDE:UNRESTRICTED ORFSIS-ASD-ACQUISITION

REQUEST FOR

PROPOSAL

(RFP)

INVITATION

FOR BID (IFB)

10. THIS ACQUISITION ISCODE

REQUEST FOR

QUOTE (RFQ)

14. METHOD OF SOLICITATION

13b. RATING

NORTH AMERICAN INDUSTRY

CLASSIFICATION STANDARD

(NAICS):

SMALL BUSINESS

07/16/2025 1700 ET

07/01/2025

ANGELA CAREY

(No collect calls)

INFORMATION CALL:

FOR SOLICITATION 8. OFFER DUE DATE/LOCAL TIMEb. TELEPHONE NUMBER a. NAME

4. ORDER NUMBER3. AWARD/ 6. SOLICITATION

123A9425Q0027

5. SOLICITATION NUMBER

SOLICITATION/CONTRACT/ORDER FOR COMMERCIAL ITEMS 1. REQUISITION NUMBER PAGE OF

1 20 OFFEROR TO COMPLETE BLOCKS 12, 17, 23, 24, & 30

TELEPHONE NO.

17a. CONTRACTOR/

Multiple Destinations

15. DELIVER TO

BELTSVILLE MD 20705-5230

5601 SUNNYSIDE AVENUE

MAILDROP 5230

9. ISSUED BY

7.

2. CONTRACT NO.

EFFECTIVE DATE

$47

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

ISSUE DATE

DELIVERY FOR FREE ON BOARD

(FOB) DESTINATION UNLESS

BLOCK IS MARKED

11.

SEE SCHEDULEX

12. DISCOUNT TERMS THIS CONTRACT IS A RATED

ORDER UNDER THE DEFENSE

PRIORITIES AND ALLOCATIONS

SYSTEM - DPAS (15 CFR 700)

13a.

SERVICE-DISABLED

VETERAN-OWNED

SMALL BUSINESS

(SDVOSB)

HUBZONE SMALL

BUSINESS

8(A)

USDA, FSIS, ASD, ACQUISITIONS

WOMEN-OWNED SMALL

BUSINESS (WOSB)

ECONOMICALLY DISADVANTAGED

WOMEN-OWNED SMALL

BUSINESS (EDWOSB)

24.

AMOUNT

23.

UNIT PRICE

22.

UNIT

21.

QUANTITY

20.

SCHEDULE OF SUPPLIES/SERVICES

19.

ITEM NO.

The purpose of this solicitation is to procure hazardous waste transportation, sampling, analytical services, off-site treatment, storage and disposal, training and emergency response at several Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) laboratories in accordance with the Statement of Work (SOW).

U.S. Department of Labor Wage Determination (WD) #1996-0223 dated March 26, 2025 is hereby incorporated into this solicitation.

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

HEREIN, IS ACCEPTED AS TO ITEMS:

DATED

KAREN R. PETTY

. YOUR OFFER ON SOLICITATION (BLOCK 5),

INCLUDING ANY ADDITIONS OR CHANGES WHICH ARE SET FORTH

COPIES TO ISSUING OFFICE. CONTRACTOR AGREES TO FURNISH AND DELIVER

ARE

ARE

31c. DATE SIGNED

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

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

30c. DATE SIGNED 31b. NAME OF CONTRACTING OFFICER (Type or print)

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

SHEETS SUBJECT TO THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS SPECIFIED.

27a. SOLICITATION INCORPORATES BY REFERENCE (FEDERAL ACQUISITION REGULATION) FAR 52.212-1, 52.212-4. FAR 52.212-3

AND 52.212-5 ARE ATTACHED. ADDENDA

26. TOTAL AWARD AMOUNT (For Government Use Only)

OFFER

STANDARD FORM 1449 (REV. 11/2021)

Prescribed by GSA - FAR (48 CFR) 53.212

ARE NOT ATTACHED.

ARE NOT ATTACHED.

AUTHORIZED FOR LOCAL REPRODUCTION

PREVIOUS EDITION IS NOT USABLE

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

30a. SIGNATURE OF OFFEROR/CONTRACTOR

28. CONTRACTOR IS REQUIRED TO SIGN THIS DOCUMENT AND RETURN

25. ACCOUNTING AND APPROPRIATION DATA

29. AWARD OF CONTRACT: REFERENCE

32e. MAILING ADDRESS OF AUTHORIZED GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVE

32c. DATE 32b. SIGNATURE OF AUTHORIZED GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVE

ACCEPTED, AND CONFORMS TO THE CONTRACT, EXCEPT AS NOTED:

32a. QUANTITY IN COLUMN 21 HAS BEEN

RECEIVED INSPECTED

40. PAID BY39. S/R VOUCHER NUMBER38. S/R ACCOUNT NUMBER

37. CHECK NUMBER

FINALPARTIAL

36. PAYMENT

FINALPARTIAL

35. AMOUNT VERIFIED

CORRECT FOR

34. VOUCHER NUMBER33. SHIP NUMBER

COMPLETE

32g. E-MAIL OF AUTHORIZED GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVE

42d. TOTAL CONTAINERS42c. DATE REC'D (YY/MM/DD)

42b. RECEIVED AT (Location)

42a. RECEIVED BY (Print)

41c. DATE41b. SIGNATURE AND TITLE OF CERTIFYING OFFICER

41a. I CERTIFY THIS ACCOUNT IS CORRECT AND PROPER FOR PAYMENT

STANDARD FORM 1449 (REV. 11/2021) BACK

24.

AMOUNT

23.

UNIT PRICE

22.

UNIT

21.

QUANTITY

20.

SCHEDULE OF SUPPLIES/SERVICES

19.

ITEM NO.

Delivery: 15 Days After Receipt Of Order

Period of Performance: 07/25/2025 to 07/24/2030

0001 Mid-Western Lab (MWL) Hazardous Waste Removal

Services

Delivery Location Code: FSIS-OPHS-MWL

USDA, FSIS, OPHS, MWL

7654 Natural Bridge Road

Normandy MO 63121

0002 Eastern Lab (EL) Hazardous Waste Removal Services

Delivery Location Code: FSIS-LAB-EASTERN

USDA, FSIS, OPHS, EASTERN LAB

950 COLLEGE STATION RD.

ATHENS GA 30605 US

32f. TELEPHONE NUMBER OF AUTHORIZED GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVE

32d. PRINTED NAME AND TITLE OF AUTHORIZED GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVE

20 2 of

B - Supplies or Services/Prices C - Description/Specifications D - Packaging and Marking E - Inspection and Acceptance F - Deliveries or Performance G - Contract Administration Data H - Special Contract Requirements I - Contract Clauses J - List of Documents, Exhibits and Other Attachments K - Representations, Certifications, and Other Statements of Bidders L - Instructions,Conditions, and Notices to Bidders M - Evaluation Factors for Award

B - Supplies or Services/Prices

The Government intends to establish one or more Firm-Fixed Price (FFP) Blanket Purchase Agreements (BPAs) as a result of this solicitation, in accordance with FAR 13.303 and FAR 16. This BPA will be used to provide hazardous waste removal and disposal services on an as-needed basis.

The Government anticipates recurring requirements for hazardous waste services that are commercial in nature and well-defined in scope. The use of a BPA will allow the Government to place firm-fixed-price Call Orders for specific waste streams and services over the period of the agreement.

The BPA is anticipated to have a period of performance for five (5) consecutive years from the effective date of the award, unless earlier terminated. The Contractor shall perform the required tasks outlined in the attached Statement of Work on a Firm-Fixed-Price basis.

Call Orders will be issued under the BPA at fixed prices agreed upon at the time of the BPA establishment.

Call Orders shall reflect the agreed-upon prices for that specific year. No minimum guaranteed quantity is implied or stated.

C - Description/Specifications

The Contractor shall provide hazardous waste transportation, sampling, analytical services, off-site treatment, storage and disposal as well as training for annual Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) Refresher training: DOT shipping and packaging training, and emergency response for chemical spills.

The Contractor shall, without additional expense to FSIS, be responsible for obtaining any necessary licenses and permits, and for complying with any applicable Federal, state and local laws, codes, and regulations in connection with the execution of the work. This includes ensuring FSIS hazardous waste is

FIRM FIXED PRICE CLIN

CLIN

Description Quantity

Unit of Issue

Unit Price

Total Fixed Price

(Not to Exceed)

Mid-Western Laboratory - Hazardous waste transportation, sampling, analytical services, off-site treatment, storage and disposal, annual RCRA refresher training, DOT shipping & packaging training, and emergency response for chemical spills.

months

Eastern Laboratory - Hazardous waste transportation, sampling, analytical services, off-site treatment, storage and disposal, annual RCRA refresher training, DOT shipping & packaging training, and emergency response for chemical spills.

months sent to licensed, permitted, and approved disposal sites.

Ordering Procedures

1. Any supplies and services to be furnished under this BPA shall be ordered by issuance of Call Orders by the individuals or activities designated in the Schedule. Such orders may be issued from "Award Date" through five (5) consecutive years.

(a) All Call Orders are subject to the terms and conditions of this BPA. In the event of conflict between a Call Order and the BPA, the BPA shall control.

(b) A Call Order is considered "issued" if sent electronically, the Government either-

(i) Posts a copy of the Call Order to a Government document access system, and notice is sent to the Contractor; or

(ii) Distributes the Call Order via email to the Contractor's email address.

2. No minimum guarantee or ceiling amount applies to the BPA resulting from this solicitation. The Government is obligated only to the extent of authorized purchases actually made via issuance of Call Orders under the BPA.

D - Packaging and Marking

The Contractor shall package, mark, label and placard all items in such a manner that all applicable federal, state, and local EPA and DOT regulations are met. Packaging, shipping names, marking, labeling, placarding, etc., under the terms of this contract will be in accordance with 49 CFR and 40 CFR. If items must be packaged for proper shipment, the contractor shall perform such repackaging and furnish all required materials. When repackaging is necessary, the contractor shall be responsible for disposal of the original container and placarding in a manner that complies with all applicable federal, state, and local EPA and DOT regulations.

E - Inspection and Acceptance

The Contracting Officer or the Contracting Officer's Representative (COR) will inspect and accept the supplies and/or services to be provided under this contract.

Inspection and acceptance will be performed at the FSIS Laboratory being serviced.

F - Deliveries or Performance

The total period of performance shall not exceed 60 months. The period of performance for the BPA is five(5) consecutive years after the date of award.

BPA Call orders awarded prior to the expiration date of the agreement shall be completed in accordance with the terms and conditions of the Call Order.

Waste pickup shall take place at:

CLIN 0001

USDA, FSIS, OPHS, Mid-Western Laboratory 7654 Natural Bridge Road Normandy, MO 63121 Point of Contact:

Phone:

CLIN 0002

USDA, FSIS, OPHS, Eastern Laboratory 950 College Station Road Athens, GA 30605 Point of Contact:

Phone:

(a)The Federal Government observes the following days as holidays.

*If the date falls on a Saturday, the Government holiday is the preceding Friday. If the date falls on a Sunday, the Government holiday is the following Monday.

(b) In addition to the days designated above as holidays, the Government may observe additional days in accordance with 5 USC 6103.

G - Contract Administration Data

CONTRACTING OFFICER (JAN 2012)

The Contracting Officer (CO) has the overall responsibility for the administration of this contract. The CO alone, without delegation, is authorized to take actions on behalf of the Government to amend, modify or deviate from the contract terms, conditions, requirements, specifications, details and/or delivery schedules;

issue task orders against the contract; make final decisions on disputed deductions from contract payments for nonperformance, or unsatisfactory performance; terminate the contract for convenience or default; and issue final decisions regarding contract questions or matters under dispute. However, the CO may delegate certain other responsibilities to the Contracting Officer's Representative (COR). All delegated duties will be specified in writing by the Contracting Officer.

DESIGNATION OF CONTRACTING OFFICER'S REPRESENTATIVE (FEB 2020)

The Contracting Officer hereby designates as the Contracting Officer's Representative (COR):

[TO BE DESIGNATED UPON AWARD]

The COR shall be responsible for administering the performance of work under this contract. In no event, however, will any understanding, agreement, modification, change order, or other matter deviating from the terms of this contract be effective or binding upon the Government unless formalized by proper contractual documents executed by the Contracting Officer prior to completion of the contract.

The Contracting Officer shall be informed as soon as possible of any actions or inactions by the Contractor

New Year's Day January 1st* Martin Luther King's Birthday Third Monday in January Presidents' Day Third Monday in February Memorial Day Last Monday in May Juneteenth National Independence Day June 19th* Independence Day July 4th* Labor Day First Monday in September Columbus Day Second Monday in October Veterans' Day November 11th Thanksgiving Day Fourth Thursday in November Christmas Day December 25th* or the Government which will change the required delivery or completion times stated in the contract, and the contract shall be modified accordingly.

On all matters that pertain to the contract terms, the contractor shall communicate with the Contracting Officer. Whenever, in the opinion of the Contractor, the COR requests effort outside the scope of the contract, the contractor shall so advise the COR. If the COR persists and there still exists a disagreement as to proper contractual coverage, the Contracting Officer shall be notified immediately, preferably in writing if time permits. Proceeding with work without proper contractual coverage may result in nonpayment or necessitate submittal of a contract claim.

The COR shall be responsible for initiating the Contractor Performance Assessment Report (CPAR) for awards over the simplified acquisition threshold of $250K to document contractor's performance during the period of performance 14 days after completion of services or delivery of goods.

[End of Text]

ELECTRONIC INVOICING AND PAYMENT REQUIREMENTS - INVOICE PROCESSING

PLATFORM (IPP) (APR 2013)

Effective May 6, 2013, payment requests must be submitted electronically through the U.S. Department of the Treasury's Invoice Processing Platform (IPP).

"Payment Request" means any request for contract financing payment or invoice payment by the Contractor. To constitute a proper invoice, the payment request must comply with the requirements identified in the applicable Prompt Payment clause included in the contract, or the clause 52.212-4 Contract Terms and Conditions' Commercial Items included in commercial item contracts. The IPP website address is: https://www.ipp.gov.

The Contractor must use the IPP website to register, access and use IPP for submitting requests for payment. Contractor assistance with enrollment, UserIDs and passwords can be obtained by contacting the IPP Helpdesk via email at IPP Customer Support Desk at 1-866-973-3131 or IPPCustomerSupport@fms.treas.gov. For all other IPP issues, please contact: National Finance Center's Controller Operations Division (COD) Helpdesk at 1-877-243-3072 or COD.HELP@usda.gov.

H - Special Contract Requirements

Reference: Attachment A - Statement of Work (SOW)

I - Contract Clauses

52.203-6 Restrictions on Subcontractor Sales to the Government. (JUN 2020)

52.204-13 System for Award Management Maintenance. (OCT 2018)

52.204-14 Service Contract Reporting Requirements. (OCT 2016)

52.204-15 Service Contract Reporting Requirements for Indefinite-Delivery Contracts. (OCT 2016)

52.204-18 Commercial and Government Entity Code Maintenance. (AUG 2020)

52.204-25 Prohibition on Contracting for Certain Telecommunications and Video Surveillance Services or Equipment. (NOV 2021)

52.204-27 Prohibition on a ByteDance Covered Application. (JUN 2023)

52.212-4 Contract Terms and Conditions - Commercial Products and Commercial Services. (NOV 2023) http:// mailto:

52.223-23 Sustainable Products and Services. (MAY 2024)

52.232-37 Multiple Payment Arrangements. (MAY 1999)

52.252-2 Clauses Incorporated by Reference. (FEB 1998)

This contract incorporates one or more clauses by reference, with the same force and effect as if they were given in full text. Upon request, the Contracting Officer will make their full text available. Also, the full text of a clause may be accessed electronically at this/these address(es):

https://www.acquisition.gov/browse/index/far

(End of clause)

52.212-5 Contract Terms and Conditions Required To Implement Statutes or Executive Orders - Commercial Products and Commercial Services (JAN 2025) (DEVIATION FEB 2025)

(a) The Contractor shall comply with the following Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) clauses, which are incorporated in this contract by reference, to implement provisions of law or Executive orders applicable to acquisitions of commercial products and commercial services:

(1)52.203-19, Prohibition on Requiring Certain Internal Confidentiality Agreements or Statements (JAN 2017) (section 743 of Division E, Title VII, of the Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act, 2015 (Pub. L. 113-235) and its successor provisions in subsequent appropriations acts (and as extended in continuing resolutions)).

(2)52.204-23, Prohibition on Contracting for Hardware, Software, and Services Developed or Provided by Kaspersky Lab Covered Entities (DEC 2023) (Section 1634 of Pub. L. 115-91).

(3)52.204-25, Prohibition on Contracting for Certain Telecommunications and Video Surveillance Services or Equipment. (NOV 2021) (Section 889(a)(1)(A) of Pub. L. 115-232).

(4)52.209-10, Prohibition on Contracting with Inverted Domestic Corporations (NOV 2015).

(5)52.232-40, Providing Accelerated Payments to Small Business Subcontractors (MAR 2023) (31 U.S.C.

3903 and 10 U.S.C. 3801).

(6)52.233-3, Protest After Award (AUG 1996) (31 U.S.C. 3553).

(7)52.233-4, Applicable Law for Breach of Contract Claim (OCT 2004) (Public Laws 108-77 and 108-78 (19 U.S.C. 3805 note)).

(b) The Contractor shall comply with the FAR clauses in this paragraph (b) that the Contracting Officer has indicated as being incorporated in this contract by reference to implement provisions of law or Executive orders applicable to acquisitions of commercial products and commercial services:[Contracting Officer check as appropriate.]

[ ](1)52.203-6, Restrictions on Subcontractor Sales to the Government (JUN 2020), with Alternate I (NOV 2021) (41 U.S.C. 4704 and 10 U.S.C. 4655).

[ ](2)52.203-13, Contractor Code of Business Ethics and Conduct (NOV 2021) (41 U.S.C. 3509).

[ ](3)52.203-15, Whistleblower Protections under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (JUN 2010) (Section 1553 of Pub. L. 111-5). (Applies to contracts funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.)

http://

[ ](4)52.203-17, Contractor Employee Whistleblower Rights (NOV 2023) (41 U.S.C. 4712); this clause does not apply to contracts of DoD, NASA, the Coast Guard, or applicable elements of the intelligence community-see FAR3.900(a).

[ ](5)52.204-10, Reporting Executive Compensation and First-Tier Subcontract Awards (JUN 2020) (Pub.

L. 109-282) (31 U.S.C. 6101 note).

[ ](6) [Reserved]

[ ](7)52.204-14, Service Contract Reporting Requirements (OCT 2016) (Pub. L. 111-117, section 743 of Div. C).

[ ](8)52.204-15, Service Contract Reporting Requirements for Indefinite-Delivery Contracts (OCT 2016) (Pub. L. 111-117, section 743 of Div. C).

[X](9)52.204-27, Prohibition on a ByteDance Covered Application (JUN 2023) (Section 102 of Division R of Pub. L. 117-328).

[ ](10)52.204-28, Federal Acquisition Supply Chain Security Act Orders-Federal Supply Schedules, Governmentwide Acquisition Contracts, and Multi-Agency Contracts. (DEC 2023) (Pub. L. 115-390, title

II).

[ ](11)(i)52.204-30, Federal Acquisition Supply Chain Security Act Orders- Prohibition. (DEC 2023) (Pub.

L. 115-390, title II).

[ ](ii) Alternate I (DEC 2023) of52.204-30.

[X](12)52.209-6, Protecting the Government's Interest When Subcontracting With Contractors Debarred, Suspended, Proposed for Debarment, or Voluntarily Excluded. (JAN 2025) (31 U.S.C. 6101 note).

[ ](13)52.209-9, Updates of Publicly Available Information Regarding Responsibility Matters (OCT 2018) (41 U.S.C. 2313).

[ ](14) [Reserved]

[ ](15)52.219-3, Notice of HUBZone Set-Aside or Sole-Source Award (OCT 2022) (15 U.S.C. 657a).

[ ](16)52.219-4, Notice of Price Evaluation Preference for HUBZone Small Business Concerns (OCT 2022) (if the offeror elects to waive the preference, it shall so indicate in its offer) (15 U.S.C. 657a).

[ ](17) [Reserved]

[ ](18)(i)52.219-6, Notice of Total Small Business Set-Aside (NOV 2020) (15 U.S.C. 644).

[ ](ii) Alternate I (MAR 2020) of52.219-6.

[ ](19)(i)52.219-7, Notice of Partial Small Business Set-Aside (NOV 2020) (15 U.S.C. 644).

[ ](ii) Alternate I (MAR 2020) of52.219-7.

[ ](20)52.219-8, Utilization of Small Business Concerns (JAN 2025) (15 U.S.C. 637(d)(2) and (3)).

[ ](21)(i)52.219-9, Small Business Subcontracting Plan (JAN 2025) (15 U.S.C. 637(d)(4)).

[ ](ii) Alternate I (NOV 2016) of 52.219-9.

[ ](iii) Alternate II (NOV 2016) of 52.219-9.

[ ](iv) Alternate III (JUN 2020) of 52.219-9.

[ ](v) Alternate IV (JAN 2025) of 52.219-9.

[ ](22)(i)52.219-13, Notice of Set-Aside of Orders (MAR 2020) (15 U.S.C. 644(r)).

[ ](ii) Alternate I (MAR 2020) of 52.219-13.

[ ](23)52.219-14, Limitations on Subcontracting (OCT 2022) (15 U.S.C. 657s).

[ ](24)52.219-16, Liquidated Damages- Subcontracting Plan (SEP 2021) (15 U.S.C. 637(d)(4)(F)(i)).

[ ](25)52.219-27, Notice of Set-Aside for, or Sole-Source Award to, Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) Concerns Eligible Under the SDVOSB Program (FEB 2024) (15 U.S.C. 657f).

[ ](26)(i)52.219-28, Postaward Small Business Program Rerepresentation (JAN 2025) (15 U.S.C.

632(a)(2)).

[ ](ii) Alternate I (MAR 2020) of52.219-28.

[ ](27)52.219-29, Notice of Set-Aside for, or Sole-Source Award to, Economically Disadvantaged Women- Owned Small Business Concerns (OCT 2022) (15 U.S.C. 637(m)).

[ ](28)52.219-30, Notice of Set-Aside for, or Sole-Source Award to, Women-Owned Small Business Concerns Eligible Under the Women-Owned Small Business Program (OCT 2022) (15 U.S.C. 637(m)).

[ ](29)52.219-32, Orders Issued Directly Under Small Business Reserves (MAR 2020) (15 U.S.C. 644(r)).

[ ](30)52.219-33, Nonmanufacturer Rule (SEP 2021) (15 U.S.C. 637(a)(17)).

[X](31)52.222-3, Convict Labor (JUN 2003) (E.O. 11755).

[ ](32)52.222-19, Child Labor-Cooperation with Authorities and Remedies (JAN 2025) (E.O. 13126).

[ ](33)[RESERVED] 52.222-21, Prohibition of Segregated Facilities (APR 2015).

[ ](34)[RESERVED] (i)52.222-26, Equal Opportunity (SEPT 2016) (E.O. 11246).

[ ](ii) Alternate I (FEB 1999) of52.222-26.

[X](35)(i)52.222-35, Equal Opportunity for Veterans (JUN 2020) (38 U.S.C. 4212).

[ ](ii) Alternate I (JULY 2014) of 52.222-35.

[X](36)(i)52.222-36, Equal Opportunity for Workers with Disabilities (JUN 2020) (29 U.S.C. 793).

[ ](ii) Alternate I (JULY 2014) of 52.222-36.

[X](37)52.222-37, Employment Reports on Veterans (JUN 2020) (38 U.S.C. 4212).

[ ](38)52.222-40, Notification of Employee Rights Under the National Labor Relations Act (DEC 2010) (E.O. 13496).

[X](39)(i)52.222-50, Combating Trafficking in Persons (NOV 2021) (22 U.S.C. chapter 78 and E.O.

13627).

[ ](ii) Alternate I (MAR 2015) of52.222-50(22 U.S.C. chapter 78 and E.O. 13627).

[ ](40)52.222-54, Employment Eligibility Verification (JAN 2025) (Executive Order 12989). (Not applicable to the acquisition of commercially available off-the-shelf items or certain other types of commercial products or commercial services as prescribed in FAR22.1803.)

[ ](41)(i)52.223-9, Estimate of Percentage of Recovered Material Content for EPA-Designated Items (MAY 2008) (42 U.S.C. 6962(c)(3)(A)(ii)). (Not applicable to the acquisition of commercially available off-the-shelf items.)

[ ](ii) Alternate I (MAY 2008) of52.223-9(42 U.S.C. 6962(i)(2)(C)). (Not applicable to the acquisition of commercially available off-the-shelf items.)

[ ](42)52.223-11, Ozone-Depleting Substances and High Global Warming Potential Hydrofluorocarbons (MAY 2024) (42 U.S.C. 7671,et seq.).

[ ](43)52.223-12, Maintenance, Service, Repair, or Disposal of Refrigeration Equipment and Air Conditioners (MAY 2024) (42 U.S.C. 7671,et seq.).

[ ](44)52.223-20, Aerosols (MAY 2024) (42 U.S.C. 7671,et seq.).

[ ](45)52.223-21, Foams (MAY 2024) (42 U.S.C. 7671,et seq.).

[X](46)52.223-23, Sustainable Products and Services (MAY 2024) (E.O. 14057, 7 U.S.C. 8102, 42 U.S.C.

6962, 42 U.S.C. 8259b, and 42 U.S.C. 7671l).

[ ](47)(i)52.224-3, Privacy Training (JAN 2017) (5 U.S.C. 552a).

[ ](ii) Alternate I (JAN 2017) of 52.224-3.

[ ](48)(i)52.225-1, Buy American- Supplies (OCT 2022)) (41 U.S.C. chapter 83).

[ ](ii) Alternate I (OCT 2022) of 52.225-1.

[ ](49)(i)52.225-3, Buy American-Free Trade Agreements-Israeli Trade Act (NOV 2023) (19 U.S.C. 3301 note, 19 U.S.C. 2112 note, 19 U.S.C. 3805 note, 19 U.S.C. 4001 note, 19 U.S.C. chapter 29 (sections 4501- 4732), Public Law 103-182, 108-77, 108-78, 108-286, 108-302, 109-53, 109-169, 109-283, 110-138, 112- 41, 112-42, and 112-43.

[ ](ii) Alternate I [Reserved].

[ ](iii) Alternate II (JAN 2025) of 52.225-3.

[ ](iv) Alternate III (FEB 2024) of 52.225-3.

[ ](v) Alternate IV (OCT 2022) of 52.225-3.

[ ](50)52.225-5, Trade Agreements (NOV 2023) (19 U.S.C. 2501,et seq., 19 U.S.C. 3301 note).

[ ](51)52.225-13, Restrictions on Certain Foreign Purchases (FEB 2021) (E.O.'s, proclamations, and statutes administered by the Office of Foreign Assets Control of the Department of the Treasury).

[ ](52)52.225-26, Contractors Performing Private Security Functions Outside the United States (OCT 2016)

(Section 862, as amended, of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2008; 10 U.S.C.

Subtitle A, Part V, Subpart G Note).

[ ](53)52.226-4, Notice of Disaster or Emergency Area Set-Aside (NOV 2007) (42 U.S.C. 5150).

[ ](54)52.226-5, Restrictions on Subcontracting Outside Disaster or Emergency Area (NOV 2007) (42 U.S.C. 5150).

[X](55)52.226-8, Encouraging Contractor Policies to Ban Text Messaging While Driving (May 2024) (E.O. 13513).

[ ](56)52.229-12, Tax on Certain Foreign Procurements (FEB 2021).

[ ](57)52.232-29, Terms for Financing of Purchases of Commercial Products and Commercial Services

(NOV 2021) (41 U.S.C.4505, 10 U.S.C. 3805).

[ ](58)52.232-30, Installment Payments for Commercial Products and Commercial Services (NOV 2021) (41 U.S.C. 4505, 10 U.S.C. 3805).

[X](59)52.232-33, Payment by Electronic Funds Transfer-System for Award Management (OCT 2018) (31 U.S.C. 3332).

[ ](60)52.232-34, Payment by Electronic Funds Transfer-Other than System for Award Management (JUL 2013) (31 U.S.C. 3332).

[X](61)52.232-36, Payment by Third Party (MAY 2014) (31 U.S.C. 3332).

[ ](62)52.239-1, Privacy or Security Safeguards (AUG 1996) (5 U.S.C. 552a).

[ ](63)52.240-1, Prohibition on Unmanned Aircraft Systems Manufactured or Assembled by American Security Drone Act-Covered Foreign Entities (Nov 2024) (Sections 1821-1826, Pub. L. 118-31, 41 U.S.C.

3901 note prec.).

[ ](64)52.242-5, Payments to Small Business Subcontractors (JAN 2017)(15 U.S.C. 637(d)(13)).

[ ](65)(i)52.247-64, Preference for Privately Owned U.S.-Flag Commercial Vessels (NOV 2021) (46 U.S.C. 55305 and 10 U.S.C. 2631).

[ ](ii) Alternate I (Apr 2003) of52.247-64.

[ ](iii) Alternate II (NOV 2021) of52.247-64.

(c) The Contractor shall comply with the FAR clauses in this paragraph (c), applicable to commercial services, that the Contracting Officer has indicated as being incorporated in this contract by reference to implement provisions of law or Executive orders applicable to acquisitions of commercial products and commercial services:[Contracting Officer check as appropriate.]

[X](1)52.222-41, Service Contract Labor Standards (AUG 2018) (41 U.S.C. chapter 67).

[X](2)52.222-42, Statement of Equivalent Rates for Federal Hires (MAY 2014) (29 U.S.C. 206 and 41 U.S.C. chapter 67).

[X](3)52.222-43, Fair Labor Standards Act and Service Contract Labor Standards-Price Adjustment (Multiple Year and Option Contracts) (AUG 2018) (29 U.S.C. 206 and 41 U.S.C. chapter 67).

[ ](4)52.222-44, Fair Labor Standards Act and Service Contract Labor Standards-Price Adjustment (MAY 2014) (29 U.S.C 206 and 41 U.S.C. chapter 67).

[ ](5)52.222-51, Exemption from Application of the Service Contract Labor Standards to Contracts for Maintenance, Calibration, or Repair of Certain Equipment-Requirements (MAY 2014) (41 U.S.C. chapter 67).

[ ](6)52.222-53, Exemption from Application of the Service Contract Labor Standards to Contracts for Certain Services-Requirements (MAY 2014) (41 U.S.C. chapter 67).

[X](7)52.222-55, Minimum Wages for Contractor Workers Under Executive Order 14026 (JAN 2022).

[X](8)52.222-62, Paid Sick Leave Under Executive Order 13706 (JAN 2022) (E.O. 13706).

[ ](9)52.226-6, Promoting Excess Food Donation to Nonprofit Organizations (JUN 2020) (42 U.S.C. 1792).

[ ](10)52.247-69, Reporting Requirement for U.S.-Flag Air Carriers Regarding Training to Prevent Human Trafficking (JAN 2025) (49 U.S.C. 40118(g)).

(d)Comptroller General Examination of Record. The Contractor shall comply with the provisions of this paragraph (d) if this contract was awarded using other than sealed bid, is in excess of the simplified acquisition threshold, as defined in FAR2.101, on the date of award of this contract, and does not contain the clause at52.215-2, Audit and Records - Negotiation.

(1) The Comptroller General of the United States, or an authorized representative of the Comptroller General, shall have access to and right to examine any of the Contractor's directly pertinent records involving transactions related to this contract.

(2) The Contractor shall make available at its offices at all reasonable times the records, materials, and other evidence for examination, audit, or reproduction, until 3 years after final payment under this contract or for any shorter period specified in FAR Subpart4.7, Contractor Records Retention, of the other clauses of this contract. If this contract is completely or partially terminated, the records relating to the work terminated shall be made available for 3 years after any resulting final termination settlement. Records relating to appeals under the disputes clause or to litigation or the settlement of claims arising under or relating to this contract shall be made available until such appeals, litigation, or claims are finally resolved.

(3) As used in this clause, records include books, documents, accounting procedures and practices, and other data, regardless of type and regardless of form. This does not require the Contractor to create or maintain any record that the Contractor does not maintain in the ordinary course of business or pursuant to a provision of law.

(e)(1) Notwithstanding the requirements of the clauses in paragraphs (a), (b), (c), and (d) of this clause, the Contractor is not required to flow down any FAR clause, other than those in this paragraph (e)(1), in a subcontract for commercial products or commercial services. Unless otherwise indicated below, the extent of the flow down shall be as required by the clause-

(i)52.203-13, Contractor Code of Business Ethics and Conduct (NOV 2021) (41 U.S.C. 3509).

(ii)52.203-17, Contractor Employee Whistleblower Rights (NOV 2023) (41 U.S.C. 4712).

(iii)52.203-19, Prohibition on Requiring Certain Internal Confidentiality Agreements or Statements (JAN 2017) (section 743 of Division E, Title VII, of the Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act, 2015 (Pub. L. 113-235) and its successor provisions in subsequent appropriations acts (and as extended in continuing resolutions)).

(iv)52.204-23, Prohibition on Contracting for Hardware, Software, and Services Developed or Provided by Kaspersky Lab Covered Entities (DEC 2023) (Section 1634 of Pub. L. 115-91).

(v)52.204-25, Prohibition on Contracting for Certain Telecommunications and Video Surveillance Services or Equipment. (NOV 2021) (Section 889(a)(1)(A) of Pub. L. 115-232).

(vi)52.204-27, Prohibition on a ByteDance Covered Application (JUN 2023) (Section 102 of Division R of Pub. L. 117-328).

(vii)(A)52.204-30, Federal Acquisition Supply Chain Security Act Orders-Prohibition. (DEC 2023) (Pub.

L. 115-390, title II).

(B) Alternate I (DEC 2023) of52.204-30.

(viii)52.219-8, Utilization of Small Business Concerns (JAN 2025) (15 U.S.C. 637(d)(2) and (3)), in all subcontracts that offer further subcontracting opportunities. If the subcontract (except subcontracts to small business concerns) exceeds the applicable threshold specified in FAR19.702(a) on the date of subcontract award, the subcontractor must include52.219-8in lower tier subcontracts that offer subcontracting opportunities.

(ix)[RESERVED] 52.222-21, Prohibition of Segregated Facilities (APR 2015).

(x){RESERVED] 52.222-26, Equal Opportunity (SEP 2016) (E.O. 11246).

(xi)52.222-35, Equal Opportunity for Veterans (JUN 2020) (38 U.S.C. 4212).

(xii)52.222-36, Equal Opportunity for Workers with Disabilities (JUN 2020) (29 U.S.C. 793).

(xiii)52.222-37, Employment Reports on Veterans (JUN 2020) (38 U.S.C. 4212).

(xiv)52.222-40, Notification of Employee Rights Under the National Labor Relations Act (DEC 2010) (E.O. 13496). Flow down required in accordance with paragraph (f) of FAR clause52.222-40.

(xv)52.222-41, Service Contract Labor Standards (AUG 2018) (41 U.S.C. chapter 67).

(xvi)[ ](A)52.222-50, Combating Trafficking in Persons (NOV 2021) (22 U.S.C. chapter 78 and E.O.

13627).

[ ](B) Alternate I (MAR 2015) of52.222-50(22 U.S.C. chapter 78 and E.O. 13627).

(xvii)52.222-51, Exemption from Application of the Service Contract Labor Standards to Contracts for Maintenance, Calibration, or Repair of Certain Equipment-Requirements (MAY 2014) (41 U.S.C. chapter 67).

(xviii)52.222-53, Exemption from Application of the Service Contract Labor Standards to Contracts for Certain Services-Requirements (MAY 2014) (41 U.S.C. chapter 67).

(xix)52.222-54, Employment Eligibility Verification (JAN 2025) (E.O. 12989).

(xx)52.222-55, Minimum Wages for Contractor Workers Under Executive Order 14026 (JAN 2022).

(xxi)52.222-62Paid Sick Leave Under Executive Order 13706 (JAN 2022) (E.O. 13706).

(xxii)(A)52.224-3, Privacy Training (JAN 2017) (5 U.S.C. 552a).

(B) Alternate I (JAN 2017) of 52.224-3.

(xxiii)52.225-26, Contractors Performing Private Security Functions Outside the United States (OCT 2016) (Section 862, as amended, of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2008; 10 U.S.C.

Subtitle A, Part V, Subpart G Note).

(xxiv)52.226-6, Promoting Excess Food Donation to Nonprofit Organizations (JUN 2020) (42 U.S.C.

1792). Flow down required in accordance with paragraph (e) of FAR clause52.226-6.

(xxv)52.232-40, Providing Accelerated Payments to Small Business Subcontractors (MAR 2023) (31 U.S.C. 3903 and 10 U.S.C. 3801). Flow down required in accordance with paragraph (c) of52.232-40.

(xxvi)52.240-1, Prohibition on Unmanned Aircraft Systems Manufactured or Assembled by American Security Drone Act-Covered Foreign Entities (Nov 2024) (Sections 1821-1826, Pub. L. 118-31, 41 U.S.C.

3901 note prec.).

(xxvii)52.247-64, Preference for Privately Owned U.S.-Flag Commercial Vessels (NOV 2021) (46 U.S.C.

55305 and 10 U.S.C. 2631). Flow down required in accordance with paragraph (d) of FAR clause52.247- 64.

(2) While not required, the Contractor may include in its subcontracts for commercial products and commercial services a minimal number of additional clauses necessary to satisfy its contractual obligations.

(End of clause)

J - List of Documents, Exhibits and Other Attachments

Attachment Number Title Date

A Statement of Work (SOW) 06/25/2025 B Table 1 Hazardous Waste Disposal Plan 06/25/2025 C Table 2 Hazardous Waste Associated Cost 06/25/2025 D Wage Determination No. 1996-0223 06/25/2025

K - Representations, Certifications, and Other Statements of Bidders

52.204-17 Ownership or Control of Offeror. (AUG 2020)

(a) Definitions. As used in this provision-

Commercial and Government Entity (CAGE) code means-

(1) An identifier assigned to entities located in the United States or its outlying areas by the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Commercial and Government Entity (CAGE) Branch to identify a commercial or government entity by unique location; or

(2) An identifier assigned by a member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) or by the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) to entities located outside the United States and its outlying areas that the DLA Commercial and Government Entity (CAGE) Branch records and maintains in the CAGE master file. This type of code is known as a NATO CAGE (NCAGE) code.

Highest-level owner means the entity that owns or controls an immediate owner of the offeror, or that owns or controls one or more entities that control an immediate owner of the offeror. No entity owns or exercises control of the highest level owner.

Immediate owner means an entity, other than the offeror, that has direct control of the offeror.

Indicators of control include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following: Ownership or interlocking management, identity of interests among family members, shared facilities and equipment, and the common use of employees.

(b) The Offeror represents that it [ ] has or [ ] does not have an immediate owner. If the Offeror has more than one immediate owner (such as a joint venture), then the Offeror shall respond to paragraph (c) and if applicable, paragraph (d) of this provision for each participant in the joint venture.

(c) If the Offeror indicates "has" in paragraph (b) of this provision, enter the following information:

Immediate owner CAGE code: [ ]

Immediate owner legal name: [ (Do not use a "doing business as" name)]

Is the immediate owner owned or controlled by another entity?: [ ] Yes or [ ] No.

(d) If the Offeror indicates "yes" in paragraph (c) of this provision, indicating that the immediate owner is owned or controlled by another entity, then enter the following information:

Highest-level owner CAGE code: [ ]

Highest-level owner legal name: [(Do not use a "doing business as" name)]

(End of provision)

52.204-20 Predecessor of Offeror. (AUG 2020)

(a) Definitions. As used in this provision-

Commercial and Government Entity (CAGE) code means-

(1) An identifier assigned to entities located in the United States or its outlying areas by the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Commercial and Government Entity (CAGE) Branch to identify a commercial or government entity by unique location; or

(2) An identifier assigned by a member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) or by the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) to entities located outside the United States and its outlying areas that the DLA Commercial and Government Entity (CAGE) Branch records and maintains in the CAGE master file. This type of code is known as a NATO CAGE (NCAGE) code.

Predecessor means an entity that is replaced by a successor and includes any predecessors of the predecessor.

Successor means an entity that has replaced a predecessor by acquiring the assets and carrying out the affairs of the predecessor under a new name (often through acquisition or merger). The term "successor" does not include new offices/divisions of the same company or a company that only changes its name. The extent of the responsibility of the successor for the liabilities of the predecessor may vary, depending on State law and specific circumstances.

(b) The Offeror represents that it [ ] is or [ ] is not a successor to a predecessor that held a Federal contract or grant within the last three years.

(c) If the Offeror has indicated "is" in paragraph (b) of this provision, enter the following information for all predecessors that held a Federal contract or grant within the last three years (if more than one predecessor, list in reverse chronological order):

Predecessor CAGE code: [(or mark "Unknown")].

Predecessor legal name: [(Do not use a "doing business as" name)].

(End of provision)

52.223-22 Public Disclosure of Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Reduction Goals-Representation.

(DEC 2016)

52.212-3 Offeror Representations and Certifications' Commercial Products and Commercial Services (MAY 2024) (DEVIATION FEB 2025)

Reps and Certs

L - Instructions,Conditions, and Notices to Bidders

52.212-1 Instructions to Offerors - Commercial Products and Commercial Services. (SEP 2023)

52.252-1 Solicitation Provisions Incorporated by Reference. (FEB 1998)

This solicitation incorporates one or more solicitation provisions by reference, with the same force and effect as if they were given in full text. Upon request, the Contracting Officer will make their full text available. The offeror is cautioned that the listed provisions may include blocks that must be completed by the offeror and submitted with its quotation or offer. In lieu of submitting the full text of those provisions, the offeror may identify the provision by paragraph identifier and provide the appropriate information with its quotation or offer. Also, the full text of a solicitation provision may be accessed electronically at this/these address(es): https://www.acquisition.gov/browse/index/far

(End of provision)

L.1 General Instructions

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS), is seeking qualified contractors to provide comprehensive hazardous waste management and emergency response services in support of FSIS laboratory operations. These services include, but are not limited to: the transportation, treatment, storage and disposal of hazardous and non-hazardous waste; analytical sampling and testing; emergency response to chemical spills; and onsite training for FSIS personnel.

The government intends to establish one or more Firm-Fixed Price Blanket Purchase Agreements (BPAs) for a base period of five (5) consecutive years, to support FSIS laboratories and facilities nationwide.

This acquisition is being conducted in accordance with FAR Parts 12 and 13 (Commercial and Simplified Acquisition Procedures).

Offerors are required to complete FAR provision 52.212-3, and other required reps/certs in SAM.gov.

Offerors must submit complete quotes electronically to Contract Specialist by the due date and time listed in the solicitation. Late submissions will not be considered.

L.2 Quote Format and Content http://

Quotes shall consist of two (2) Volumes:

Volume I - Technical (15-page limit, excluding appendices)

1. Technical Approach

• Describe your methodology for safely and compliantly providing hazardous waste transportation, treatment, storage, disposal, and chemical spill response for FSIS laboratories.

• Explain procedures for coordinating pickup and disposal from FSIS laboratories located in Normandy, MO and Athens, GA.

• Include approach to regulatory compliance (Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Department of Transportation (DOT), Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), state/local requirements)

2. Emergency Response Capability

• Detail on-call emergency chemical spill response capabilities, including maximum response times, available equipment, and triage procedures.

• Include procedures for notification and coordination with FSIS facility safety officers.

3. Training Program

• Outline proposed training offerings for FSIS lab and field personnel, including topics (e.g., hazardous waste handling, labeling, spill containment), format (e.g., virtual, onsite), and frequency.

4. Key Personnel and Staffing

• Identify key staff (e.g., Program Manager, Emergency Response Coordinator, Field Technicians) and their qualifications, including Hazardous Waste and Operations Emergency Response (HAZWOPER) certification.

• Provide a Staffing Plan to meet FSIS workload, including surge/emergency support.

5. Past Performance

• Provide up to three (3) recent (within the past five (5) years) and relevant contracts, specifically involving federal laboratories, hazardous waste management, or emergency response.

• Include agency name, contract number, period of performance, descriptions of work, and point of contact.

6. Certifications

• Provide evidence of EPA, DOT, and state-specific certifications and permits.

Volume II - Pricing

The Offeror shall provide a complete price build up for the Period of Performance that includes and clearly identifies all labor, and other costs, which must reconcile with the offered prices. Pricing should be added to Attachment C, "Table 2 Hazardous Waste Associated Cost."

Pricing shall be identified for the entire period of performance, five (5) consecutive years. Certified cost and pricing data is not required to be submitted part of the Volume II Cost/Pricing.

• Provide firm-fixed unit pricing for:

- Transportation of hazardous/non-hazardous waste

- Off-site treatment/disposal (by waste type and/or per pound/gallon)

- Emergency spill response (hourly)

- Analytical testing services

- Annual or as-needed training sessions

Indicate any volume discounts or geographic differentials for USDA FSIS Laboratories nationwide.

L.3 Site Visit / Locations

The Government does not anticipate site visits at this time. FSIS laboratories may be geographically dispersed, including remote sites. Offerors should demonstrate ability to service multiple facilities located in both urban and rural areas.

L.4 Questions and Submission Details

All RFQ questions and clarifications shall be submitted by Wednesday, July 9, 2025 12pm EST via email with the subject header "RFP 123A9425Q0027 - Hazardous Waste Removal" to the Contract Specialist, Angela Carey, at angela.carey@usda.gov. Questions received after this date may not be answered. No additional questions will be addressed after the closing date of the solicitation.

Submit all quotes, past performance information, pricing, including Attachments B & C, to the Contract Specialist, Angela Carey, at angela.carey@usda.gov by Wednesday, July 16, 2025 2pm EST. Offeror's quote submitted shall be valid for a period of 90 calendar days from the closing date specified in the solicitation.

M - Evaluation Factors for Award

52.204-7 System for Award Management. (NOV 2024)

52.204-16 Commercial and Government Entity Code Reporting. (AUG 2020)

52.252-5 Authorized Deviations in Provisions. (NOV 2020)

(a) The use in this solicitation of any Federal Acquisition Regulation (48 CFR chapter 1) provision with an authorized deviation is indicated by the addition of (DEVIATION) after the date of the provision.

(b) The use in this solicitation of any Agriculture Acquisition Regulation (48 CFR chapter 4) provision with an authorized deviation is indicated by the addition of (DEVIATION) after the name of the regulation.

(End of provision)

M.1 Basis for Award

Award will be made on a best-value tradeoff basis to the responsible Offeror whose quote is determined to be most advantageous to FSIS, considering both technical merit and price.

All evaluation factors other than cost or price, when combined, are significantly more important than cost or price.

FSIS will use the following "Confidence Ratings" to evaluate the technical proposal:

M.2 Evaluation Factors

Factor 1 - Technical (Most Important) Subfactor 1.1 Technical Approach - The Government will evaluate the thoroughness and feasibility the Offeror's technical solution for providing hazardous waste transportation, off-site disposal, and laboratory testing services. This includes:

- Regulatory compliance and waste handling procedures

- Coordination with FSIS labs and staff

- Waste manifesting and documentation processes

Subfactor 1.2 Emergency Response - The Government will assess the Offeror's capacity to respond rapidly to emergency chemical spills at FSIS facilities, including availability, response time, and spill containment and remediation capabilities.

Subfactor 1.3 Training Program - Evaluators will assess the relevance, scope, and adaptability of the Offeror's training program for FSIS laboratory personnel. The ability to tailor training to FSIS's diverse research and operational settings will be highly valued.

Subfactor 1.4 Key Personnel and Staffing - The Government will evaluate the qualifications and experience of proposed key personnel, especially in regulatory compliance, scientific waste management, and emergency operations. The proposed staffing structure will be evaluated to ensure adequate coverage, expertise, and ability to meet anticipated service levels.

Subfactor 1.5 Past Performance - The Government will evaluate the relevance, quality and outcomes of past performance on contracts similar in complexity and scope. Exceptional performance for federal laboratories, USDA, or public health entities will be given favorable consideration.

Factor 2 - Pricing (Less Important than Technical Factors)

Prices will be evaluated for completeness and reasonableness. FSIS reserves the right to conduct a price realism analysis to assess whether prices quoted are consistent with the technical solution and sustainable for the BPA's duration. The prices shall remain fixed for the duration of the BPA unless otherwise modified by mutual agreement. While price is less important than technical factors, it will become more significant if technical quotes are evaluated as substantially equal.

M.3 Tradeoff Process

The Government may award to an offeror with higher-priced quote if the superior technical approach is determined to offer the best overall value to FSIS and supports its food safety mission effectively.

RATING DEFINITION

High Confidence

(Low Risk) The Government has high confidence that the vendor understands the requirement, proposes a sound approach, and will be successful in performing the contract with little or no Government intervention.

Some Confidence (Moderate Risk)

The Government has some confidence that the vendor understands the requirement, proposes a sound approach, and will be successful in performing the contract with some Government intervention.

Low Confidence (High Risk)

The Government has low confidence that the vendor understands the requirement, proposes a sound approach, or will be successful in performing the contract even with Government intervention.

M.4 Responsibility Determination

The apparent awardee must be determined responsible in accordance with FAR 9.104-1,General Standards.

------------------------------------------------END OF TEXT--------------------------------------------------