RFQ 36C26226Q1210.docx

36C26226Q1210

PAGE 1 OF

1. REQUISITION NO.

2. CONTRACT NO.

3. AWARD/EFFECTIVE DATE

4. ORDER NO.

5. SOLICITATION NUMBER

6. SOLICITATION ISSUE DATE

a. NAME

b. TELEPHONE NO. (No Collect Calls)

8. OFFER DUE DATE/LOCAL

TIME

9. ISSUED BY

CODE

10. THIS ACQUISITION IS

UNRESTRICTED OR

SET ASIDE:

% FOR:

SMALL BUSINESS

HUBZONE SMALL

BUSINESS

SERVICE-DISABLED

VETERAN-OWNED

SMALL BUSINESS

WOMEN-OWNED SMALL BUSINESS

(WOSB) ELIGIBLE UNDER THE WOMEN-OWNED

SMALL BUSINESS PROGRAM

EDWOSB

8(A)

NAICS:

SIZE STANDARD:

11. DELIVERY FOR FOB DESTINA-

TION UNLESS BLOCK IS

MARKED

SEE SCHEDULE

12. DISCOUNT TERMS

13a. THIS CONTRACT IS A

RATED ORDER UNDER

DPAS (15 CFR 700)

13b. RATING

14. METHOD OF SOLICITATION

RFQ

IFB

RFP

15. DELIVER TO

CODE

16. ADMINISTERED BY

CODE

17a. CONTRACTOR/OFFEROR

CODE

FACILITY CODE

18a. PAYMENT WILL BE MADE BY

CODE

TELEPHONE NO.

UEI:

EFT:

PHONE:

FAX:

17b. CHECK IF REMITTANCE IS DIFFERENT AND PUT SUCH ADDRESS IN OFFER 18b. SUBMIT INVOICES TO ADDRESS SHOWN IN BLOCK 18a UNLESS BLOCK BELOW IS CHECKED

SEE ADDENDUM

19.

20.

21.

22.

23.

24.

ITEM NO.

SCHEDULE OF SUPPLIES/SERVICES

QUANTITY

UNIT

UNIT PRICE

AMOUNT

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

25. ACCOUNTING AND APPROPRIATION DATA

26. TOTAL AWARD AMOUNT (For Govt. Use Only) 27a. SOLICITATION INCORPORATES BY REFERENCE FAR 52.212-1, 52.212-4. FAR 52.212-3 AND 52.212-5 ARE ATTACHED. ADDENDA

ARE

ARE NOT ATTACHED.

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

ARE

ARE NOT ATTACHED

28. CONTRACTOR IS REQUIRED TO SIGN THIS DOCUMENT AND RETURN _______________

29. AWARD OF CONTRACT: REF. ___________________________________ OFFER

COPIES TO ISSUING OFFICE. CONTRACTOR AGREES TO FURNISH AND

DATED ________________________________. YOUR OFFER ON SOLICITATION

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

(BLOCK 5), INCLUDING ANY ADDITIONS OR CHANGES WHICH ARE

ADDITIONAL SHEETS SUBJECT TO THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS SPECIFIED

SET FORTH HEREIN IS ACCEPTED AS TO ITEMS:

30a. SIGNATURE OF OFFEROR/CONTRACTOR 31a. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA (SIGNATURE OF CONTRACTING OFFICER) 30b. NAME AND TITLE OF SIGNER (TYPE OR PRINT) 30c. DATE SIGNED 31b. NAME OF CONTRACTING OFFICER (TYPE OR PRINT) 31c. DATE SIGNED

AUTHORIZED FOR LOCAL REPRODUCTION

(REV. NOV 2021)

PREVIOUS EDITION IS NOT USABLE

Prescribed by GSA - FAR (48 CFR) 53.212

7. FOR SOLICITATION

INFORMATION CALL:

STANDARD FORM 1449

SOLICITATION/CONTRACT/ORDER FOR COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES

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

600-26-4-441-0882 36C26226Q1210 07- -2026 Anthony Dela Cruz 562-766-2284 08-1 -2026 7:00 am

PDT

36C262 Department of Veterans Affairs Network Contracting Office 22 4811 Airport Plaza Drive Suite 600 Long Beach CA 90815 X 333241 500 Employees

NET 30

N/A X 36C600 Department of Veterans Affairs VA Long Beach Healthcare System Tibor Rubin Medical Center 5901 East Seventh Street Long Beach CA 90822-5201 36C262 Department of Veterans Affairs Network Contracting Office 22 4811 Airport Plaza Drive Suite 600 Long Beach CA 90815

Department of Veterans Affairs Financial Services Center Submit invoices electronically to:

https://www.tungsten-network.com Tungsten support: 1-877-489-6135 See CONTINUATION Page Brand name or Equal requirement for ENCLOSED TRANSPORT CARTS in accordance with B.2 and B.3.

Unrestricted full and open competition.

Award will be made IAW ADDENDUM to FAR 52.212-1 INSTRUCTIONS

TO OFFERORS – COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES,

and FAR 52.212-2 EVALUATION-COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS AND

COMMERCIAL SERVICES.

There is no NMR Class Waiver under NAICS 333241 descriptor Food Product Machinery Manufacturing.

FAC NUMBER 2026-01, EFFECTIVE DATE 3/13/2026

See CONTINUATION Page X Anthony Dela Cruz

VA-VHA-RPOW-2024-0101

Table of Contents

SECTION B - CONTINUATION OF SF 1449 BLOCKS

B.1 CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION DATA

1. Contract Administration: All contract administration matters will be handled by the following individuals:

a. CONTRACTOR:

b. GOVERNMENT: Contracting Officer 36C262 Anthony.DelaCruz@va.gov Department of Veterans Affairs Network Contracting Office 22 4811 Airport Plaza Drive Suite 600 Long Beach CA 90815

2. CONTRACTOR REMITTANCE ADDRESS: All payments by the Government to the contractor will be made in accordance with:

3. INVOICES: Invoices shall be submitted in arrears:

4. GOVERNMENT INVOICE ADDRESS: All Invoices from the contractor shall be submitted electronically in accordance with VAAR Clause 852.232-72 Electronic Submission of Payment Requests.

Submit invoices electronically to:

https://portal.tungsten-network.com/

B.2 PRICE/COST SCHEDULE

ITEM INFORMATION

BRAND NAME OR EQUAL. CONTRACTOR MUST PROVIDE MANUFACTURER PART NUMBER FOR ALL EQUAL TO BRAND NAME ITEMS. Please include shipping/handling in unit price.

ENCLOSED TRANSPORT CART, 24 TRAY, STAINLESS STEEL, WITH CENTERWALL

Contract Period: Base POP Begin:

POP End:

PRINCIPAL NAICS CODE: 333241 - Food Product Machinery Manufacturing PRODUCT/SERVICE CODE: 7310 - Food Cooking, Baking, and Serving Equipment

MANUFACTURER PART NUMBER (MPN): 99312

BRAND NAME OR EQUAL. CONTRACTOR MUST PROVIDE MANUFACTURER PART NUMBER FOR ALL EQUAL TO BRAND NAME ITEMS. Please include shipping/handling cost in unit price.

CR3C24302010 CRIII-Mini Cart, 24 Meal, Flat Tray, Tow Hitch, Travel Latch (3.1" TS) w/AutoTherm Contract Period: Base POP Begin:

POP End:

PRINCIPAL NAICS CODE: 333241 - Food Product Machinery Manufacturing PRODUCT/SERVICE CODE: 7310 - Food Cooking, Baking, and Serving Equipment

MANUFACTURER PART NUMBER (MPN): 15033

B.3 STATEMENT OF WORK

1. General Scope This Standard of Work (SOW) defines the minimum requirements for safe operation, daily use, and routine care of the Aladdin Temp-Rite Convect-Rite 3 Mini Cart, 24-Meal, Flat Tray, at VA Long Beach . The cart is used to rethermalize and transport up to 24 patient/resident meals on flat trays in conjunction with the Convect-Rite docking station.

This SOW applies to Food & Nutrition Services (FNS), Nursing, Environmental Services, and Biomedical/Facilities staff who operate, clean, or maintain the Convect-Rite 3 carts and related docking stations.

2. Equipment Description

· Equipment: Aladdin Temp-Rite Convect-Rite 3 Mini Cart, 24-Meal, Flat Tray (e.g., models CR3C24002010 / CR3C24012010 / CR3C24102010 / CR3C24112010, as equipped at the facility).

· Function: Holds and transports up to 24 undivided meal trays; mates with a Convect-Rite docking station for hot-and-cold rethermalization cycles of approximately 45–60 minutes.

· Construction features: Durable stainless steel tank, frame, doors, and center panel.

· High-impact, non-marking plastic top and base with molded-in galley rail.

· Lift-out removable tray guides for flat trays with 3.1 in tray spacing.

· Thermal and airflow features: Insulated walls, top, base, doors, and center panel.

· Directed airflow technology to promote uniform temperatures at each tray level.

· Gravity-operated Auto-Therm seal that closes when no tray is present to maintain chamber separation.

· Mobility and hardware: Four 6.25 in non-marking casters (two fixed, two swivel with locks) for maneuverability.

· Flush-mounted paddle latches for hands-free slam-latch door closing.

· Optional directional-lock casters and tow hitch depending on facility configuration.

· Sanitation and listing: ETL Sanitation listed; cabinet may be hose-rinsed or placed in an automatic cart washer per Owner’s Manual (P/N 98893).

3. Roles and Responsibilities

3.1 Operators (FNS / Nursing)

· Complete facility retherm-cart training and be authorized by supervision before operating or loading carts.

· Perform pre-use checks, operate carts in a safe manner, and immediately report defects, malfunctions, or incidents to a supervisor.

· Follow this SOW, posted procedures, and manufacturer instructions for loading, docking, and cleaning.

3.2 Supervisors / Managers

· Ensure only trained and authorized staff operate and clean Convect-Rite 3 carts and docking stations.

· Provide and maintain written procedures at docking areas and dish rooms.

· Coordinate with Facilities/Biomed for preventive maintenance (PM), repairs, removal from service, and documentation.

3.3 Facilities / Biomedical / Maintenance

· Perform scheduled PM and repairs in accordance with Aladdin Temp-Rite documentation and facility policy.

· Maintain records of inspections, repairs, and parts replacement.

· Verify proper function of doors, latches, seals, casters, electrical interfaces, and docking connections during PM.

4. Operator Qualifications

· Staff must complete initial training that covers cart components, docking station operation, retherm cycle parameters, safe pushing techniques, and cleaning procedures.

· Staff must demonstrate competency via a skills checklist before independent operation and complete refresher training at intervals defined by [Facility Policy].

5. Pre-Use Inspection (Each Shift or Before Use) Before loading or moving a Convect-Rite 3 cart, the operator will:

· Verify cart exterior is intact (no sharp edges, loose trim, damaged top, or cracked plastic base).

· Check doors for proper alignment, smooth opening/closing, and positive latch engagement.

· Confirm tray guides are correctly seated, clean, and not bent or missing.

· Inspect casters for damage; ensure all four roll freely and that swivel locks and wheel brakes engage/release.

· Confirm cart interior is clean and free of food debris, standing water, or foreign objects.

· Check that cart labeling (asset tag, “HOT”/“COLD” side, maximum capacity, and any electrical warnings) is legible.

· If equipped for towing, verify tow hitch hardware is secure and not deformed.

Any condition that may affect safe use or sanitary service requires tagging the cart “OUT OF SERVICE,” notifying a supervisor, and contacting Maintenance/Biomed.

6. Normal Operation – Loading, Docking, and Transport

6.1 Loading Trays

· Verify tray type and tray spacing match the cart design (24 flat trays, 3.1 in spacing).

· Load trays starting from the lowest tray slides upward to maintain cart stability.

· Ensure each tray is fully inserted and level; do not overload trays beyond menu design or weight guidelines.

· Keep hot-side and cold-side menu placement consistent with facility tray assembly diagrams to support proper rethermalization.

6.2 Docking and Retherm Cycle

· Position the loaded cart squarely in front of the assigned Convect-Rite docking station and set caster brakes.

· Engage the docking mechanism per Owner’s Manual, ensuring the cabinet is snugly mated to the docking station.

· Start the programmed rethermalization cycle; typical cycles are 45–60 minutes to fully heat and chill meals as specified by the manufacturer.

· Do not attempt to move the cart or open doors while a cycle is in progress, except in an emergency using facility procedures.

· At cycle completion, undock the cart following the control panel prompts and confirm indicator lights show “cycle complete” or equivalent.

6.3 Transporting Meals

· Release caster brakes and move the cart using handle locations provided by the manufacturer; do not push on doors or latches.

· Push, do not pull, whenever possible; reduce speed on ramps, in tight hallways, or on uneven surfaces.

· Use wheel locks when parked for tray removal on nursing units.

· Avoid sudden stops, sharp turns, or impacts with walls, elevators, or other equipment.

7. Restricted Uses

· Do not exceed the cart’s design capacity of 24 flat trays or add bulk items on the cart top that could impair visibility or create falling hazards.

· Do not ride on or tow the Convect-Rite 3 cart unless it is specifically configured with a rated tow hitch and used with an approved tug or cart mover.

· Do not modify door latches, seals, casters, or docking interfaces without approval from Facilities/Biomed and the manufacturer.

· Do not use the cart to transport chemicals, biohazardous waste, or non-food items that could contaminate food contact areas.

8. Cleaning and Sanitation

8.1 Routine Cleaning (After Each Meal Service)

· Remove all trays and tray guides; discard food debris and wipe up spills immediately.

· Wash interior surfaces, tray slides, and doors using facility-approved foodservice detergent and hot water; rinse and sanitize according to [Facility HACCP / Infection Prevention Policy].

· Clean the exterior stainless surfaces and plastic top/base with non-abrasive cleaners; avoid strong chlorinated chemicals that may damage finishes.

· Allow the cart to air dry with doors partially open before storage or re-loading.

8.2 Cart Wash / Deep Cleaning

· When scheduled, roll the cart into the automatic cart washer following the Owner’s Manual (P/N 98893) for correct wash parameters and positioning.

· Verify all electrical/docking interfaces and seals are approved for cart-wash by Facilities/Biomed prior to first use.

· After cart-wash cycles, inspect for residual soil, verify doors and latches function properly, and re-install tray guides when fully dry.

9. Maintenance and Inspection

· Facilities/Biomed will establish a PM schedule (e.g., quarterly or per manufacturer guidance) to inspect casters, door gaskets, hinges, latches, tray supports, and any electrical or docking connections.

· Worn or damaged components must be replaced with manufacturer-approved parts or equivalents that maintain ETL sanitation and safety compliance.

· Any repeated issues (e.g., poor door sealing, uneven temperatures, difficulty docking) will be documented and escalated to Aladdin Temp-Rite technical support as needed.

10. Safety and Incident Reporting

· Report all injuries, near-misses, property damage, or equipment malfunctions involving Convect-Rite 3 carts or docking stations through the facility’s incident reporting system immediately.

· If a safety-critical defect is suspected (e.g., structural damage, failed latch, caster failure, hot/cold temperature issues), tag the cart “OUT OF SERVICE,” remove it from use, and notify Maintenance/Biomed.

11. Documentation and Training Records

· Training rosters, competency checklists, PM records, work orders, and this SOW will be maintained according to [Facility Policy] and regulatory requirements.

· This SOW will be reviewed at least every [X] years or when equipment models, options, or manufacturer recommendations change, and updated accordingly.

SALIENT CHARACTERISTICS

· Must be fully enclosed and designed to transport undivided Convect-Rite–style meal trays in a protected environment.

· Must have a minimum capacity of 24 trays with tray spacing of approximately 3.5 inches.

· Must have all stainless steel cabinet and tray slides for durability, corrosion resistance, and ease of cleaning.

· Must include a fixed centerwall or center assembly that supports undivided trays and keeps hot and cold food sides separated during transport.

· Must have four non-marking casters of approximately 6 inches in diameter, with two swivel casters with brakes and two rigid casters.

· Must have non-marking corner bumpers to protect facility walls, doors, and equipment.

· Must have doors that open to approximately 270 degrees with a hold-open device and close using stainless steel gravity latches.

· Must have removable tray slides to allow thorough cleaning and sanitation.

· Must be listed to NSF foodservice equipment standards and include at least a one-year parts and one-year labor warranty.

(SOW END)

SECTION C - CONTRACT CLAUSES

C.1 52.212-4 CONTRACT TERMS AND CONDITIONS—COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES (OCT 2025) (DEVIATION)

(a) Definitions. The clause at Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) 52.202-1, Definitions, is incorporated by reference.

(b) Inspection/Acceptance. The Contractor shall only tender for acceptance those items that conform to the requirements of this contract. The Government reserves the right to inspect or test any supplies or services that have been tendered for acceptance. The Government may require repair or replacement of nonconforming supplies or reperformance of nonconforming services at no increase in contract price. If repair/replacement or reperformance will not correct the defects or is not possible, the Government may seek an equitable price reduction or adequate consideration for acceptance of nonconforming supplies or services. The Government must exercise its post acceptance rights—

(1) Within a reasonable time after the defect was discovered or should have been discovered; and

(2) Before any substantial change occurs in the condition of the item, unless the change is due to the defect in the item.

(c) Assignment. The Contractor or its assignee may assign its rights to receive payment due as a result of performance of this contract to a bank, trust company, or other financing institution, including any Federal lending agency in accordance with the Assignment of Claims Act (31 U.S.C. 3727). However, when a third party makes payment (e.g., use of the Governmentwide commercial purchase card), the Contractor may not assign its rights to receive payment under this contract.

(d) Changes. Changes in the terms and conditions of this contract may be made only by written agreement of the parties.

(e) Disputes. This contract is subject to 41 U.S.C. chapter 71, Contract Disputes. Failure of the parties to this contract to reach agreement on any request for equitable adjustment, claim, appeal or action arising under or relating to this contract shall be a dispute to be resolved in accordance with the clause FAR 52.233-1, Disputes, which is incorporated in this contract by reference. The Contractor shall proceed diligently with performance of this contract, pending final resolution of any dispute arising under the contract.

(f) Excusable delays. The Contractor shall be liable for default unless nonperformance is caused by an occurrence beyond the reasonable control of the Contractor and without its fault or negligence. Examples of occurrences include acts of God or the public enemy, acts of the Government in either its sovereign or contractual capacity, fires, floods, epidemics, quarantine restrictions, strikes, unusually severe weather, and delays of common carriers. When an excusable delay occurs, the Contractor shall—

(1) Notify the Contracting Officer in writing as soon as possible;

(2) Remedy the delay as quickly as possible; and

(3) Notify the Contracting Officer when the occurrence is over.

(g) Invoice. The Government will handle invoices according to the Prompt Payment Act (31 U.S.C. 3903) and 5 CFR part 1315. The Contractor shall submit invoices to the address designated in the contract to receive invoices. An invoice must include the information required by 5 CFR part 1315.9(b).

(h) Patent indemnity. The Contractor shall indemnify the Government and its officers, employees, and agents against liability, including costs, for actual or alleged direct or contributory infringement of, or inducement to infringe, any United States or foreign patent, trademark, or copyright, arising out of the performance of this contract, provided the Contractor is reasonably notified of such claims and proceedings.

(i) Payment—

(1) Items accepted. Payment shall be made for items accepted by the Government that have been delivered to the delivery destinations set forth in this contract.

(2) Prompt payment. The Government will make payment in accordance with the Prompt Payment Act (31 U.S.C. 3903) and prompt payment regulations at 5 CFR part 1315.

(3) Discount. In connection with any discount offered for early payment, time shall be computed from the date of the invoice. For the purpose of computing the discount earned, payment shall be considered to have been made on the date that appears on the payment check or the specified payment date if an electronic funds transfer payment is made.

(4) Overpayments. If the Contractor becomes aware of a duplicate contract financing or invoice payment or that the Government has otherwise overpaid on a contract financing or invoice payment, the Contractor shall—

(i) Remit the overpayment amount to the payment office cited in the contract along with a description of the overpayment including the—

(A) Circumstances of the overpayment (e.g., duplicate payment, erroneous payment, liquidation errors, date(s) of overpayment);

(B) Affected contract number and delivery order number, if applicable;

(C) Affected line item or subline item, if applicable;

(D) Contractor point of contact; and

(ii) Provide a copy of the remittance and supporting documentation to the Contracting Officer.

(5) Interest.

(i) All amounts that become payable by the Contractor to the Government under this contract shall bear simple interest from the date due until paid unless paid within 30 days of becoming due. The interest rate shall be the interest rate established by the Secretary of the Treasury as provided in 41 U.S.C. 7109, which is applicable to the period in which the amount becomes due, as provided in (i)(6)(v) of this clause, and then at the rate applicable for each six-month period as fixed by the Secretary until the amount is paid.

(ii) The Government may issue a demand for payment to the Contractor upon finding a debt is due under the contract.

(iii) Final decisions. The Contracting Officer will issue a final decision as required by FAR part 33 if—

(A) The Contracting Officer and the Contractor are unable to reach agreement on the existence or amount of a debt within 30 days;

(B) The Contractor fails to liquidate a debt previously demanded by the Contracting Officer within the timeline specified in the demand for payment unless the amounts were not repaid because the Contractor has requested an installment payment agreement; or

(C) The Contractor requests a deferment of collection on a debt previously demanded by the Contracting Officer (see FAR part 32).

(iv) If a demand for payment was previously issued for the debt, the demand for payment included in the final decision shall identify the same due date as the original demand for payment.

(v) Amounts shall be due at the earliest of the following dates:

(A) The date fixed under this contract.

(B) The date of the first written demand for payment, including any demand for payment resulting from a termination for cause.

(vi) The interest charge shall be computed for the actual number of calendar days involved beginning on the due date and ending on-

(A) The date on which the designated office receives payment from the Contractor;

(B) The date of issuance of a Government check to the Contractor from which an amount otherwise payable has been withheld as a credit against the contract debt; or

(C) The date on which an amount withheld and applied to the contract debt would otherwise have become payable to the Contractor.

(vii) The interest charge made under this clause may be reduced under the procedures for interest credits prescribed in FAR part 32 in effect on the date of this contract.

(j) Risk of loss. Unless the contract specifically provides otherwise, risk of loss or damage to the supplies provided under this contract shall remain with the Contractor until, and shall pass to the Government upon—

(1) Delivery of the supplies to a carrier, if transportation is f.o.b. origin; or

(2) Delivery of the supplies to the Government at the destination specified in the contract, if transportation is f.o.b. destination.

(k) Taxes. The contract price includes all applicable Federal, State, and local taxes and duties.

(l) Termination for the Government's convenience. The Government reserves the right to terminate this contract, or any part hereof, for its sole convenience. In the event of such termination, the Contractor shall immediately stop all work and shall immediately cause any and all of its suppliers and subcontractors to cease work. Subject to the terms of this contract, the Contractor shall be paid a percentage of the contract price reflecting the percentage of the work performed prior to the notice of termination, plus reasonable charges the Contractor can demonstrate to the satisfaction of the Government using its standard record keeping system, have resulted from the termination. The Contractor shall not be required to comply with the cost accounting standards or contract cost principles for this purpose. This paragraph does not give the Government any right to audit the Contractor's records. The Contractor shall not be paid for any work performed or costs incurred which reasonably could have been avoided.

(m) Termination for cause. The Government may terminate this contract, or any part hereof, for cause in the event of any default by the Contractor, or if the Contractor fails to comply with any contract terms and conditions, or fails to provide the Government, upon request, with adequate assurances of future performance. The Government will send a cure notice to the Contractor, unless the reason for the termination is late delivery. In the event of termination for cause, the Government shall not be liable to the Contractor for any amount for supplies or services not accepted, and the Contractor shall be liable to the Government for any and all rights and remedies provided by law. If it is determined that the Government improperly terminated this contract for default, such termination shall be deemed a termination for convenience.

(n) Title. Unless specified elsewhere in this contract, title to items furnished under this contract shall pass to the Government upon acceptance, regardless of when or where the Government takes physical possession.

(o) Warranty. The Contractor warrants and implies that the items delivered under this contract are merchantable and fit for use for the particular purpose described in this contract.

(p) Limitation of liability. Except as otherwise provided by an express warranty, the Contractor will not be liable to the Government for consequential damages resulting from any defect or deficiencies in accepted items.

(q) Compliance with laws unique to Government contracts. The Contractor agrees to comply with 31 U.S.C. 1352 relating to limitations on the use of appropriated funds to influence certain Federal contracts; 40 U.S.C. chapter 37, Contract Work Hours and Safety Standards; 41 U.S.C. chapter 87, Kickbacks; 49 U.S.C. 40118, Government-financed air transportation; and 41 U.S.C. chapter 21 relating to procurement integrity.

(r) Order of precedence. Any inconsistencies in this solicitation or contract shall be resolved by giving precedence in the following order:

(1) The schedule of supplies/services.

(2) The Disputes, Payments, Invoice, Compliance with Laws Unique to Government Contracts, and Unauthorized Obligations paragraphs of this clause;

(3) Other contract clauses incorporated in the solicitation or contract;

(4) Addenda to this solicitation or contract,

(5) Solicitation provisions incorporated in the solicitation.

(6) Other paragraphs of this clause.

(7) Other documents, exhibits, and attachments; and

(8) The specification.

(s) Unauthorized obligations.

(1) Except as stated in paragraph (s)(2) of this clause, when any supply or service acquired under this contract is subject to any End User License Agreement (EULA), Terms of Service (TOS), or similar legal instrument or agreement, that includes any clause requiring the Government to indemnify the Contractor or any person or entity for damages, costs, fees, or any other loss or liability that would create an Anti-Deficiency Act violation (31 U.S.C. 1341), the following shall govern:

(i) Any such clause is unenforceable against the Government.

(ii) Neither the Government nor any Government-authorized end user shall be deemed to have agreed to such clause by virtue of it appearing in the EULA, TOS, or similar legal instrument or agreement. If the EULA, TOS, or similar legal instrument or agreement is invoked through an “I agree” click box or other comparable mechanism (e.g., “click-wrap” or “browse-wrap” agreements), execution does not bind the Government or any Government authorized end user to such clause.

(iii) Any such clause is deemed to be stricken from the EULA, TOS, or similar legal instrument or agreement.

(2) Paragraph (s)(1) of this clause does not apply to indemnification by the Government that is expressly authorized by statute and specifically authorized under applicable agency regulations and procedures.

(t) Comptroller General examination of record. This paragraph applies if this contract was awarded using other than sealed bid procedures and is in excess of the simplified acquisition threshold on the date of award of this contract.

(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 part 4, longer period required by statute, or periods specified in 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 clause 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.

(u) Incorporation by reference. The Contractor’s representations and certifications, including those completed electronically via the System for Award Management (SAM), are incorporated by reference into the contract.

(End of Clause) ADDENDUM to FAR 52.212-4 CONTRACT TERMS AND CONDITIONS—COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES Clauses that are incorporated by reference (by Citation Number, Title, and Date), have 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 following clauses are incorporated into 52.212-4 as an addendum to this contract:

C.2 52.217-6 OPTION FOR INCREASED QUANTITY (MAR 1989)

The Government may increase the quantity of supplies called for in the Schedule at the unit price specified. The Contracting Officer may exercise the option by written notice to the Contractor. Delivery of the added items shall continue at the same rate as the like items called for under the contract, unless the parties otherwise agree.

(End of Clause) C.3 52.222-36 EQUAL OPPORTUNITY FOR WORKERS WITH DISABILITIES (NOV 2025) (DEVIATION)

(a) Equal opportunity clause. The Contractor must abide by the requirements of the equal opportunity clause at 41 CFR 60-741.5(a), as of March 24, 2014. This clause prohibits discrimination against qualified individuals on the basis of disability, and requires affirmative action by the Contractor to employ and advance in employment qualified individuals with disabilities.

(b) Subcontracts. The Contractor must include the terms of this clause in every subcontract or purchase order in excess of the threshold specified in Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) 22.1401-2(a)(1) on the date of subcontract award, unless exempted by rules, regulations, or orders of the Secretary, so that such provisions will be binding upon each subcontractor or vendor. The Contractor must act as specified by the Director, Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs of the U.S. Department of Labor, to enforce the terms, including action for noncompliance. Such necessary changes in language may be made as shall be appropriate to identify properly the parties and their undertakings.

(End of Clause) C.4 52.222-90 ADDRESSING DEI DISCRIMINATION BY FEDERAL CONTRACTORS (DEVIATION APR 2026) (a)Definitions. As used in this clause— Program participation means membership or participation in, or access or admission to: training, mentoring, or leadership development programs; educational opportunities; clubs; associations; or similar opportunities that are sponsored or established by the contractor or subcontractor.

Racially discriminatory diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) activities means disparate treatment based on race or ethnicity in the recruitment, employment (e.g., hiring, promotions), contracting (e.g., vendor agreements), program participation, or allocation or deployment of an entity's resources.

(b) In connection with the performance of work under this contract, the Contractor agrees as follows:

(1) The Contractor will not engage in any racially discriminatory DEI activities;

(2) The Contractor will furnish all information and reports, including providing access to books, records, and accounts, as required by the Contracting Officer, for purposes of ascertaining compliance with this clause;

(3) In the event of the Contractor's or a subcontractor's noncompliance with this clause, this contract may be canceled, terminated, or suspended in whole or in part, and the Contractor or subcontractor may be declared ineligible for further Government contracts;

(4) The Contractor will report any subcontractor's known or reasonably knowable conduct that may violate this clause to the Contracting Officer and take any appropriate remedial actions directed by the Contracting Officer; and

(5) The Contractor will inform the Contracting Officer if a subcontractor sues the Contractor and the suit puts at issue, in any way, the validity of this clause.

(6) The Contractor recognizes that compliance with the requirements of this clause are material to the Government's payment decisions for purposes of 31 U.S.C. 3729(b)(4).

(c) The Contractor must include the substance of this clause, including this paragraph (c), in subcontracts at any tier, including those for commercial products and commercial services, except those where the place of delivery or performance is outside the United States.

(End of Clause)

C.5 52.223-23 SUSTAINABLE PRODUCTS (NOV 2025) (DEVIATION)

(a) Definitions. As used in this clause— Sustainable products means—

(1) A product that contains recovered material designated by the EPA under the Comprehensive Procurement Guidelines (42 U.S.C. 6962) (40 CFR part 247) (https://www.epa.gov/smm/comprehensive-procurement-guideline-cpg-program#products).

(2) An energy-efficient product or low standby power device (42 U.S.C. 8259b) (10 CFR part 436, subpart C) (https://www.energy.gov/femp/search-energy-efficient-products, https://www.energystar.gov/products?s=mega, and https://www.energy.gov/femp/low-standby-power-product-list).

(3) A biobased product that meets the content requirements of the USDA under the BioPreferred® program (7 U.S.C. 8102) (7 CFR Part 4270) (https://www.biopreferred.gov/)

(4) A substance identified in the EPA’s Significant New Alternatives Policy (SNAP) program as a safe alternative to an ozone-depleting substance (42 U.S.C. 7671l) (40 CFR part 82, subpart G) (https://www.epa.gov/snap/unacceptable-and-acceptable-substitutes-tables).

(b) Requirements. The Government has identified in the statement of work or elsewhere in the contract the sustainable products that are required during the performance of this contract. The Contractor shall ensure that it provides sustainable products as required by this contract, when the products are—

(1) Delivered to the Government;

(2)Furnished for use by the Government;

(3) Incorporated into the construction of a public building or public work; or

(c) Furnished for use in performing services under this contract, where the cost of the products is a direct cost to this contract.

(End of Clause)

C.6 52.225-1 BUY AMERICAN—SUPPLIES (OCT 2022)

(a) Definitions. As used in this clause— Commercially available off-the-shelf (COTS) item—(1) Means any item of supply (including construction material) that is—

(i) A commercial product (as defined in paragraph (1) of the definition of ‘‘commercial product’’ at Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) 2.101;

(ii) Sold in substantial quantities in the commercial marketplace; and

(iii) Offered to the Government, under a contract or subcontract at any tier, without modification, in the same form in which it is sold in the commercial marketplace; and

(2) Does not include bulk cargo, as defined in 46 U.S.C. 40102(4), such as agricultural products and petroleum products.

Component means an article, material, or supply incorporated directly into an end product.

Cost of components means—

(1) For components purchased by the Contractor, the acquisition cost, including transportation costs to the place of incorporation into the end product (whether or not such costs are paid to a domestic firm), and any applicable duty (whether or not a duty-free entry certificate is issued); or

(2) For components manufactured by the Contractor, all costs associated with the manufacture of the component, including transportation costs as described in paragraph (1) of this definition, plus allocable overhead costs, but excluding profit. Cost of components does not include any costs associated with the manufacture of the end product.

Critical component means a component that is mined, produced, or manufactured in the United States and deemed critical to the U.S. supply chain. The list of critical components is at FAR 25.105.

Domestic end product means—

(1) For an end product that does not consist wholly or predominantly of iron or steel or a combination of both—

(i) An unmanufactured end product mined or produced in the United States;

(ii) An end product manufactured in the United States, if—

(A) The cost of its components mined, produced, or manufactured in the United States exceeds 60 percent of the cost of all its components, except that the percentage will be 65 percent for items delivered in calendar years 2024 through 2028 and 75 percent for items delivered starting in calendar year 2029. Components of foreign origin of the same class or kind as those that the agency determines are not mined, produced, or manufactured in sufficient and reasonably available commercial quantities of a satisfactory quality are treated as domestic. Components of unknown origin are treated as foreign. Scrap generated, collected, and prepared for processing in the United States is considered domestic; or

(B) The end product is a COTS item; or

(2) For an end product that consists wholly or predominantly of iron or steel or a combination of both, an end product manufactured in the United States, if the cost of foreign iron and steel constitutes less than 5 percent of the cost of all the components used in the end product. The cost of foreign iron and steel includes but is not limited to the cost of foreign iron or steel mill products (such as bar, billet, slab, wire, plate, or sheet), castings, or forgings utilized in the manufacture of the end product and a good faith estimate of the cost of all foreign iron or steel components excluding COTS fasteners. Iron or steel components of unknown origin are treated as foreign. If the end product contains multiple components, the cost of all the materials used in such end product is calculated in accordance with the definition of ‘‘cost of components’’.

End product means those articles, materials, and supplies to be acquired under the contract for public use.

Fastener means a hardware device that mechanically joins or affixes two or more objects together. Examples of fasteners are nuts, bolts, pins, rivets, nails, clips, and screws.

Foreign end product means an end product other than a domestic end product.

Foreign iron and steel means iron or steel products not produced in the United States. Produced in the United States means that all manufacturing processes of the iron or steel must take place in the United States, from the initial melting stage through the application of coatings, except metallurgical processes involving refinement of steel additives. The origin of the elements of the iron or steel is not relevant to the determination of whether it is domestic or foreign.

Predominantly of iron or steel or a combination of both means that the cost of the iron and steel content exceeds 50 percent of the total cost of all its components. The cost of iron and steel is the cost of the iron or steel mill products (such as bar, billet, slab, wire, plate, or sheet), castings, or forgings utilized in the manufacture of the product and a good faith estimate of the cost of iron or steel components excluding COTS fasteners.

Steel means an alloy that includes at least 50 percent iron, between 0.02 and 2 percent carbon, and may include other elements.

United States means the 50 States, the District of Columbia, and outlying areas.

(b) 41 U.S.C. chapter 83, Buy American, provides a preference for domestic end products for supplies acquired for use in the United States. In accordance with 41 U.S.C. 1907, the domestic content test of the Buy American statute is waived for an end product that is a COTS item (see 12.505(a)(1)), except that for an end product that consists wholly or predominantly of iron or steel or a combination of both, the domestic content test is applied only to the iron and steel content of the end product, excluding COTS fasteners.

(c) Offerors may obtain from the Contracting Officer a list of foreign articles that the Contracting Officer will treat as domestic for this contract.

(d) The Contractor shall deliver only domestic end products except to the extent that it specified delivery of foreign end products in the provision of the solicitation entitled "Buy American Certificate."

Alternate I (OCT 2022). As prescribed in 25.1101(a)(1)(ii) substitute the following sentence for the first sentence of paragraph (1)(ii)(A) of the definition of ‘‘domestic end product’’ in paragraph (a): (A) The cost of its components mined, produced, or manufactured in the United States exceeds ___ percent of the cost of all its components. [Contracting officer to insert the percentage.] (End of Clause)

C.7 52.225-2 BUY AMERICAN CERTIFICATE (OCT 2022)

(a)(1) The Offeror certifies that each end product, except those listed in paragraph (b) of this provision, is a domestic end product and that each domestic end product listed in paragraph (c) of this provision contains a critical component.

(2) The Offeror shall list as foreign end products those end products manufactured in the United States that do not qualify as domestic end products. For those foreign end products that do not consist wholly or predominantly of iron or steel or a combination of both, the Offeror shall also indicate whether these foreign end products exceed 55 percent domestic content, except for those that are COTS items. If the percentage of the domestic content is unknown, select ‘‘no’’.

(3) The Offeror shall separately list the line item numbers of domestic end products that contain a critical component (see FAR 25.105).

(4) The terms ‘‘commercially available off-the-shelf (COTS) item,’’ ‘‘critical component,’’ ‘‘domestic end product,’’ ‘‘end product,’’ and ‘‘foreign end product’’ are defined in the clause of this solicitation entitled ‘‘Buy American—Supplies.”

(b) Foreign End Products:

[List as necessary]

(c) Domestic end products containing a critical component:

Line Item No.

(d) The Government will evaluate offers in accordance with the policies and procedures of part 25 of the Federal Acquisition Regulation.

(End of Provision)

C.8 852.212-71 GRAY MARKET AND COUNTERFEIT ITEMS (FEB 2023)

As prescribed in 812.301(f), insert the following clause:

Gray Market and Counterfeit Items (FEB 2023)

(a) No used, refurbished, or remanufactured supplies or equipment/parts shall be provided. This procurement is for new Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) items only. No gray market items shall be provided. Gray market items are OEM goods intentionally or unintentionally sold outside an authorized sales territory or sold by non-authorized dealers in an authorized sales territory.

(b) No counterfeit supplies or equipment/parts shall be provided. Counterfeit items include unlawful or unauthorized reproductions, substitutions, or alterations that have been mismarked, misidentified, or otherwise misrepresented to be an authentic, unmodified item from the original manufacturer, or a source with the express written authority of the original manufacturer or current design activity, including an authorized aftermarket manufacturer. Unlawful or unauthorized substitutions include used items represented as new, or the false identification of grade, serial number, lot number, date code, or performance characteristics.

(c) Vendor shall be an OEM, authorized dealer, authorized distributor, or authorized reseller for the proposed equipment/system, verified by an authorization letter or other documents from the OEM. All software licensing, warranty and service associated with the equipment/system shall be in accordance with the OEM terms and conditions.

(End of clause)

C.9 VAAR 852.232-72 ELECTRONIC SUBMISSION OF PAYMENT REQUESTS (NOV 2018)

(a) Definitions. As used in this clause—

(1) Contract financing payment has the meaning given in FAR 32.001;

(2) Designated agency office means the office designated by the purchase order, agreement, or contract to first receive and review invoices. This office can be contractually designated as the receiving entity. This office may be different from the office issuing the payment;

(3) Electronic form means an automated system transmitting information electronically according to the accepted electronic data transmission methods and formats identified in paragraph (c) of this clause. Facsimile, email, and scanned documents are not acceptable electronic forms for submission of payment requests;

(4) Invoice payment has the meaning given in FAR 32.001; and

(5) Payment request means any request for contract financing payment or invoice payment submitted by the contractor under this contract.

(b) Electronic payment requests. Except as provided in paragraph (e) of this clause, the contractor shall submit payment requests in electronic form. Purchases paid with a Government-wide commercial purchase card are considered to be an electronic transaction for purposes of this rule, and therefore no additional electronic invoice submission is required.

(c) Data transmission. A contractor must ensure that the data transmission method and format are through one of the following:

(1) VA’s Electronic Invoice Presentment and Payment System at the current website address provided in the contract.

(2) Any system that conforms to the X12 electronic data interchange (EDI) formats established by the Accredited Standards Center (ASC) and chartered by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI).

(d) Invoice requirements. Invoices shall comply with FAR 32.905.

(e) Exceptions. If, based on one of the circumstances in this paragraph (e), the Contracting Officer directs that payment requests be made by mail, the Contractor shall submit payment requests by mail through the United States Postal Service to the designated agency office. Submission of payment requests by mail may be required for—

(1) Awards made to foreign vendors for work performed outside the United States;

(2) Classified contracts or purchases when electronic submission and processing of payment requests could compromise the safeguarding of classified or…