RFQ W81XWH22Q0985.docx

W81XWH22Q0985

Section SF 1449 - CONTINUATION SHEET

COMBINED SYNOPSIS/SOLICITATION

Solicitation Number: W81XWH-22-Q-0985

This is a combined synopsis/solicitation for commercial items prepared in accordance with the format in Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) subpart 12.6, “Streamlined Procedures for Evaluation and Solicitation for Commercial Items,” as supplemented with additional information included in this notice. This announcement constitutes the only solicitation; “proposals” are being requested, and a written solicitation document will not be issued.

The solicitation document and incorporated provisions and clauses are those in effect through Federal Acquisition Circular (FAC) 2022-06.

Offeror Definition. “Offeror”, as used in this solicitation, encompasses either a single entity, or a consortium of entities including subcontractors or teaming partners, that submit a proposal in response to this solicitation. If the Offeror consists of a consortium of entities, one shall be clearly designated as the Prime Offeror.

Award without Discussions. The Government intends to evaluate proposals and award a contract without discussions with Offerors, except clarifications. The Government reserves the right to conduct discussions if the Contracting Officer later determines them to be necessary; the Contracting Officer will provide proposal revision instructions to the Offeror, as required. Therefore, the Offeror’s initial proposal should contain the Offeror’s best terms from a technical and price standpoint. All proposals shall be subject to evaluation by a team of Government personnel who will evaluate only one proposal from each prime Offeror.

PROPOSAL PREPARATION INSTRUCTIONS.

Offerors shall submit their proposal in accordance with the solicitation and attachments. Failure to submit all documents concurrently and in accordance with the instructions outlined may render a proposal ineligible for award.

Submission of Questions. Offerors are instructed to submit questions no later than 22 August 2022 at 10:00 AM EST. Questions shall be submitted electronically to Grant A. Gratton, Contracting Specialist, grant.a.gratton.civ@.health.mil. Offerors shall submit one set of questions only; multiple e-mails will not be accepted. The solicitation number, W81XWH-22-Q-0985 must be included in the subject line. Questions not submitted electronically will not be answered. Answers to all relevant and appropriate questions will be issued via amendment to the solicitation.

Submission of Proposals. Each section shall be separate and complete, so that evaluation of one may be accomplished independently of, and concurrently with, evaluation of the others. Proposal are due 10:00 AM EST on 1 September 2022.

Proposal Contents. Proposals shall be clear, specific, complete, and concise, presenting complete effective methods and approaches for satisfying the RFP’s requirements. Content shall be indexed (cross-indexed, as appropriate) and logically assembled. The Government will evaluate only one proposal from each prime Offeror.

Proposal Submission. Proposals shall contain four separate volumes as follows: Volume I – Technical Proposal, Volume II, Corporate Experience, Volume III – Past Performance, Volume IV - Price proposal. Each volume shall be separate.

Proposal Format. All contract submittals shall have one inch margins and have a minimum 12 point font. Minimum font size for graphics and tables is 8 point. All proposals shall be on 8 ½ x 11 sheets, with the exception of Engineering and Installation package drawings.

PERFORMANCE WORK STATEMENT.

PERFORMANCE WORK STATEMENT (PWS)

Environmental Test Services

U.S. ARMY AEROMEDICAL RESEARCH LABORATORY

SECTION 1 PURPOSE

1.1. Introduction. The United States Army Aeromedical Research Lab’s (USAARL) Enroute Care Group (ECG) conducts airworthiness test and evaluation of carry on medical items for use in rotary wing aircraft. The test and evaluation is based on military standard MIL-STD-810 and MIL-STD-461. To conduct the MIL-STD testing, ECG owns and operates several test chambers.

1.2. Mission. The ECG mission is to promote a cost-effective, joint test, evaluation, and certification program of the highest quality, focused on portable medical equipment used aboard enroute care platforms in support of Warfighters and Soldiers worldwide.

1.3. Background. USAARL currently has a variety of environmental test chambers. Test chambers include: climatic, low pressure, rapid decompression, blowing rain, and settling dust. This contract will provide a backup to ECG chambers and provide additional testing capabilities.

1.4. Scope.

The government will be responsible for providing the following:

1) Request to perform test.

2) Test article.

3) Personnel to operate test article and gather data from test article.

TASK 1 Contractor will provide testing services that meets the essential characteristics listed in Appendix A.

TASK 2 Contractor provide response to government test request within 1 week. Provide a schedule that meets government and contractor availability.

TASK 3 Contractor will provide test facility with test chambers meeting MIL-STD-810 requirements and be within a 400 mile radius of Fort Rucker, AL.

TASK 4 Contractor will provide operator for test chambers.

TASK 5 Contractor will provide test chambers calibrated according to ISO 17025 requirements and supply USAARL with proper calibration certificates as required by ISO 17025.

TASK 6 Contractor will provide test report that meets MIL-STD-810 reporting requirements NLT 2 weeks following conclusion of testing.

SECTION 2 GENERAL REQUIREMENT

2.1. Performance

2.1.1 Place of Performance. TBD, 400 mile radius of USAARL (Fort Rucker, AL).

2.1.2 Period of Performance. This contract is for five years

2.1.3 Quality Assurance. Performance of the contractor will monitored by the Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR) using the surveillance methods listed in the Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan (QASP).

2.2. Non-Personal Services

This PWS identifies services that are strictly non-personal in nature, as defined by Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Part 37, Service Contracting. To ensure there is no appearance of any personal services, the Government shall neither supervise contractor personnel nor control the method by which the contractor performs the required tasks. Under no circumstances shall the Government assign tasks or prepare work schedules for individual contractor personnel. It shall be the responsibility of the contractor to manage its personnel and to guard against any actions that give the perception of personal services. If the contractor believes that any actions constitute, or are perceived to constitute personal services, it shall be the contractor's responsibility to notify the Contracting Officer (KO) immediately.

2.3. Contract Management

2.3.1. Government Management. The COR and Alternate Contracting Officer’s Representative (ACOR) for this contract will be appointed by the KO. The COR will serve as the primary point of contact for all activities and issues that occur under this contract. In the event that the COR is not available, the ACOR will assume the COR’s responsibilities.

2.3.2. Contractor Management. The contractor shall designate a single Program Manager (PM) to be the contractor’s authorized point of contact (POC) with the COR. The PM will be responsible for formulating and enforcing performance standards, assigning contractor schedules, reviewing performance quality, communicating policies, purposes, and goals to subordinates. This will include coordination with the KO and the COR to resolve any issues that may arise, trends relating to the contract, or proposed changes or modifications to the contract. The PM shall demonstrate capability in the overall management of complex tasks, and strong team building skills.

2.3.2.1. The contractor shall establish clear organizational lines of authority and responsibility to ensure effective management of the resources assigned to the requirement. The contractor shall ensure that all contractor personnel are advised of their chain of command and who they should contact if they have questions.

2.3.2.2. The contractor shall fill vacant positions within thirty (30) business days. If contractor positions are vacant for more thirty (30) days, the COR will provide a Contract Deficiency Report (CDR) to the KO.

2.3.2.3. The contractor shall develop and provide a Contract Management Plan (CMP) (Deliverable 3) with their proposal. The CMP shall include a detailed staffing plan which includes listing of the key personnel.

2.3.2.4. The contractor shall provide a draft Quality Control Plan (QCP) (Deliverable 4) with their proposal and a final QCP no later than 15 days after contract award. The contractor shall prepare and adhere to a QCP describing how the contractor intends to manage the contract to achieve the established standards set forth in the Performance Standards Summary Matrix and the contractor’s QCP.

2.3.3. Subcontract Management. The subcontractor shall be:

2.3.3.1. Responsible for any subcontract management necessary to integrate services performed on this contract.

2.3.3.2. Responsible and accountable for subcontractor performance on this contract.

2.3.3.3. Responsible to manage task distribution to ensure there are no OCI considerations.

2.3.3.4. Contractors may add subcontractors to their team after notification and approval from the PCO and COR. Cross teaming shall be permitted.

2.4. Reports

2.4.1. Reports and documents delivered by the contractor in the performance of this contract shall be considered Technical Data as defined in the applicable FAR clause 52.227-14, Rights in Data. All documentation shall reflect the latest version of the work product or activity, unless specifically directed otherwise by the Government. All documentation shall be prepared in accordance with (IAW) standard industry practices, ensuring electronically produced documents which reflect logical flow of material, tables of contents indexes and page numbering. Where applicable, the contractor’s attention is called to the availability of commercial, industry, federal, and military guides, instructions, and standards for many of the topics addressed in this PWS and under this contract.

2.4.2. Monthly Financial Tracking Report (Deliverable 6). The contractor shall provide a spreadsheet with detail of real time expenditure levels of every contract line item number (CLIN). The initial report is due 45 days after contract award and monthly thereafter.

2.4.3. Monthly Report (Deliverable 7). The contractor shall provide a monthly report detailing all work, including the subcontractor’s work, and where there is critical or significant data related to the provided support. The report shall include a detailed list of all hours worked and workload accomplished, to include but not limited to, a list of equipment serviced and writing assignments in support of this requirement.

2.4.4. Contract Manpower Reporting (Deliverable 8). This is a mandatory requirement IAW Army Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (AFARS) 5137.91, Accounting for Contract Services.

The contractor shall report ALL contractor labor hours (including subcontractor labor hours) required for performance of services provided under this contract for USAARL via a secure data collection site. The contractor is required to completely fill in all required data fields using the following web address: http://www.ecmra.mil.

Reporting inputs will be for the labor executed during the period of performance during each Government fiscal year (FY), which runs October 1 through September 30. While inputs may be reported any time during the FY, all data shall be reported no later than October 31 of each calendar year, beginning with 2013. Contractors may direct questions to the help desk at:

http://www.ecmra.mil/.

2.5. Training Requirements

2.5.1. Completion of Training Requirements (Deliverable 5). The contractor shall track and complete refresher training to maintain training compliance and readiness status. The contractor shall submit certificates of completion for each affected contractor and subcontractor personnel to the COR within 5 calendar days after completion of training by all personnel and subcontractor personnel. Contractor shall track and complete refresher training to maintain training compliance and readiness status as required.

2.5.1.1. Anti-Terrorism (AT) Level 1. All contractor employees, including subcontractor employees, requiring access to Army installations, facilities, or controlled access areas shall complete AT Level I awareness training within 30 calendar days after contract start date or effective date of incorporation of this requirement into the contract, whichever applies. The contractor shall submit certificates of completion for each affected contractor employee and subcontractor employee to the COR (or to the contracting officer, if a COR is not assigned) with 5 calendar days after completion of training by all employees and subcontractor personnel. AT Level I awareness training is available at https://atlevel1.dtic.mil.

2.5.1.2. Operations Security Training (OPSEC). Per Army Regulation (AR) 530-1, Operations Security, new contractor personnel shall complete Level I OPSEC Awareness Training within 30 days of reporting for duty. This non-residential training is required every 365 days, available on-line at http://cdsetrain.dtic.mil/opsec/index.htm. It takes approximately 30 minutes to complete.

2.5.1.3. Combat Trafficking in Persons General Awareness Course (CTIP). Training applies to those contractor personnel who perform contract requirements Outside Continental United States (OCONUS). Applicable contractor shall complete this required non-residential training every 365 days, available on-line at https://www.lms.army.mil (AKO, then select ALMS). It takes approximately 30 minutes to complete.

2.5.1.4. Sexual Harassment/Assault Reponses and Prevention (SHARP) Contractor Training. This training is IAW USAMRAA Policy 17-01, Sexual Harassment/Assault Reponses and Prevention (SHARP) Contractor Guidance.

2.5.1.4.1. The contractor shall comply with OTSG/MEDCOM Policy Memo 16-033, Policy for Reporting Incidents of Sexual Assault and Sexual Harassment under the Sexual Assault Prevention and Responses Program (SHARP). The SHARP reporting requirements apply only to knowledge obtained by contractor personnel while performing services under this contract.

2.5.1.4.2. The contractor shall require all contractor personnel with knowledge to an incident of sexual assault or sexual harassment occurring on a Government facility, to include a Government leased facility, where the contractor is providing services under this contract, to report the incident to the contractor who shall immediately (within 24 hours) report the incident in writing to the Government’s COR or Contracting Officer. All incidents shall be reported whether they involve contractor personnel or Government personnel, or other individuals.

2.5.1.4.3. Government Unique Training. The contractor shall ensure all services providers receive SHARP Training no later than 60 calendar days after contractor personnel begin performance under this contract and annually thereafter. Training can be self-study using the provided slides, obtained online for contractor personnel with an Army Knowledge On-line (AKO) account or in person. In-person training through USAMRAA can be scheduled by contacting (301) 619-8937 for class date/time and availability. If the employee has an AKO account, they can access training online at Army AKO: https://www.us.army.mil/. (Deliverable 9)

2.6. Contractor Personnel, Disciplines, and Specialties

2.6.1. Labor Categories and Descriptions.

The contractor shall accomplish the assigned tasks by employing and utilizing qualified personnel with appropriate combinations of education, training, and experience. The contractor shall match personnel skills to the task with a minimum of under or over employment of resources.

2.6.2. Duty Hours.

2.6.2.1. Contractor personnel shall perform services during regular duty hours. Depending on the location can range from 0600 to 1800 hours, Monday through Friday. The 8 hour regular duty day will be determined by the Depot Chief and Shop Supervisor at each location. When the services require work at other on-site Government locations, an adjustment to the regular duty hours may be necessary.

2.6.2.2. The contractor shall not perform services on days designated as a Federal Holiday by Federal Status, Executive Order, Presidential Proclamation or Installation Commander.

2.6.2.3. Federal holidays are an exception to the regular duty hours. Any of the holidays listed below falling on a Saturday will be observed on the preceding Friday; holidays falling on a Sunday will be observed on the following Monday. The following is a list of legal federal holidays that services shall not be performed:

2.6.2.3.1. New Year’s Day, 1 January

2.6.2.3.2. Martin Luther King’s Birthday, 3rd Monday in January

2.6.2.3.3. President’s Day, 3rd Monday in February

2.6.4.3.4. Memorial Day, last Monday in May

2.6.2.3.5. Juneteenth, 19 June

2.6.2.3.6. Independence Day, 4 July

2.6.2.3.7. Labor Day, 1st Monday in September

2.6.2.3.8. Columbus Day, 2nd Monday in October

2.6.2.3.9. Veteran’s Day, 11 November

2.6.2.3.10. Thanksgiving Day, 4th Thursday in November

2.6.2.3.11. Christmas Day, 25 December

2.6.2.4. The contractor shall not perform services or report to work on days the Government or installation is closed due to local determinations relating to safety conditions, inclement weather conditions, national emergencies, energy conservation. During these periods of closure, the contractor personnel who are not designated as essential personnel shall not report for work nor shall they be compensated for those days.

2.6.2.5. Telecommuting. Telecommuting is not feasible for the services provided under this contract. Medical equipment maintenance, administrative, and professional support services must be performed on site.

SECTION 3 PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS

3.1. The contractor shall provide Environmental Testing Support Services. The following section specifies the Performance Objectives and Performance Elements for the contract.

3.1.1. The contractor shall be have extensive experience performing MIL-STD-810 testing.

3.2. Performance Requirement Summary Matrix

SECTION 4 SPECIAL REQUIREMENT

4.1. Government Furnished Equipment- Not Applicable

4.2. Contractor Furnished Property- Not Applicable

4.3. Security and Safety

4.3.1. Access and General Protection/Security Policy and Procedures. The contractor and all associated subcontractors’ personnel shall comply with applicable installation, facility, and area commander installation and facility access and local security policies and procedures (provided by the Government representative). The contractor shall also provide all information required for background checks to meet installation access requirements to be accomplished by the installation Provost Marshal Office, Director of Emergency Services, or Security Office. The contractor workforce shall comply with all personal identity verification requirements (FAR clause 52.204-9, Personal Identity Verification of Contractor Personnel) as directed by DoD, HQDA, and/or local policy. In addition to the changes otherwise authorized by the changes clause of this contract, should the Force Protection Condition (FPCON) at any individual facility or installation change, the Government may require changes in contractor security matters or processes.

4.3.2. Contractors That Do Not Require CAC, But Require Access to a DoD Facility or Installation. Contractor and all associated sub-contractors employees shall comply with adjudication standards and procedures using the National Crime Information Center Interstate Identification Index (NCIC-III) and Terrorist Screening Database (TSDB) (Army Directive 2014-05/AR 190-13), applicable installation, facility and area commander installation/facility access and local security policies and procedures (provided by government representative), or, at OCONUS locations, IAW status of forces agreements and other theater regulations.

4.3.3. Prior to commencement of services, the contractor shall provide the COR, within seven (7) calendar days in advance of the event, full names, date of birth, place of birth and Social Security numbers (or equivalent identification numbers for non-U.S. citizens) of all personnel who will be entering Army-controlled installation and facilities.

4.3.4. The contractor shall ensure that its personnel entering Army-controlled installations or facilities have obtained access badges and passes IAW facility regulations and that these badges and passes are obtained in advance so as not to delay the accomplishment of contracted services. The contractor shall contract COR or designated Government Trusted Associate Sponsorship System (TASS) Trusted Agent who is responsible to facilitate and sponsoring contractor’s Army Knowledge Online (AKO) registration and TASS in-processing and out-processing, to include approval, rejection and re-verification.

4.3.5. The contractor shall return all issued U.S. Government Common Access Cards, installation badges, access badges to the COR when the contract is completed or when a contractor personnel no longer requires access to the installation and facility.

4.3.6. Force Protection Condition (FPCON) impact on work levels. The contractor workforce shall comply with all personal identity verification requirements as directed by DoD, Headquarters Department of the Army (HQDA), and local policy. In addition to the changes otherwise authorized by the changes clauses of this contract, should the FPCON at any individual facility or installation change, the Government may require changes in contractor security matters or process. IAW Department of Defense Instructions (DoDI) 2000.16, DoD AT Standards, the FPCON is defined as follows:

4.3.6.1. FPCON ALPHA. This condition applies when there is a general threat of possible terrorist activity against personnel and facilities, the nature and extent of which are unpredictable, and circumstances do not justify full implementation of FPCON BRAVO measures. However, it may be necessary to implement certain measures from higher the Terrorist Threat Conditions (THREATCONS) resulting from intelligence received or as a deterrent. The measures in this THREATCON must be capable of being maintained indefinitely.

4.3.6.2. FPCON BRAVO. This condition applies when an increased and more predictable threat of terrorist activity exists. The measures in this THREATCON must be capable of being maintained for weeks without causing undue hardship, affecting operational capability, and aggravating relations with local authorities.

4.3.6.3. FPCON CHARLIE. This condition applies when an incident occurs or intelligence received indicating some form of terrorist action against personnel and facilities is imminent. Implementation of measures in this THREATCON for more than a short period probably will create hardship and affect the peacetime activities of the unit and its personnel.

4.3.6.4. FPCON DELTA. This condition applies in the immediate area where a terrorist attack has occurred or when intelligence has been received that terrorist action against a specific location or person is likely. Normally, this THREATCON is declared as a localized condition. See also anti-terrorism

4.3.6.5. During FPCONs Charlie and Delta, non-essential services are discontinued. Designated essential service will resume when the FPCON level is reduced to level Bravo or lower.

4.3.6.6. When contractor personnel are considered mission essential, all contractor personnel are required to report for duty and remain on duty during declared emergencies or elevated FPCON levels unless otherwise directed by the contracting officer via the appropriate COR.

4.3.6.7. Generation, handling and storage of classified material. The contractor shall not generate, handle or store classified material for this contract.

4. 4. Security Requirements. The contractor shall not possess or store classified information at the contractor’s facility; therefore, level of safeguarding required is not applicable to this contract.

4.5. Proprietary Information Assurance and Security. The contractor shall comply with Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Circular A-130, “Management of Federal Information Resources,” which requires Certification and Accreditation (C&A) of all federal information systems every three (3) years at a minimum or as changes that require re-accreditation occur. This C&A requirement ensures the effective safeguarding of sensitive but unclassified (SBU) data against unauthorized modification, disclosure, destruction, and denial of service, as directed by the DoD.

4.5.1. The contractor shall protect all data in the strictest confidence; prevent the unauthorized duplication, use and disclosure of information that is subject to the Privacy Act of 1974, HIPAA IAW applicable statutory, regulations, local policies and procedures.

4.5.2. All data received, processed, evaluated, loaded, and created as a result of this contract shall remain the sole property of the Government and shall be returned to the Government at the conclusion of the contract unless the contracting officer grants specific exception.

4.5.3. The contractor is prohibited from appropriation, disclosure, or unauthorized use of proprietary information that is acquired in the execution of this contract.

4.5.4. All products including files, software, and other information, which are created, produced or developed during the period of performance is the property of the Government and shall be returned unless the Government grants the contractor permission to retain the materials and products for continued development or publication.

4.6. Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan. Every DoD contract awarded for services in excess of $2,500.00 shall contain a QASP as discussed in the FAR 46, Government Contract Quality Assurance. A QASP is a plan that specify the particular services the COR will inspect and the method(s) used to complete that surveillance. Each offeror shall digest the PWS in this RFP and offer a QASP associated therewith. The QASP shall be submitted as part of the offeror’s technical proposal. It will not be subjectively evaluated and rated. However, it may be discussed during the pre-award period for finalization prior to its inclusion in the awarded contract.

4.7. Visitor Group Security Agreement. The contractor shall sign a Contractor Visitor Group Security Agreement to protect Government information involved in performance under this contract. The agreement shall outline responsibilities in the following areas: contractor security supervision; standard practice procedures; access, accountability, storage, and transmission of and other responsibilities, as required.

SECTION 5 DELIVERABLES

5.1. Deliverables. The contractor shall provide the following deliverable as listed.

Reserved.

SECTION 6 APPLICABLE DIRECTIVES, REGULATIONS, AND POLICIES

6.1. Environmental Requirements

6.1.1. Mandatory Compliance. Occupational Safety and Health Act and AR 200-1 Environmental Protection and Enhancement.

6.1.2. Non Mandatory Documents. Additional DoD and Army environmental program and regulations are available on-line at http://aec.army.mil. Error! Hyperlink reference not valid.

SECTION 7 DEFINITIONS AND ACRONYMS

7.1. Definitions

7.1.1. CONTRACTOR. A supplier or vendor awarded a contract to provide specific supplies or service to the government. The term used in this contract refers to the prime.

7.1.2. CONTRACTING OFFICER. A person with authority to enter into, administer, and/or terminate contracts, and make related determinations and findings on behalf of the government. The Contracting Officer is the only individual who can legally bind the government.

7.1.3. CONTRACTING OFFICER'S REPRESENTATIVE (COR). An employee of the U.S. Government appointed by the contracting officer to administer the contract. Such appointment shall be in writing and shall state the scope of authority and limitations. This individual has authority to provide technical direction to the contractor as long as that direction is within the scope of the contract, does not constitute a change, and has no funding implications. This individual does NOT have authority to change the terms and conditions of the contract.

7.1.4. DEFECTIVE SERVICE. A service output that does not meet the standard of performance associated with the Performance Work Statement.

7.1.5. DELIVERABLE. Anything that can be physically delivered, but may include non-manufactured things such as meeting minutes or reports.

7.1.6. KEY PERSONNEL. Contractor personnel that are evaluated in a source selection process and that may be required to be used in the performance of a contract by the Key Personnel listed in the PWS. When key personnel are used as an evaluation factor in best value procurement, an offer can be rejected if it does not have a firm commitment from the persons that are listed in the proposal.

7.1.7. PHYSICAL SECURITY. Actions that prevent the loss or damage of Government property.

7.1.8. QUALITY ASSURANCE. The government procedures to verify that services being performed by the contractor are performed according to acceptable standards.

7.1.9. QUALITY ASSURANCE SURVEILLANCE PLAN (QASP). An organized written document specifying the surveillance methodology to be used for surveillance of contractor performance.

7.1.10. QUALITY CONTROL. All necessary measures taken by the contractor to assure that the quality of an end product or service shall meet contract requirements.

7.1.11. SUBCONTRACTOR. One that enters into a contract with a prime contractor. The Government does not have privity of contract with the subcontractor.

7.1.12. WORK DAY. The number of hours per day the contractor provides services IAW the contract.

7.1.13. WORK WEEK. Monday through Friday, unless specified otherwise.

7.3. Related Documents

7.3.1 APPENDIX A. Essential Characteristics.

QASP

QASP

QUALITY ASSURANCE SURVEILLANCE PLAN

For: USAARL Environmental Testing

Contract Number: upon award, enter contract number

Contract Description: Environmental Testing

Contractor’s name: upon award, enter contractor name (hereafter referred to as the contractor).

1. PURPOSE.

This Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan (QASP) provides a systematic method to evaluate performance for the stated contract. This QASP explains the following:

- What will be monitored

- How monitoring will take place

- Who will conduct the monitoring

- How monitoring efforts and results will be documented

This QASP does not detail how the contractor accomplishes the work. Rather, the QASP is created with the premise that the contractor is responsible for management and quality control actions to meet the terms of the contract. It is the Government’s responsibility to be objective, fair, and consistent in evaluating performance. In addition, the QASP should recognize that unforeseen and uncontrollable situations may occur.

This QASP is a “living document” and the Government may review and revise it on a regular basis. However, the Government shall coordinate changes with the contractor. Updates shall ensure that the QASP remains a valid, useful, and enforceable document. Copies of the original QASP and revisions shall be provided to the contractor and Government officials implementing surveillance activities.

The following FAR clauses may apply depending on contract type:

52.246-4 Inspection of Services – Fixed-Price

2. GOVERNMENT ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES.

The following personnel shall oversee and coordinate surveillance activities.

a. Contracting Officer (KO) - The KO shall ensure performance of all necessary actions for effective contracting, ensure compliance with the contract terms, and shall safeguard the interests of the United States in the contractual relationship. The KO shall also assure that the contractor receives impartial, fair, and equitable treatment under this contract. The KO is ultimately responsible for the final determination of the adequacy of the contractor’s performance.

Assigned KO:

Organization or Agency: USAMRAA Telephone:

Email:

b. Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR) - The COR is responsible for technical administration of the contract and shall assure proper Government surveillance of the contractor’s performance. The COR shall keep a quality assurance file. At the conclusion of the contract or when requested by the KO, the COR shall provide documentation to the KO. The COR is not empowered to make any contractual commitments or to authorize any contractual changes on the Government’s behalf. The contractor shall refer any changes they deem may affect contract price, terms, or conditions to the KO for action.

Assigned COR: Samuel David Jones Telephone: 334-255-6012 Email: Samuel.d.jones52.civ@mail.mil

3. CONTRACTOR REPRESENTATIVES:

The contractor shall appoint a Program Manager in support of this contract.

a. Program Manager - Telephone:

Email:

b. Other Contractor Personnel - Title:

Telephone:

Email:

4. PERFORMANCE STANDARDS.

Performance standards define desired services. The Government performs surveillance to determine if the contractor exceeds, meets or does not meet these standards.

The Performance Requirements Summary Matrix, shown below, includes performance standards. The Government shall use these standards to determine contractor performance and shall compare contractor performance to the Acceptable Quality Level (AQL).

5. RESERVED.

6. METHODS OF QA SURVEILLANCE.

Various methods exist to monitor performance. The COR shall use the surveillance methods listed below in the administration of this QASP.

Regardless of the surveillance method, the COR shall always contact the contractor's task manager or on-site representative when a defect is identified and inform the manager of the specifics of the problem. The COR shall be responsible for monitoring the contractor’s performance in meeting a specific performance standard/AQL.

a. 100% INSPECTION. All outputs will be evaluated as described in the performance standards section.

b. PERIODIC SAMPLING. Proficiency tests will be conducted at least monthly and when a deficiency is suspected. Calibration re-performed at one (1) year.

c. USER SURVEY. Trainees will be surveyed upon completion of task to ensure performance standards have been met.

Surveillance results may be used as the basis for actions (to include payment deductions) against the contractor. In such cases, the Inspection of Services clause in the Contract becomes the basis for the KO’s actions.

7. RATINGS.

Metrics and methods are designed to determine if performance exceeds, meets, or does not meet a given standard and acceptable quality level. A rating scale shall be used to determine a positive, neutral, or negative outcome. The following ratings shall be used:

8. DOCUMENTING PERFORMANCE.

a. ACCEPTABLE PERFORMANCE.

The Government shall document positive performance. A report template is attached. Any report may become a part of the supporting documentation for fixed fee payments, award fee payments, or other actions.

b. UNACCEPTABLE PERFORMANCE.

When unacceptable performance occurs, the COR shall inform the contractor. This will normally be in writing unless circumstances necessitate verbal communication. In any case the COR shall document the discussion and place it in the COR file.

When the COR determines formal written communication is required, the COR shall prepare a Contract Discrepancy Report (CDR), and present it to the contractor's task manager or on-site representative. A CDR template is attached to this QASP.

The contractor shall acknowledge receipt of the CDR in writing. The CDR will specify if the contractor is required to prepare a corrective action plan to document how the contractor shall correct the unacceptable performance and avoid a recurrence. The CDR will also state how long after receipt the contractor has to present this corrective action plan to the COR. The Government shall review the contractor's corrective action plan to determine acceptability.

Any CDRs may become a part of the supporting documentation for contract payment deductions, fixed fee deductions, award fee nonpayment, or other actions deemed necessary by the KO.

9. FREQUENCY OF MEASUREMENT.

a. Frequency of Measurement.

During contract/order performance, the COR shall take periodic measurements, weekly as specified in the AQL column of the Performance Standards Summary Matrix, and shall analyze whether the negotiated frequency of measurement is appropriate for the work being performed.

b. Frequency of Performance Assessment Meetings.

The COR shall meet with the contractor weekly to assess performance.

USAARL will provide interim assessments after surveillance activities and a final assessment at the end of the contract.

A positive performance evaluation report will be provided as each task is completed.

Prepared by: Samuel David Jones Enroute Care Group, USAARL

Signature – Contracting Officer’s Representative

PERFORMANCE REPORT

1. CONTRACT NUMBER:

2. Prepared by: Samuel D Jones

3. Date and time of observation:

4. Observation:

Examples of items to include in a report are:

- Method of surveillance.

- How frequently you conducted surveillance.

- Surveillance results.

- Number of observations.

Prepared by: Samuel D Jones

CONTRACT DISCREPANCY REPORT (CDR)

1. Contract Number:

2. TO: (Contractor Task Manager or on-site representative)

3. FROM: Samuel D Jones

4. Date and time observed discrepancy:

5. DISCREPANCY OR PROBLEM:

5. Corrective action plan:

A written corrective action plan is / is not required.

If a written corrective action plan is required include the following. The written Corrective Action Plan will be provided to the undersigned not later than number of days after receipt of this CDR.

Prepared by: Samuel D Jones

Received by:

The COR may initiate a CDR at any time, including whenever the number of monthly recorded defects for a performance standard exceeds the allowable number of defects; anytime unacceptable performance is determined critical in nature and requires formal corrective action; and whenever an unfavorable trend is detected in contractor performance.

MEC

ECG Contract for Test Services The U.S Army Aeromedical Research Laboratory (USAARL), Ft Rucker AL, is seeking a contract for test services. Work is to be performed at the applicant’s location. The U.S. Army Medical Research Acquisition Activity (USAMRAA), Ft Detrick MD, will be the contracting activity. Applicants testing capabilities shall be accredited to ISO/IEC 17025 by the American Association of Laboratory Accreditation (A2LA). ISO/IEC 17025 details the quality, data and calibration processes necessary for the conduct of testing services. Applicants shall possess a Quality Assurance Program registered to ISO-9001. The applicants must be within a 400 mile radius of USAARL, exemptions will be considered on a case by case basis. The test services will be performed in accordance with (IAW) the Joint Enroute Care Equipment Test Standard (JECETS) Revision 1, attachment 1. The JECETS was tailored from multiple test standards. This advertisement uses test methods tailored from MIL-STD-810H. Within every contract year the applicants will perform a combination of a maximum of 12 tests from the six test methods listed below. Contract period will be base year, plus 4 option years. Test methods to be performed include:

1. Low Pressure (Altitude): This test will be performed to assess equipment performance at various altitudes, using MIL-STD-810H, Method 500.6, Procedure II, as guidance. Functional checks will be performed at the following altitudes during ascent: 2000; 4000; 6,000; 8000; 10,000; 12,500; 15,000; and 18,000 feet (ft). The ascent and descent rates will not exceed 5,000 feet per minute (fpm). The dwell time will be 5 minutes at each level; however, dwell time may be tailored, if necessary. In general, medical carry-on items must pass at all altitudes up to 10,000 ft. Ground level elevation at the test facility will be documented at the time of testing.

2. Rapid decompression: This test will be performed using MIL-STD-810H, Method 500.6, Procedure III, as guidance. This test will verify that the equipment will not: • Experience any susceptibilities, per the test plan, following a rapid decompression event, or • Pose a risk to the aircraft, aircrew members, or the patient during or following a rapid decompression event.

This procedure involves a pre-test during which a physical inspection and functional check of the test article will be accomplished at ground level. The test event involves a chamber simulating the ascension to 8,000 ft at a rate not to exceed 5,000 fpm followed by a decompression to 45,000 ft in 15 seconds or less while observing device performance and potential safety hazards. The altitude will be maintained for at least 10 minutes and then returned to ground level at a rate not to exceed 5,000 fpm. Once stabilized at ground level, the test article will then be removed from the test chamber and a physical inspection and functional check of the device will be performed.

3. Explosive Atmosphere: This test will be performed to validate equipment will operate safely in a fuel-air explosive atmosphere without causing ignition, using MIL-STD-810H, Method 511.7, Procedure I, as guidance. The test article will be placed in a chamber and exposed to an environment containing 3.8% volumetric fuel vapor, 8.33 air/vapor ratio (AVR) by weight, at 49±2°C (minimum required operational temperature for medical carry-on devices). The test article shall be turned on and off as many times as the test interval will allow. If required, chamber temperature and simulated altitude may be adjusted to allow proper operation of the test article. If after having started the test it is determined for any reason that the chamber temperature and/or altitude needs to be adjusted, i.e., test item operating limitations, purge the chamber and recalculate fuel requirements based on the new temperature/altitude setting. The test article shall be turned on and off as many times as the test interval will allow. Test articles that take a long time to turn on or off shall be operated a minimum of three times by slowing the altitude descent rate to a suitable test interval or by repeating the test until three operating cycles have been completed. The test will be conducted in an atmosphere equivalent to 18,000 ft (Army requirement), 10,000 ft (Air Force requirement), and at GL. An ignition must not occur during this test.

4. Blowing Sand: This test will be performed using MIL-STD-810H, Method 510.7, Procedure II, as guidance. The recommended sand concentration is 2.2 ± 0.5 grams per cubic meter (g/m3). The recommended air velocity is 40 to 65 miles per hour (mph), (18 to 29 meters per second [m/s]). The recommended chamber temperature is 49 °C. Prior to testing, a performance test will be conducted on the test article IAW the test plan. The test article will be placed inside the chamber in its operational mode and powered by AC or battery. The test article will be unprotected. The test article must not occupy more than 30% of the test chamber’s volume. Orientation will include the three most vulnerable sides of the test article as defined in the test plan. Testing will be cycled by exposing the test article to three 10-min periods. Following each 10-min exposure, the test article will be removed from the chamber, brushed off, functional or performance checked, returned to the chamber, and reoriented. If applicable, all filters will be cleaned or replaced prior to each orientation. Upon completion of the test, the test article will be removed from the test chamber and visually inspected. Abrasion, clogging effects, and any evidence of sand penetration will be noted. An operational performance check will then be conducted. Sand should not penetrate in a quantity to interfere with the expected operation of the apparatus or to impair safety. In general, carry-on medical items are expected to function normally during and after this test. Any anomalies will be evaluated by SMEs who will compare the test results to expected functionality.

5. Blowing Dust: This test will be performed using MIL-STD-810H Method 510.7, Procedure I, as guidance. The recommended dust concentration is 10.6 ±7 grams per cubic meter (g/m3), (0.3 ± 0.2 grams per cubic feet [g/ft3]). The recommended air velocity is 20 ± 2.9 mph (8.9 ± 1.3 m/s). The recommended chamber temperature is 49 ° C. The test chamber relative humidity should not exceed 30% at any time during test. Prior to testing, a performance test will be conducted on the test article IAW the test plan. The test article will be placed inside the chamber in its operational mode and powered by AC or battery. The test article will be unprotected. The test article must not occupy more than 30% of the test chamber’s volume. Orientation will include the most vulnerable side facing the direction of the blowing dust. The test article will be exposed for one 10-min period and one 20-min period. Following the 10-min exposure, the test article will be removed from the chamber, brushed off, visibly inspected, and at a minimum, functionally checked (test simulators not required). Afterward, the test article will be placed back inside the test chamber for the remaining 20 min of exposure. If applicable, all filters will be cleaned or replaced prior to each orientation. Upon completion of the test, the test article will be removed from the test chamber and visually inspected for dust penetration, followed by an operational performance check. Dust should not penetrate in a quantity to interfere with the expected operation of the apparatus or to impair safety. In general, carry-on medical items are expected to function normally during and after this test. Any anomalies will be evaluated by SMEs who will compare the test results to expected functionality.

6. Blowing Rain: This test will be performed using MIL-STD-810H Method 506.6, Procedure I (Rain and Blowing Rain) as guidance. If available, a fresh test article not exposed to blowing sand or blowing dust will be used. Prior to testing, a performance test will be conducted on the test article IAW the test plan. The test article will be secured inside the chamber (or outdoor test fixture) in its operational mode (battery mode only) while it is unprotected. Orientation will include the three most vulnerable sides of the test article as described in the test plan. The test article will be subjected to a rainfall rate of 2 in. of water per hr with a 40 mph (18 m/s) wind velocity. If possible, the test facility will add fluorescent dye to the water in order to facilitate the investigation of water ingress using ultraviolet, or black light, illumination. Testing will be cycled by exposing the test article to three 10-min periods.