S02 36C25726Q0426.docx

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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

671-26-3-5150-0071

36C25726Q0426 04-23-2026 Sherine Brooks 254-538-0416 05-26-2026 16:00

CDT

36C257 Department Of Veterans Affairs Network Contracting Office 17 5441 Babcock Road Ste. 302 San Antonio, TX 78240

X

541380 $19 Million

N/A

36C519 West Texas VA Health Care System 300 Veterans Blvd Big Spring, TX 79720

36C257 Department Of Veterans Affairs Network Contracting Office 17 5441 Babcock Road Ste. 302 San Antonio TX 78240

This is accomplished through the Tungsten Network located at:

http://www.fsc.va.gov/einvoice.asp This is mandatory and the sole method for submitting invoices.

(877) 353-9791

(512) 460-5540

See CONTINUATION Page Sterile Processing (SPS) Water Testing Service (Base plus 4 years)

Site Visit: May 5, 10am CST | Check in with Police services POC: Joshua New, joshua.new@va.gov, (432) 263-7361 ext. 7405

See CONTINUATION Page

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: TBD

b. GOVERNMENT: Contracting Officer- Sherine Brooks, Sherine.Brooks@va.gov Department Of Veterans Affairs Network Contracting Office 17 5441 Babcock Road Ste. 302 San Antonio, TX 78240

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:

a. [X] After each service is completed.

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.

ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF AMENDMENTS: The offeror acknowledges receipt of amendments to the Solicitation numbered and dated as follows:

Page 1 of

B.2 STATEMENT OF WORK

Sterile Processing (SPS) Water Testing Service A. Background/Objective:

1. The West Texas VA Health Care System (WTVAHCS) is establishing a contracted Water Management Program Service for Sterile Processing Service (SPS) that includes monthly, quarterly, and annual testing cycles in accordance with the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI) ST108:2023 and requirements for equipment operation according to the Instructions for Use (IFU).

2. The updated AAMI ST108:2023 Standard, which governs the processes and requirements for Sterile Processing, adding requirements to the roster of locations needing monthly critical water sampling. Per the standard, the requirement to test critical water at “every point of use” has significantly raised the quantity of water samples needed each month.

B. Scope of Work:

1. The purpose of this service is to provide for the sampling and testing of water to ensure effective water quality for processing medical devices. The testing shall include testing of utility water, critical water, and steam per guidance published in AAMI ST108:2023, Water for the Processing of Medical Devices. In the event ST108 is updated during the life of the contract, the contractor shall use the most recent version unless informed differently.

2. The contractor shall develop a Water Management Program (WMP) for SPS water systems in alignment with VHA Directive 1116(2) Sterile Processing Services and AAMI ST108:2023 Water for the Reprocessing of Medical Devices. AAMI ST108:2023 covers the minimum requirements for the quality of water and steam purity necessary to effectively process medical devices. The VHA may require more stringent requirements or more frequent testing in addition to the minimum requirements in AAMI ST108: however, the AAMI ST108 is the current guidance used by the VHA.

3. Water Management Program Operations for Sterile Processing Service should include meetings and maintenance documentation and advice on the water management program. Provide remote support for the WMP. Provide, operate, and continue to customize the WMP using the web-based data management site. Provide training and records for a web-based data management site. The web-based data management system will also provide services 24/7, provide easy access to WMP- related reports, provide assistance with customized management dashboards, provide email or phone notification for any data outside of normal parameters, and provide data-collection via tablets or other hand-held devices.

4. Water testing will be conducted monthly, quarterly, and annually. VHA prefers the contractor to schedule monthly testing at the beginning of the month. Ideally, test within the first week of every month to enable more time during a particular month for any retesting that may be required. Vendor will come to WTVAHCS Sterile Processing Service to take water samples in secured areas.

5. SPS requires water testing to occur in the morning (8:00am-11:00am) to ensure water testing does not interfere with SPS workflow or risk of workflow causing contaminated sample(s). Water samples should be performed using same criteria as AAMI ST108. Water samples should be collected from all water sources where a final rinse is completed according to AAMI ST108. WTVAHCS requests re-testing or re-validation of non-conforming results.

C. Period of Performance:

Base Year: 08/15/2026 - 08/14/2027 Option Year 1: 08/15/2027 - 08/14/2028 Option Year 2: 08/15/2028 - 08/14/2029

D. Place of Performance:

West Texas VA Health Care System 300 Veterans Blvd Big Spring, TX 79720

E. Point of Contact:

Joshua New M&R Supervisor, Engineering Joshua.new@va.gov

(432) 263-7361 x 7405

F. Three Categories of Water Quality:

1. This contract will cover testing for utility water, critical water, and steam per AAMI ST108.

2. Table 2 from AAMI ST-108 and shown in this scope describes three categories of water quality in terms of the characteristics that are important for medical device processing and the level of treatment that may be needed:

a. Utility Water: Water as it comes from the tap that can require further treatment at the facility to achieve water quality measurement values outlined in Table 2. This water is mainly used for flushing, washing, and intermediate rinsing (e.g., rinsing between cleaning and disinfection).

b. Critical Water: Water that meets the water quality measurement values detailed in Table 2; to achieve these values, the water generally requires extensive treatment by a multi-step process that can include a pretreatment, does include primary treatment (e.g., RO and/or DI), storage, distribution, and can include final treatment to provide a level of assurance that microorganisms and inorganic and organic material are removed from the water. See section 8.3.2.2 for recommended treatment methods. This water is mainly used for the final rinse after high-level disinfection, for the final rinse for critical devices prior to sterilization and feedwater for process steam production.

c. Steam: Vaporized water that is produced by a centralized boiler or a generator/heat exchanger near the sterilizer. When the steam is tested as a condensate, it should meet the specified criteria as defined in Table 2.

3. Utility Water is predominantly used for medical device processing, except for final rinse, where Critical Water is recommended. At the point of production, Utility Water and Critical Water should meet the requirements as specified in Table 2. Tap water can require treatment to meet these requirements. The bacteria level for Critical Water in Table 2 (< 10 CFU/mL [< 10,000 CFU/L]) is consistent with the Clinical & Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) guidelines.

4. Location/Room: Sterile Processing Service, Room 2010

G. Sampling Locations and Requirements:

1. Critical samples will be collected monthly for the testing described above, with the inclusion of re-testing for non-conforming site results:

a. Onsite Chemistry (quantity 5)

· One (1) Boiler Plant RO Supply

· One (1) DI post port

· One (1) Reliance Vision Washer/disinfector

· One (2) sink

b. HPC (quantity 5)

· One (1) Boiler Plant RO Supply

· One (1) DI post port

· One (1) Reliance Vision Washer/disinfector

· One (2) sink

c. LAL (quantity 5)

· One (1) Boiler Plant RO Supply

· One (1) DI post port

· One (1) Reliance Vision Washer/disinfector

· One (2) sink

d. Emergency re-tests:

· Sixteen (16) emergency re-tests for each non-conforming site (as applicable) for results exceeding specifications.

2. Utility samples will be collected quarterly for the testing described above, with the inclusion of re-testing for non-conforming site results:

a. Onsite Chemistry (quantity 11)

· Four (4) sinks

· Two (2) Hot water/cold water Caviwave Ultrasonic Cleaning System

· One (1) Hot water/cold water Reliance Vision Washer/Disinfector

· One (1) DI pre-filter

· Two (2) water sprayers

· One (1) Boiler Plant City Water

b. HPC (quantity 11)

· Four (4) sinks

· Two (2) Hot water/cold water Caviwave Ultrasonic Cleaning System

· One (1) Hot water/cold water Reliance Vision Washer/Disinfector

· One (1) DI pre-filter

· Two (2) water sprayers

· One (1) Boiler Plant City Water

c. Ionics (quantity 1)

· One (1) Boiler Plant City Water

3. Steam samples full chemistry panel will be collected quarterly for the testing described above, with the inclusion of re-testing for non-conforming site results (refer to Table 2 in the Statement of Work).

a. Ionics (quantity 2)

· Two (2) AMSCO 400 Series Steam Sterilizers

4. The equipment for Point of Use testing:

Critical Water:

· Two (2) - Reprocessing Sink

· One (1) – Reliance Vision Washer/Disinfector

· One (1) - DI Port—At the point the distribution loop enters the processing area/after the last treatment step/Storage tank.

· One (1) – Boiler Plant RO Supply

· One (1) – DI Pre-filter

Utility:

· Four (4) - Reprocessing Sinks

· Two (2)- water sprayers

· Two (2) - Caviwave Ultrasonic Cleaning System

· One (1) - Reliance Vision Washer/Disinfector

· One (1) – Boiler Plant Incoming City Water

Steam:

· Two (2) – AMSCO 400 Series Steam Sterilizers

5. Schedule of Supplies:

a. The contractor shall supply all sampling supplies, containers, and paid postage shipping labels. The contractor shall supply training as needed for emergency samples to be collected and shipped. The contractor shall supply all sampling supplies, containers, and paid postage shipping labels for required re-tests.

b. AAMI compliance with water quality Water Testing Requirements:

c. General Procedures for AAMI compliance with water quality:

i. The contractor shall furnish all sample collection bottles and return shipping labels, all transportation costs, and resources necessary to perform for AAMI compliance with water quality testing. Containers must be sterile, appropriate for the analysis, properly preserved, and ready for prompt transportation to the laboratory under strict chain of custody procedures. The contractor shall provide trained staff to perform sample collections.

ii. VA requires minimum critical water testing in accordance with AAMI ST-108 standards. This may require testing on a monthly, quarterly, and annual basis plus 16 emergency re-tests for each non-conforming site if necessary. Endotoxins water testing may warrant additional testing upon new installation, modification, or repair of the Critical Water treatment system or when persistent increased microbial levels are detected by heterotrophic plate count, ATP, or TOC.

6. Sample/Specimen Analysis and Reporting:

a. The testing laboratory processing the water samples for AAMI compliance with water quality must be certified by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Environmental AAMI compliance with water quality Isolation Techniques Evaluation (ELITE) program as proficient at performing the culture of AAMI compliance with water quality from environmental samples.

i. The full 250 ml volume of potable water (utility) must be concentrated for routine quarterly testing. The testing laboratory must retain samples that test positive for AAMI compliance with water quality for 30 calendar days and must release them to the health care system if requested.

ii. Endotoxin testing must be in compliance with use of Limulus Amoebocyte Lysate testing as listed in AAMI ST-108.

Per Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI) ST-108

2.25 endotoxin: High-molecular-weight complex that is associated with the cell wall of Gram-negative bacteria, is pyrogenic in humans and specifically interacts with Limulus amoebocyte lysate (LAL). See also bacterial endotoxins test (BET) and pyrogen.

2.26 endotoxin unit (EU): Standard unit of measure for endotoxin activity initially established relative to the activity contained in 0.2 nanograms of the U.S. Reference Standard Endotoxin Lot EC-2 (United States Pharmacopeia [USP] standard reference material).

NOTE—FDA’s reference endotoxin EC-6, USP Lot G, and the World Health Organization’s primary international endotoxin standard (IS) are sublots of the same endotoxin preparation, making the EU and IU (International Unit) equal (Poole, et al., 1997).

b. The contractor shall provide a fully qualified Laboratory for processing the water samples to meet all metrics of ANSI/AAMI ST108. The laboratory must have environmental microbiology accreditation by a nationally recognized accrediting body, such as Environmental Microbiology Laboratory Accreditation Program (EMLAP), National Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Program (NELAP), etc. Proof of certification must be provided before acceptance of contract.

c. The contractor shall provide all sample analysis reports via e-mail to the identified Contracting Officer Representative (COR) and WTVAHCS Point of Contact.

d. The contractor shall provide all labor, materials, tools, equipment, applicable state licenses and permits to accomplish the requirements.

e. The contractor shall provide water testing services no less than once per month and more frequently, if necessary, to treat water or provide maintenance on equipment. Successive stops between testing shall not exceed 25 calendar days.

f. The contractor is required to make notification of any positive sampling results within 24 hours or next business day of making this determination. Confirmation of notification from WTVAHCS required complete notification process.

g. The contractor’s Analytical reports shall include a signed copy of the chain of custody, identification of sampling locations and conditions, including the specific outlet temperature of water at the time the sample was collected, pH, biocide residual levels, method detection limits, and a description of test methodology. Sample reports need to be provided in a format that can be copied into the WTVAHCS, AAMI water quality sampling results reporting form. Sample analysis reports must be provided within 15 calendar days of the lab receiving the samples. If the 15th day falls on a weekend or federally observed holiday, the reports shall be provided no later than the next normal business day.

h. The contractor shall have qualified technical support staff for consultation related to proper water sample collection, testing, and interpretation of results.

i. The collection of samples will be performed in full compliance with facility Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) practice and policy. Collection team will be escorted into SPS restricted access areas.

j. Reports must include reference material and include previous test results to note trend of water quality with visual aids/graphs. Reports and materials need to be both electronic and hard copy/paper.

k. Assistance with interpretation of reports and creating effective plans of action consultation required.

7. The contractor shall provide water testing equipment – contractor shall provide submittals of water testing equipment or lab certification that they intend on using to carry out the requirements of this contract. Submittals will then be evaluated to ensure that equipment is appropriate and certified.

8. Sampling for SPS water quality of Utility Water, Critical water and Steam:

a. Laboratory and Chemical Analysis:

i. Requirements for testing per AAMI ST-108:

H. Water Quality Monitoring Table:

1. Water quality requirements must be compliant with the guidelines and parameters established by AAMI ST108:23, Water for the Processing of Medical Devices.

2. The following AAMI ST108 table provides the categories and performance qualification levels of water quality for medical device processing:

3. The following AAMI ST108 Table (Table 4) for Water Quality monitoring requirements:

The following AAMI ST108 Table (Table 5) provides the frequency for water quality monitoring at water generation system:

The following AAMI ST108 Table (Table 6) provides the frequency for water quality monitoring at point -of-water-use:

ii. Requirements and Procedures for Sampling of SPS water lines for CFU and Endotoxin: The contractor must be certified by the Environmental Protection Agency or a State environmental protection agency to perform environmental sampling that includes heterotrophic bacterial testing (Aerobic). The contractor shall utilize the Standard Spread Plate Method 9215C using R2A agar. The contractor will provide an outline of their actual testing procedures. Proof of certification and outline of actual testing procedures must be provided before acceptance of the contract. Sampling results will report the number of colony forming units of heterotrophic water bacteria per milliliter of water (cfu/ml).

iii. Bacteria in water readings of less than 1CFU may be recorded as <1CFU. Critical water quality readings greater than <9 cfu/ml or greater are required to be immediately less than 24 hours notified by both telephone and email to identified SPS staff designee.

iv. Utility water with bacteria in water findings of <195 or greater will require immediate (<24 hours) notification by both telephone and email.

v. All readings greater than 1CFU/ML should be quantified in whole numbers or greater than 500 may be recorded as <10 cfu/ml or > 500 cfu/ml.

vi. Sampling will be tested for presence of Endotoxin and response of results expected in less than 24 hours. Testing should be conducted and resulted in less than seven (7) days. Parameters for LAL testing as listed in AAAMI TIR 34:2017.

b. The contractor shall provide all sample analysis reports via e-mail to the COR and the assigned Points of Contact within the WTVAHCS SPS within seven (7) calendar days including weekends and holidays of receiving the sample. If the 7th day falls on a weekend or federally observed holiday, the reports shall be provided no later than the next normal business day. Analytical reports shall include a signed copy of the chain of custody, identification of sampling locations, method detection limits, and a description of test methodology.

c. The contractor shall have qualified technical support staff for consultation related to water sample collection, testing, and interpretation of results.

d. The contractor shall provide expertise to formulate effective plans of action to correct the water to safe, within parameters established.

9. Qualifications of Contractors:

a. The services shall be performed by trained and qualified personnel and performed in accordance with manufacturer’s guidelines.

b. The contractor must be certified by the Environmental Protection Agency or a State environmental protection agency to perform environmental sampling that includes heterotrophic bacterial testing (Aerobic).

10. The contractor shall take all responsibility of their staff while on WTVAHCS property. Contractor staff will be escorted in all restricted areas of SPS. All Contractor staff will be required to wear full PPE, no exceptions.

I. Hours of Coverage:

1. Normal hours of coverage are Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm, excluding federal holidays. All service/repairs will be performed during the hours of 8:00 am to 11:00 am unless requested or approved by COR or designee. WTVAHCS Infection Preventionist and/or Safety Officer will provide Risk Assessment and guidance for working in hospital areas that is required to be followed.

2. Federal Holidays observed by the Veterans Administration are: New Years' Day | Martin Luther King Jr. Day | Presidents' Day | Memorial Day | Juneteenth | Independence Day | Labor Day | Columbus Day | Veterans’ Day | Thanksgiving Day | Christmas Day

3. When a holiday falls on a Sunday, the following Monday shall be observed as a legal holiday. When a holiday falls on a Saturday, the preceding Friday is observed as a legal holiday by U.S. Government agencies. Also included, would be any other day specifically declared by the President of the United States of American to be a National Holiday.

J. SECURITY REQUIREMENTS:

1. Information System Officer, Information Protection: The contractor will not have access to VA Desktop computers.

2. Privacy Officer:

a. The contractor, their personnel, and their subcontractors shall be subject to the Federal laws, regulations, standards, and VA Directives and Handbooks regarding information and information system security as delineated in this contract.

b. Consistent with the requirements of 38 U.S.C. 5725, a contract may require access to sensitive personal information. If so, the contractor is liable to VA for liquidated damages in the event of a data breach or privacy incident involving any SPI the contractor/subcontractor processes or maintains under this contract. However, it is the policy of VA to forgo collection of liquidated damages in the event the contractor provides payment of actual damages in an amount determined to be adequate by the agency.

K. RECORDS MANAGEMENT

A. Applicability This clause applies to all Contractors whose employees create, work with, or otherwise handle Federal records, as defined in Section B, regardless of the medium in which the record exists.

B. Definitions “Federal record” as defined in 44 U.S.C. § 3301, includes all recorded information, regardless of form or characteristics, made or received by a Federal agency under Federal law or in connection with the transaction of public business and preserved or appropriate for preservation by that agency or its legitimate successor as evidence of the organization, functions, policies, decisions, procedures, operations, or other activities of the United States Government or because of the informational value of data in them.

The term Federal record:

1. includes VA records.

2. does not include personal materials.

3. applies to records created, received, or maintained by Contractors pursuant to their VA contract.

4. may include deliverables and documentation associated with deliverables.

C. Requirements

1. Contractor shall comply with all applicable records management laws and regulations, as well as National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) records policies, including but not limited to the Federal Records Act (44 U.S.C. chs. 21, 29, 31, 33), NARA regulations at 36 CFR Chapter XII Subchapter B, and those policies associated with the safeguarding of records covered by the Privacy Act of 1974 (5 U.S.C. 552a). These policies include the preservation of all records, regardless of form or characteristics, mode of transmission, or state of completion.

2. In accordance with 36 CFR 1222.32, all data created for Government use and delivered to, or falling under the legal control of, the Government are Federal records subject to the provisions of 44 U.S.C. chapters 21, 29, 31, and 33, the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) (5 U.S.C. 552), as amended, and the Privacy Act of 1974 (5 U.S.C. 552a), as amended and must be managed and scheduled for disposition only as permitted by statute or regulation.

3. In accordance with 36 CFR 1222.32, Contractor shall maintain all records created for Government use or created in the course of performing the contract and/or delivered to, or under the legal control of the Government and must be managed in accordance with Federal law. Electronic records and associated metadata must be accompanied by sufficient technical documentation to permit understanding and use of the records and data.

4. VA and its contractors are responsible for preventing the alienation or unauthorized destruction of records, including all forms of mutilation. Records may not be removed from the legal custody of [Agency] or destroyed except for in accordance with the provisions of the agency records schedules and with the written concurrence of the Head of the Contracting Activity. Willful and unlawful destruction, damage or alienation of Federal records is subject to the fines and penalties imposed by 18 U.S.C. 2701. In the event of any unlawful or accidental removal, defacing, alteration, or destruction of records, Contractor must report to VA. The agency must report promptly to NARA in accordance with 36 CFR 1230.

5. The Contractor shall immediately notify the appropriate Contracting Officer upon discovery of any inadvertent or unauthorized disclosures of information, data, documentary materials, records or equipment. Disclosure of non-public information is limited to authorized personnel with a need-to-know.

6. The Contractor shall ensure that the appropriate personnel, administrative, technical, and physical safeguards are established to ensure the security and confidentiality of this information, data, documentary material, records and/or equipment is properly protected. The Contractor shall not remove material from Government facilities or systems, or facilities or systems operated or maintained on the Government’s behalf, without the express written permission of the Head of the Contracting Activity. When information, data, documentary material, records and/or equipment is no longer required, it shall be returned to VA control or the Contractor must hold it until otherwise directed. Items returned to the Government shall be hand carried, mailed, emailed, or securely electronically transmitted to the Contracting Officer or address prescribed in the contract. Destruction of records is EXPRESSLY PROHIBITED unless in accordance with Paragraph (4).

7. The Contractor is required to obtain the Contracting Officer's approval prior to engaging in any contractual relationship (sub-contractor) in support of this contract requiring the disclosure of information, documentary material and/or records generated under, or relating to, contracts. The Contractor (and any sub-contractor) is required to abide by Government and VA guidance for protecting sensitive, proprietary information, classified, and controlled unclassified information.

8. The Contractor shall only use Government IT equipment for purposes specifically tied to or authorized by the contract and in accordance with VA policy.

9. The Contractor shall not create or maintain any records containing any non-public VA information that are not specifically tied to or authorized by the contract.

10. The Contractor shall not retain, use, sell, or disseminate copies of any deliverable that contains information covered by the Privacy Act of 1974 or that which is generally protected from public disclosure by an exemption to the Freedom of Information Act.

11. The VA owns the rights to all data and records produced as part of this contract. All deliverables under the contract are the property of the U.S. Government for which VA shall have unlimited rights to use, dispose of, or disclose such data contained therein as it determines to be in the public interest. Any Contractor rights in the data or deliverables must be identified as required by FAR 52.227-11 through FAR 52.227-20 Note: To the extent an agency requires contractors to complete records management training, the agency must provide the training to the contractor.] D. Flow down of requirements to subcontractors

1. The Contractor shall incorporate the substance of this clause, its terms and requirements including this paragraph, in all subcontracts under this [contract vehicle], and require written subcontractor acknowledgment of same.

2. Violation by a subcontractor of any provision set forth in this clause will be attributed to the Contractor.

L. FACILITY ACCESS REQUIREMENTS AND PARKING:

1. Upon arrival at the WTVAHCS Main Campus, Contractor employees shall sign in with the VA Police (Main Lobby, bldg. 1). VA Police will issue a temporary access badge once the Contractor presents a valid Contractor issued identification badge that includes the employee’s name and passport-style photo. The Contractor must safeguard the temporary badge and immediately report any lost, stolen, or destroyed badges to the Police and the M&R Supervisor.

The Contractor shall always wear visible identification issued by the WTVAHCS Police while on the premises of the WTVAHCS. It is the responsibility of the Contractor to park in the appropriate designated parking areas. Information on parking is available from the VA Police Section. The WTVAHCS will not invalidate or make reimbursement for parking violations of the Contractor under any conditions. Smoking is prohibited inside any building at the WTVAHCS. Possession of weapons is prohibited. Enclosed containers, including tool kits, shall be subject to search. Violations of VA regulations may result in citation answerable in the United States (Federal) District Court, not a local district, state, or municipal court.

2. While on VA premises, all Contractor personnel shall comply with the rules, regulations, and procedures governing the conduct of personnel and the operation of the facility. Contractors are required to abide by all facility requirements in regard to screening and masking requirements.

Statement of Work

B.3 PRICE/COST SCHEDULE

ITEM INFORMATION

Monthly Water Testing in accordance with the Statement of Work (SOW)

Contract Period: Base POP Begin: 08-15-2026 POP End: 08-14-2027

Quarterly Water Testing in accordance with the Statement of Work (SOW)

Contract Period: Base

Emergency Testing (up to 16) (non-conforming sites) The Government will enter a Not-To-Exceed amount upon award.

Contract Period: Base

Monthly Water Testing in accordance with the Statement of Work (SOW)

Contract Period: Option 1 POP Begin: 08-15-2027 POP End: 08-14-2028

Quarterly Water Testing in accordance with the Statement of Work (SOW)

Contract Period: Option 1

Emergency Testing (up to 16) (non-conforming sites)

Contract Period: Option 1

Monthly Water Testing in accordance with the Statement of Work (SOW) Contract Period: Option 2 POP Begin: 08-15-2028 POP End: 08-14-2029

Quarterly Water Testing in accordance with the Statement of Work (SOW)

Contract Period: Option 2

Emergency Testing (up to 16) (non-conforming sites)

Contract Period: Option 2

Monthly Water Testing in accordance with the Statement of Work (SOW)

Contract Period: Option 3 POP Begin: 08-15-2029 POP End: 08-14-2030

Quarterly Water Testing in accordance with the Statement of Work (SOW)

Contract Period: Option 3

Emergency Testing (up to 16) (non-conforming sites)

Contract Period: Option 3

Monthly Water Testing in accordance with the Statement of Work (SOW)

Contract Period: Option 4 POP Begin: 08-15-2030 POP End: 08-14-2031

Quarterly Water Testing in accordance with the Statement of Work (SOW)

Contract Period: Option 4

Emergency Testing (up to 16) (non-conforming sites)

Contract Period: Option 4

SECTION C - CONTRACT CLAUSES

C.1 52.252-2 CLAUSES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE (FEB 1998)

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

https://www.acquisition.gov/far-overhaul/far-part-deviation-guide/far-overhaul-part-52#FAR_52_252_1 http://www.va.gov/oal/library/vaar/

(End of Clause)

C.2 SUPPLEMENTAL INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS

In accordance with FAR 28.307-2 and FAR 52.228-5, the following minimum coverage shall apply to this contract:

(a) Workers' compensation and employers liability: Contractors are required to comply with applicable Federal and State workers' compensation and occupational disease statutes. If occupational diseases are not compensable under those statutes, they shall be covered under the employer's liability section of the insurance policy, except when contract operations are so commingled with a Contractor's commercial operations that it would not be practical to require this coverage. Employer's liability coverage of at least $100,000 is required, except in States with exclusive or monopolistic funds that do not permit workers' compensation to be written by private carriers.

(b) General Liability: $500,000.00 per occurrences.

(c) Automobile liability: $200,000.00 per person; $500,000.00 per occurrence and $20,000.00 property damage.

(d) The successful bidder must present to the Contracting Officer, prior to award, evidence of general liability insurance without any exclusionary clauses for asbestos that would void the general liability coverage.

(End of Clause)

C.3 52.217-8 OPTION TO EXTEND SERVICES (NOV 1999)

The Government may require continued performance of any services within the limits and at the rates specified in the contract. These rates may be adjusted only as a result of revisions to prevailing labor rates provided by the Secretary of Labor. The option provision may be exercised more than once, but the total extension of performance hereunder shall not exceed 6 months. The Contracting Officer may exercise the option by written notice to the Contractor within 15 days.

(End of Clause)

C.4 52.217-9 OPTION TO EXTEND THE TERM OF THE CONTRACT (MAR 2000)

(a) The Government may extend the term of this contract by written notice to the Contractor within 15 days; provided that the Government gives the Contractor a preliminary written notice of its intent to extend at least 30 days before the contract expires. The preliminary notice does not commit the Government to an extension.

(b) If the Government exercises this option, the extended contract shall be considered to include this option clause.

(c) The total duration of this contract, including the exercise of any options under this clause, shall not exceed five (5) years.

(End of Clause) C.5 VAAR 852.219-73 VA NOTICE OF TOTAL SET-ASIDE FOR CERTIFIED SERVICE-DISABLED VETERAN-OWNED SMALL BUSINESSES (JAN 2023) (DEVIATION)

(a) Definition. for the Department of Veterans Affairs, ‘‘Service-disabled Veteran-owned small business concern or SDVOSB’’:

(1) Means a small business concern—

(i) Not less than 51 percent of which is owned by one or more service-disabled Veterans or, in the case of any publicly owned business, not less than 51 percent of the stock of which is owned by one or more service-disabled Veterans or eligible surviving spouses (see VAAR 802.201, Surviving Spouse definition);

(ii) The management and daily business operations of which are controlled by one or more service-disabled Veterans (or eligible surviving spouses) or, in the case of a service-disabled Veteran with permanent and severe disability, the spouse or permanent caregiver of such Veteran;

(iii) The business meets Federal small business size standards for the applicable North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code identified in the solicitation document;

(iv) The business has been certified for ownership and control pursuant to 38 U.S.C. 8127, 13 CFR 128, and is listed as certified in the SBA certification database at https://veterans.certify.sba.gov/; and

(v) The business agrees to comply with VAAR subpart 819.70 and Small Business Administration (SBA) regulations regarding small business size, government contracting, and the Veteran Small Business Certification Program at 13 CFR parts 121, 125, and 128.

(2) The term ‘‘Service-disabled Veteran’’ means a Veteran, as defined in 38 U.S.C. 101(2), with a disability that is service-connected, as defined in 38 U.S.C. 101(16).

(3) The term ‘‘small business concern’’ has the meaning given that term under section 3 of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 632).

(4) The term ‘‘small business concern owned and controlled by Veterans with service-connected disabilities’’ has the meaning given the term ‘‘small business concern owned and controlled by service-disabled veterans’’ under section 3(q)(2) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 632(q)(2)).

(5) The term “SDVOSB participant” or certified SDVOSB means a small business that has been certified in the SBA Veteran Small Business Certification Program and listed in the SBA certification database (see 13 CFR 128.102).

(b) General. In order for a concern to submit an offer and be eligible for the award of an SDVOSB set-aside or sole source contract, the concern must qualify as a small business concern under the size standard corresponding to the NAICS code assigned to the contract and be listed as an SDVOSB participant in the SBA certification database as set forth in 13 CFR 128.

(1) Offers received from entities that are not certified SDVOSBs and listed in the SBA certification database at the time of offer shall not be considered.

(2) Any award resulting from this solicitation shall be made to a certified SDVOSB listed in the SBA certification database who is eligible at the time of submission of offer(s) and at the time of award.

(3) The requirements in this clause apply to any contract, order or subcontract where the firm receives a benefit or preference from its designation as an SDVOSB, including set-asides, sole source awards, and evaluation preferences.

(c) Representation. Pursuant to 38 U.S.C. 8127(e), only certified SDVOSBs listed in the SBA certification database are considered eligible to receive award of a resulting contract. By submitting an offer, the prospective contractor represents that it is an eligible and certified SDVOSB as defined in this clause, 13 CFR 121, 125, and 128, and VAAR subpart 819.70.

(d) Agreement/LOS certification. When awarded a contract action, including orders under multipleaward contracts, an SDVOSB agrees that in the performance of the contract, the SDVOSB shall comply with requirements in VAAR subpart 819.70 and SBA regulations on small business size, and government contracting programs at 13 CFR part 121 and part 125, including the non-manufacturer rule and limitations on subcontracting (LOS) requirements in 13 CFR 121.406(b) and 13 CFR 125.6. For the purpose of limitations on subcontracting, only certified SDVOSBs listed in the SBA certification database (including independent contractors) shall be considered eligible and/or ‘‘similarly situated’’ (i.e., a firm that has the same small business program status as the prime contractor). An otherwise eligible firm further agrees to comply with the required LOS certification requirements in this solicitation (see 852.219–75 or 852.219–76 as applicable). These requirements are summarized as follows:

(1) Services. In the case of a contract for services (except construction), the SDVOSB prime contractor will not pay more than 50% of the amount paid by the government to the prime for contract performance to firms that are not certified SDVOSBs listed in the SBA certification database (excluding direct costs to the extent they are not the principal purpose of the acquisition and the SDVOSB/ VOSB does not provide the service, such as airline travel, cloud computing services, or mass media purchases). When a contract includes both services and supplies, the 50 percent limitation shall apply only to the service portion of the contract.

(2) Supplies/products.

(i) In the case of a contract for supplies or products (other than from a non-manufacturer of such supplies), the SDVOSB prime contractor will not pay more than 50% of the amount paid by the government to the prime for contract performance, excluding the cost of materials, to firms that are not certified SDVOSBs listed in the SBA certification database. When a contract includes both supply and services, the 50 percent limitation shall apply only to the supply portion of the contract.

(ii) In the case of a contract for supplies from a non-manufacturer, the SDVOSB prime contractor will supply the product of a domestic small business manufacturer or processor, unless a waiver as described in 13 CFR 121.406(b)(5) has been granted. Refer to 13 CFR 125.6(a)(2)(ii) for guidance pertaining to multiple item procurements.

(3) General construction. In the case of a contract for general construction, the SDVOSB prime contractor will not pay more than 85% of the amount paid by the government to the prime for contract performance, excluding the cost of materials, to firms that are not certified SDVOSBs listed in the SBA certification database.

(4) Special trade construction contractors. In the case of a contract for special trade contractors, no more than 75% of the amount paid by the government to the prime for contract performance, excluding the cost of materials, may be paid to firms that are not certified SDVOSBs listed in the SBA certification database.

(5) Subcontracting. An SDVOSB subcontractor must meet the NAICS size standard assigned by the prime contractor and be certified and listed in the SBA certification database to count as similarly situated. Any work that a first tier SDVOSB subcontractor further subcontracts will count towards the percent of subcontract amount that cannot be exceeded. For supply or construction contracts, the cost of materials is excluded and not considered to be subcontracted. When a contract includes both services and supplies, the 50 percent limitation shall apply only to the portion of the contract with the preponderance of the expenditure upon which the assigned NAICS is based. For information and more specific requirements, refer to 13 CFR 125.6.

(e) Required limitations on subcontracting compliance measurement period. An SDVOSB shall comply with the limitations on subcontracting as follows:

[X] By the end of the base term of the contract or order, and then by the end of each subsequent option period; or

(f) Joint ventures. A joint venture may be considered eligible as an SDVOSB if the joint venture complies with the requirements in 13 CFR 128.402 and the managing joint venture partner makes the representations under paragraph (c) of this clause. A joint venture agrees that, in the performance of the contract, the applicable percentage specified in paragraph (d) of this clause will be performed by the aggregate of the joint venture participants.

(g) Precedence. The VA Veterans First Contracting Program, as defined in VAAR 802.101, subpart 819.70, and this clause, takes precedence over any inconsistencies between the requirements of the SBA Veteran Small Business Certification Program and the VA Veterans First Contracting Program.

(h) Misrepresentation. Pursuant to 38 U.S.C. 8127(g), any business concern, including all its principals, that is determined by VA to have willfully and intentionally misrepresented a company’s SDVOSB status is subject to debarment from contracting with the Department for a period of not less than five years (see VAAR 809.406–2 Causes for Debarment).

(End of Clause) C.6 VAAR 852.219-75 VA NOTICE OF LIMITATIONS ON SUBCONTRACTING—CERTIFICATE OF COMPLIANCE FOR SERVICES AND CONSTRUCTION (JAN 2023) (DEVIATION)

(a) Pursuant to 38 U.S.C. 8127(l)(2), the offeror certifies that—

(1) If awarded a contract (see FAR 2.101 definition), it will comply with the limitations on subcontracting requirement as provided in the solicitation and the resultant contract, as follows:

(i) [X] Services. In the case of a contract for services (except construction), the contractor will not pay more than 50% of the amount paid by the government to it to firms that are not certified SDVOSBs listed in the SBA certification…