ALiSS _Question_and_Responses_(Round_3).pdf

Question & Answers SAQMMA14R0042

Links

Section A Section B Section C Section D Section E Section F Section G Section H

Section I Section J Section K Section L Section M Attachment 1 Attachment 2 Attachment 3

Attachment 4 Attachment 5 Attachment 6 Attachment 7 Attachment 8 Attachment 9 Attachment 10 Attachment 11

Attachment 12 Attachment 13 Exhibit 1(a) Exhibit 2(a) Exhibit 3 Exhibit 4(a)(b) Exhibit 5

NOTE: Underneath the question number, the round in which the Government provided the question and response is provided. For example, underneath question B-1, “R-1” indicates that the question and answer was provided in Round 1.

Section B

B-1 (R-1)

Reference: B.4.2.5 Uniforms, page 11 of 178; H.8.4 Uniforms, page 75 of 178; Exhibit 2, TO 002 Food Services RFP and SOO, para 6.0, sub-para Food Worker Health, Sanitation and Hygiene, footnote 3, page 26 of 30

QUESTION: RFP Section B.4.2.5 infers uniform costs are allowed. RFP Section H.8.4 infers uniform costs are not allowed.

Will the Government please clarify the ambiguity between the three references?

Answer: The Contractor shall provide uniforms to its food workers. With the exception of TO-002 food workers, it is for the Contractor to determine whether or not employees will be provided with uniforms.

As discussed in Section B.4.2.5 of the IDIQ RFP, all costs associated with uniforms shall be included in hourly labor rates (see Sections B.4.2, L.16.4.2.3, and Attachment 8).

B-2 (R-1)

Reference: Pg 8, Section B.1, paragraph #2, and pg 16, Section C.1, paragraph 3

QUESTION: Please clarify if Camp Alvarado and Herat (including Camp Kodiak) are included in the initial scope of locations to be covered.

The RFP indicates the locations to be covered are “Kabul Embassy Complex, which includes the Kabul Embassy Compound (East and West) and the sites currently known as Camp Eggers, Camp Seitz and Camp Sullivan.

Limited services will also be required initially in Herat.”

However, pg 16, Section C.1, paragraph 3, indicates “DOS sites within Kabul include the US Embassy compound (East and West), Camp Eggers, Camp Seitz, Camp Sullivan and Camp Alvarado. Additional Mission Afghanistan sites may include, but are not limited to, the following: Consulate General Herat and supporting facilities (including Camp Kodiak)”.

Answer: The scope of the locations covered by ALiSS includes any and all locations in Afghanistan. The task orders to be awarded in response to this RFP require performance in Kabul and Herat. Within Kabul, services are required at the Embassy, Camp Seitz, Camp Sullivan, and Camp Eggers. (Camp Eggers services are built into the task orders as options to be exercised once the camp is fully constructed.) In Herat, the TO-005 required individuals will be working at the Consulate General.

B-3 (R-2)

Reference: B.4.4 Housing, page 12 of 178; and TO-0001, PEO, Statement of Objectives, paragraph 5.2.3, Security Measures

QUESTION: B.4.4 Housing states, "The Contractor will not be required to provide housing. The Government will provide housing for Contractor AN and TCN employees. The Contractor may be required in the future to provide secure off-compound housing for AN and TCN employees that have not been designated by the Government as critical personnel. Should this requirement be issued, a FFP rate will be negotiated."

Questions:

Is the contractor responsible for providing static security at DOS provided housing locations?

Does the DOS provided housing meet standards outlined in paragraph 5.2.3, of the Task Order 0001?

Is DOS providing secure transportation between the airport, KIA and the DOS provided housing locations?

Does DOS provide contractor personnel Individual Body Armor for movement from one DOS location to another and during situations with elevated security posture?

Please consider providing a detailed explanation of how DOS provides security measures to contractor personnel: (a) in-transit (b) physical security for DOS provided housing; (c) availability of individual protective armor during transit and periods of elevated security posture; (d) static security services to contractor personnel - housing area and transit; and (e) DOS security response forces and criteria for use.

Answer: The Government will provide all security for Government provided housing. The Contractor is not required to provide the housing security upgrades.

Government furnished transportation will be provided between the Embassy and the airport. The DOS provided housing is immediately adjacent to the Embassy Compound and does not require vehicle transport between the Embassy compound and the housing facilities.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) will be provided by the Contractor.

B-4 (R-2)

Reference: Section B

QUESTION: Within the overall Embassy Compound, are there RF frequencies available for local internet sharing and connectivity paths to locations outside of the compound?

Answer: Yes.

B-5 (R-2)

Reference: Section B

QUESTION: Is there physical fiber connectivity from each main location within the compound (ie, KEC-East, West, the New Annex and Camps Eggers and Seitz) to the Afghan public internet? Related to this, are there fiber connections within the compound that link all of these locations to each other?

Answer: Yes.

B-6 (R-2)

Reference: Section B.4.4

QUESTION: Can the Government identify where Contractors will be housed? Is it inside or outside the Embassy Compound?

Answer: Government furnished housing will be inside or immediately outside and adjacent to the Embassy compound with the objective to move all contractors onto the compound as construction completes and housing becomes available.

B-7 (R-2)

Reference: B.4.4 and TO-004 Section 13.0

QUESTION: Housing expectations: Other than the basic information regarding the camps and the embassy compound, are there any further details on the facilities that are available to discuss with candidates during this critical recruitment phase? Items such as, single accommodation or shared, Room facilities available (TV etc), Communication (phone calls to other countries, frequent/infrequent/none, Recreation facilities.

Answer: Housing has not been designated so specific details on the availability of facilities are not known.

The expectation is that housing will be shared.

B-8 (R-2)

Reference: Section B.4.8

QUESTION: IDIQ states, “Task Order 001 will provide for basic standard costs associated with doing business in the country of Afghanistan (e.g. taxes, licenses, permits, etc.), for all Contractor personnel, across all other task orders.” Question: Does this mean that licenses, permits and visas for TO-004 are to be included in TO- 001? If so which CLIN on TO-001?

Answer: The reference line was removed via Amendment 1.

See Amendment 1.

B-9 (R-2)

Reference: Section B.7

QUESTION: IDIQ solicitation clauses B.7 and B.8 indicate provisional billing indirect cost rates and ceiling indirect cost rates. Do these rate caps apply to the prime contractor only? If a subcontractor does not have an audited rate will the rate verification be requested by DoS?

Answer: The provisional billing indirect cost rates and ceiling indirect cost rates are applicable to the prime contractor. The prime contractor is responsible for complying with FAR clause 52.244-2 – Subcontracts paragraph (c). The prime contractors’ request for Contracting Officer’s consent to subcontract must address billing indirect cost rates and ceiling indirect cost rates applicable to the proposed contract(s).

B-10 (R-2)

Reference: B.5 (p.6)

QUESTION: Will DoS reimburse all taxes paid to GIRoA by the prime and subs?

Answer: No. See section B.4.8 of the IDIQ for pricing information on taxes.

See Amendment 2.

B-11 (R-2)

Reference: B.5 (p.6)

QUESTION: Do contractors need to be licensed in Afghanistan in order to be compliant with the requirements of the bid?

Answer: Offerors must demonstrate their ability to obtain required licenses and permits by the conclusion of the transition period. See Section L.16.2.1.3.1.

B-12 (R-2)

Reference: B.5/TO-001 8.1.1

QUESTION: Does DoS look favorably on companies who are already registered to do business in Afghanistan?

Since registration can be a time consuming process and any companies not registered may be delayed significantly from mobilizing until they are registered.

Answer: A currently held business license will be evaluated as a strength.

B-13 (R-2)

Reference: B.1

QUESTION: Can the customer please confirm the location sites and their names : Camp Eggers, Camp Seitz and Camp Sullivan, Kabul Embassy Compound East and West? Is Camp Eggers now known as Camp Sullivan?

Answer: No, Camp Eggers is not known as Camp Sullivan. Camp Eggers is adjacent to Camp Seitz. Camp Sullivan is approximately 4 kilometers away. See Section C.3.

B-14 (R-2)

Reference: B.7 Provisional Billing Indirect Cost Rates table, third column "allocation Base"

QUESTION: What is expected to be completed in the third column of the table named "Allocation Base"? Is this to represent the dollarized indirect base allocation?

Answer: The “Allocation Base” does NOT represent the dollarized indirect base allocation. FAR 31.203 Indirect costs paragraph (c) addresses the allocation base. This is established in the Contractor’s normal accounting practice.

B-15 (R-2)

Reference: B.8 Ceiling Indirect Cost Rates table, third column "Allocation Base"

QUESTION: What is expected to be completed in the third column of the table named "Allocation Base"? Is this to represent the dollarized indirect base allocation?

Answer: See the response to question B-14.

B-16.

(R-3)

Reference: B.4.3

QUESTION: Will the Government clarify whether costs for using PSDs for off-compound travel are reimbursable? If so, where is it priced?

Answer: They will not be reimbursable. The use of PSDs will not be required when the Government provides travel (e.g., travel to and from the airport or when travelling on official contract business as approved by the COR). Travel for the purpose of conducting business on behalf of the Contractor (i.e. not directly related to contract requirements, e.g. to meet with subcontractors, or to meet with GIROA officials on the Contractors behalf), or for personal reasons, off compound will be at the expense of the Contractor, to include any security. This cost shall be included under the FFP.

B-17

Reference: B.4.2.5

QUESTION: Will the embassy allow Company Logos on Uniforms. Do they want a specific color?

Answer: Yes, company logos are allowed. The Government will not specify the colors. See the response to question B-1 for additional information.

Section C

C-1

Reference: C.5 Standard Work Week, page 44 of 178

QUESTION: The holiday schedule posted is for 2013. Will the Government please provide the 2014 schedule?

Answer: The link cited in Section C.5 has been updated. The link will take offerors to the 2014 schedule.

C-2 (R-1)

Reference: C.4.1.4.1 General Embassy Support Services and C.4.1.4.2 Regional Security Office (RSO) Support Service, pages 37 and 38 of 178

QUESTION: Regarding the augmentation positions listed as General Embassy Support Services in the referenced paragraphs.

Are any of these positions deemed critical where on-compound housing will be provided by the USG?

Answer: Critical personnel are identified at the task order level. The task order will identify whether the support services personnel are deemed critical or not.

C-3 (R-1)

Reference: C.4.1.3.1.2

QUESTION: C.4.1.3.1.2 Capabilities by Type – “All primary care providers shall hold current credentials in trauma care (e.g. ATLS, CALS or equivalent) and cardiac care (ACLS or equivalent).” Do Physician Assistants or Nurse Practitioners require ATLS?

Answer: Yes.

C-4 (R-2)

Reference: C.4.1.3.1 pgs 22-25; TO 004 7.0 pg 2; TO 004 8.1.2 pg 7; & TO 004 PWS 8.1 pg 11

QUESTION: Section C.4.1.3.1 describes SMACC, eMACC and MACC requirements. The table in TO 004 Section

7.0 on page 2 shows Medical Facilities at the Embassy Compound (CLIN 002), Medical Facilities at Camp Seitz (CLIN 003), and Medical Facilities at Camp Eggers (Optional CLIN 009). The TO 004 PWS section 8.1 on page 11 shows Camp Seitz and the SMACC, and MACCs at Camp Eggers and the Embassy Compound. Please clarify if there is an eMACC and if so, where is it.

Answer: There are presently no eMACC requirements in TO-004.

C-5 Reference: C.4.1.3.2.1 Credentialing, page 26 of 178

QUESTION: Physicians and Primary Care Providers shall be licensed in the United States or Canada.

Would it be acceptable to provide US or Canadian Trained or Board Certified, but not actively licensed, Physicians and Primary Care Providers?

Answer: No, all licenses must be current and valid.

C-6 (R-2)

Reference: C.4.1.4.1 General Embassy Support Services, page 37 of 178; Exhibit 5 TO 005 RSO Spt Svcs RFP and PWS; Attach 7 Price Proposal Table

QUESTION: The General Embassy Support Services augmentees are not included in TO 005. Attach 7 Price Proposal Table does not clearly indicate which CLIN those positions should be priced in. TO 005 does not identify the augmentee positions as an RSO support requirement.

Will the Government please clarify which TO CLIN the para C.4.1.4.1 augmentees are to be priced in?

Answer: TO-005 is for support services to the RSO, and only requires pricing for the labor categories identified in TO-005 (see Section 8.1 of the PWS). TO-005 does not call for services, or pricing, for the C.4.1.4.1, General Embassy Support Services, identified labor categories.

The Offeror is to provide hourly rates in Attachment 8 for the C.4.1.4.1, General Embassy Support Services, identified labor categories.

C-7 (R-2)

Reference: C.4.1.3.6 Ambulance Services/Emergency Medical Response, page 33 of 178; Exhibit 4 TO 004 Medical Services RFP and PWS, para 8.6 Ambulance Services/Emergency Medical Response, page 15 of 22.

QUESTION: Para C.4.1.3.6 infers the Contractor will provide timely response to medical emergencies, i. e.

ambulance. TO 004, Para 8.1.2 Staffing infers at the bottom of page 7 of 22 the Contractor should provide EMT-P and BLS or ILS staffing for ambulance response. PWS para 8.6, page 15 of 22 states, “The ambulance service will be Government provided.”

Will the Government provide a clarification for:

Does the Contractor drive/operate the ambulances?

If so, are the Contractor staff physically available 24/7?

If so, how many ambulances should the Contractor staff to operate on a 24/7 basis?

Answer: Yes, the contractor will drive/operate and medically staff the ambulances for transportation on compound. Should the patient require movement off-compound and the security situation deems it necessary, the vehicles will be driven by an embassy-provided driver, but still be medically staffed by a contract medical person. This service will be required 24/7. Current projections are for a minimum of 5 ambulances (two ambulances on the main embassy compound, two at Camp Seitz and one on Camp Eggers when that facility is stood up).

C-8 (R-2)

Reference: RFP C.3.1 Kabul, Camp Sullivan, page 18 of 178; Exhibit 5 TO 005 RSO Spt, page 9 of 13; Attch 7 Price Proposal Table, page 11

QUESTION: Para 3.3.1 for Camp Sullivan (Range) clearly states, “For purposes of responding to this solicitation, Bidders are not required to include support for this site.” Both the TO 005 and Attch 7 Price Proposal Tables, (RSO CLIN 0003) clearly indicate the Contractor will provide support to the Range at Camp Sullivan.

Will the Government please clarify if the Offeror includes discussion and cost in the proposal for the Camp Sullivan Range operation and refurbishment?

Answer: The referenced footnote has been deleted. Offerors shall propose on services for Camp Sullivan, as indicated in Task Order 005.

See Amendment 1.

C-9 (R-2)

Reference: RFP C.4.1.3.7 Food, Water and Facility Inspections/Assessments, Investigations and Training, page

QUESTION: The reference states the contractor shall provide public health oversight for all DOS food facilities, public facilities, MREs, incoming food shipments, foodborne illness outbreaks, food handler medical clearance and training requirements, and vulnerability assessments of food facilities in Afghanistan.

Will the Government please clarify whether the contractor is responsible for public health oversight for all facilities in Afghanistan, or just those under the ALiSS contract?

Answer: Contractor will be responsible for public health oversight for all Department of State facilities in Afghanistan.

C-10 (R-2)

Reference: RFP C.4.1.3.7.1.1 Overview, page 34 of 178

QUESTION: The reference infers the ALiSS Public Health Officer is responsible for public health oversight at each DOS site throughout the theater of Afghanistan.

Will the Government please clarify whether the contractor is responsible for public health oversight throughout the theater of Afghanistan, or just the ALiSS contract sites?

Answer: Contractor will be responsible for public health oversight for all Department of State facilities in Afghanistan.

C-11 (R-2)

Reference: RFP C.4.2.7

QUESTION: Certain airfield services create aviation liability exposures for the Contractor. Will the Government insert the DFAR 252.228-7001, Ground and Flight Risk clause, or equivalent language?

Answer: No, the Government will not insert the above cited clause. No airfield services are required at this time.

C-12 (R-2)

Reference: RFP C.1

QUESTION: Support will be provided at various locations in Afghanistan. Please provide the Government security POC for the badging process needed for Contractor employees to access facilities and government systems used by each location. To which office will the Contractor submit the visit authorization requests?

Answer: The Government will provide this information following the award of the contract.

C-13 (R-2)

Reference: RFP C.2

QUESTION: The section states that the Contractor shall take appropriate security precautions, including training of personnel, in order to ensure the safety of personnel on this contract. Reference Section H.30 for pre-deployment training requirements. Does this requirement also apply to Local Nationals? What is the document retention policy for completed training request forms?

Answer: Yes, the Contractor is to take appropriate security precautions for all personnel (AN, TCN, and LN). As stated in Section H.30, the Contractor is also required to adhere to the FAR 52.225-19 clause requirements. See H.30 for additional training requirements.

Evidence of completion of employee training must be maintained by the Contractor throughout the life of the contract. Section H.30 has been amended to add this requirement.

NOTE: The response to question H-1 is not meant to indicate that FAR 52.225-19 is only applicable to AN and TCNs. The Government only discussed AN and TCNs in their response because the provided question was directed to the AN and TCN populace.

See Amendment 2.

C-14 Reference: RFP C.3

QUESTION: For the sites that are not priced in the proposal, such as Camp Alvarado, is the Government expecting (after award) for the contractor to ‘retro-fit’ the housing the same at each location?

Answer: No, the Government does not expect the contractor to retrofit housing at each location.

C-15 (R-2)

Reference: RFP C.4.1.3.2.1

QUESTION: When referencing credentialing requirements, is the government also including the security clearance, public trust and security training requirements as part of or separate from professional credentialing?

Answer: The specific reference, Section C.4.1.3.2.1, is only discussing medical credentials.

C-16 (R-2)

Reference: Section C.4.2.7 (pages 42-43)

QUESTION: Personnel will require the ability to obtain a Department of State Unclassified Open Net account in order to maintain communications with other departments and agencies. Is the Government providing the Information Assurance (IA) training for contractor personnel before access is granted to the D/State Unclassified Open Net account? Please provide training information. Is the D/State Unclassified Open Net account for all contractor employees (American Nationals, Third Country Nationals and Local Nationals)?

Please provide account request instructions and requirements.

Answer: The Government provides Information Assurance (IA) training for contractor personnel before access is granted to the DoS Unclassified Open Net. Each employee (American, National, Third Country National and Local National) is required to complete the mandatory Cyber Security Awareness (PS800) Distance Learning course within 5 days of the initial receipt of an OpenNet account and annually thereafter within 5 days of the account renewal date.

Account requests are processed when the contractor arrives at post.

Please note that not all Contractor personnel will be required to have an Open Net account.

C-17 (R-2)

Reference: RFP C.4.2.13

QUESTION: We note that the Contractor shall provide material transport services. Materials requiring transport may include, but are not limited to, the following: Ammunition, Vehicles and Repair Parts, and Building Materials. What are the physical security requirements re storage and safekeeping of these materials?

Answer: The Contractor will be required to provide security during the transportation process. At the conclusion of the transportation, the Government will provide any needed storage security.

Transportation security requirements will be designated at the task order level. The type of security (human or technical) may be specified by the Government, or may be at the discretion of the Contractor.

C-18 (R-2)

Reference: Section C.3

QUESTION: Do the supported locations outside the Embassy and Consulate compounds(Camp Seitz, Camp Eggers, Camp Sullivan) enjoy the same special privileges afforded by he Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relation (such as immunity from most local laws; restrictions on host country entry without permission of the United States) as the Embassy and Consulate grounds?

Answer: No. Camp Seitz, Camp Eggers, and Camp Sullivan are non-Chief of Mission, contractor operated facilities, not diplomatic facilities.

C-19 (R-2)

Reference: 6.0 LICENSES, PERMITS, AND OTHER OFFICIAL DOCUMENTATION, C.4.1.3.1.2 Capabilities by Type, C.4.1.3.2.1 Credentialing, Page 16 of 29, Attachment 1

QUESTION: 6.0 LICENSES, PERMITS, AND OTHER OFFICIAL DOCUMENTATION...proof of ACLS and ATLS training (see Section C.4.1.3.1.2 of the IDIQ), C.4.1.3.1.2 Capabilities by Type, All primary care providers shall hold current credentials in trauma care (e.g.

ATLS, CALS or equivalent) and cardiac care (ACLS or equivalent).

C.4.1.3.2.1 Credentialing The Contractor will ensure that for all HCPs:

• ACLS and ATLS will be current throughout the period of employment. A 90-day window is permitted for recertification.

Page 16 of 29, Attachment 1, 8.0 EMT-P (AKA Paramedics), Registered Nurses (RNs) All EMT-Ps and RNs must hold current BLS and ACLS certification Page 18 of 29, Attachment 1 All subordinate qualifications including ACLS, ATLS or PHTLS, and BLS.

Please clarify the ATLS qualifications for the EMT-Ps and the RNs.

Answer: For EMT-P and RNs (see Attachment 1, Medical 8.0) working inside of a medical facility (MACC, eMACC, SMACC), attachment 1 provides for the following:

“The Contractor shall utilize additional care providers in all medical facilities to assist with patient administration;

vital signs; post-operative, intravenous, and intramuscular medications; cardiopulmonary resuscitation and resuscitative trauma care; along with other duties as determined by the primary medical providers (physicians, nurse practitioners and Physician Assistants) that do not exceed the scope of practice. Recent experience in an ER and/or ICU/CCU environments is required.

All EMT-Ps shall be listed in the National Registry or hold a current unrestricted license in the US or Canada.

RNs shall hold current and unrestricted licenses, in good standing, in any U.S. State or Canada and without restrictions.

All EMT-Ps and RNs must hold current BLS and ACLS certification; recent completion of Tactical Combat Casualty Care or comparable advanced trauma course or exceptional simulation training is desirable.”

For EMT-P working as Emergency Response (see Attachment 1, Medical 16.0), EMT-P will be NREMT-P qualified or hold any state EMT-P qualification that is current throughout the period of the contract. All subordinate qualifications including ACLS, ATLS or PHTLS, and BLS must be current or renewed within a 90 day window during the period of this contract.

C-20 (R-2)

Reference: (AM001) RFP Section C.4.1.3.7.1.2 Services, subparagraph G. Vulnerability Assessments, page 36 of

QUESTION: Does the Government have a specific security risk/vulnerability assessment matrix that it wants the Contractor to use? Does the Government have its own time-line (priority list) for remedies in terms of what’s considered critical, urgent or standard?

Answer: Not at this time. However, Para C.4.1.3.7.1.1 Overview, states that “The Contractor will perform all required food and water inspection services to meet the intent of the established requirements as outlined by the Codex Alimentarius and the US DOS Water Safety Program. The Contractor will also apply ServSafe and Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) standards and checklists where and when feasible.”

C-21 (R-2)

Reference: A001 RFP C.4.1.3.1.2, sub para A, page 23 of 179; A001 TO-004 Medical, para 11.0 Key personnel, QUESTION: RFP C.4.1.3.1.2 identifies Medical Director as Key Personnel. TO-004, para 11.0 Key Personnel does not include Medical Director as Key Personnel.

Will the Government please clarify the ambiguity as whether the Medical Director is Key Personnel?

Answer: The Medical Director position is intended to be the senior or most highly qualified provider at each facility and is not meant to be a separate position. Except in the SMACC, where based on the workload, it is expected that the majority of the time will be spent overseeing the facility and as available, still be able to see patients.

C-22

Reference: C.4.1.1

QUESTION: C.4.1.1 states that “Embassy personnel (DOS employees and contractors) can choose to dine in a USG dining facility, go to one of the association-managed restaurants on the compound, bring in their lunch, go home to eat…” Will the Government indicate whether the contractor will be required to provide food items to the association-managed restaurants or to the employees who go home to eat? If so, what requirements must be met?

Answer: The ALiSS Contractor will not be required to provide provisions to the other restaurants.

C-23 (R-2)

Reference: C.4.1.3.3

QUESTION: In order to have compatible and reliable communications with the TOC on day one of the contract, can the Government specify what sort of communication equipment offerors should procure to satisfy the communications requirement? Paragraph C.4.1.3.6 mentions each site having a base station but no specifics are given.

Answer: This information will be provided by the Government once the contract is awarded.

C-24

Reference: C.4.1.1.2

QUESTION: Will DOS provide a list of approved Medical facility to conduct all medical screenings?

Answer: No, we will not provide a list of approved facilities. The examination should be conducted by a heath practitioner.

Section H

H-1

Reference: H.30 Pre-deployment Counter Terrorism Training, page 108 of 178

QUESTION: Will the Government please clarify if ANs and TCNs hired in country, e.g. incumbent personnel, must attend Pre-deployment Counter Terrorism Training if they do not possess a certificate?

If yes, do they have to return to CONUS to obtain the training?

Answer: All AN and TCNs must complete the FAR 52.2215-19 identified training, as discussed in Section H.30. The Government does not require that these individuals return to CONUS to obtain the training. It is for the Contractor to find and provide said training.

H-2 (R-1)

Reference: H.23.2.1 Task Order Management Plan (TOMP), page 99 of 178

QUESTION: Sub-para c. Personnel plans includes a requirement to identify staffing in the proposal by country of origin. This requirement does not seem to be realistic since the recruitment and vetting process does not start until contract award. We will conduct pre-award recruiting and labor research with local labor brokers for availability of qualified labor.

Will the Government remove the requirement to identify labor in the proposal by country of origin?

Answer: No. It is the Government’s goal to ascertain the resources required for conducting background investigations. The Government understands that the staffing breakdown as proposed in the offeror’s response may change after award.

H-3 (R-1)

Reference: Section H.30 Pre-Deployment Counter Terrorism Training, page 108 of 178

QUESTION: Section H.30 defines the required Pre-Deployment Counter Terrorism Training and notes that, “All personnel must adhere to the requirements of FAR 52.225-19, Contractor Personnel in a Designated Operational Area or Supporting a Diplomatic or Consular Mission Outside the United States.” It further defines that the following:

AN and TCN contractor personnel expected to be in country less than 45 days are required to complete the High Threat Security Overseas Seminar (HTSOS, TS401). This training covers several topics, including how to perform defensive/counterterrorist driving maneuvers.

Please clarify if your intention is that all ANs and TCNs be required to have training in defensive/counterterrorist driving maneuvers.

Answer: Contractor employees are not required to take defensive driving maneuver training. The requirement for FACT training, which included defensive driving maneuver training, has been removed from the RFP. Contractors are, however, required to ensure that they fully comply with the training requirements presented in FAR 52.225-19.

UPDATED ANSWER: Section H.30 has been amended to state that all personnel who are required to drive USG provided vehicles outside of a DOS facility must take training in defensive/counterterrorist driving maneuvers.

See Amendment 2.

H-4 (R-1)

Reference: Section H.30 Pre-Deployment Counter Terrorism Training, page 108 of 178

QUESTION: FAR 52.225-19 also requires attendance at a High Threat Security Overseas Seminar (HTSOS, TS401).

Does every candidate need to attend or be certified in the NTSOS, TS401 course?

Answer: The FAR does not require that Contractor employees take OT401. The contract requires that Contractor AN and TCN employees that are in country for less than 45 days take OT401. This course is only required for those that will be in country for less than 45 calendar days.

H-5 (R-1)

Reference: H.13.3 and Exhibit 1 -TO 001, Para 5.3.1 (pg 13 of 15)

QUESTION: Security Evacuation Plan. Section H.13.3 states that evacuation plan will be required as part of TO

001. TO 001 SOO para 5.3.1 states that evacuation plan requirements shall be addressed in the proposed

SOW.

Will the Government please clarify submittal requirement?

Answer: The SOW must address the requirement that an evacuation plan be provided and reviewed/updated yearly. The formal evacuation plan is due within 60 days of contract award.

H-6 (R-1)

Reference: L.15; H.23.2.1

QUESTION: TOMP instructions in H.23.2.1 states "Resumes do not count against page limit." Would the Government confirm whether the resumes in this proposal submission, Volume 1 Technical Proposal: Task Order Response will be counted against the 30 page limit for each Task Order Management Plan? Will Letters of Intent be excluded from the page limit?

Answer: The Government confirms that resumes do not count against the 30 page limit, however, there is a 2 page limit per resume. H.23.2.1 has been amended to state the following: “Resumes and letters of commitment do not count against the 30 page limit. However, resumes shall be limited to 2 pages (1 double sided page) each.”

H-7

Reference: Section H.23.2.1.d. - Logistics Management Plan of Task Order Management Plan

QUESTION: Would the Government confirm that vehicle maintenance and facilities maintenance will be provided by companies currently under contract to DOS for those responsibilities? Are vehicle and facilities maintenance service requirements priced for this solicitation?

Answer: The Government currently has contracts in place for vehicle maintenance and facilities maintenance. Facilities maintenance is not included as a part of this solicitation.

With regards to vehicle maintenance, as stated in Section L.16.4.2.3.2, offerors are to provide a labor skill mix, which includes hourly rates, based on the presented draft PWS (Attachment 10). This will be used in the future for the negotiation of the vehicle maintenance task order which the Government intends to award within the base year.

H-8 (R-1)

Reference: H.26 Laws and Regulations

QUESTION: In reference to Para. H.26.1, Governing Law states that the contract shall be governed by the laws of the United States, Para H.26.2 Labor, Health and Safety Laws and Customs states that the contractor shall comply with all local labor laws. Will United States laws take precedence in case of conflict with local laws?

Answer: Unless a specific exception is provided to the Contractor from the Contracting Officer in writing, the Contractor shall at all times abide by host country laws. Should the US Government laws and regulations be more stringent than the host country laws, the Contractor will be required to meet both host country and US Government stated requirements.

Should the host country and US Government laws/regulations be contradictory in nature, the Contractor shall present the concern to the Contracting Officer.

H-9 (R-2)

Reference: H.10.1.1 Security Vetting of Contractor Personnel

QUESTION: H.10.1.1 Security Vetting of Contractor Personnel, states, "Moderate Risk Public Trust (MRPT) Certifications will be conducted by the Bureau of Diplomatic Security (DS/SI/PSS). All U.S. citizen contractor personnel that do not require a personnel security clearance for contract/task order performance and all Third Country National (TCN) contractor personnel must possess a favorable MRPT certification prior to contract performance. Those personnel who require security clearances or Public Trust certifications shall not perform on this contract or subsequent task orders until their security clearance or Public Trust certification have been issued. If possible, an interim security clearance or Public Trust certification may be issued. An interim security clearance or Public Trust certification is acceptable for initial contract performance. "

Question: What is the average DOS MRPT processing times and common issues impacting approval?

Answer: The Department does its best to make an interim determination within 72 hours once the case has been assigned to the case manager. For the Department to make a final determination has so many variables, applicant background, country of origin, etc. it is difficult to provide an exact time frame for a final determination.

An attachment on common issues impacting approval has been added to the solicitation. See attachment 14.

H-10 (R-2)

Reference: H.2.1, Employee Medical Services, Sentence 2, pg 67 & H.5, Insurance, pgs 68-70

QUESTION: Per sentence 2: "The contractor must provide medical evacuation and healthcare insurance for all employees (H.5)." However, in H.5, there is no mention of healthcare insurance. Is the Contractor required to provide health Insurance to LNs and TCNs?

Answer: The Contractor must comply with host country labor laws for LNs. The Contractor shall provide healthcare insurance to AN and TCNs.

Section H.5 has been amended to include healthcare insurance.

H-11 (R-2)

Reference: H.10.1.2 Moderate Risk Public Trust (MRPT) Certification Processing, page 78 of 178

QUESTION: The reference cites Kuwaiti Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) civil ID Number (if applicable).

Will the Government please cite the appropriate GoIRA reference?

Answer: There is no reference to GoIRA. The Kuwaiti Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) civil ID Number (if applicable) is required for those applicants that have resided in Kuwait. This is ID Number is required in order to complete checks in Kuwait.

H-12 (R-2)

Reference: RFP H.23.2.1.b and Exhibit 2, Section 8.1.1 and 8.3

QUESTION: Exhibit 2, TO 002 Food Services RFP and SOO require the Offeror to include a Task Order Management Plan per H.23.2.1 instructions as well as a Transition Management Plan. Both sections require a detailed timeline/schedule with transition activities as well as anticipated problems and proposed resolutions.

Will the Government please clarify that they want the timeline/schedule, transition activities, and anticipated problems provided in both sections (within the TOMP and within the Transition Management Plan (SOO 8.3)?

Answer: The TOMP phase-in plan requirement has been removed for TO-002. All transition areas shall be discussed under the Transition Management Plan (see Section 8.3 of the TO-002 RFP).

H-13 (R-2)

Reference: RFP H.20

QUESTION: Who is expected to bear the cost burden for processing security clearances/public trust certifications when a contractor personnel change occurs for the convenience of the contractor, or if an employee removes him/herself from employment? Is this cost reimbursable?

Answer: This is not a cost reimbursable item. The Contractor is responsible for all costs associated with finding personnel, nominating personnel (nomination packages are only required for key personnel unless otherwise designated within the task order), and providing required vetting packages to the Government.

H-14 (R-2)

Reference: RFP H.22

QUESTION: Before the start date of the contract, when is the contractor expected to submit the written Safety Plan to the Contracting Officer Representative?

Answer: Section F.4, Deliverables, has been amended to state “A minimum of 10 calendar days prior to commencement of performance.”

H-15 (R-2)

Reference: RFP H.20.2.1

QUESTION: This clause says that if CACs are required, then DOS will support. At what point in time will the Contractor know when a Common Access Card is required?

Answer: Common Access Cards will be required for all AN ALiSS personnel. As the DoD presence is reduced and Embassy operations are normalized, this requirement may change. The table is Section H.13.1 has been updated.

H-16 (R-2)

Reference: RFP H.11.2

QUESTION: Is the MRPT document list used for the documentation requirements to be included in the security screening of a Local National?

Answer: No, Local National applicants will be screened in accordance to Local RSO policy and procedures.

H-17 (R-2)

Reference: RFP H.12.1

QUESTION: Will the Security Classification Guide (SCG) for Design and Construction of Overseas Facilities, dated May 21 2003 be made available to the Contractor?

Answer: Yes, the referenced guide will be made available to the Contractor after award.

H-18 (R-2)

Reference: RFP H.12.5

QUESTION: When can the contractor company expect the DD Form 254, applicable addendum and security classification guide?

Answer: The DD254 has been provided as part of Amendment 2.

See Amendment 2.

H-19 (R-2)

Reference: RFP H.12.7

QUESTION: Are the contractor facility locations in other countries included in the description of an ‘offsite location’ or does this apply only to locations in Afghanistan?

Answer: This clause refers to Government owned PCs and workstations.

H-20 (R-2)

Reference: RFP H.12.8

QUESTION: Who is responsible for providing the GSA-approved storage containers?

Answer: The Government will provide GSA-approved storage containers as GFE if required.

H-21 (R-2)

Reference: RFP H.12.9

QUESTION: This section states that records obligations do not cease upon the expiration or termination of this contract or at any other point in time. The Contract shall include the substance of this provision in all subcontracts hereunder. What is the retention and destruction policy re the documents/records as described?

Answer: This clause refers to classified and SBU documents and communications. It then describes handling, storage, and releasing by the Contractor. The retention and destruction policy is similar to all other requirements for maintaining contract documents. The specific disposition schedule, based on the type of record/document, will be made available to the Contractor after the award.

H-22 (R-2)

Reference: RFP H.12.13

QUESTION: Does the Government have a standard document form available for the contractor employees to sign?

Answer: Yes, the Records Retirement Transmittal form: DS 693.

H-23 (R-2)

Reference: RFP H.12.13.1

QUESTION: At the completion of the project, will the Government perform the close-out actions with the contractor, which may include turning over the GSA-approved storage container?

Answer: Yes.

H-24 (R-2)

Reference: RFP H.13

QUESTION: The Government will provide housing for Contractor AN and TCN employees. Who is responsible for providing security support services (force protection) for contractor personnel if/when ‘security situations’ arise? Who will be responsible for transport/movement of the ‘non-critical’ personnel; is this a government or contractor burden?

Answer: So long as the Government provides the housing, the Government will also provide the static security. As stated in question B-3, the Government will provide transportation to and from the airport.

This includes in the event of security situations arising.

H-25 (R-2)

Reference: RFP H.13.3

QUESTION: What is the anticipated time-line that the Government is expecting to see the Security Evacuation Plan? Should the contractor anticipate the government to review-approve the Security Evacuation Plan?

Answer: As stated in Section H.13.3, the evacuation plan is addressed in TO-001. TO-001 (section 5.3.1) states that the Contractor is to provide the evacuation plan within 60 days of award, for review and approval by the Government.

H-26 (R-2)

Reference: RFP H.14.1

QUESTION: What are the specific HUMINT threat countries for this contract?

Answer: This is sensitive information. The Government will provide to the Contractor after award.

H-27 (R-2)

Reference: Section H.9 and TO-006 Exhib 4a

QUESTION: IDIQ states that the “Government will be responsible for obtaining customs clearances, and for obtaining the exemption certificates or paying duties not waived, for imported products, materials and equipment which are labeled and processed in accordance with the COR’s instructions.” However, in TO-004, Exhibit 4a, under Medical Supplies it states that the “Contractor is responsible for any import fees, tariffs, and/or taxes imposed by Afghanistan as well as the completion of all the cross border documentation required as part of the contract.” Is the Contractor to infer that medical supplies are not considered products or materials?

Answer: Please see the amendment 2 changes to Section H.9 and Exhibit 4a.

See Amendment 2.

H-28 (R-2)

Reference: H.13.1 DOS Embassy or Consulate Provided Services

QUESTION: Are contractor employees living on USG facilities to purchase meal tickets? Will the Government provide meal rates to bidders for contractors eating in the cafeterias? Tables indicate access to DFACs but no Government-furnished meals. If meal tickets are to be purchased, will the Government provide the cost for meal tickets and identify which CLINs bidders should carry costs under?

Answer: As stated in Section H.13, all contractor employees may eat at the DOS cafeterias at any time by purchasing meal tickets at one of the outlets. Current meal rates are $6.00 (breakfast), $8.00 (lunch), and $8.00 dinner. These costs are subject to change. The cost of meal tickets shall be included in the FFP.

H-29 (R-2)

Reference: 14 FAM 240 Critical Environment Contracting

QUESTION: 14 FAM 240 Critical Environment Contracting requires DOS to perform a comprehensive risk assessment and develop a risk mitigation plan addressing operational risks associated with contractor performance of critical functions. Questions: (a) Will DOS provide this assessment to the contractor for review in support of risk mitigation strategy development (b) Implementation of subsequent safety and security procedures?

Answer: Yes, the government will provide a briefing and answer security related questions to the winner of the ALiSS contract. For security purposes the government does not share sensitive security information with all prospective ALiSS bidders before award.

H-30 (R-2)

Reference: Security Provisions (Personnel)

QUESTION: Security Provisions (Personnel) specific responsibility for provisioning of Security Personnel.

Questions: (a) Contractor or Client is responsible for providing Security personnel assigned to contractor designated housing? (b) Are Security personnel provided by DoS ANs, TCNs, or LNs? (c) Do DoS Security personnel originate from APPF? (d) What qualifications are required for DoS provided APPF Security personnel? (e) Who is responsible for oversight of standards and qualifications of the DoS provided APPF personnel? (f) How does DoS Security vet personnel for Security roles and responsibilities? and (g) Who is responsible for provisioning QRF support outside DoS designated and or controlled areas?

Answer: (a) See response to question B-3.

(b) Security personnel on the Worldwide Protective Services contract are a combination of Americans, TCNS, and Afghans.

(c) No.

(d) DOS does not have security provided by APPF.

(e) There are no DOS provided APPF personnel.

(f) Qualifications of DOS security personnel are stipulated in the DOS Worldwide Protective Services base contract and all personnel must meet these stringent requirements. All American and TCN personnel are vetted thru DS/IS/IND for USG classified clearances or MRPTs. All Afghan personnel are vetted thru RSO for a local security clearance.

(g) The Department has a separate contract for QRF support.

H-31 (R-2)

Reference: Security Subcontracting Guidance

QUESTION: Presidential Decree 62 ordered the disbandment of private security companies in Afghanistan, with the exception of diplomatic security missions, and services transferred to the Afghan Public Protection Force (APPF). With the disbandment of the APPF, at least as we know it to exist today, contractors are in unclear in regards what (if) current contracting mechanisms are in place and how to contractually move forward to subcontractor for APPF or to expand on whether any of the required security measures are specific to Kabul or if they apply equally to all possible project locations. Question: If contractor is to be responsible for any aspect of security; what contracting avenues are available to contractors for procurement of Security Services - PSC, RMC and or APPF?

Answer: The Government will be providing the security for the Government provided AN and TCN housing. If in the future the Contractor is required to provide housing for these individuals, the Contractor will also be required to provide the associated security.

The Government will also be providing transportation to and from the airport for AN and TCN employees.

The Contractor will not be required to provide security for these airport runs.

Outside of the above cited areas, any additional security required for the Contractor will be the responsibility of the Contractor. The Contractor will need to work with GIRoA to determine the procedures and legal requirements for security services.

H-32 (R-2)

Reference: Green Zone Security Measures

QUESTION: The area within what is currently referred to as the “Green Zone” and/or “Inner Perimeter” and defined by USMIL as a “semi-secure” area with multiple layers of internal and external checkpoints, additionally augmented with the security measures of the various embassies. To date, static checkpoints have been manned primarily by Afghan National Security Force (ANSF) entities and Afghan subcontracted guard forces with designated sectors of responsibility. Questions: (a) Will the current checkpoints and designation as a semi-secure area remain in place under DOS? (b) Will the Guard Force subcontract(s) previously under DoD now fall under DoS? (c) Will DoS have responsibility for Command & Control (operational/tactical) of the area and contracted security entities? (d) Will there be a Quick Reaction Force (QRF) element established / designated to support this area?

Answer: The DOS only controls North, South and Southwest checkpoints on the public streets around the Embassy. The DOS can only legally respond to leased or owned diplomatic properties. All other properties fall under the control of GIRoA.

H-33 (R-2)

Reference: H.9 U.S Flag Vessels

QUESTION: Under DLA SPV contract all food is moved via DTS. Understand the requirement for use of US Flag vessels, but once transition takes place and the new contractor places a commercial supply chain in place is the use of DTS required?

Answer: The Government does not require use of the Defense Travel System.

H-34 (R-2)

Reference: Security of ALiSS contractor personnel during transportation

QUESTION: The security measures that DoS uses for the transportation of contractor personnel is important to the ALiSS contractors. Questions: (a) Is DoS provided transportation provided for ALiSS contractor personnel to / from Airport? (b) Does DoS provide security services for transportation of ALiSS contractor personnel between KIA and the Diplomatic Zone? (c) What are the DoS policies / procedures for secure transportation of personnel? (d) What areas within the Kabul area of operations requires secure transportation? (e) Is the ALiSS contractor or DoS responsible for providing Armored - Non Tactical Vehicles for employee transport? (f) Is the ALiSS contractor of DoS responsible for providing Body Armor (Ballistic Vest / Kevlar Helmet) to personnel?

Answer: See response to question B-3 on airport transportation and PPE.

DOS security policies and procedures are sensitive information, and will not be provided.

The Contractor will not be required to provide Armored – Non tactical vehicles.

H-35 (R-2)

Reference: H.13

QUESTION: The Government will provide housing for Contractor AN and TCN employees. Housing may be provided in a USG leased facilities (e.g. Virginia villa) and/or auxiliary areas (e.g. Camp Eggers, Camp Seitz).

Will the government provide the location for housing so contractors may factor in pricing for PSD movements?

An…