Section L 20Mar2026.docx

Section L as of 20 Mar 2026

L01 – PROPOSAL SUBMISSION INSTRUCTIONS

For purposes of evaluation, the term Offeror is defined as the entity submitting the proposal as identified on the SF33. All references to subcontractors and parent or affiliated companies within the proposal shall be clearly identified, to include its CAGE code. Proposal shall be submitted in accordance with this section. Offeror should thoroughly review Sections L and M prior to submitting a proposal. Section L identifies the factors to be evaluated in accordance with Section M.

A. PROPOSAL SUBMISSION

1. Proposals shall be submitted electronically through the Procurement Integrated Enterprise Environment (PIEE) Solicitation Module (https://piee.eb.mil/) by the date and time specified on the solicitation. Offerors must obtain appropriate access to the PIEE system in advance of proposal submission.

2. Offeror is responsible for submitting the virus-scanned electronic submission (PIEE) of its Phase I proposal to the designated location by the date and time specified in Block 9 of the SF33. Failure to do so will result in the proposal being considered late and treated in accordance with FAR 15.208. Offerors are responsible for confirming with the Procuring Contracting Officer (PCO) and/or Contract Specialist(s) that the proposal submitted has, in fact, been received by the PCO and/or Contract Specialist(s). This must be done by the date/time set forth in the solicitation for receipt of proposals.

Subcontractor Proposal Submission: Prime Offerors have the option to submit all information through the PIEE Solicitation Module or to have subcontractors submit its own Work Samples directly to the USG through the PIEE Solicitation Module.

3. The Offeror’s proposal shall be made valid for the number of days identified in Section A of the solicitation.

4. All questions concerning this procurement, either technical or contractual, must be submitted in writing to the PCO and/or Contract Specialist(s). No direct discussion between the U.S. Government (USG) technical representative and a prospective Offeror will be conducted. Questions shall be sent to the following points of contact:

E-mail: anna.e.whitcomb2.civ@army.mil E-mail: amanda.l.carlson25.civ@army.mil E-mail: derek.s.rooks.civ@army.mil

5. Offeror shall not propose any assumptions that take exception to the solicitation. Any exceptions/assumptions proposed that contradict the terms of the solicitation will be considered a deficiency and render an offeror ineligible for award.

6. A complete proposal shall include the following: cover letter, a table of contents, and separate volumes as indicated below. Volumes, and Subfactors within Volumes, shall be submitted separately from other Volumes and Subfactors (for example, Volume 1 Subfactor 1 shall be submitted separately from Volume 1 Subfactor 2):

Volume 1 - Production (Oral Presentation) Subfactor 1 - Technical and Production Capability (Oral Presentation) Subfactor 2 – Waste Stream Management (Oral Presentation)

Volume 2 – Operations (Oral Presentation) Subfactor 1 - Facility Investment and Modernization (Oral Presentation) Subfactor 2 - Maintenance (Oral Presentation)

Volume 3 - Price

Volume 4 - Indemnification Request Package (if being requested)

7. Offeror shall submit its proposal in Adobe PDF (Portable Document Format) with the exception of the Self-Scoring Matrix and the Price Matrix. Scanned PDF files must be legible and shall have the ability to be viewed in Adobe Acrobat. The Offeror shall not lock or password protect any file. The USG shall be able to open and view all electronic files, and they shall be virus-free and searchable. Bookmarks must be utilized to easily locate sections of the proposal. Offeror shall submit the following:

Volume 1 - electronic submission (PIEE) Volume 2 - electronic submission (PIEE) Volume 3 - electronic submission (PIEE) Volume 4 - electronic submission (PIEE)

8. Each volume shall contain a table of contents and a matrix cross-referencing the proposal and the solicitation to allow the USG to ascertain that all required sections of the proposal are fully addressed. Each Volume stands on its own for evaluation purposes and must include all information necessary for evaluation (e.g., if it is to be evaluated in response to a Section L, Volume 1 requirement, the information must be included in the Offeror’s Volume 1 proposal for it to be considered). Offerors are also required to provide all required information for each subfactor independently. When rating a subfactor, the USG will only evaluate the information provided in the section of the proposal addressing that particular subfactor. When rating a factor that does not have subfactors, the USG will only evaluate the information provided in that volume, unless specifically noted otherwise within that evaluation factor. The USG will not supplement the information found in one subfactor or volume with information found in another as part of its evaluation of the proposed approach; however, any inconsistencies found in the proposed approach under one volume or subsection which call into question the veracity, credibility, or reliability of statements made in other sections or volumes may be taken into consideration.

9. For Written submissions, pages shall be 8.5 inches x 11 inches; however, graphs, charts, tables, spreadsheets, and diagrams may use oversized paper of 8.5 inches x 14 inches or 11 inches x 17 inches. Any other page sizes are not permitted. Text size shall be no less than 12-point font; however, graphs, charts, tables, spreadsheets, and diagrams may use text size no less than 8-point font and readable without magnification. All pages shall be numbered, contain at least a one-inch margin, and utilize Times New Roman font for paragraphs of text and either Times New Roman or Arial (except for Arial Narrow) for paragraph headings, graphs, charts, tables, spreadsheets, and diagrams.

10. For Oral Presentations, the Offeror's slides shall meet the following requirements. Oral Presentations shall be conducted using Adobe PDF formatted slides. Text size shall be no less than 12-point Arial font. Black and white or color is permitted, and graphics are permitted. Slides shall be sequentially numbered. The Offeror may use embedded videos in oral presentations. However, videos shall be played during the presentation in order to be used for evaluation purposes and will be included in the allotted time limit for presentations. All designated briefers must attend in person.

Transcriptions of oral presentations will supplement, not replace, the slide presentations. All materials—oral presentation transcripts and slide presentations—will be evaluated comprehensively against the applicable evaluation factors and subfactors.

11. The Self-Scoring Matrix and Price Matrix shall be submitted in the Excel templates provided with the Solicitation. The Offeror shall not password-protect or lock any files.

12. Page/Slide and Time Limitations: The USG will not read nor evaluate pages/slides exceeding the below prescribed page/slide limitations. The Offeror shall only include page/slide numbers on those pages/slide it intends to be evaluated. Excess pages/slides will be removed from the proposals. Page/slide limitations do not include table of contents, cross reference matrices, list of figures, lists of acronyms, section bookmarks/dividers, or indices. Cover letters, proposal introductions, and executive summaries will be included in the overall page/slide and time limitations. No material may be incorporated in the proposal by reference, attachment, appendix, videotape, audiotape, or other electronic media as a means to circumvent the page/slide limitation. No separately submitted electronic video or audio material will be reviewed or considered in the evaluation. Videos in Oral Presentations are allowed as stated above. Files shall not contain classified data. The use of hyperlinks in proposals is prohibited. The time limits for Oral Presentations are firm, and the USG evaluation team will not evaluate any slides not covered during the Offeror’s Oral Presentation allotted timeframe. Page/slide and time limits are as follows:

a. Volume 1, Subfactor 1 - Technical and Production Capability (Oral Presentation)

· Oral Presentation NTE 40 slides and a 90-minute oral presentation

b. Volume 1, Subfactor 2 – Waste Stream Management (Oral Presentation)

· Oral Presentation NTE 10 slides and a 30-minute oral presentation

c. Volume 2, Subfactor 1 - Facility Investment and Modernization (Oral Presentation)

· Oral Presentation NTE 40 slides and a 90-minute oral presentation

d. Volume 2, Subfactor 2 – Maintenance (Oral Presentation)

· Oral Presentation NTE 20 slides and a one (1) hour oral presentation

e. Volume 3, Price – Submission of a completed Price Matrix Attachment 0019 only

f. Volume 4, Indemnification Request (if requested) - no page limitation

13. Oral Presentations

a. In lieu of written proposals for Volumes 1 and 2, Offerors will be required to submit slides and give oral presentations. Oral presentations will be limited IAW paragraph 12 of this section.

b. The Procuring Contracting Officer (PCO) will schedule the oral presentations and will notify each Offeror of the date, time and location of its oral presentation after the USG receives the proposals in response to this Solicitation. The order in which Offerors will make their presentations will be determined by random assignment by the PCO. Oral presentations will be scheduled no sooner than five (5) working days after submission of Phase II proposals. Each Offeror will be notified, in writing with acknowledgement requested, of the scheduled date and time for the presentations. The USG reserves the right to reschedule presentations at the sole discretion of the PCO.

c. At the conclusion of each Offeror's oral presentation, the USG personnel will briefly caucus for up to an hour to determine if any clarifications of the Offeror's presentation are required. If the USG determines there is a need for clarifications, the Offeror will be provided with a written list of the USG's clarification requests. The Offeror will then be given up to one hour to meet internally and formulate responses to the clarification requests, followed by up to one hour to present their responses directly to USG personnel.

d. All clarifications will be provided to the Offeror in writing after Offerors’ proposals have been fully evaluated. The Offerors will have the opportunity to respond to any USG clarifications and discussions not addressed during the oral portion in written format. The oral presentations will be recorded. Participants may take notes, but no official transcript of the oral presentations will be made. Recording will be limited to the USG only, and the Offeror may not record the oral presentations.

e. It is recommended that the Offeror's personnel who will perform or personally direct the work being described conduct their relevant portions of the presentations. These personnel include project managers, task leaders, and other in-house staff of the Offeror. Subcontractors can be utilized as presenters at the Offeror's discretion. Offerors shall list the presenters' names, companies, and email addresses on the Title Slide for each Volume. Offerors are permitted to have up to two (2) non-presenters in the room during the presentation.

f. If there are any inconsistencies between the slides and oral presentations, the USG will attempt to address those issues during the clarification period held after the oral presentation. Offerors shall ensure that all key factual information (such as dates, quantities, product numbers, etc.) are included in the slides to reduce the chances that information will be missed during the oral presentation.

g. The facilities available for use by Offerors are limited to a conference room and overhead images (slides) via electronic projection. The USG will provide all facilities.

h. The oral presentation's specific location will be determined after the closing of the solicitation. Presentations will be conducted at Rock Island Arsenal in Rock Island, IL.

i. The USG will not pay for or reimburse Offerors for any costs associated with oral presentations.

14. The USG presumes the Offeror’s proposal represents its best effort to respond to the solicitation. The Offeror’s submission shall therefore be thorough, specific and complete. The Offeror is expected to provide sufficient detail in a clear and concise manner to completely and logically address each evaluation factor and subfactor. The USG will not assume the Offeror possesses any capability, understanding, or commitment not specified in the proposal. The Offeror is responsible for including sufficient details to permit a complete and accurate evaluation of the proposal without the need for additional clarifications. The USG does not desire excess verbiage, unnecessary and elaborate brochures, lengthy, repetitious, disorganized presentations, or any information beyond that sufficient to present and complete an effective offer. Failure to provide the required information/documentation in response to these instructions may result in a proposal being eliminated from the competitive range and/or rejected. Unsupported promises to comply with the contractual requirements are not sufficient. Proposal shall not merely reiterate the contractual specifications but rather shall provide convincing documentary evidence of how contract requirements will be met.

15. The successful proposal may be incorporated into the resultant contract in whole or in part. Any approach that the Offeror provides shall be in a format that when incorporated into the contract is sufficient to track execution performance against schedule and performance requirements. Any approach proposed shall be worded sufficiently to extract into contract performance language.

16. For the purpose of evaluation, the Offeror does not need to address each Performance Work Statement (PWS) in its proposal, unless specifically identified under the associated Factor. However, the Offeror will be required to perform all PWSs and all PWSs shall be priced IAW the Price Factor.

17. The USG will use a two-phase approach to proposal evaluation. In Phase I, Offerors' proposals will consist of the Self-Scoring Matrix Excel spreadsheet at Attachment 0035 and Work Samples, with Project Reference at Attachment 0036 as the first three pages, for the Production, Safety, Small Business and Past Performance Factors. Phase II will include submission of an Oral Presentation for the Production and Operations Factors and a spreadsheet Price Matrix at Attachment 0019 for the Price Factor.

B. PHASE I

I. Phase I Instructions

1. Offers shall submit a Self-Scoring Matrix at Attachment 0035 with associated Work Samples. Each Work Sample shall include the three-page Project Reference at Attachment 0036 as the first three pages of the Work Sample. Work Samples have no page limit and Project References are limited to the three-page template provided. Offerors shall include all information requested on the Project Reference Template for each Work Sample submission. Contractual documents submitted in accordance with Phase I Factor 4 have no page limit.

2. Offerors shall complete a Project Reference for each Work Sample submitted. Each Project Reference shall include all information included in the Project Reference Template at Attachment 0036, including the contract/order number and at least two USG or customer Points of Contact (POCs). The USG may contact the POCs provided, and reserves the right to contact additional POCs, as necessary.

3. Offerors shall submit Work Samples (contracts/orders) which demonstrate its technical experience in the required categories. Work Samples may count toward multiple technical experience categories. Future performance periods on an existing contract do not demonstrate technical experience and shall not be utilized as Work Samples, nor shall they be factored into the total point value of a submitted sample. An acceptable Work Sample is defined as either an IDIQ contract, non-IDIQ contract, or a task order under an IDIQ contract (FAR 16.501-1 and FAR 2.101), on which the Offeror performed for at least one year, with that one year taking place within the last seven years of the date of issuance of this solicitation. For all current and ongoing Work Samples the Offeror shall calculate its points based on data up until proposal submission. Parent, affiliate, and subsidiary organizations as well as Joint Venture contracts may utilize data from any company within the organizational structure for Work Sample submissions as long as the company was performing as the Prime Contractor on the Work Sample.

4. The Work Samples shall consist of only official contract documentation (including, but not limited to, Performance Work Statements (PWSs), Statements of Work (SOWs), Contract Data Requirement Lists (CDRLs), and Invoices). The USG will accept a Statement of Fact from the cognizant contracting officer or contracting officer representative (COR) to confirm missing information, should contractual documents not carry all the information necessary to substantiate the Offeror's scores. The Offeror will need to provide this statement (if needed) and submit as part of its Work Sample. The Offeror shall not create any new documentation (project narratives or project descriptions) outside of the required three-page Project Reference. Where official contract documentation is insufficient to substantiate a Self-Rated Score, the Offeror may utilize corporate system reports as documentation. When corporate system reports are utilized, the citation must include a signed statement attesting to the validity of the reports. Work Samples shall include sufficient information to substantiate each claim. One contract or task order can be used to support multiple technical experiences, but each technical experience requires submission of its own Work Sample(s) (cumulative within a given 12 months) with the Project Reference as the first three pages. The USG reserves the right to ask Offerors for clarifications to assist in validation of Self-Rated Scores.

5. Work Samples shall be provided in their original format and titled in accordance with the Work Sample Title listed on the Self-Scoring Matrix at Attachment 0035. All pages of all Work Samples shall be numbered. In addition, the original pagination of each document shall be retained. If the original documentation within a Work Sample is not numbered, Offerors shall add page numbers. Font, text size, and margin requirements established in Section L Proposal Submission Instructions do not apply to Work Sample submissions. All Work Sample submissions shall be in English. If more than one document is provided as part of a Work Sample, the documents shall be combined as one file and numbered accordingly. Offerors shall include all documentation for a given Work Sample in a single PDF file, with the Project Reference as the first three pages, and add to each page the unique Work Sample Title identified on the Self-Scoring Matrix and page number in the margin. While this consolidation and notation may result in some confusion (such as multiple pages identified as "page 1" if the citation includes page 1 of an SF33/SF1449/DD1155, page 1 of the PWS, etc.), the result will ensure that USG evaluators can find all documentation quickly and efficiently.

6. Work Samples Qualifications: All Work Samples shall meet these minimum qualifications (unless otherwise specified in technical experience proposal requirements).

a. Shall be performed or ongoing within the last seven (7) years from the date of issuance of this solicitation and performed for a minimum of one year. For Work Samples where all periods of performance (PoPs) do not meet this qualification (such as Base Year PoP outside the seven-year limitation and an Option Year PoP within the limitation), only the PoP which meets this criterion shall be utilized for scoring purposes.

b. Offerors shall identify what company will be performing the identified PWS work if awarded the RFAAP contract and all Work Samples shall represent work previously done by that contractor or subcontractor(s). If subcontractor Work Samples are used, the Offeror shall submit letters of commitment from the subcontractor(s).

c. Work Samples shall fall into one of the following categories. Project References shall identify if the Work Sample is from the Prime contractor or a Subcontractor.

i. Category 1: Prime Offeror Work Samples. In order to be used, the Offeror shall have acted as the Prime or first tier subcontractor, which may include work performed as part of a joint venture. If a company establishes a joint venture for this contract, work of both prime companies may be utilized. Primes may also include subsidiaries or legal entities which fall under the parent corporation. In order to use a subsidiary or legal entity as a prime Work Sample, the acquisition of the subsidiary or legal entity shall have been finalized as of the date of initial issuance of this solicitation, and objective evidence shall be included in the Work Sample to demonstrate that it is now a legal entity of the corporation. If an Offeror wants to rely on an affiliate's past experience, then the Offeror must show how that subsidiary's workforce, management, facilities, or other resources will affect contract performance. If these criteria are met, subsidiary or legal entity Work Samples will be considered prime Work Samples, even if the work occurred prior to the company being acquired.

ii. Category 2: Subcontractor Work Samples. In order to be used, the Offeror shall:

(1) Identify which subcontractor(s) will be performing the identified PWS work if awarded the RFAAP contract and all Work Samples shall represent work previously done by that subcontractor(s); and

(2) Have acted as the prime or first tier subcontractor on the contract or order submitted.

d. Work Samples that do not satisfy the minimum requirements described above will not be further evaluated by the USG to validate the associated Self-Rated Score.

II. Phase 1 Factor 1 Production

1. Production Work Sample Definitions and Proposal Requirements

a. Definition: Chemicals are defined as forms of matter that have a constant chemical composition and characteristic properties. These substances can exist as elements or compounds. An element is the simplest type of chemical substance, made up of only one kind of atom that cannot be broken down into simpler substances by chemical reactions. A chemical compound is a substance formed when two or more different chemical elements are chemically bonded together in a fixed ratio.

b. Proposal Requirements: The Offeror shall identify the company (or companies) that will be performing Production work if awarded the RFAAP contract and all Work Samples shall represent work done by that company (or companies). This company's name shall be the name provided for number five (5) on the Project Reference at Attachment 0036. The Offeror shall have performed the work in the Work Sample for at least one year, with that one year taking place within the last seven years of the date of issuance of this solicitation.

2. Production of chemicals

a. Definition: Chemicals are defined as forms of matter that have a constant chemical composition and characteristic properties. These substances can exist as elements or compounds. An element is the simplest type of chemical substance, made up of only one kind of atom that cannot be broken down into simpler substances by chemical reactions. A chemical compound is a substance formed when two or more different chemical elements are chemically bonded together in a fixed ratio.

b. Proposal Requirements: Three (3) separate Work Samples are required for this technical experience. Offerors will be rated separately on each Work Sample submission and receive zero (0) points if no Work Sample is provided. Submissions shall include the contract or task order for Work Sample support, production requirements in the PWS/SOW and any additional contract language that makes the Work Sample relevant. The Offeror shall have performed the work in the Work Sample for at least one year, with that one year taking place within the last seven years of the date of issuance of this solicitation.

3. Production of NC

a. Definition: Nitrocellulose (NC) production is the process of treating cellulose with a mixture of nitric acid and sulfuric acid. NC production does not include brokered NC.

b. Proposal Requirements: Two (2) separate Work Samples are required for this technical experience. Offerors will be rated separately on each Work Sample submission and receive zero (0) points if no Work Sample is provided. Submissions shall include the contract or task order for Work Sample support, production requirements in the PWS/SOW and any additional contract language that makes the Work Sample relevant. The Offeror shall have performed the work in the Work Sample for at least one year, with that one year taking place within the last seven (7) years of the date of issuance of this solicitation.

4. Production of Single Base Propellant

a. Definition: Single base propellant is a smokeless powder with NC as the sole or primary energetic ingredient.

b. Proposal Requirements: Two (2) separate Work Samples are required for this technical experience. Offerors will be rated separately on each Work Sample submission and receive zero (0) points if no Work Sample is provided. Submissions shall include the contract or task order for Work Sample support, production requirements in the PWS/SOW and any additional contract language that makes the Work Sample relevant. The Offeror shall have performed the work in the Work Sample for at least one year, with that one year taking place within the last seven (7) years of the date of issuance of this solicitation.

5. Production of Double and/or Triple Base Propellant

a. Definition: Double base propellant is a smokeless propellant containing NC and nitroglycerin (NG). Triple base propellant is a smokeless propellant containing NC, NG and nitroguanidine.

b. Proposal Requirements: One (1) Work Sample is required for this technical experience. Offerors will receive zero (0) points if no Work Sample is provided. Submissions shall include the contract or task order for Work Sample support, production requirements in the PWS/SOW and any additional contract language that makes the Work Sample relevant. The Offeror shall have performed the work in the Work Sample for at least one year, with that one year taking place within the last seven (7) years of the date of issuance of this solicitation.

6. Contractor Performance Assessment Reporting System (CPARS): Average of the Most Recent CPARS Ratings the Offeror has Received on its Production Work Samples for the Quality, Schedule, and Management Categories

a. Definition: CPARS ratings will be calculated by taking the average of the Offeror's Quality, Schedule, and Management scores using the values below. If no rating is provided in any of the three categories (Quality, Schedule, and Management) a score of neutral (750) will be applied to that category. The calculated average will be rounded to the nearest whole number to determine the Offeror's score.

Exceptional Rating = 1000 points Very Good Rating = 900 points Satisfactory/Neutral Rating/No CPARS Available = 750 points Marginal Rating = 500 points Unsatisfactory Rating = 0 points

b. Proposal Requirements: CPARS submissions shall be for the contracts submitted for the Production Work Samples provided. If CPARS ratings were received at the level of Work Sample submission (contract, IDIQ contract, or task order), CPARS Work Samples shall be the most recent ratings received for that Work Sample. If CPARS ratings were received only at the IDIQ level and a task order under an IDIQ is submitted for a Work Sample, then CPARS Work Samples shall be from the same year as the task order Work Sample. If any of the Offeror's Work Samples do not have CPARS ratings or CPARS is not available, the USG will assign a score of Satisfactory/Neutral/No CPARS Available for that Work Sample Performance Related Experience. Offerors are encouraged to address any adverse past performance, including corrective actions, in its CPARS Work Sample Project References.

III. Phase 1 Factor 2 Safety

1. Safety Work Samples Definitions and Proposal Requirements

a. Definition: Compliance with DoD safety regulations is defined as in accordance with all regulations stated in the safety PWS.

b. Proposal Requirements: The Offeror shall identify the company (or companies) that will be performing Safety work if awarded the RFAAP contract and all Work Samples shall represent work done by that company (or companies). This company's name shall be the name provided for number five (5) on the Project Reference at Attachment 0036. The Offeror shall have performed the work in the Work Sample for at least one year, with that one year taking place within the last seven (7) years of the date of issuance of this solicitation.

2. Corporate Safety Culture

a. Definition: Corporate safety culture refers to the shared values, beliefs, attitudes, perceptions, and patterns of behavior among employees regarding safety within an organization.

b. Proposal Requirements: Two (2) separate Work Samples are required for this technical experience. Offerors will be rated separately on each Work Sample submission and receive zero (0) points if no Work Sample is provided. The Offeror's Work Samples shall include a copy of the contract/task order for Work Sample support and execution reports or other proof that work was executed as contracted.

3. Safety Management System

a. Definition: A Safety Management System (SMS) is a systematic, proactive, and comprehensive approach to managing safety within an organization. It provides a structured framework to identify hazards, assess and control risks, and continuously improve safety performance. Unlike traditional safety programs that might focus solely on compliance with regulations, an SMS integrates safety into the overall business operations and culture.

b. Proposal Requirements: Two (2) separate Work Samples are required for this technical experience. Offerors will be rated separately on each Work Sample submission and receive zero (0) points if no Work Sample is provided. The Offeror's Work Samples shall include a copy of the contract/task order for Work Sample support and execution reports or other proof that work was executed as contracted.

4. Hazard Analysis Process

a. Definition: Hazard Analysis is a systematic process used to identify, evaluate, and control hazards associated with a specific task, process, equipment, product, or system. The goal is to proactively prevent harm to people, property, the environment, and the organization's reputation.

b. Proposal Requirements: Two (2) separate Work Samples are required for this technical experience. Offerors will be rated separately on each Work Sample submission and receive zero (0) points if no Work Sample is provided. The Offeror's Work Samples shall include a copy of the contract/task order for Work Sample support and execution reports or other proof that work was executed as contracted.

5. Experience Modification Rate (EMR)

a. Definition: The EMR is a numerical factor used by workers' compensation insurance companies to adjust an employer's premium based on their past claims history compared to other businesses in the same industry of similar size.

b. Proposal Requirements: Submissions shall include the contract or task order, PWS/SOW, and contract language that supports requirement for Work Sample support.

6. 3-Year Average Total Case Incident Rate (TRIR)

a. Definition: TRIR is a safety metric used by organizations to measure their occupational injury and illness performance over a specific period, typically a calendar year. The TRIR is calculated based on the number of Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recordable incidents per 100 full-time employees.

b. Proposal Requirements: Submissions shall include the contract or task order, PWS/SOW, and contract language that supports requirement for Work Sample support.

7. Contractor Performance Assessment Reporting System (CPARS): Average of the Most Recent CPARS Ratings the Offeror has Received on its Safety Work Samples for the Quality, Schedule, and Management Categories

a. Definitions: CPARS ratings will be calculated by taking the average of the Offeror's Quality, Schedule, and Management scores using the values below. If no rating is provided in any of the three categories (Quality, Schedule, and Management) a score of neutral (750) will be applied to that category. The calculated average will be rounded to the nearest whole number to determine the Offeror's score.

Exceptional Rating = 1000 points Very Good Rating = 900 points Satisfactory/Neutral Rating/No CPARS Available = 750 points Marginal Rating = 500 points Unsatisfactory Rating = 0 points

b. Proposal Requirements: CPARS submissions shall be for the contracts submitted for the Safety Work Samples provided. If CPARS ratings were received at the level of Work Sample submission (contract, IDIQ contract, or task order), CPARS Work Samples shall be the most recent ratings received for that Work Sample. If CPARS ratings were received only at the IDIQ level and a task order under an IDIQ is submitted for a Work Sample, then CPARS Work Samples shall be from the same year as the task order Work Sample. If any of the Offeror's Work Samples do not have CPARS ratings, the USG will assign a score of Satisfactory/Neutral/No CPARS Available for that Work Sample Performance Related Experience. Offerors are encouraged to address any adverse past performance, including corrective actions, in its CPARS Work Sample Project References.

IV. Phase 1 Factor 3 Small Business

1. Small Business Factor Work Sample Definitions and Proposal Requirements

a. Definition: Small business categories considered will include overall small business concerns, small disadvantaged business concerns, women-owned small business concerns, HUBZone small business concerns, and service-disabled veteran- owned small business concerns.

b. Proposal Requirements: Small business Work Samples shall be for the prime Offeror only. This requirement applies to other than Small Business Prime Offerors only. Small business Prime Offerors and Prime Offerors who graduated from small business to large business within the last five (5) years prior to the date of issuance of this solicitation and submit Work Samples that were awarded as a qualified small business will be given the maximum score.

2. Number of Small Business categories Met or Exceeded (Small Business Concerns, Small Disadvantaged Business Concerns, Women-Owned Small Business Concerns, HUBZone Small Business Concerns, and Service-Disabled Veteran- Owned Small Business Concerns) on Individual Subcontracting Report (ISR) / Summary Subcontract Report (SSR)

a. Definition: Total number of small business categories each Work Sample shows the Offeror met or exceeded. Small business categories include overall small business concerns, women-owned small business concerns, HUBZone small business concerns, and service-disabled veteran-owned small business concerns.

b. Proposal Requirements: Three (3) separate Work Samples are required for this experience. Offerors will be rated separately on each Work Sample submission and receive zero (0) points if no Work Sample is provided. Offerors shall submit three (3) ISR or SSR samples where work was performed within the last seven (7) years prior to the date of issuance of this solicitation.

V. Phase 1 Factor 4 Contractual Documents

1. Offerors shall submit complete and signed (by an individual authorized to bind the company) SF33 and all SF30 if amendments are issued.

2. Offerors shall submit a Phase I Cover Sheet, Self-Scoring Matrix at Attachment 0035; Section K Representations, Certifications, and Other Statement of Offerors; Section K clause fill-ins; clause fill-ins for all sections of the solicitation; a small business size standard certification; a small business subcontracting plan (if applicable IAW FAR 52.219-9); and/or joint venture or partnership agreement (if applicable). All fill-ins must be completed. If one is not applicable, Offerors shall insert N/A.

3. The Phase I Cover Sheet shall include only the information required by FAR 52.215-1(e).

C. PHASE II

I. Phase II Instructions

1. All Offerors who submit a Phase I proposal that meets all minimum requirements described in Phase I will be given three (3) weeks from notification to submit all required materials in support of the Factors described in Phase II. All Offerors who submit a Phase I proposal that does not meet all minimum requirements described in Phase I will be notified of the removal from further consideration for award. Offeror's Phase I scores will only be used to validate the Offeror has met the 40,750 point threshold. Offeror's Phase I scores will not be used in any portion of Phase II, including the best value tradeoff decision. The PCO will notify all Offerors who will be considered for award under Phase II.

II. VOLUME 1 – PRODUCTION (Oral Presentation)

Subfactor 1: Technical and Production Capability (Oral Presentation)

1. Workload and Facility Utilization Plan: The Offeror shall provide a comprehensive Workload and Facility Utilization Plan that details the Offeror's strategy to optimize facility utilization and enhance its operational capabilities over a period of no less than 10 years. The plan must be a cohesive document that integrates the Offeror's management strategy with its operational and performance measurement plans. The submittal shall consist of the following components:

a) Management Approach: The Offeror shall describe the management approach for executing the Workload and Facility Utilization Plan. This narrative must detail the organizational structure and processes that will ensure the successful implementation of the proposed workload and investments. At a minimum, this section shall include:

i) Organizational Structure: A description of the management and administrative organization responsible for the plan's execution, including an organizational chart that clearly delineates lines of authority and responsibility for all key personnel involved.

ii) Management Systems and Controls: A description of the corporate management systems, controls, and procedures (e.g., project management, financial management, quality control) that will be used to manage and control the work outlined in the schedule and narrative.

iii) Decision-Making and Communication: An explanation of the decision-making process and communication plan for ensuring effective and timely information flow regarding the plan's progress to the Government.

b) Integrated Workload Schedule: The Offeror shall provide a detailed integrated workload schedule covering a minimum of 10 years. This schedule must serve as a timeline illustrating the Offeror's long-term operational and investment strategy, and it shall clearly delineate:

i) Projected Workload: The allocation of both legacy and new product manufacturing over the minimum 10-year period.

ii) Capacity Growth: Timelines for planned increases in production capacity for specific lines or products.

iii) New Capability Integration: Key milestones indicating when new production capabilities or technologies are projected to come online.

iv) Investment and Modernization Realization: The schedule for implementing self-funded investments and major modernization projects, showing when they are expected to be completed and contribute to operational capabilities.

c) Workload Plan Narrative: The Offeror shall provide a supporting narrative that explains the strategy and assumptions behind the Minimum 10-Year Integrated Workload Schedule. This narrative must directly correspond to the schedule and provide, at a minimum, the following:

i) Market Analysis and Risk Mitigation: The Offeror shall provide a thorough analysis of the entire energetics market, encompassing both direct and indirect requirements of the U.S. Government. This analysis must inform a detailed risk mitigation strategy designed to address potential fluctuations in U.S. Government workload, ensuring the long-term viability and stability of facility operations.

ii) Legacy, New Products, and Diversification: A description of the legacy and new products the Offeror proposes to produce. This shall include a diversification strategy detailing the target markets the Offeror will pursue to secure the proposed workload.

iii) Production Line Utilization: Identification of the specific production lines to be utilized and a description of any proposed modifications or enhancements required to meet the workload schedule.

iv) Supply Chain Management: The Offeror shall detail The Offeror shall detail its Supply Chain Management (SCM) approach, which must be fully integrated with the Minimum 10-Year Integrated Workload Schedule, demonstrating a resilient, secure, and cost-effective strategy from sourcing to delivery. The Offeror’s approach must address supplier management to mitigate risks and ensure quality; a comprehensive Supply Chain Risk Management (SCRM) framework covering geopolitical, obsolescence, logistical, counterfeit (DFARS), and cybersecurity (CMMC) threats; and methodologies for inventory optimization, demand forecasting, and Government-Furnished Property (GFP) management. The Offeror must demonstrate how its SCM approach enhances operational efficiency, ensures mission readiness, and supports facility modernization and business capture efforts.

v) Business Capture Plan: A clear and actionable plan for business capture efforts that will supplement and stabilize the workload shown in the schedule.

vi) Enhancement of Operations: A summary demonstrating how the proposed workload and investments will enhance the overall operational efficiency, stability, and modernization of the facility.

d) Performance Evaluation Methodology: The Offeror shall describe its internal Performance Evaluation Methodology for monitoring and measuring the successful execution of the Workload and Facility Utilization Plan. This section shall detail:

i) Performance Metrics: Proposed Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and other metrics that will be used to measure performance against the technical, schedule, and investment objectives outlined in the plan.

ii) Data Collection and Analysis: The methodology for collecting, analyzing, and using performance data from the workload plan to drive continuous improvement and proactive management.

iii) Corrective Action Process: A description of the process for identifying deviations from the plan, determining root causes, and implementing timely corrective actions to ensure objectives are met.

Subfactor 2: Waste Stream Management (Oral Presentation)

1. Integrated Waste Stream Management Plan: The Offeror shall provide a comprehensive Integrated Waste Stream Management Plan (IWSMP) for RFAAP. The plan must demonstrate a forward-thinking approach to operational efficiency and environmental stewardship. The IWSMP shall include, but is not limited to, an approach to the following four areas, considering clarity, feasibility, and innovation of the strategies proposed:

a) Waste Minimization and Monetization Strategy: The Offeror shall describe a detailed strategy to minimize waste generation through process optimization and byproduct reuse. The proposal shall identify specific commercial outlets for byproducts and out-of-specification products, including a methodology to track and report on the projected revenue and cost savings.

b) Hazardous and Nonhazardous Material Storage: The Offeror shall describe its time-bound process to ensure no propellant, materials, production by-products, chemicals, intermediates, off-specification materials, NC Fines, residual materials, residual products, and production materials generated or acquired during the performance of this contract are stored for longer than two years and disposed of IAW all applicable federal, state, and local regulations and permits. The Offeror’s approach shall include specific inventory tracking, aging analysis, and disposition-triggering procedures.

c) Key Performance Indicators (KPIs): The Offeror shall propose and justify at least three distinct KPIs to quantitatively measure the success of the IWSMP. For each KPI, define the measurement methodology, data sources, and performance targets that will be used to drive continuous improvement over the life of the contract.

III. VOLUME 2 – OPERATIONS (Oral Presentation)

*NOTE TO INDUSTRY: The USG is evaluating Industry feedback in response to Draft RFP #2, and therefore, Volume 2 is still under development. Please refrain from commenting on Volume 2 at this time.

Subfactor 1: Facility Investment and Modernization (Oral Presentation)

1. Facility Investment and Modernization Plan The Offeror shall submit a comprehensive Facility Investment and Modernization Plan as part of its proposal. This plan must be organized into the following four sections, addressing each category of investment as detailed below.

a. Legacy Waste Management – NC Fines

i. The Offeror shall provide a comprehensive NC Fines Management Plan. This plan must detail the Offeror's strategy for the handling, management, reduction, and ultimate elimination of all NC Fines existing at the contract start date. The plan must be specific, detailed, and directly address the requirements outlined in Section C of this solicitation.

ii. The NC Fines Management Plan shall include, at a minimum, the following sections:

1. Technical Approach and Methodology:

The offeror shall describe the specific technical approach, methodologies, and technologies they intend to use for the safe handling, processing, treatment, and/or disposal of the NC Fines. This shall include:

a. A description of the equipment and facilities to be used.

b. An overview of the processes for characterization, segregation, and stabilization of the material.

c. A discussion of the final disposition pathway for the processed or eliminated fines, including any transportation and disposal plans.

2. Reduction and Elimination Schedule:

The Offeror shall provide a detailed project schedule that clearly illustrates the plan to reduce the NC Fines inventory by no less than twenty-five percent (25%) each year.

a. The schedule must include specific milestones for Years 1 through 4, demonstrating a clear path to achieving zero inventory by the end of the fourth year of performance.

b. The schedule should be supported by a basis of estimate, justifying the proposed timelines for key activities.

iii. Environmental, Safety, and Health (ES&H) Compliance:

The Offeror shall describe their approach to ensuring full compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local environmental, safety, and health regulations throughout the NC Fines management process. This shall include:

1. Procedures for material handling to minimize personnel exposure and environmental release.

2. A summary of the permits required and the offeror's plan to obtain and maintain them.

3. A description of the safety protocols and personnel protective equipment (PPE) to be employed.

iv. Reporting and Documentation:

The offeror shall describe their methodology for tracking, measuring, and documenting the reduction of NC Fines. This section must detail the proposed content and format for the annual "Legacy Waste Reduction Report" required under CDRL XXX, with a specific focus on providing transparent and verifiable data on the NC Fines inventory.

v. Risk Management:

The offeror shall identify potential technical, logistical, regulatory, and safety risks associated with their proposed NC Fines management approach. For each identified risk, the offeror must propose a corresponding mitigation strategy to minimize the probability and impact of the risk.

b. Strategic Facility Self Investment Approach

i. The Offeror shall describe its strategy for executing 100% Offeror-funded investments that establish new capabilities or production capacities not currently present at the facility.

ii. The Offeror shall describe the potential use of mechanisms such as Tenant Use Agreements under ARMS legislative authorities to meet these investment goals.

c. Short-Term Facility Upgrade Approach

i. The Offeror shall describe its approach for executing co-funded facility upgrades (projects less than 3 years in duration) to include a description of projects that upgrade, automate, or replace existing production lines, utilities, and support systems to current industrial standards without fundamentally changing the facility’s mission.

ii. The Offeror shall describe its methodology for developing project proposals and justifying the proposed Government matching fund ratio (not to exceed 1:5 (Contractor:Government)), with the Government co-investment not to exceed $250M.

d. Facility Reset Planning and Execution Approach

i. The Offeror shall submit a detailed Facility Reset Approach that describes their methodology for the assessment, planning, prioritization, and execution of a comprehensive facility modernization effort. This approach shall demonstrate the Offeror's capability to develop and execute a final, Government-approved Facility Reset Plan within three (3) years of achieving full operational control.

ii. Recognizing that a definitive plan requires post-award site assessments, this proposal volume shall not be a final plan, but rather a description of the Offeror's proposed management and technical framework. The Offeror’s approach must be structured to define and control scope, manage risk, and ensure collaboration with the Government.

iii. At a minimum, the Offeror’s Facility Reset Approach must describe their methodology for:

1. Baseline Assessment and Prioritization:

The Offeror shall…