SOW for Markers and Monuments Cleaning Services Revise 10 Mar 25.pdf

STATEMENT OF WORK

Cemetery Markers Cleaning Services and Monument Maintenance

1. INTRODUCTION:

The Department of Veterans Affairs, Na onal Cemetery Administra on, honors Veterans with a final res ng place and las ng memorials that commemorate their service to our na on. There are approximately 150 Na onal Cemeteries in 42 states that receive visitors, hold ceremonies, and conduct commi al services on an ongoing basis.

Na onal Cemeteries are Na onal Shrines. The standards of maintenance and appearance at these cemeteries must reflect this Na on's concern for those interred there. For this reason, strict adherence to these specifica ons as well as the Na onal Cemetery Administra on Na onal Shrine Commitment Opera onal Standards and Measures (Version 9.1 December 2023) is essen al. For this reason, the contractor’s strict adherence to the Statement of Work specifica ons shall be required and will be essen al. Cri cally important is the awareness required of the contractor employees of the remains buried in the grounds where the work is performed. The utmost care must be given to these headstones and monuments that mark those gravesites and memorialize the service of individuals.

1.1 BACKGROUND:

Riverside National Cemetery is the largest and busiest cemetery managed by the National Cemetery Administration. It was established in 1976 through the transfer of 740 acres from March Air Force Base, which during World War II was called the U.S. Army's Camp William G. Haan. The cemetery was dedicated and opened for burials November 11, 1978. An additional 181 acres was transferred by the Air Force in 2003. Total acreage 1236.8 acres. The dramatic, meandering landscape features a central boulevard with memorial circles, lakes, indigenous-styled committal shelters, and a memorial amphitheater.

Monuments and Memorials: Riverside National cemetery is home of the Medal of Honor Memorial (MOH) and one of four sites recognized as a National Medal of Honor Memorial Site. The Medal of Honor Memorial, whose walls feature the names of all medal recipients, is located at the third traffic circle in the cemetery. It was dedicated in 1999.

The Fallen Soldier/Veterans' Memorial, erected in 2000, is dedicated to all service members who gave the ultimate sacrifice for their country. The dramatic bronze structure topped by a lifeless soldier is located near the lake at the entrance to the cemetery. A carillon was donated by the American Veterans (AMVETS) in 2000.

The Prisoner of War/Missing in Action (POW/MIA) National Memorial was designated as a national memorial by the U.S. Congress in 2004 through Public Law 108-454. The memorial was dedicated on September 16, 2005. Vietnam veteran Lewis Lee Millett, Jr., sculpted the bronze statue which depicts an American serviceman on his knees with hands bound by his captors. The statue is surrounded by black marble pillars that evoke imprisonment.

The Gold Star Families Monument (GSFM) was dedicated January 28th, 2023. The entry view depicts the centerpiece standing tall in the midst of a five-pointed golden star. The centerpiece features four dis nct panels of striking black granite, forming a half crescent, two-sided monument. In the heart of the centerpiece, a hollow cutout cast the shadow of a hero who is no more; a tribute to the beloved service member who willingly gave up his/her life as a sacred testament to the American values of Life, Liberty, and Freedom. The front of the Gold Star Families Monument has these words in brilliant, raised bronze le ering; “A Tribute to Those Who Made the Ul mate Sacrifice for Our Freedom, And Those They Le Behind.”

Riverside Na onal Cemetery (RNC) presently offers space available to accommodate both casketed and cremated remains. The burial rate per year is approximately 8,000 and the cemetery averages approximately 35 burials per day. There are approximately 285,000 veterans, spouse, and dependents presently interred since its opening on November 11, 1978. The remains of all veterans, spouse, and dependents are marked with a government furnished headstones or markers for both grounds and above grounds. The cemetery uses five (5) types of government headstones (Flat Bronze (B1 -12x24x½), Flat Granite (L1 & J1), Bronze niche covers (Z1 – 5 ½”x), Marble niche covers (I1). The cemetery also honors those veterans whose remains are sca ered and whose remains are unrecoverable by providing them with a “memorial marker” located at the first circle of the cemetery aptly named the “Memorial Circle”. Along with four monuments; Na onal POW/MIA Memorial (POW), Veteran Memorial, Gold Star Family Monument (GSFM), and National Congressional Medal of Honor Memorial (MOH).

1.2 OBJECTIVE:

The Contractor shall provide all supervision, labor, equipment, materials, uniforms, and supplies necessary to perform all requirements in this statement of work. The objec ve of this project is to ensure that all Memorial Markers and Headstones marking the graves of all veterans, spouse and dependents are clean, free of debris and objec onable accumula ons. The Markers and Monuments Cleaning Services will include flat granite markers cleaning, flat bronze markers cleaning, and Columbarium niche covers cleaning. The objec ve of the four (4) large memorials and adjacent hardscape and landscaped areas around the memorials are properly maintained in honor of the specific veteran’s groups they represent. All government memorials and adjacent hardscape and landscaped areas around the memorials are not damaged by contractor opera ons. The contractor shall provide all necessary manpower & resources to perform and complete mul ple jobs.

1.3 SCOPE OF WORK:

a) Work consists of cleaning all Memorial Markers and Government Headstones as specified by the Contracting Officers Representative (COR) to remove objectionable material and discoloration, such as accumulations of bird droppings, or mud, tire marks, water stains, hose markings, grass stains, residue from trees, fungus, lichens, and other biological activity.

b) The Memorial Markers, and Government Headstones shall be cleaned prior to Memorial Day and Veteran’s Day and any other times as determined by the Contracting Officers Representative (COR) with a minimal washing of two (2) time per year. The natural surfaces shall be retained, they shall not be painted, whitewashed, or calcimined.

c) Any Memorial Markers, and Government Headstones that have any dirt splash-up or grass debris from mowing/trimming from the contractor operations shall be promptly cleaned when found at no additional cost to the Government. Work to clean headstones of grass clippings and/or soil residue resulting from turf mowing, edging, and trimming operations does not constitute Memorial Markers, and Headstone Cleaning” under this section and will not be billed for as such.

d) Any Memorial Markers and Government Headstone that has objectionable accumulations of bird droppings shall be cleaned by dry brushing. Dropping that cannot be removed by the dry brush method shall be removed with a wet brush and rinsed with water. The government headstones most affected are those directly beneath trees where birds roost and birds that roost on monuments or memorial structures.

1.4 GENERAL INFORMATION:

1.4.1 TYPE OF CONTRACT: The Government will award a Firm-Fixed-Price, Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quan ty (IDIQ) Contract.

1.4.2 PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE: One (1) base year and four (4) op on year period of performance.

1.4.3 PLACE OF PERFORMANCE: Riverside National Cemetery

22495 Van Buren Blvd

Riverside, CA 92518

1.4.4 SCHEDULE:

Scheduling of the work shall be coordinated with the Contrac ng Officer Representa ve (COR) to avoid disrup on of ongoing Cemetery opera ons. All work shall be performed during normal cemetery hours of opera on, 7:30 am - 4:30 pm local me Monday thru Friday. Work performed outside of normal work hours may be required for interments or ceremonies on Federal Holidays or weekends at the discre on and approval of the Contrac ng Officer (CO) and VA COR. Contractor may make a wri en request to the CO and COR to work outside of the normal work hours when needed to carry out the specifica ons of this contract. Contractor must conduct services outlined below and according to the contract during all interment and opera onal days when the cemetery is open* regardless of weather condi ons. (* Memorial Day may be a workday for Federal employees but not for the Contractor—no work will be allowed during the special weekend ac vi es.)

1.4.5 FEDERAL HOLIDAYS: All work required under this contract shall be performed during normal cemetery hours of opera on, except observed Federal Holidays and Weekends, or unless otherwise directed by the COR. The following is a list of all Federal holidays:

New Year’s Day 1 January

Martin Luther King’s Birthday Third Monday in January President’s Day Third Monday in February Memorial Day Last Monday in May Juneteenth 19 June Independence Day 4 July Labor Day First Monday in September Columbus Day Second Monday in October Veterans Day 11 November Thanksgiving Day Fourth Thursday in November Christmas Day 25 December

1.4.6 Applicable Documents

The Contractor shall comply with all applicable Federal laws, regula ons, requirements, and agency standards. All applicable instruc ons and direc ves are listed below:

a) NCA-Opera onal-Standards-and-Measures-Guidebook-Dec2023.pdf (va.gov)

b) Business Registra on & Licensing: Register your business with local/state authori es and obtain any required licenses or permits.

c) Insurance Policies: General liability insurance, workers’ compensa on (if you have employees), and possibly pollu on liability insurance.

d) Safety Data Sheets (SDS): For any chemicals used in cleaning, to ensure compliance with safety regula ons.

e) Standard Opera ng Procedures (SOPs): Guidelines for cleaning different materials (granite, marble, bronze, etc.), safety precau ons, and equipment handling.

f) Equipment Maintenance Logs: Keep records of cleaning equipment inspec ons and maintenance.

g) Risk Assessment & Safety Protocols: Iden fying poten al hazards and implemen ng workplace safety measures (e.g., PPE requirements).

1.4.7 LOCATIONS OF MEMORIAL MARKERS AND GOVERNMENTS HEADSTONES

a) Memorial markers are located on the first circle of the cemetery on Eisenhower Circle.

b) Government Headstones are located in the five (5) Phases of the cemetery as listed below: See

(attachment) RNC Headstone Cleaning Project, and RNC Map.

• Phase I – Sections 1 – 11

• Phase II – Sections 12 – 21 and Columbarium wall.

• Phase III –Sections 26 – 44

• Phase IV– Sections 45 – 63 and Columbarium walls: A, B, and C.

• Phase V – Sections 64 – 82 and Columbarium wall D.

2. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

2.1 Memorial Markers, and Government Headstones that become damaged during contractor cleaning operations shall be repaired and restored to its original state at no additional cost to the government.

2.2 Government Memorial Markers and Government Headstones that become misaligned during contractor cleaning operations shall be realigned per “Headstone Raise, Lower, Re-align and Reset” at no additional cost to the Government.

2.3 Contractor shall protect the turf area from any damage. Any turf that is damaged shall be restored at no additional cost to the Government per “Turf Renovation”.

2.4 Use of abrasive blasting and abrasive cleaning solutions shall NOT be used at any time.

2.5 All temporary markers, floral, commemorative, or other types of decorations causing interference with the cleaning of headstones shall be carefully and orderly moved from and, upon completion of the cleaning of the markers moved back to the gravesite by the Contractor.

2.6 Contractor shall report the condition of all Memorial Markers, and Government Headstones to the COR monthly by using Surveillance Guide # 17 Evaluation Worksheet (Cleaning Headstones and Markers (see attachment). The COR will train the Contractor in the proper use of this form.

2.7 Contractor shall, within 2 days after cleaning, obtain an inspection/acknowledgement sheet signed by the COR or his designated inspector that day to process payment. The inspection sheet will contain, at a minimum; section(s) cleaned contractors name(s) who performed the work, date the work was performed, quantity, inspectors signature acknowledging the work was performed, and the date the inspection/acknowledgement sheet was signed. If the work was performed on a Friday, the contractors will inform the inspectors no later than 1:00 pm that the site is ready for inspection. The inspection sheet will be deemed acceptable if the inspectors failed to inspect the work within reasonable time after they were notified that the site is ready for inspection.

2.8 The contractor supervisor shall submit quality control inspection checklist to the COR after every maintenance cycle showing completion tasks.

2.9 Contractor should have an English-speaking supervisor on site while all work is performed.

2.10 The contractor is responsible for removal all leaves, clipping, and debris from the site.

2.11 Should any unforeseen damages occur to the structures or vegetation; the COR and Contractor will find the best way to remedy the deficiency with the approval of the CO.

2.12 The Contractor shall be aware of the intensive labor and equipment requirements needed to meet contract specifica ons. The government expects the Contractor to apply addi onal labor and equipment as necessary to meet deadlines.

2.13 The Contractor shall guarantee that all work done under this contract shall be free from faulty materials or workmanship and hereby agrees to repair or replace without cost to the VA and to his/her sa sfac on all defects or imperfec on appearing in said work within a period of one year a er the date of final acceptance by the VA of all work done under this contract.

2.14 Any subsequent damage by the contractor to exis ng curbs, buildings, irriga on system components, cemetery landscape, u li es or other similar members shall be reported to the COR immediately and repaired at the contractor’s expense.

2.15 The Contractor shall be aware of performance requirements necessary to meet contract specifica ons and deadlines.

2.16 Coopera on with other Contractors: The Government may undertake or award other contracts for addi onal work at or near the site of work for this contract. The Contractor shall fully cooperate with other Contractors and with Government employees.

2.17 More than one Contractor shall have access to storage areas designated by the COR. The government shall not be responsible for any costs associate with repairing or replacing Contractor(s) property while on cemetery property.

2.18 The Contractor shall not operate trucks, tractors, or other heavy equipment on any turf areas except as provided in this contract or as authorized by the COR. The Contractor shall be responsible for repairing turf damage caused by the Contractor regardless of weather condi ons, and at no addi onal cost to the government.

2.19 The Contractor shall provide adequate personal protec ve equipment to its employees, safety warning devices, barricades, and cover boards, etc., at all work sites to eliminate hazards to contractor employees, public visitors, and cemetery employees at no cost to the government.

2.20 At the end of each day, the Contractor shall remove all debris from the cemetery site and store excess soil resul ng from work to an area designated by the COR. Contractor shall use cemetery furnished topsoil located in the cemetery spoils area.

3.0 SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS/TASKS

3.1 All Flat Bronze Type Markers Cleaning (B1s and Z1s) Biannual washing and cleaning.

a) The contractor shall wash and clean all Flat Bronze type markers, free of debris and objec onable accumula ons. Such as animal droppings or mud, re and hose markings, grass stains, residue from trees, fungus, lichens, and other biological ac vity.

b) The Contractor shall follow the cleaning techniques for Memorial Markers and Government Headstones to include high pressure spraying, scrubbing, and rinsing with water. Cleaning techniques shall demonstrate a clear understanding of, and the sensi vity to, such environmental issues as ground water contamina on, wetlands, etc., and shall be consistent and fully compliant with all applicable Federal, State, and County laws, ordinances, and regula ons.

c) Clean water shall be used to wash and clean headstones. Cleaning techniques with water shall include high- pressure spraying, hand scrubbing, and rinsing. When water under pressure is used, such pressure shall not be greater than 800 psi. Any issues with the recommended pressure will be communicated to the COR. Excessive staining and/or discolora on may be removed with pressurized water and a s ff nylon or natural bristle brush (no wire brushes, bleach, or abrasive cleaners shall be permi ed at any me) followed by rinsing with clear water.

d) Contractor shall, a er cleaning the bronze markers as outlined above, apply a thin layer of Boiled Linseed Oil to repel water and protect markers from weather elements.

3.2 All Flat Granite Type Markers Cleaning (L1s and J1s) Biannual washing and cleaning.

a) The contractor shall prior to washing and cleaning flat granite markers uses a biological cleaning product specifically designed to clean the headstones. Only NCA-approved cleaning agent and clean water shall be used to clean the headstones. Cleaners currently approved by NCA are ‘D/2 Biological Solu on’ by D/2 Biological Solu ons, Inc., or ‘Weather-Zyme’ by United Laboratories, Inc.

b) Contractor shall submit the proposed cleaning product data sheet, the proposed applica on method and work plan, and Material Safety Data Sheets (SDS) to the COR for approval prior to use. Flat granite markers are to be cleaned, free of debris and objec onable accumula ons.

Such as animal droppings or mud, re and hose markings, grass stains, residue from trees, fungus, lichens, and other biological ac vity.

c) The Contractor shall follow the cleaning techniques for Memorial Markers and Government Headstones to include high pressure spraying, scrubbing, and rinsing with water. Cleaning techniques shall demonstrate a clear understanding of, and the sensi vity to, such environmental issues as ground water contamina on, wetlands, etc., and shall be consistent and fully compliant with all applicable Federal, State, and County laws, ordinances, and regula ons.

d) Clean water shall be used to clean headstones. Cleaning techniques with water shall include high- pressure spraying, hand scrubbing, and rinsing. When water under pressure is used, such pressure shall not be greater than 800 psi. Any issues with the recommended pressure will be communicated to the COR. Excessive staining and/or discolora on may be removed with pressurized water and a s ff nylon or natural bristle brush (no wire brushes, bleach, or abrasive cleaners shall be permi ed at any me) followed by rinsing with clear water.

3.3 All Five Columbarium Walls (I1s and Z1s) Biannual washing and cleaning.

a) Columbarium Walls shall include high pressure spraying, scrubbing, and rinsing with water. The

Contractor shall follow the cleaning techniques shall demonstrate a clear understanding of, and the sensi vity to, such environmental issues as ground water contamina on, wetlands, etc., and shall be consistent and fully compliant with all applicable Federal, State, and County laws, ordinances, and regula ons.

b) Clean water shall be used to clean headstones. Cleaning techniques with water shall include high- pressure spraying, hand scrubbing, and rinsing. When water under pressure is used, such pressure shall not be greater than 800 psi. Any issues with the recommended pressure will be communicated to the COR. Excessive staining and/or discolora on may be removed with pressurized water and a s ff nylon or natural bristle brush (no wire brushes, bleach, or abrasive cleaners shall be permi ed at any me) followed by rinsing with clear water.

c) * For Columbarium marble niche covers – prior to washing niche covers uses a biological cleaning product specifically designed to clean the headstones. Only NCA-approved cleaning agent and clean water shall be used to clean the headstones. Cleaners currently approved by NCA are ‘D/2 Biological Solu on’ by D/2 Biological Solu ons, Inc., and ‘Weather-Zyme’ by United Laboratories, Inc.

d) Contractor shall submit the proposed cleaning product data sheet, the proposed applica on method and work plan, and Material Safety Data Sheets (SDS) to the COR for approval prior to use.

3.4 Four Monuments (National Congressional Medal of Honor Memorial, National Prisoner of War/Missing in Action Memorial, Veteran/Fallen Soldier Memorial, and the Gold Star Family Memorial).

a) The Contractor shall Clean all Monuments Weekly: areas with power leaf blower and then pressure wash all hard surfaces within the round stone memorial area (Granite, Stone, and Concrete) with water using the proper settings as to not damage surface to remove objectionable material and discoloration, such as accumulations of bird droppings, grass stains, residue from trees, fungus, lichens, and other biological activity. After cleaning, wipe dry granite surfaces with a microfiber cloth to spot free finish. Specific requirements of memorials are below:

3.4.1 Na onal Congressional Medal of Honor Memorial (MOH) Weekly washing and cleaning, (69,014sqft).

a) Clean all areas with power leaf blower (Granite and Concrete Walkways) within the memorial area (roadway curb to reflection pool).

b) Hand clean granite surfaces with plain water and a lint free microfiber cloth to remove objectionable material, such as dust, dirt, accumulations of bird droppings, grass stains, and residue from trees. After cleaning, wipe dry with a microfiber cloth to spot free finish.

c) Hand clean bronze metal surfaces IAW manufacture specifications and as approved by the COR.

After cleaning, wipe dry to spot free finish.

d) Trim rose bushes and cypress trees inside the traffic circle/memorial area (roadway curb to reflection pool) to a uniform appearance (as specified by COR). After the uniform appearance is established, maintain the shape by trimming random growth to re-establish uniform appearance.

e) Rake all gravel pathways to a uniform groomed appearance (as specified by COR). No gravel should spill over on the concrete curbing.

f) Pull-up visible weeds and remove leaves & trash from within in the traffic circle/memorial area (roadway curb to reflection pool).

g) Hand clean bronze metal surfaces IAW manufacture specifications and as approved by the COR.

After cleaning, wipe dry to spot free finish.

h) Remove all trash and debris from the reflection pool.

i) Shock reflection pool water every three months.

j) Pressure washes all hard surfaces (Granite and Concrete Walkways) within the memorial area

(roadway curb to reflection pool) with De- ionized water using the proper settings as to not damage surfaces to remove objectionable material and discoloration, such as accumulations of bird droppings, grass stains, residue from trees, fungus, lichens, and other biological activity. After cleaning, wipe dry granite surfaces with a microfiber cloth to ensure a spot free finish.

k) Apply fertilizer 5 times within 8 months starting at the beginning of the growing season (spring).

l) Apply Fungicide/Herbicide 6 times within 8 months starting at the beginning of the growing season (spring).

m) Prune roses annually (winter) to shape the plants and encourage new growth. Remove and replace all dead rose bushes.

n) Perform monthly irrigation checks and repair/replace all broken/worn/leaking bubblers or risers around the memorial after the 2” main irrigation line.

o) Perform monthly irrigation checks and repair/replace all broken/worn/leaking bubblers or risers surrounding the roses, Cypress trees, and hedges.

p) MOH refection pool – Prior to Memorial Day and Veterans Day. Contractor will provide all labor, materials, equipment, tools, and supplies. Schedule with COR to drain water, pressure wash, and brush all hard surfaces (Granite, pool tiles, and stainless steel) within MOH reflection pool. Refill reflection pool and shock once completed. Wipe dry surrounding granite surfaces with a microfiber cloth to spot free finish.

3.4.2 Na onal Prisoner of War/Missing in Ac on Memorial (POW/MIA) Weekly washing and cleaning (922sqft).

a) Hand clean granite surfaces with plain water and a lint free microfiber cloth to remove objectionable material, such as dust, dirt, accumulations of bird droppings, grass stains, and residue from trees. After cleaning, wipe dry with a microfiber cloth to spot free finish.

b) Hand clean bronze metal surfaces IAW manufacture specifications and as approved by the COR.

After cleaning, wipe dry to spot free finish.

3.4.3 Veterans Memorial Weekly washing and cleaning (2,332sqft).

a) Hand clean granite surfaces with plain water and a lint free microfiber cloth to remove objectionable material, such as dust, dirt, accumulations of bird droppings, grass stains, and residue from trees. After cleaning, wipe dry with a microfiber cloth to spot free finish.

b) Hand clean bronze metal surfaces IAW manufacture specifications and as approved by the COR.

After cleaning, wipe dry to spot free finish.

c) Trim hedges inside the round stone memorial area to a uniform appearance (as specified by COR. After the uniform appearance is established, maintain the shape by trimming random growth to reestablish uniform appearance.

d) Pull all visible weeds and remove and leaves & trash from within the round stone memorial area.

e) Contractor will provide all labor, materials, equipment, tools, and supplies to apply

Fertilizer/Fungicides, Roses Pruning, Remove and replace Roses bush, and Irrigation Maintenance at the Medal of Honor Memorial, Gold Star Family Monument, and Fallen Soldier Memorial VA Riverside National Cemetery.

f) Apply fertilizer 5 times within 8 months starting at the beginning of the growing season (spring).

g) Apply Fungicide/Herbicide 6 times within 8 months starting at the beginning of the growing season (spring).

h) Prune roses annually (winter) to shape the plants and encourage new growth. Remove and replace all dead rose bushes.

i) Perform monthly irrigation checks and repair/replace all broken/worn/leaking bubblers or risers surrounding the roses, star jasmines, and hedges. Repairs need to be made as soon as possible.

3.4.4 Gold Star Family Monument (GSFM) Weekly washing and cleaning (992sqft).

a) Clean all areas with power leaf blower (Granite and Concrete Walkways) within the memorial area.

b) Hand clean granite surfaces with plain water and a lint free microfiber cloth to remove objectionable material, such as dust, dirt, accumulations of bird droppings, grass stains, and residue from trees. After cleaning, wipe dry with a microfiber cloth to spot free finish.

c) Hand clean bronze metal surfaces IAW manufacture specifications and as approved by the COR.

After cleaning, wipe dry to spot free finish.

d) Trim hedges inside the round stone memorial area to a uniform appearance (as specified by COR.

After the uniform appearance is established, maintain the shape by trimming random growth to reestablish uniform appearance.

e) Pull all visible weeds and remove and leaves & trash from within the round stone memorial area.

f) Contractor will provide all labor, materials, equipment, tools, and supplies to apply

Fertilizer/Fungicides, Roses Pruning, Remove and replace dead Rose bushes, and Irrigation Maintenance at the Medal of Honor Memorial, Gold Star Family Monument, and Fallen Soldier Memorial VA Riverside National Cemetery.

g) Apply fertilizer 5 times within 8 months starting at the beginning of the growing season (spring).

h) Apply Fungicide/Herbicide 6 times within 8 months starting at the beginning of the growing season

(spring).

i) Prune roses annually (winter) to shape the plants and encourage new growth. Remove and replace all dead rose bushes.

j) Perform monthly irrigation checks and repair/replace all broken/worn/leaking bubblers or risers surrounding the roses, Ginkgo Biloba, Cypress trees, and hedges.

3.5 CLIN 5: Monthly irriga on maintenance check.

a) Contractor shall perform monthly irriga on maintenance checks at MOH, Veteran/Fallen Soldier

Memorial, and GSFM.

b) Contractor will provide all labor, materials, equipment, tools, and supplies to repair/replace all broken/worn/leaking bubblers or risers around the memorials’ irriga on lines.

3.6 CLIN 6: Fungicide application.

a) Contractor shall provide all labor, materials, equipment, tools, and supplies to apply Fungicides as described above.

3.7 CLIN 7: Fertilizer application.

a) Contractor will provide all labor, materials, equipment, tools, and supplies to apply Fertilizer as described above.

3.8 CLIN 8: Pruning.

a) Prior to Memorial Day and Veterans Day holidays, Contractor will provide all labor, materials, equipment, tools, and supplies to prune all cypress trees twice a year at the MOH monument.

3.9

Descrip on Frequency All Flat Type Bronze markers (B1 - 12x24 & Z1 - 5 1/2 x 8 1/2)

Biannual washing and cleaning

All Flat Type Granite markers (L1 - 12x18x3 & J1 - 12x24x3)

Biannual washing and cleaning

All Five Columbarium’s niche covers (I1 - 15 3/4 x 11 1/4 & Z1 - 5 1/2 x 8 1/2)

Biannual washing and cleaning

Four Monuments (Na onal Congressional Medal of Honor Memorial, Na onal Prisoner of War/Missing in Ac on Memorial, Veteran/Fallen Soldier Memorial, Gold Star Family Memorial)

Weekly washing and cleaning

Monthly irriga on maintenance check Monthly for MOH, POW/MIA, and GSFM Fungicide applica on Quarterly for MOH, POW/MIA, and GSFM Fer lizer applica on Quarterly for MOH, POW/MIA, and GSFM

Pruning

Of the Cypress trees at the MOH shall occur before Memorial Day and Veterans Day Holidays.

4.0 Contractor Quality Assurance.

4.1 The Government will inspect and evaluate the Contractor’s performance to ensure services are received in accordance with requirements set forth in this contract. The COR will inspect by valida ng actual work performance, physically checking an a ribute of the completed task, checking a management informa on report, inves ga ng customer complaints, conferring with facility managers, or otherwise inspec ng the task or its results to determine whether or not performance meets the standards contained in this PWS. The COR will use the Contractor’s work schedule or modified version thereof, to record surveillance results. Results of the surveillance then become the official record of the Contractor’s performance. When a performance threshold has not been met or Contractor performance has not been accomplished, the CO or the COR will ini ate either a Correc ve Ac on Report (CAR), a Performance Assessment Report (PAR) or a Contract Discrepancy Report (CDR). The Contractor shall respond to the COR in accordance with the instruc ons provided.

4.2 Quality Control: The Contractor shall develop and maintain an effec ve quality control plan to ensure services are performed in accordance with this PWS. The Contractor’s quality control plan is how he assures himself that his work complies with the requirement of the contract. At a minimum, the Contractor shall develop a quality control plan in accordance with the Performance Requirements iden fied in the Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan (QASP). A er acceptance of the quality control plan, the Contractor shall receive the contrac ng officer’s acceptance in wri ng of any proposed change to his QC system.

4.3 Quality Assurance: The Government will monitor the Contractor’s performance under this contract using the Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan (QASP). All work performed under this contract will be subject to inspec on at all mes by the Government.

4.4 Progress Mee ngs: The Contrac ng Officer may require the Site Manager to meet with the Contrac ng Officer, Contrac ng Officer Representa ve (COR), and other Government personnel as deemed necessary. The Contractor may request a mee ng with the Contrac ng Officer or COR when the Contractor believes such a mee ng is necessary.

5.0 Delivery or Deliverables:

5.1 The contractor shall provide the specific deliverables: The contractor shall provide daily ac vi es Logs to the COR by the COB at the end of each workday.

5.2 Cleaning report, a summary of the services performed, materials used, and recommenda ons for future care.

6.0 MEETINGS: Mee ngs will be conducted at either the RNC’s COR Office, loca on at Phase 4 maintenance yard, or through an alterna ve method of communica on (such as a teleconferencing), as approved by the Contrac ng Officer.

7.0 KEY PERSONNEL:

The following personnel are considered key personnel by the Government: Site Manager and Assistant Site Manager. The Contractor shall submit the contact informa on for key personnel and replacements to the CO and COR.

7.1 Program/Site Manager: The Contractor shall provide a Program/Site Manager who shall be responsible for the performance of the work. The name of this person and an alternate, who shall act for the Contractor when the manager is absent, shall be designated in wri ng to the Contract Officer. The Program/Site Manager or alternate shall have full authority to act for the Contractor on all contract ma ers rela ng to daily opera ons of this contract. The Program/Site Manager or alternate shall be available between 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday except Federal Holidays.

7.2 Contractor Iden fica on: All contract personnel shall be iden fied as a Contractor, i.e., badge, company logo, or uniform. All contract personnel are required to iden fy themselves such that they avoid crea ng an impression in the minds of the public that they are Government officials.

8.0 Government Furnished Property/Equipment/Informa on

8.1 Government Furnished Property: The contractor is required to furnish all property necessary to perform the contract. There will be no Government Furnished Property provided by the Government. The Government will not be responsible for any loss, damage, or the of contractor items.

8.2 Contractor shall be responsible for acceptable standards of housekeeping and custodial maintenance of Department of Veterans Affairs' facili es used by contractor's employees that are acceptable to the COR and in accordance with Na onal Cemetery Administra on Opera onal Standards and Measures (Version 9.1, December 2023).

8.3 All contractor personnel opera ng vehicles on government property must possess a valid state driver's license. Contractor employees may park privately owned vehicles in the area designated for parking by the COR. It is the responsibility of the Contractor to ensure his employees park in the appropriate designated parking areas. The Government is not responsible for any damage, the of vandalism to privately owned vehicles parked on cemetery property. All Contractor employees park on cemetery property at their own risk. The Contractor shall observe all traffic, parking, direc onal signs, and regula ons when using the cemetery’s roadways. The Cemetery will not invalidate or make reimbursement for parking viola ons of the Contractor’s employees under any condi ons.

8.4 Storage Facili es: The Government will not furnish a storage building at the Cemetery site for use by the Contractor to store supplies and equipment. Contractor shall bring all supplies and equipment on a daily basis. An area will be designated by the COR for smoking, lunch/breaks, employee parking, etc. as approved by the Contrac ng Officer (CO. All u li es to this area are the responsibility of the Contractor. The Government will not be responsible for any damage to, or loss of the Contractor's equipment and supplies stored on the Government's premises. The Contractor shall provide any storage buildings/lockers at their own expense.

8.5 Tools and Equipment: The Contractor shall comply with all Federal, State, City, County, regarding the use of Personal Protec ve Equipment for all contract personnel. All Personal Protec ve Equipment is provided by the Contractor.

8.6 Hazardous Materials: The Contractor shall request the approval of the COR if the Contractor desires to store any hazardous materials at the Cemetery. If approval is granted the Contractor is responsible for safely storing any chemicals, pes cides, herbicides, cleaning solu ons, flammable materials, etc. on site in properly ven lated hazardous materials lockers in accordance with all federal, state and county laws and regula ons and manufacturers recommenda ons.

8.8 The Contractor shall be responsible for maintaining fire ex nguishers and other safety equipment. SDS (Safety Data Sheets) are required for all chemicals and cleaning solu ons. The Contractor shall provide a master file of SDS sheets to the COR.

9.0 STANDARDS OF EMPLOYEE CONDUCT

Contractor and Contractor personnel are required to adhere to the following standards of dress and conduct while performing work in the National Cemetery. These standards and regulations are enforceable under Title 38, U.S.C. Section Contractor and Contractor Personnel

a) Due to the sensitive mission of the cemetery, the work often requires contact with, and exposure to, grieving individuals. Contractor personnel must exercise and exhibit absolute decorum, composure, and stability at all times.

b) Shall be fully clothed at all times, to include long slacks or pants and shirt, buttoned up from neck to waist. Clothing shall be clean each day. Any soiled clothing should be cemetery work-related that day. T-shirts and/or tank tops as outer garments are prohibited. Shoes/boots shall have no holes or loose soles. Steel-toed shoes shall be required in accordance with OSHA. Contractor employees shall maintain personal hygiene.

c) Shall not engage in loud or boisterous behavior or use profane or abusive language. Shall show proper reverence during committal service.

d) Shall not eat or drink beverages except water or non-alcoholic drinks while in the work area or in site of committal shelter during a service. Use of intoxicating beverages and/or drugs is strictly prohibited.

e) Contractor personnel shall not lean, sit, or stand on or against markers or monuments. No tools, equipment or other items shall be placed or leaned on other markers.

f) SMOKING is not permitted inside or within 50ft of all building’s entrances within the Riverside National Cemetery. Smoking is allowed only in designated smoking areas authorized by the COR.

g) Listed above any misconduct shall be cause for immediate removal from the cemetery premises.

10.0 USE OF CEMETERY FACILITIES

a) The Government will not be responsible for any loss, damage, or theft of Contractor items, nor will free telephone service be provided. Contractor shall be responsible for acceptable standards of housekeeping and custodial maintenance of Department of Veterans Affair’s facilities used by Contractor's employees.

b) The Government shall not provide the Contractor with any fuel storage, equipment, or telephones. The Contractor shall take adequate safety precautions to prevent hazardous product spills, fire hazards, odors, and unsanitary conditions.

c) Only the Contractor’s equipment, supplies, and property necessary to perform work under this contract shall be stored at the Contractor's designated storage area. No maintenance or repair of Contractor equipment shall be done on cemetery property without the COR’s approval.

d) Contractor employees may park privately owned vehicles in area(s) designated for parking by the COR.

11.0 SUPERVISION & TRAINING

a) The Contractor shall be responsible for maintaining satisfactory standards of personnel conduct and work performance and shall administer disciplinary action as required.

b) The Contractor shall remove employees for cause, to include, but not limited to, misconduct in performance of duty under these specifications and/or conduct contrary to the best interests of the Government.

12.0 SAFETY

a) The Contractor is responsible for safety / precaution training of Contractor employees performing work under the contact. OSHA standards shall be observed by the Contractor in all work performed. Appropriate safety equipment shall be furnished by the Contractor-to-

Contractor personnel and shall be used as prescribed by OSHA standards, including hard hats, safety shoes, safety glasses, and hearing protection devices.

b) The Contractor shall be responsible for the safe use and handling of any materials in accordance with manufacturer’s recommendations, Federal, State, County and City laws, ordinances, Right-to-Know laws, EPA guidelines and regulations. All required SDS (Material Safety Data Sheets) is made to be available when requested either electronically or copies in a binder.

c) For safety reasons, contractor personnel are not allowed to be transported throughout the cemetery holding onto or riding in the back of any open pickup truck or other vehicle.

13.0 Glossary of Abbrevia ons and Acronyms:

CO: Contrac on Officer COR: Contrac ng Officer’s Representa ve RNC: Riverside Na onal Cemetery CAR: Correc ve Ac on Report PAR: Performance Assessment Report CDR Contract Discrepancy Report