10R1008 Questions and Answers.pdf

SP4510-10-R-1008

Amendment 0004

Questions and Answers

Q1. Issued amendment 0001 does not specify if contractor is not/is required to sign the Standard Form 30 and return (Item 13 E).

A1. Section 11(a) of the Standard Form 30 clearly indicates that offerors are required to complete Items 8 and 15 and then return one copy signifying acknowledgement of the amendment.

Q2. If Offeror submits same proposal via Hard Copy (Hand Carry) and electronically, which receipt date will be considered.

A2. The entire proposal, including attachments, must be received before the offer due date/local time. The first proposal received, unless the offeror advises that a second submission is replacing the first submission, will be considered.

Q3. Please advise of preferred style, size, and line/paragraph spacing.

A3. Font size below 10 and line/paragraph spacing less than single spacing is not acceptable.

Pages should be no larger than 8½” by 11”.

Q4. Is there a minimum and maximum estimated dollar value for this procurement.

A4. No.

Q5. Is this RFP a new requirement or was there a contractor performing this work previously.

A5. This is a new requirement.

Q6. If there is an incumbent contractor, can you provide their name?

A6. There is currently no contractor performing the requirement.

Q7. Who is the current vendor providing service?

A7. See response to Q6.

Q8. If a current contractor is providing the services can the government please identify the contract and advise the value of the award?

A8. See response to Q6.

Q9. Currently how many staff is working in support of the current contract?

A9. See response to Q6.

Q10. What is the reason for a new solicitation if there is a current contractor?

A10. See response to Q6.

Q11. Why was the award for solicitation SP4510-10-R-1004, that was announced on 6AUG cancelled, or is this a new solicitation?

A11. Due to protests received, the contract resulting from solicitation SP4510-10-R-1004 was terminated. This is a new solicitation.

Q12. Can the government please provide the cost per item for the current contract?

A12. See response to Q6.

Q13. Can the government please provide the solicitation number and award number for the current contract?

A13. See response to Q6.

Q14. When was the previous contract awarded?

A14. There is no previous contract for this requirement.

Q15. What is the estimated award date?

A15. The award date is contingent upon evaluation of submitted proposals and negotiations.

Q16. Once the site visit occurs, can the government please be kind enough to provide a list of individuals and the companies they represented who attended the site visit?

A16. The list for those individuals and companies represented at the October 20, 2010 site visit is included as an attachment to this amendment.

Q17. Will the contractor be bound to provide the security at entrance and exit of DRMO yard?

A17. No. The US Government is responsible for facility entrance and exit security.

Q18. How will contractor invoice Government?

A18. Please refer to III.15, Acceptance, Invoicing and Payment, of the solicitation.

Q19. Could you give us the approximate size of the fenced‐in perimeter?

A19. Yes. The fenced-in perimeter is approximately 64 acres.

Q20. Is it possible to be informed as to who are the local cleaning crew? They currently clean the DRMS; bathroom, building and outside clean-up. We presume they are a part of a larger base-wide cleaning contract crew. Is this another contract the US Government has? Or, as mentioned in the Solicitation, are they being used to "clean up" as page 9, paragraph III.6.2 in the DRMS Solicitation requires? (ATG would not rely only on the cleaning crew, we would maintain a clean work environment. I am asking about the trash, latrines, general private and public areas around all the DRMS offices buildings and trailers).

A20. Custodial services are not part of the current requirement. III.6.2 has been revised to reflect that contractor employees performing the excess property management requirement are responsible for keeping their work areas neat. Custodial personnel under a separate contract will perform actual sweeping, picking up of trash, and dumping of trash cans.

Q21. During the site visit, it was explained that the Carpentry Shop located on the facility is provided for the use of the contractor. Are any equipment or tools (GFE) provided for contractor use?

A21. No. The Carpentry Shop will not be needed for use under the contract.

Q22. II Schedule of Supplies/Services. The CLIN schedule does not provide a CLIN for ODCs and Travel for CLIN 0001 and 1001. Will the government consider adding Cost Reimbursable lines for these costs?

A22. No. Offerors should include these costs in the CLIN unit pricing.

Q23. II Schedule of Supplies/Services. The CLIN schedule does not provide a CLIN for ODCs and Travel for CLIN 0002 and 1002. Will the government consider adding Cost Reimbursable lines for these costs? As the actual requirements for this CLIN will be determined on a case by case basis and POP could vary we would like to request a plug number for travel and ODCs for this CLIN.

A23. Offerors should include these costs in the CLIN unit pricing.

Q24. Does the Government have strong expectations that there will be 6 months of additional shifts (CLIN 0002) as stated in the Schedule and as will be evaluated in the price, or does it estimate less or more of these additional shifts?

A24. A task order under CLIN 0002 will be issued if the Government determines it is required.

The Government will order CLIN 0002 up to a total of 6 months during each 12-month period of performance, if required.

Q25. VI.15.1- Price Schedule- The price proposal does not require a detailed breakdown of fully loaded labor rates for each of the required labor categories specified in section III.2. Will the government require a cost breakdown by labor category in order to establish cost realism for responsive bidders?

A25. No.

Q26. Would the government consider adding a CLIN Item Number for Mobilization costs and Demobilization costs?

A26. No. Offerors should include these costs in the CLIN unit pricing.

Q27. Currently Mobilization and Demobilization costs are not broken down in separate items is it the government’s desire that these cost be incorporated to Item 0001?

A27. Yes. Offerors should include these costs in the CLIN unit pricing.

Q28. VI.15(a)(1)(ii), Volume I, Proposal Certifications and Price Schedule- This section appears to require the Schedule of Supplies/Services as the only Pricing schedule required by the Solicitation. Is this the only Pricing schedule to be completed by Bidders?

A28. Yes.

Q29. VI.15(a)(1)(ii), Volume I, Proposal Certifications and Price Schedule- This section appears to require the Schedule of Supplies/Services as the only Pricing schedule required by the Solicitation. Will a Price Realism review be performed by the DLA or will the DCAA be utilized?

A29. The Contracting Officer will utilize price analysis techniques as described by Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) 15.404-1(b) to evaluate offeror prices. DCAA will not be involved.

Q30. VI.15(a)(1)(ii), Volume I, Proposal Certifications and Price Schedule- If a Price Realism review will be performed by the DLA, is there a requirement for providing supplemental pricing information showing labor hours and costs, indirect costs, other direct costs, etc. as part of the Bidder's Pricing Proposal?

A30. See response to Q29.

Q31. VI.15(a)(1)(ii), Volume I, Proposal Certifications and Price Schedule- If a Price Realism review will be performed by the DCAA, is there a solicitation requirement to provide the contact information for the Bidder's cognizant DCAA office?

A31. See response to Q29.

Q32. How much advance notice will the Government give the contractor before in order to exercise CLIN 0002 Additional Shift?

A32. Per III.3.6, the contractor will be provided 14 days’ notice before an additional shift is needed.

Q33. III.2- Staffing Levels. Are the staffing levels estimated in this section representative of current staffing levels with existing subcontractors?

A33. No, they are not representative of existing contractors or subcontractors. No contract in place. Staffing levels estimates were based upon current and anticipated workload.

Q34. III.2- Staffing Levels. Through extensive training and effective professional site management there may be efficiencies that can be realized that will allow for adjustment of staffing levels without affecting APL compliance. Will the contractor have the freedom to adjust staffing levels for non Key Personnel at appropriate levels based on productivity of the workforce with the approval of the government?

A34. The contractor can adjust their workforce as they determine necessary in order to meet the performance requirements of the contract. Government approval is not required. The contractor does not receive an increase in payment for increase of its workforce, or a decrease in payment for decrease of its workforce. The contractor is responsible for determining the proper labor mix to meet the performance requirements of III.7, III.8 and III.9 of the contract.

Q35. III.2- Staffing Levels. Third country nationals are generally given 1 month leave each year to visit family abroad. In addition there are up to 15 paid local holidays and local labor law allows for as many sick days. These factors result in up to 10% of the workforce being on leave or out of work at any given time. Since approved badging levels at Camp Arifjan is strictly monitored and controlled, will the government support badging employees over and above the active workforce requirements specified and agreed to in order to account for leave, local holidays, and sick days?

A35. Yes.

Q36. If surge occurs, will there be any clause that allows the contractor to increase the personnel to cover the increase in workload?

A36. No. The Government anticipates that the additional shift will be used for any surge requirements. The Government will order CLIN 0002 to meet any surge requirement up to a total of 6 months out of each 12-month period of performance.

Q37. The facility will be operational IAW the Performance Work Statement (PWS) for 16-hours/day, 7-days/week. In the Government provided estimate of personnel (PWS para. III.2), please confirm that the number of estimated personnel is the combined total for both shifts and not the estimated number of personnel required for each shift. If the former, please confirm that both shifts should be equally staffed (or as close to equally staffed as possible).

A37. The total estimated personnel is for the combined total of both shifts, not each shift. The contractor is responsible for determining the proper labor mix to be split between the two shifts.

Q38. Personnel working this contract must comply with Kuwait Labor Law (i.e., maximum of 8 hours per day, 48 hours/week, etc.). Since each shift is 56 hours and 7 days, contractor staffing for all labor category positions will require more than one employee to staff each position for a 56 hour/7 day shift (i.e., staffed on a rotational basis). Has the Government provided estimated number of personnel (PWS para. III.2) taken this into account, or is this an estimate of positions that need to be staffed vice actual number of employees.

A38. The Government estimate is for the number of positions to be staffed, not the actual number of contractor employees the contractor determines is necessary to perform the work to meet the performance requirements of III.7, III.8 and III.9 of the contract.

Q39. In the Scope of Work, III.2 and III.3.1.2 – It sates in III.3.1.2 a minimum of one site supervisor for each shift. What is the requirement for the Site Lead? 120 - 141 Personnel: 1 Site Leader, 10 Supervisors, 25 - 35 Material Handling Equipment (MHE) Operators, 35 – 45 Torch Cutters, 25 – 35 Laborers, 10 – 15 Customer Service Clerks and Administrative Assistants. Please clarify the minimum and maximum personnel required. For example, if we bid based on the minimum personnel required 120 personnel the price will differ remarkably from if we bid for 140 personnel. Please advise who will decide on the exact work force required.

A39. See response to Q38.

Q40. Are any Key Personnel required to be Westerners, and if so, what position and how many?

A40. There is no requirement for Westerners to be Key Personnel.

Q41. III.13.2 states in part, “The contract manager, and the alternate contract manager in the absence of the contract manager, shall have …”Who has authority in the absence of the Contract Manager. Is it the Government’s intent that, “The Site Lead and Alternate Contract Manager in the absence of the Contract Manager, shall have authority to act for the firm during the operation of this contract …”?

A41. The solicitation has been revised to clarify roles between the contract manager and site leader.

Q42. III.3.2 Contract Manager. Requirements identified in the PWS for a contract manager and alternate are more in line with the description of a Project Manager and Alternate. Would the government consider changing the titles of Contract Manager to Project Manager, and Alter Contract Manager to Alternate Project Manager?

A42. No.

Q43. Contract Manager; is it mandatory to be US national or can be TCN?

A43. The contract manager, alternate contract manager and site lead must be able to understand English language and be able to speak the English language with sufficient structural accuracy and vocabulary to participate effectively in conversations on practical and professional levels. They must be able to proficiently read and draft official correspondence and reports in the English language. There is no requirement for a particular nationality to fill these positions as long as they meet this requirement.

Q44. III.3.2.1. The contractor shall assign a contract manager and an alternate contract manager to the contract... The contract manager or their alternate must be available during working hours and return any calls made by the COR within one hour of the COR‘s call. What is it meant by "... working hours...?" Because, stated work hours are 0600 to 2200 with a possibility of a full 24-hours of "working hours.” Will this mean the contract manager and alternate contract manager need to be available from 0600 to 2200, with a possibility of 24-hour availability?

A44. The contract manager or their alternate must be available during DLA Disposition Service Kuwait hours of operation as well as be able to interact with the Contracting Officer regarding contractual matters.

Q45. Section III.3.2.1 Contract Manager, “The contract manager or their alternate must be available during work hours…” Please specify the work hours from : to, and does the project manager or alternate need to be at the work site during the work hours?

A45. Hours of operation at DLA Disposition Services Kuwait are 0600 – 2200. The contract manager or their alternate are not required to be at the work site during hours of operation. The site leader or their designate is required to be at the work site during hours of operation.

Q46. Please clarify the role of the Site Leader and can he also hold the position of the Project Manager?

A46. The site leader oversees the onsite performance under the contract, interacting with their companies’ supervisors and workforce and liaisons with the Contracting Officer Representatives and Chief, DLA Disposition Services Kuwait.

Q47. III.6 through III 6.14 Specific Task Description and III.3.6, Work Hours. Does the government expect the same capability as identified in paragraphs III.6 through III.6.14 for all shift?

A47. Yes.

Q48. III.3.6 Work Hours, 16-hours/7-days per week operation, please advise how does the one

(1) site leader fit into this schedule.

A48. The site leader is to be present at the work site during hours of operation. The site leader can designate an alternate to fill in during absences. The site leader does not need the approval of DLA Disposition Services Kuwait for absences; however, the site leader should notify the COR of absences and the designated alternate in advance.

Q49. What Holidays will be observed under this contract and how many days as this would apply to new Kuwait labor and related laws, rules and regulations?

A49. DLA Disposition Services Kuwait is open every day of the year.

Q50. Please advise regarding the holidays, will the work stop during the Kuwait Eid holiday or Christmas day or New Year’s day?

A50. See response to Q50.

Q51. III.3.6. It is written; "...the Government estimates that the following number of contractor personnel will be needed..." Then the listed amount of personnel is "30 - 40 Personnel:" with a breakdown of how many are needed in each job set. The CLIN lines on page 1 only direct us to paragraph III.3.6 a. What is the mistake made with the math here? Adding up all (maximum)numbers does not equal 40 personnel. 2 Supervisors + 9 MHE Operators + 7 Torch Cutters + 9 Laborers + 3 ADMIN Assistants = only equals 30 not 40. Which part is incorrect? The maximum amount of one or more type of personnel? The total, as written? 30 - 40 Personnel?

A51. The Government estimated the number of positions to be staffed, not the actual number of contractor employees. The contractor is responsible for determining the proper labor mix to perform the work to meet the performance requirements of III.7, III.8 and III.9 of the contract.

Q52. Section III.3.6 Work Hours, 16-hours/7-days per week operation, please advise if the 9-hour day shift workers can work overtime.

A52. This is for a contractor to determine. The only contract requirement is that the contractor follows all Kuwaiti labor laws.

Q53. Please explain why the shifts overlap by 2-hours 0600-1500 and 1300-2200. Also what time will the 24-hour operation shift be?

A53. The shifts overlap because the peak daily work period is between 1200 – 1600. The shift overlap is designed to allow transition of the contractor workforce during peak hours, while also allowing the maximum number of personnel working during the peak period. The additional shift to complete the 24-hour operation will be 2130 – 0630.

Q54. III.3.1.13 states in part, “Contractor Site Leaders, Supervisors, Customer Service Clerks, and Administrative Assistants shall have sufficient fluency in English to converse with other English speaking personnel …” and III.3.1.14 states in part, “Contractor on-site supervisors…shall be able to speak English and the language of the employees they are supervising.” Can the above requirement be met by ensuring all personnel are well versed in the English language even though it may not be their first language?

A54. Yes.

Q55. III 3.1.3 states, MHE Operators shall be licensed in accordance with ASG Camp Arifjan, Kuwait, standards implementing applicable OSHA regulations and able to operate various equipment from 4k up to and including 50k forklifts, scrap handlers, front-end loaders, and RTCH used at a DLA Disposition Services yard. The MHE will be provided by DLA Disposition Services Kuwait. Can the Government please articulate how the MHE operators will obtain their licenses and which organization will provide them?

A55. The contractor will be responsible to train their MHE operators so they may successfully pass ASG Camp Arifjan standards. The contractor is required to initiate testing and licensing with ASG Camp Arifjan; DLA Disposition Services Kuwait will assist to facilitate with ASG Camp Arifjan.

Q56. Will a Government Master Driver be available to certify and license personnel for the USG requirement for operating GFE and train and license key personnel as licensor for GFE when needed?

A56. No. DLA Disposition Services will not provide a Master Driver to train, certify or license contractor personnel. DLA Disposition Services Kuwait will provide a training certificate and license to contractor personnel for highly specialized Government furnished property (GFP);

e.g., shredders, plasma cutters, shears, and brass deformers. DLA Disposition Services Kuwait will assist to facilitate training, certification and licensing of contractor personnel through ASG Camp Arifjan.

Q57. III.3.1.12 Transition, III.12 period of performance and III.16.7 Badging Requirement. If the performance of work is expected to start 30 days after award, there will not be sufficient time to obtain the documentation to have all employees submitted and approved if it takes 30 days to get the badges approved. Recommendation: Allow one-month for processing of badges. Once contractor employees are badged, the status of their badge approved will determine whether or not each individual employee has unescorted or escorted access. Will the government allow for more time?

A57. The contractor is responsible for providing viable operational capability within the initial 30 days. The contractor will have 60 days total from the date of contract award for having all personnel performing onsite.

Q58. During site visit, apart from scrapping operations there was no visible activity that could be observed. Please advise how many personnel or if any personnel will be operating contractor functions during transition to be shadowed prior to hand over.

A58. Government personnel are currently performing the work. DLA Disposition Services Kuwait personnel will also be available to meet with the contractor as needed to prepare the contractor for full performance after the transition period.

Q59. RFP III.3.1.12 Transition- The RFP states that the first 30 days after the date of award is for transition…hiring the workforce, obtaining badges and access for contractor personnel to Camp Arifjan. There is no allowance in this timeline for post award meetings with the KO and/or COR. This short timeline does not allow for the hiring of EXPATs proposed and them receiving the necessary in processing and training (CRC, personal security training, for example) before transiting to Kuwait. The Camp Arifjan badging procedures alone can take up to 30 days.

In addition, Kuwait residency for new and transferred employees can take up to 60 days. While a substantial portion of the workforce could be hired from the existing labor pool, at least a portion of the workforce could not be badged with a Kuwait residency in less than 60 days. Would the government consider extending the transition to accommodate these factors?

A59. Due to the urgent nature of this requirement, the 60-day transition period is a firm government requirement. DLA Disposition Services recognizes that this may affect staffing decisions. Not every EXPAT located in CONUS could be made deployable and assigned to this contract within 60 day from contract award. Contractors should take these factors into consideration when preparing their staffing plans. If an offeror anticipates use of EXPATS in key personnel or other positions, it should give serious consideration to the use of qualified personnel who may already have Kuwaiti residency or who, due to their personal circumstances, would otherwise be deployable to Camp Arifjan within the Governments required timeframe.

DLA Disposition Services is not in a position to extend this transition timeframe; does not have the capability to affect CRC schedules; and will not excuse delay or otherwise alter the requirement to allow for use of personnel who are unable to report to Camp Arifjan within the required timeframe.

Q60. Will the government consider starting the Transition period after the post award conference and allowing additional time to accommodate the above concerns?

A60. No; however, see responses to Q57 and Q59.

Q61. The transition period comprises 2 key elements - recruitment and training within a period of 30 days. In order to meet the contract requirements set out in IV.5 - Pre deployment requirements for CRC Training and SPOT approval, prior to badging on arrival, the period of 30 days in our experience inadequate to then allow time for training and transition. Request 30 days transition is extended to 60 days.

A61. See response to Q57.

Q62. Would the Government consider extending the Offer Due Date from 27OCT10 until 5NOV10 due to proposed site inspection on 20OCT10 and the request to extend the submission dates for questions?

A62. The offer due date has been extended to November 9, 2010.

Q63. Will the government consider extending the proposal closing date to 5 November 2010?

A63. See response to Q62.

Q64. Will you be amending the closing date to 3 November to allow enough time (12 days as in original RFP) in completing questions and answers, understanding them and to complete the proposal.

A64. See response to Q62.

Q65. Where will the government train the trainer sessions be held?

A65. Kuwait.

Q66. Will the training be provided by the US Government (DRMO Camp Arifjan) to operate

MHE?

A66. Yes, contractor supervisor personnel will be trained on the equipment and MHE. In turn the contractor supervisor personnel will perform training of remainder of contractor personnel (see paragraphs III.3.1.11 and III.6.8).

Q67. Will employees be allowed additional training? If so will DRMS pay for it?

A67. No.

Q68. Will the contractor receive job descriptions for the positions required under this contract?

A68. No job or positions descriptions will be provided.

Q69. Will the Government provide training/guide lines on the program?

A69. No.

Q70. Will DLA DS Kuwait provide or schedule training for spill response, fire prevention and general first aid procedures, radioactive materials actions, and proper AEDA and CCI actions for personnel to ASG-KU standards?

A70. Yes. DLA Disposition Services will provide and schedule training for radioactive, AEDA and CCI actions for contractor personnel as appropriate. DLA Disposition Services will assist to facilitate ASG Camp Arifjan training for spill response, fire prevention and general first aid procedures.

Q71. Is it mandatory for contractor to hire lead or MHE operators with US contracts experience or can hire lead or MHE operators with civil experience?

A71. The contractor is free to hire lead or MHE operators with the proper experience, regardless of whether experienced with US contracts or civil work.

Q72. How much of 120-141 is required to be US nationals, is there a minimum requirement of hiring US nationals in this project?

A72. There is no requirement on the number of US nationals an offeror chooses to hire for this requirement.

Q73. III.6 Specific Task Description. Is there a back log of material/supplies in the DRMO beyond the work load data cited in the RFP?

A73. There is always a backlog. The workload and personnel estimates are independent from any backlog.

Q74. Should the contractor expect to be required to complete any acquired backlog with the quoted labor estimation or is that estimation specifically designed for the normal work load structure?

A74. Yes. The actual workload is dynamic. The contractor is required to complete backlog as workload allows or dictates backlog to be worked.

Q75. If the contractor’s employee/operator founds any deficiency during daily routine check, to who should he report to get it fixed or what is the time frame to report it? If contractor is required to fix equipment/MHE, then will the Government provide all tools, equipments and materials necessary?

A75. The contractor is not required under this contract to repair US Government property. If maintenance or repairs are noted during daily routine check, the contractor shall notify the Contracting Officer Representative (COR) the day of the discovery.

Q76. Will the contract be responsible for all kind of inventories? If so will the Government provide the training/guide lines for inventory reports? Will these reports be weekly/biweekly/monthly?

A76. Yes.

Q77. Will contractor be required to do any weekly/biweekly reports?

A77. Yes.

Q78. Please elaborate on how contractor is instructed regarding the reception and directions for customers for sales and RTD. Are there DLA staff there apart from COR to perform this function, in view of the specified volume of issues/shipments?

A78. The contractor will be instructed by DLA Disposition Services Kuwait staff. There will be DLA Disposition Services Kuwait staff present performing the same function along with the contractor personnel who will be able to provide guidance, if required.

Q79. Please confirm that all packaging, packets and any other materials required are government furnished.

A79. Yes.

Q80. The PWS does not identify the commodity to be handled. Please indicate what Military Classes of supply which will be handled (i.e. Class II, III, IIIP, IV, IX, etc.) [References: PWS III.1Background/Purpose and III.6 Specific Task Description].

A80. DLA Disposition Services Kuwait handles all military classes of supply with the exception of controlled substances, live ordnance, radioactive, and classified equipment.

Q81. Will the contractor be expected to remove hazardous waste/material other than that addressed in paragraph III.3.8 and III.3.8.1?

A81. On occasion hazardous materials are inadvertently included in DLA Disposition Services Kuwait receipts. Contractor personnel will be trained in recognition and triage handling. DLA Disposition Services Kuwait staff will assume responsibility for hazardous materials inadvertently turned in upon contractor triage. The contractor is not responsible for removal of hazardous material from the DLA Disposition Services Kuwait facility.

Q82. The PWS states: “The contractor is responsible for the cleanup of any and all spills or leaks during the performance of this Contract…” Does this include HAZMAT? If yes, what Class of HAZMAT, and will we need certified personnel for this? [Reference: PWS III.3.8]

A82. No, certified contractor personnel are not required. Yes, this includes fuels, lead acid batteries, hydraulic fluid related to GFP and all hazardous materials brought into the facility by the contractor.

Q83. Does the contract require contractors to have certified staff to identify such items as AEDA, radioactive, or CCI articles? [Reference: PWS III.3.13].

A83. No.

Q84. III.6.8, 6.8.1 & 6.9 – What is the actual pallet count per day? 6.8 and 6.8.1 state 500-700 pallets per day, while 6.9 states 1,500-2,000 pallets per day.

A84. There is no actual count per day. There is a difference of activities between 6.8, 6.8.1 and 6.9.

Q85. III.6.9.1 – Is batch processing allowable?

A85. Yes, under strict DLA Disposition Services Kuwait oversight.

Q86. IV.5 Contractor Personnel Authorized to Accompany U.S. Armed Forces Deployed Outside the United States DFARS 252.225-7040 (JUL 2009). What Departure Center is designated for personnel deploying from CONUS? Will you approve web-based training in lieu of using a Departure Center or Combat Readiness Center?

A86. The CONUS Replacement Center (CRC), Fort Benning, GA is designated for personnel deploying from CONUS. No, web-based training in lieu of using a Departure Center or Combat Readiness Center is not approved.

Q87. There is no reference in the RFP for US personnel deploying in support of this effort having to attend the stateside CONUS Replacement Center (CRC). This has been a requirement on previous contracts in Kuwait. Will the US personnel supporting this requirement be required to process through the CRC.

A87. See response to Q86.

Q88. If US personnel will be required to attend the CRC, will the government give consideration to the availability of slots for contractor personnel to attend the CRC?

A88. DLA Disposition Services cannot make this determination. The final decision rests with the Fort Benning CRC activity.

Q89. On page 8 of 69, paragraph III.4, the Paragraph heading itself has "PERSONNEL" in it, yet there is no mention of personnel in the paragraph. Only the GFP, space to put and use it, and an explanation of fuel, electricity, and gas for the GFP. Why is PERSONNEL a part of the Paragraph?

A89. The title to Paragraph III.4 has been revised to read GOVERNMENT FURNISHED

PROPERTY.

Q90. Will the Government provide emergency medical treatment in case of life threatening illness or injury occurring on work site?

A90. Yes. See IV.5, Contractor Personnel Authorized to Accompany U.S. Armed Forces Deployed Outside the United States DFARS 252.225-7040, paragraph (c).

Q91. IV.5(i) Military clothing and protective equipment, (1) - (4) and IV.14(k) Military clothing and protective equipment (1) & (2) Sub-paragraphs are almost the same. Why are they separated and written like this?

A91. Paragraph IV.5, Contractor Personnel Authorized to Accompany U.S. Armed Forces Deployed Outside the United States DFARS 252.225-70 (JUL 2009) and IV.14, Contractor Personnel in the United States Central Command Area of Responsibility (Deviation 2007- O0010), are two separate, but similar requirements of separate agencies required to be included in the solicitation and any resultant contract awarded. The contractor is to comply with the terms of each clause.

Q92. We understand that the office space and equipment will be provided by the Government for this contract. Will the Government also provide office consumables?

A92. DLA Disposition Services Kuwait will provide appropriate office space for the following contractor key personnel: Site Lead and Shift Supervisor. Office consumables, copier, facsimile machine and paper shredder will be provided. Telephones, computers and associated connectivity for same will NOT be provided.

Q93. Lack of sufficient shaded areas to comply with Kuwait government regulations was observed - will government provide or shall contractor furnish?

A93. The Area Support Group (ASG) and Kuwaiti Ministry of Defense (KMOD) have approved the facility. The contractor can propose additional shaded areas, but they have to be approved by ASG and KMOD.

Q94. Please specify the office space in square foot to be made available to the contractor. If contractor considers this space inadequate will government furnish additional office space or shall contractor be allowed to provide?

A94. DLA Disposition Services Kuwait will ensure that appropriate office space will be provided in accordance with the response to Question 92 that will facilitate the contractor’s meeting the performance requirements of III.7, III.8 and III.9 of the contract.

Q95. Will there be office space available at the DLA Disposition Services Facility for the Contractor Manager and or Alternate Contract Manager for on-site meeting with site leader, supervisors and other employees when needed?

A95. DLA Disposition Services Kuwait will provide adequate office space in accordance with the response to Question 92 in order for the Contract Manager or Alternate Contract Manager to meet with the Site Lead and Supervisors. DLA Disposition Services Kuwait will also provide an adequate briefing room for any key personnel to meet with and/or train other of their company’s employees when needed or when scheduled to meet with DLA Disposition Services staff.

Q96. III.4 Government Furnished Property, which states in part, “Contractor will be provided sufficient space as deemed appropriate by the government to conduct work inside and outside.”

Will office space be available for use by administrative personnel? Will the government provide office supplies ? Will the government provide computers and telephones?

A96. DLA Disposition Services Kuwait will provide adequate office space for Site Lead and Shift Supervisors. Administrative personnel; e.g., Customer Service Clerks and Administrative Assistants will be provided a work space to perform their duties. See response to Q92 regarding office supplies, computers and telephones.

Q97. Will the Government provide stationary/office supplies to meet the requirements of the

SOW?

A97. See response to Q92.

Q98. Please provide a copy of the current “DLA Disposition Services Kuwait security guidelines” referred to in PWS III.3.1.5, unless this is already included in the PWS (i.e. III.16).

A98. This guideline will be provided to the contractor after contract award.

Q99. Is there another option for reviewing the mandatory regulations, could not download all the electronic copies provided at http://www.drms.dla.m il/publication/index.shtml and will hard copies be provided at Award of Contract or before?

A99. The contractor will be provided applicable regulations that are not available to the general public after contract award. DRMS-I 4160.14, Operating Instructions for Disposal Management is included as Attachment 5 to the solicitation.

Q100. Who will be responsible for inputting the 1348's into DAISY?

A100. DLA Disposition Services Kuwait personnel.

Q101. Who will be responsible for uploading the documents into WebDocs?

A101. DLA Disposition Services Kuwait personnel.

Q102. Who will be responsible for filing all the 1348's and supporting documents (supplemental documents)?

A102. DLA Disposition Services Kuwait personnel and contractor personnel.

Q103. If the contractor is to do the imputing into DAISY and WebDocs; how many government computers will the contractor have use of?

A103. The contractor is not required nor authorized to utilize Government computers.

Q104. For positions related to data entry into the Government‐provided system, are Common Access Cards (CAC) a requirement for contractor personnel?

A104. See response to Q103.

Q105. Are the government furnished MHE issued to the contractor, as it is noticed contractor undertakes preventive maintenance checks? As list of GFE does not include computers, will Government provide computers or shall contractor provide? Will contractor require CAC for computer Access?

A105. See response to Q103.

Q106. III.6.3.1- Will the contractor personnel, with proper clearances, be permitted access to the DLIS FED LOG data base to properly identify material that is not easily identified through the DTID or nameplate data on the material?

A106. The contractor is required to perform the work specified in the solicitation. Since the Government will not provide computers to contractor personnel it is anticipated the contractor will provide computers to employees who may need them to perform their job functions. The Government will not provide ANY of the contractor’s personnel access to Government computer systems. The contractor should provide its personnel wireless access and computers, where needed to perform job functions. Contractor personnel should be able to access all public or commercially available databases that may be of assistance in identifying property, including the public version of FEDLOG. However, the Government will not provide these data bases nor pay for them as a separate line item. All costs related to computers and database access should be built into the offeror’s bid prices. While DLA is aware of no impediments to wireless access at Camp Arifjan, the offeror is responsible for determining and maintaining the functionality of all computer-related systems and components needed to perform the work. No Government provided hardware, software, or access will be provided, except for access to Government-owned bar-coding equipment as addressed in the response to Q112.

Q107. III.6.13 - Will properly cleared and trained contractors be permitted access to DAISY to determine availability of material, posting of transactions and inventory management?

A107. No.

Q108. III.6.13 – Will properly cleared and trained contractors be permitted email access to electronic inquiries and the coordination of issues and delivery of RTD property? ETID processing?

A108. See response to Q92.

Q109. III.11.2 – Data Gathering – Will properly cleared and trained contractors be permitted access to DAISY, DLIS-FED LOG and other electronic data bases in the performance of this requirement?

A109. No, the contractor is not required or authorized to access DAISY. Also see response to Q106.

Q110. The scope of work as written does not require the contractor to perform data entry, data retrieval and other functions on Daisy that are necessary for operation of the DRMO. It is our understanding that government personnel will perform these functions. Would the government be open to an alternate proposal to provide qualified personnel to perform this function?

A110. No.

Q111. Is the contractor responsible for data entry at any point? If so, then what are qualifications required for respective personnel?

A111. See response to Q92.

Q112. Please advise if there is a specific software to be used for the accountability of the Warehoused items/materials, also will there be a bar code system utilized for the inventory of the items and who’s responsibility to provide the software and the hardware.

A112. The Government utilizes specific software in the accountability system. The contractor is not responsible for directly accessing any Government accounting system or software/hardware.

The contractor is expected to learn and use existing storage location system, bar code system and bar code equipment for the inventory management system.

Q113. III.5 Life Support. Since no life support is being offered, the contractor will need to provide meals for employees on site. Is there an adequate area set aside for contractor personnel to eat meals? Is the area large enough to accommodate an entire shift?

A113. The contractor is not allowed to have an entire shift eat lunch at one time. III.3.6 requires lunch to be staggered.

Q114. III.5 Life Support. Will drinking water be provided on site?

A114. Yes, bottled water is provided for use while at work, not to be taken home.

Q115. The Government generally provides drinking water to contractors on Camp Arifjan. Will drinking water be provided for this contract as well?

A115. Yes, bottled water is provided for use while at work, not to be taken home.

Q116. III.5 Life Support, indicates that no life support will be provided. Would the government consider providing dining facilities for management staff of the contractor?

A117. DLA Disposition Services will not provide dining facilities or meals to the contractor.

However, key contractor personnel may be able to use ASG Camp Arifjan dining facilities on pay-per-use basis.

Q117. III.5 Life Support – No Life Support, Will there be a comfortable facility provided for personnel to eat lunch out of the elements?

A117. DLA Disposition Services will not provide dining facilities for contractor personnel.

DLA Disposition Services Kuwait will provide an adequate break area for all contractor personnel performing under this contract.

Q118. III.5, Life Support – No Life Support, if water is not provided, will there be a facility provided to store water and ice?

A118. Bottled water is provided for use while at work, not to be taken home.

Q119. IV.6- Insurance. This section states “such workers compensation insurance or security as the Defense Base Act” is to be provided. We read this that either DBA insurance or some other workers compensation insurance is suitable. Compensation is mandated under the laws of Kuwait for death or injury of employees with Kuwait residency. Is the coverage mandated under Kuwait law sufficient to satisfy this requirement? Secondly, must the level of compensation for third country nationals be equal to the amount that DBA coverage would mandate or are local law limits acceptable.

A119. DBA insurance is required unless the offeror’s company has a self-insurance plan that has been approved by the United States Department of Labor (DoL) or a waiver applies. DBA insurance must be purchased from a DoL-approved insurer (FAR 28.305). The limits of DBA insurance are set by percentages/fractions of the weekly income of the employee. Since it is a percentage/fraction-based allocation of benefits, the nationality or location of the employee should not matter.

Q120. IV.6 – Insurance. If DBA insurance is required, will the government reimburse the contractor for the cost of DBA insurance?

A120. The contractor would need to include the cost for DBA insurance within their CLIN 0001 and 1001 prices.

Q121. IV.9- Insurance. This section states “The Contractor shall, at its own expense, provide and maintain during the entire period of any resulting contract, including any extensions granted by contract modification, at least the kinds and minimum amounts of insurance noted here:”. Are insurance levels required under Kuwait law acceptable?

A121. No. The IV.9 requirements apply. See response to A119.

Q122. IV.6 – Is DBA insurance required in Kuwait and if so, will the government reimburse the contractor for the cost of DBA insurance?

A122. DBA insurance is required in Kuwait if the company is working as a contractor or subcontractor for the United States Government. See responses to Q119 and Q120.

Q123. Why is DBA insurance required for this contract? The cost for this will be very prohibitive. There is only one company in this region that provides DBA insurance and their charge is about 5% of each employee’s yearly pay.

A123. DBA insurance is Congressionally mandated under the Defense Base Act. 42 U.S.C.

1651 et seq. This solicitation requires the purchase of DBA insurance in accordance with FAR 28.305.

Q124. Why is the DBA FAR code listed separately in a single paragraph (IV.6), on page 36 of 69? Why are there seemingly two insurance requirements in this contract? The DBA insurance (as mentioned in the question above) and as written on Page 38 of 69 Paragraph IV.9 DLAD 52.228-9000 Insurance (FEB 2005) ATG can, does, and will comply with the provisions in this paragraph. Page 68 of 69 Paragraph VI.15 PROPOSAL SUBMISSION, Sub-paragraph (a)FORMAT, (1) VOLUME 1: (iii)...Requires ATG to submit; "...copy of Defense Base Act insurance policy."

A124. DBA insurance is required. Both DBA insurance and Workers Compensation insurance should not be required. The requirement to provide evidence of DBA insurance with proposal submission has been deleted. IV.0 Clauses Incorporated by Reference – FAR 52.252-2: Clause FAR 52.228-5, Insurance – Work on a Government Installation, has been deleted.

Q125. Will all the bidders need to actually obtain DBA insurance PRIOR to knowing if we win the bid?

A125. No. IV.6 of the solicitation requires that the “Contractor shall (a) provide, before commencing performance under this contract, such workers’ compensation insurance or security as the Defense Base Act (42 U.S.C. 1651, et seq.) requires and (b) continue to maintain it until performance is completed.”

Q126. Normally the policy is not given by the DBA insurance companies until after the award, so what do you want exactly?

A126. See responses to Q124 and Q125.

Q127. Will a quote from the authorized DBA insurance company suffice for this requirement?

A127. See responses to Q124 and Q125.

Q128. You are asking for a copy of the Defense Base Act Insurance policy. Are you wanting a quote? What is it that you want to see exactly? There will be no policy issued until after the contract award date.

A128. See responses to Q124 and Q125.

Q129. Clause IV.11 DLAD 52.237-9001, paragraph 2(a) Key Personnel Requirements, states in part, “…Key Personnel…are listed in paragraph 2(c) below”; however, Paragraph 2(c) does not identify Key Personnel.

A129. Key personnel are Contract Managers, Alternate Contract Managers, Site Leaders, and Supervisors. The clause has been revised to reflect this information.

Q130. IV.11.2.c- Key Personnel Replacement Procedures. No positions are listed under section

c. Can the government list the key personnel that are covered under this clause?

A130. Yes. IV.11.2(c) has been updated to list Contract Manager, Alternate Contract Manager, Site Leader, and Supervisors as key personnel.

Q131. Based on site visit in which Volume 1, 2, or 3 can/should the Bidder included Assumptions and will the Assumption pages be included in page count?

A131. If there are assumptions in an offeror’s Volume 3, Technical Proposal, the assumptions would be included in the page count. Volumes 1 and 2 do not have a page limitation.

Q132. SOW specifies page limitation for Volume 3 Technical Proposal (6 Pages). What is, if any, the page limitation for Volume 1 (Proposal Certification and Price Schedule) and Volume 2 (Past Performance Proposal).

A132. There are no page limitations for Volume 1, Proposal Certification and Price Schedule, and Volume 2, Past Performance Proposal.

Q133. Will signed contingent job offers included with resume be counted in Technical Proposal page count.

A133. No.

Q134. Will Graphs, Tables, or Flow charts be considered in page count of Technical Proposal?

A134. Yes, if the company uses the graphs, tables or flow charts to demonstrate how they intend to meet the technical requirements contained in VI.11.

Q135. Paragraph VI.11.1.1 and sub-paragraphs (i) through (iv) are information which will be included either on the Key Personnel’s CVs or as supporting documents, such as copies of certifications or degrees. Per VI.II.2,” … excluding key personnel CVs and cover page.”

a. Does paragraph VI.11.2 include ALL the supporting documents of the Key personnel?

A135a. VI.11.2 includes the company’s technical proposal. Key personnel resumes and supporting documentation are excluded from the 6-page limitation.

b. Can the Key Personnel‘s CVs be 4-6 pages long or longer? - Due to the additional supporting documents. Sub-paragraph (i) this required information will be on the CVs. Sub-paragraph (ii) this required information will be on the CVs. Sub-paragraph (iii) This required information will be partially answered from Sub-paragraph (ii) and will be on the CVs. Sub-paragraph (V) Key Personnel experience will be listed on the Key Personnel CVs and supporting documents. All our company’s experience will be part of the 6-page Technical Proposal. Is this OK or correct? For clarification - the only page limit is Volume 3, the Technical Proposal, which are 6 pages?

AQ135b. Correct. The 6-page technical proposal limitation applies only to the technical proposal submitted by offerors to demonstrate how they intend to meet the technical requirements contained in VI.11.

Q136. What is the difference between paragraphs; VI.11.1.2 and VI.11.1.3? The answers for paragraph VI.11.1.2 will answer the question posed by VI.11.1.3.