AMEND_0008_-_Q A_RESPONSES_3.13.13.pdf

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

RFP No. TIRMS-13-R-00002

PSEP Consolidated Armed Security Guard Services

GENERAL QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS (Q&A):

1. Can the Government please provide the CBA “trust agreement” as this contains provisions that will need to be factored into proposal submissions?

ANSWER: Please refer to Amendment No. 0005/0007

2. Will the Government confirm that Reps and Certs IAW FAR 52.212-3 is to be included with the price proposal submission for teaming partners?

ANSWER: Yes.

3. Will the awarded contractor be required to maintain a physical office in each awarded cities facility?

ANSWER: Contractor is expected to provide the sufficient level of management and administrative support needed to meet contract requirements.

4. Will the government provide a seniority roster for the incumbent workforce to accurately determine vacation time, etc?

ANSWER: The contractor will be allowed a 30-day transition period after contract award, to obtain the requested information.

5. Will the Government provide incumbent workforce training records?

ANSWER: Refer to 1.6.14.1 in RFP. The successful contractor will also be provided a 30-day transition period after contract award.

6. Will the Government clarify if the current incumbent workforce is trained and qualified to the standards cited in the solicitation?

ANSWER: The successful contractor will be provided a 30-day transition period to obtain the requested information. Please refer to 1.6.14 of the RFP.

7. To what percentage is the current incumbent staffed in relation to the required post hours?

This information is necessary to determine the cost of recruitment and training for any staffing shortages.

ANSWER: Refer to Exhibit 1 and Exhibit 2a.

8. In the Government’s experience, what is the factor that should be added to a basic price for breaks and lunches?

ANSWER: Please refer to Section 1.6.13 of the RFP.

PSEP Consolidated Armed Security Guard Services

9. What type of weapons are the incumbent currently carrying? If different from the newly 9mm requirement, what will be the transition time frame allowed for re-training to new weapons?

ANSWER: ANSWER: Refer to 1.6.19 in RFP.

10. Under “contract pricing” it states that all guard mount and walk time must be factored into pricing; what period of time, in minutes, is required for a guard mount and walk time?

ANSWER: Walk time and guard mount time varies by location. Refer to CONTRACT PRICING in the RFP.

11. How many Project Managers are currently servicing this combined solicitation?

ANSWER: : Under this requirement RFP there is One Project Manager for overall oversight and one Site Supervisor per site location (Austin, Brookhaven and National Capitol).

See PWS 6.3.1under the Definition Section Item K and 6.3.2 Item O for Supervisory Requirements

12. Does the government want 1x project Manager for the whole project or one for each region?

ANSWER: One PM with overall administration responsibilities and a total of 3 site supervisors -one per site.

13. What is the current type of communication devices utilized by the incumbent? Does the Government approve of these devices?

ANSWER: See Request for Proposal section 4.5

14. Section, 1.6.18 Written Examination(s), Is there a time frame for completing the written test consisting of 100 multiple-choice questions? Also as there are multiple locations can the 100 multiple-choice questions differ by location in order to be location specific?

ANSWER: Refer to 1.6.14 in RFP and Exhibit 6

15. Section, 1.6.19 Weapons Training and Qualification, Does the individual that will certify (in writing) that the employee possesses the qualities outlined under 1.6.19.10.2 require any special background, education etc in order to be qualified to certify the officer?

ANSWER: ANSWER: Refer to Exhibit #6

GENERAL QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS (Q&A) Cont’d:

16. Section, 1.6.30 Medical and Physical Qualifications, Are there more specific medical guidelines available in order to assist the examining physician with identifying at what degree an impairment, disease or condition (including frequency and recent history) is considered disqualifying? Also would a guards medical history ever be a disqualifying factor?

ANSWER: Refer to RFP 6.5 Medical and Physical Fitness Requirements and Exhibit 13 - OF 178 Certification of Medical Examination.

17. Section, 1.6.31 Government Requested Screening, In the event an employee is targeted for urine drug screening and appears to be under the influence if for safety reasons the Contractor temporarily removes them pending results would the Contractor be required to pay them for them time missed from work?

ANSWER: Refer to Amendment to RFP 1.6.31

18. Section, 4.2 UNIFORM TYPE, Under 4.2.3 it states that all guards on any one shift must be in the same uniform with the same sleeve length - this is to say even in events where one guard requires an accommodation? (Example if an employee requires a long sleeve shirt year round - all other guards will be required to wear a long sleeved shirt as well?) What is the requirement for guards with Tattoos?

ANSWER: See Request for Proposal section 3.1.5

19. Section, 4.8 COURT APPEARANCE, For court appearances while guards will receive normal rate of pay when required to be present for court proceedings, with they also be reimbursed for parking, mileage and other incidentals required by their appearance at court?

ANSWER: See Request for Proposal section 4.8

20. Section, 5.1 GOVERNMENT FURNISHED EQUIPMENT, 5.1.4 References the use of medical facilities for emergency purposes. Can we receive an example of what type of emergency this is referring to?

ANSWER: Usage of Health Unit is permissible at designated locations in a life threatening injury or illness.

21. Section, 5.1 GOVERNMENT FURNISHED EQUIPMENT, Under 5.9 it states that the Government will provide training/orientation on the Government supplied systems - however under

1.6.16.1 it states that the Contractor shall be responsible for photocopying manuals at no cost to the Government. Can we receive more clarification on what it provided?

ANSWER: See Request for Proposal section 5.1 GOVERNMENT FURNISHED EQUIPMENT The Contractor shall be responsible for photocopying the manuals for their employees’ use, at no cost to the Government.

GENERAL QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS (Q&A) Cont’d

22. Section, 6.5.2.2 HEARING, 6.5.2.2 describes hearing requirements and indicates the use of hearing devices. Are CROS and Bi-CROS hearing devices acceptable?

ANSWER: See Request for Proposal section 6.5 and Exhibit 13.

23. Section, 6.5.2.16 DERMATOLOGY, Are there more specific guidelines available regarding dermatology or other medical conditions described throughout this section? As some skin conditions (or other medical condition) may be re-occurring are their guidelines as to what is an acceptable timeframe from when the guard had last had an outbreak?

ANSWER: See Request for Proposal section 6.5 and Exhibit 13.

24. Collective Bargaining Agreement(s), Please advise if the Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs) associated with the contract are going to be provided for purposes of bidding the wages itemized under the CBA(s). Please provide CBAs for all locations.

ANSWER: Please refer to Amendment No. 0005/0007

25. Key Personnel, Are key personnel resumes (Exhibit 16) required at time of submission of proposal? The Solicitation is not clear on this requirement.

ANSWER: Yes, Key Personnel Resumes as described in the Request for Proposal section 4.1 Contractor’s Deliverables are required at time of submission of proposal.

26. Key Personnel, Regarding positions (Contract Manager, Site Supervisors, etc.) that are defined as "key" for purposes of resume submission: Please clarify which resumes are due with response submission and which resumes are required post award.

ANSWER: Yes, Key Personnel Resumes as described in the Request for Proposal section 4.1 Contractor’s Deliverables are required at time of submission of proposal.

27. Staffing and Transition, The RFP specifies that the IRS will conduct an indpendent background check prior to any officer standing post on the contract. Please advise on how long this background check takes and if that impacts the 30 day transition requirement of the contract.

ANSWER: See reference RFP section 6.5.22 SECURITY/SUITABILITY ADJUDICATION

REQUIREMENTS

28. Guard Mount, Will clearing barrels and weapon safes be provided by the Government (for use during guard mount)?

ANSWER: No. See reference in RFP section 4.3.3.1

29. Guard Mount, Is there a guard mount for all locations?

ANSWER: Yes, Contractor is responsible for establishing procedures to ensure that guards are in proper uniform and have received adequate shift briefings prior to assuming guard post at all locations.

30. Post Locations, Would you please provide Facilities maps for all locations which identify the Posts, including their assigned post number?

ANSWER: Specific locations were identified during the walk through. All locations are provided in Exhibit 1. A breakdown of guard post hours is provided in Exhibit 2. Post specific information will not be disclosed as part of the soliitation process.

31. Volume II: Business (Price) Proposal (page 101), How may an offeror provide any pricing information when the required SF1449 and Reps and Certs alone exceed the "15 page limitation" requirement for this section?

ANSWER: The page count requirement does not include SF1449 and Reps/Certs.

32. Volume II: Business (Price) Proposal (page 101), As the paper version must be exactly the same as the electronic version, may the excel spreadsheets which assemble all the pricing buildup be printed on legal size 8 1/2 X 14 for clarity?

ANSWER: Proposal must be submitted in accordance with proposal instructions.

33. Other Deliverables (page 41), what are the approximate parking fees/ or arrangements for security officers under the current contract?

ANSWER: Generally none, however, should officers incur such an expense it is the contractor shall be responsible for associated fees.

34. Other Deliverables (page 41), Which are the specific "certain downtown posts" where parking is not available?

ANSWER: Please refer to paragraph 4.4.9.2 in the RFP

35. Firearms/Ammunition (page 39), Could a contractor use more than one weapon manufacturer for fulfilling this requirement?

ANSWER: Please refer to Exhibit 8

36. Contractor Furnished Equipment (page 46), Are individual radio permits/licenses required for each radio at each location or just for each location?

ANSWER: Yes, each location must operate under a current FCC license. Obtaining FCC licensure is the responsibility of the contractor and can be accomplished by contacting the FCC.

Licenses are available at the county, state and national levels.

37. Contractor Furnished Equipment (page 46), Does the government have an approximate cost for each radio permit/license that all bidders may include in their pricing buildup?

ANSWER: Please refer to paragraph 4.5 of the RFP.

38. Watch Commander (Page 54), What is the approximate time all bidders should include in their pricing for the required guard briefing (guard mount)?

ANSWER: Contractor is responsible for establishing procedures to ensure that guards are in proper uniform and have received adequate shift briefings prior to assuming guard post at all locations.

39. Walk-Time, (page 33), What is the approximate time all bidders should include in their pricing for the required Walk-Time?

ANSWER: Walk-time may vary by location and/or post assignment.

40. Applicable Minimum Hourly Rates of Wages (page 77), Isn't the applicable wage determination for Austin Texas WD 2005-2503 and not the WD 2005-2515 referenced?

41. Why in the Solicitation document is a reference made to "Site Supervisors" on page 52, 6.3.2 and yet throughout the Solicitation the reference is made to Shift Supervisors?

ANSWER: “Watch Commander” may also be referred to as ‘Shift supervisor” in this solicitation. This position is outlined in 6.3.3.

Site Supervisors is a separate role at each site as outlined in 6.3.2.

42. Are there two different positions Site Supervisor and Shift Supervisor?

ANSWER: See 41 answer.

43. What are the requirements for Shift Supervisor and what are the requirements for Site Supervisor?

ANSWER: See 41 answer.

44. How many Site Supervisors are required on the four sites?

ANSWER: One site supervisor at each site location.

45. In the Solicitation there is a request to include resumes of Shift Supervisors in the response, is it necessary to provide resumes for every Shift Supervisor position?

ANSWER: Yes, Key Personnel Resumes as described in the Request for Proposal section 4.1 Contractor’s Deliverables are required at time of submission of proposal.

46. Is it also necessary to include resumes for Site Supervisor positions, if so how many?

ANSWER: Key Personnel Resumes as described in the Request for Proposal section 4.1

47. Is there only one PM for all sites?

ANSWER: Yes. Contract has one designated Project Manager

48. If so, what is the travel cost to get to the other sites?

ANSWER: The Contractor must determine

49. If there is a PM for each ? If so, is an office supplied or is the office in DC for all PMs?

Please clarify?

ANSWER: There is one Project Manager for the entire contract. The IRS will not dictate the physical office location of the Project Manager. However, this is the only space that will be provided by the IRS for use by the Project Manager. Additionally, the office space allotted for the Project Manger is to only be utilized for that purpose. If the Contractor does choose to seek other accommodations for the Project Manager the allotted office space within Main IR Headquarters Building will be returned to the IRS real estate portfolio for reassignment.

Alternative Program Manager accommodations will be provided at the expense of the Contractor. These accommodations are not to be charged to and will not be reimbursed by the IRS in any way.

Additionally, each site will provide work space for Site-Supervisor.

50. Are there any Collective Bargaining Agreements?

ANSWER: Yes. Please refer to Amendment No. 0005/0007

51. As this is a firm fixed priced contract how are the extra hours billed?

ANSWER: Yes. Please refer to SF 1449 and page 11 of the RFP and Section 7.3 in the RFP.

52. Which trainings are the contractor responsible for monetarily?

ANSWER: Please refer to Section 1.6.14.2 of the RFP and Exhibit 6.

53. Does each site require the same trainings or do they differ? If so what is the break-down by site?

Is there a specific arms dealer that the contractor must use?

ANSWER: No. Refer to Exhibit 6.

54. Are agility tests required? If so what are there requirements and which contractor personnel must take and pass the agility tests?

ANSWER: Please refer to paragraph 6.5 of the RFP.

55. Are the guards allowed to wear their uniforms home or must they dress on site?

ANSWER: Contract guards shall report to work in uniform.

56. If they must dress on site, is there a designated area/locker room for them to change and store belongings?

ANSWER: Please refer to paragraph 3.15.4.2 of the RFP.

57. Is gear up/arm up allowed on site? Is it required?

ANSWER: Please refer to paragraph 3.15.4.2 of the RFP.

58. How many guards are required at each site?

ANSWER: Refer to Exhibit 2(a)

59. How many posts are on each site?

ANSWER: Austin, TX (19 Posts); Brookhaven, NY (13 Posts); Washington, DC (20 Posts); and New Carrollton, MD (23 Posts). Please refer to Exhibit 2a.

60. What is the recommended number of back-up guards, in case of an emergency, on each site?

ANSWER: COR or designated agency personnel will notify the contractor of the number of guards required during an emergency to ensure that there are no open posts.

61. Is all existing equipment to stay such as scanners, metal detectors, and existing radio communications, vehicles, computers?

ANSWER: Please refer to Exhibits 14 & 15 of the RFP.

62. When listing the required vehicles what does ‘VACANT’ refer to?

ANSWER: Exhibit 14 “VACANT” shall be interpreted as no additional vehicles required at this location.

63. Is an on site ‘safe’ designated for firearms storage?

ANSWER: No. See reference in RFP section 4.3.3.1

64. Performance Work Statement states that an offsite location is required for certain actions, please specify what prep is permitted on premises and what must be done off-site? Can you please specify by site and by location?

ANSWER: No, it is required that officers report to duty with their weapon holstered and duty ready at all locations. See reference in RFP section 4.3.3.6.

65. What contractor provided equipment is required at each post?

ANSWER: The Contractor shall furnish each armed security guard on duty with supplementary equipment, including, but not limited to notebook, pen, pencil, flashlight with replacement batteries and bulbs, flashlight holder, traffic control safety apparel (reflective safety vests, gloves, etc.).

See reference in RFP section 3.15.5

66. What are requirements for Guard I vs. Guard II and how many of each are required?

ANSWER: Guard II is required under this RFP. See reference RPF section 6.1.2

67. Is a PM only necessary in the DC/MD area? At the Holtsville and Austin locations are the shift supervisors the responsible party?

ANSWER: Contract has one designated Project Manager. Refer to Definitions: K. Project Manager & 3.2 in the RFP

68. Are you requiring potential shift supervisor resumes for all locations with the RFP response or can those be tendered after the award?

ANSWER: Yes, Key Personnel Resumes as described in the Request for Proposal section 4.1

69. Page 41, 4.4.9.2 It states in the RFP document that the contractor could be responsible for the cost of parking the patrol vehicles in downtown DC. Could you please be more specific to allow us to calculate cost?

ANSWER: No. There is no requirement for a patrol vehicle in downtown DC (see RFP exhibit #14).

70. How many patrol vehicles are necessary in downtown DC?

ANSWER: Please refer to Exhibit 14

71. There is vehicle equipment listed, such as amber rotating lights, will this be passed on from the previous contractor? If not, who is responsible for purchase, the government or the contractor?

ANSWER: Contractor responsible for all vehicle costs. Refer to Exhibit 14 and 4.4.9 in the RFP.

72. What is the number of cell phones that are required per site? These are to be contractor provided, correct? How many landlines does the government provide per site?

ANSWER: Yes, cell phones are the contractor’s responsibility. Reference RFP section 4.6.

Government landline should not be considered as part of the contractor’s communication plan. See reference Exhibit #15.

73. Does the government provide computers per site for the work or does the contractor need to provide the computers? If contractor provided, how many computers and printers are required per location?

ANSWER: No, See reference Government Furnished Materials, Equipment and Services Section 5.1

74. Are copy machines government provided? Are there existing leases?

ANSWER: No, See reference Government Furnished Materials, Equipment and Services Section 5.1

75. Who is responsible for all office supplies, paper, toner, pens, pads, paper, coffee cups, coffee machines, microwaves, etc? What is GFE?

ANSWER: The Contractor shall furnish each armed security guard on duty with supplementary equipment, including, but not limited to notebook, pen, pencil, flashlight with replacement batteries and bulbs, flashlight holder, traffic control safety apparel (reflective safety vests, gloves, etc.), and inclement weather clothing (raincoats, cap covers, overcoats, overshoes, etc.).

All inclement weather clothing shall be identical in style and color for each guard. Armed security guards shall not be permitted to supply themselves or utilize any unauthorized supplemental or personal equipment such as chemical agent devices, concealed firearms, knives, or any other such unauthorized equipment. The use of personal electronics devices, such as cell phones, pagers, ipads, ipods, etc. are strictly prohibited while on duty. See reference RFP Section 3.15.5

“GFE” means Government Furnished Equipment

76. What is the number of radios required per site? Are the radios contactor or government purchased?

ANSWER: See reference RFP section 4.5

77. Does the government provide the FCC frequency per site or must the contractor apply?

ANSWER: The contractor must provide as stated in paragraph 4.5.3 of the RFP.

78. In the experience required section for shift supervisors it states that one year of military or equivalent experience and then three years of military or college degree. Does that mean one potentially requires four years military experience in lieu of other experience? Please clarify.

ANSWER: No, 6.2.2 Experience: At a minimum, contract guard force must have one year of armed security, military or law enforcement experience and meet one of the following experience/education requirements: Proof of eligibility Verification of requirements need to be submitted to the COR prior to the contract guard being brought on duty with the contract and one of the following:

6.2.2.1 Three years of security experience within the past five years; or

6.2.2.2 An Associate’s Degree in a related field and at least one year of experience, or

6.2.2.3 Three years of military or National Guard (active duty or reserve) experience; or

6.2.2.4 Successful completion of Police Officer’s Standard Training (POST) course; or

Any reasonable combination of the above (i.e., plus one year of college course work related in the field).

79. Are all weapons contractor furnished? What is the total number of weapons required for all sites?

ANSWER: Yes, 4.3.2. Firearms shall be furnished by the Contractor to equip each armed guard and supervisor with their own individually assigned firearm. Firearms shall be issued to each individual and not to the post(s) to which they are assigned. All weapons must be new (not used or refurbished) and the property of the contractor. Please refer to paragraph 4.3.2 of the RFP.

80. All guards take home their weapons every night, none are stored on site?

ANSWER: Please refer to paragraph 3.15.8 – “…All armed guards shall have a Carry Permit or proper state certification to carry weapons off site, if required by law. (Guards must have the ability to travel to and from their duty place with their firearm.)”

81. Is the required wage the DOL wage for Guard II for all sites or are there specific CBA's? If there are CBA's please provide for pricing purposes. If all wages are SCA DOL, please provide the required schedules for each site, by State.

82. What is the wage requirement for shift supervisors? For Watch commanders?

ANSWER: They are considered supervisor and/or management support.

83. Who compensates contractor for employees attending mandatory Information Protection Briefings annually? (page 146)

ANSWER: All training must be factored into officer’s price. See reference RFP Exhibit # 6

84. There is mention in the RFP document of additional annual training in IT, cybersecurity and security risk management, who is responsible for the payment of that training? is it on site or does it involve travel? who is required to have this annual training and how long is it? Is the contractor responsible for payment or the government?

ANSWER: All training-related costs must be factored into the offering price, as they will not be itemized or paid for separately by the Government after Contract award. See RFP Section 1.6.14.2 and see Exhibit #6 for hour requirements.

85. Are there other trainings that require travel?

ANSWER: No

86. Section, 6.5.22.3 What is the "allowable" timeframe for the completion of E-QIP? Please define allowable.

ANSWER: Timeframe vary based on the adjudication process see RFP reference 6.5.22.4.

87. Section, 6.5.231 Who will bear the costs of the credit check, residence check and court records check for the past five years for all contractor employees the government or the contractor? Are their specifications as to which service the government requires the contractor to use?

ANSWER: The government will bear cost for associated IRS’ process See RFP Section 6.5.23 1.

The government requires all potential applicants to complete the Electronic Questionnaires for Investigation Processing (e-QIP).

88. Section, 7.1.5 page 74. What is DEP?

ANSWER: OEP stands for Occupant Emergency Plan. Please refer to Section 2.0 for Acronyms/Definitions.

GENERAL QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS (Q&A) Cont’d

89. What are the applicable minimum hourly rates of wages for each specific location?

90. Does the government provide and maintain all vehicles?

ANSWER: No.

91. Are the vehicles owned by the government?

92. If the vehicles are owned by the government what specific vehicle insurance in what limits are required to be provided by the contractor?

ANSWER: N/A

93. Are 30 day phase-in costs permitted?

ANSWER: See Section M.3.3.3.1, Plan of Accomplishment in Amendment No. 0007

94. REFERENCE: SOW Section 4, paragraph 4.1 Key Personnel The contractor shall submit a Key Personnel Resume(s) clearly detailing the individual’s qualifications and demonstrating that the proposed PM,Site Supervisor and Watch Commander meet the requirements listed herein.

QUESTION: Are resumes for the PM, Site Manager and Watch Commander required in the proposal?

Yes

QUESTION: If the answer to the above is yes do they count toward the page count limitations?

Refer to Proposal Instructions.

ANSWER: Please see response above for question #94.

95. REFERENCE: Section M.3.3.5 Key Personnel, last sentence. A Key personnel resume will be required for the offer for Company executives, personnel referred top elsewhere as the contract manager or corporate oversight.

QUESTION: Are resumes of corporate executives required in the proposal?

ANSWER: Yes.

PSEP Consolidated Armed Security Guard Services

GENERAL QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS (Q&A) Cont’d:

96. REFERENCE: Section 52.212.1 Instructions to Offers, Text requirements.

QUESTION: Will the government consider reducing the font size for Tables and Charts to NLT 10pt?

ANSWER: No.

97. REFERENCE: SOW paragraph 4.3.5 Ammunition, third sentence. Firearm must be 9mm standard law enforcement service-type semi-automatic, capable of firing 147 grain hollow-point ammunition or hollow-point ammunition recommend by manufacture.

QUESTION: Is the current guard force armed with 9mm weapons?

Please refer to paragraph 1.6.19 regarding the weapons requirement for this contract.

QUESTION: Is the guard force at the HQ location in DC required to be licensed through the Metropolitan Police Department Security Officer Management Branch (SOMB) as armed SPO’s ?

No, this is a federal contract on which the city of DC has no jurisdiction.

QUESTION: DC law prohibits the use of 9mm pistols by security guards in the district, is the IRS aware of this prohibition and if so can you clarify which type of weapon is required at the HQ location?

This is a federal contract on which the city of DC has no jurisdiction. Therefore, carrying 9MM Pistols is permissible under this contract.

REFERENCE: SOW 4.6 Cell Phones – The contractor shall provide and maintain one cell phone for designated post per IRS Campus to accommodate communication with customers. The COR/Alternate COR is responsible for approving post(s) requiring the use of cell phone(s) for communication

QUESTION: Have all of the posts identified during the site visit’s, including the mobile patrols been approved by the COR and required to have cell phones?

See reference RFP Section 4.6

QUESTION: Can the government indicate the number of posts that have been approved by the COR and require cell phones? See reference RFP Section 4.6

ANSWER: See responses above for question #97.

98. REFERENCE: SOW paragraph 6.5.1.3 Medical Physical Requirements, medical examinations are valid for a period of three (3) years from date of issuance.

QUESTION: Are the incumbent guard’s medical examinations current and compliant with the standards of this solicitation?

N/A: Under RFP requirement, all prospective contract employees must undergo a pre-employment medical/physical examination. Please refer to RFP paragraph 6.5.1.2:

QUESTION: If the answer to the above question is yes, will they be required to have a new physical?

Yes, All prospective contract employees must undergo a pre-employment medical/physical examination. Please refer to paragraph 6.5.1.2:

ANSWER: See responses above for question #98.

99. REFERENCE: SOW paragraph 6.5.23.2.3 If access to classified information is required as identified in the ? Contractor must possess a SECRET or TOP SECRET facility clearance consistent with the government requirement.

This RFP has no requirement for the contractor to obtain a National Security Information (NSI) clearance.

QUESTION: Please clarify. This sentence seems to be incomplete. Is a Secret or Top Secret Facility Clearance required for this contract? This RFP has no requirement for the contractor to obtain a National Security Information (NSI) clearance.

QUESTION: If a security clearance is required will the government please identify which positions require a clearance and at what level? All personnel performing services under the contract.

ANSWER: See responses above for question #99

100. Exhibit 14 (Contractor Furnished Vehicle Requirements) reflects a total vehicle requirement of 5 vehicles (3 pick-up trucks and 2 SUVs). Exhibit 2 (Contract Security Post Hour Requirements) included within Amendment 2, only reflects 3 vehicles as being required. What is the actual per location vehicle requirements?

ANSWER: Vehicle requirements identified in Exhibit 14 reflect actual contact requirement.

Exhibit 2 should reflect (1) Pick up truck required for New Carrolton and (1) Pick up truck required for Brookhaven. Austin will require (1) SUV and (2) pick ups truck

101. M.3.3.5 states that resumes are required within our proposal submission. Please clarify which resumes are to be included.

ANSWER: Yes, Key Personnel Resumes as described in the Request for Proposal section 4.1Contractor’s Deliverables are required at time of submission of proposal.

PSEP Consolidated Armed Security Guard Services

GENERAL QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS (Q&A) Cont’d:

102. M.3.3.5 states that resumes are required within our proposal submission. Exhibit 16 contains a form for resumes but it appears to be for Site Supervisors, after award. Is there a desired resume format?

ANSWER: Exhibit 16 has been provided as a reference. Contractor may or may not use this specific form. However, content of all key personnel resumes shall include information for every category identified in Exhibit 16.

103. Exhibit 15a (Contractor Furnished Uniform Requirements) states that black dress shoes are to be a contractor supplied item. 4.2.4 states that shoes are not considered a contractor supplied item. Which is correct?

ANSWER: Any uniform requirements must be provided to the guard force in accordance with prevailing labor rates (i.e CBA or DOL Wage Determination).

104. M.3.2.6.1 references past performance questionnaires but none are provided. Are past performance questionnaires required?

ANSWER: Please refer to Amendment No. 0006

105. Central Security Control Consoles are referenced within the PWS (3.2 and 6.1.3). To determine staffing and training requirements, how many CSCCs are there per location?

ANSWER: Austin has (1) Central Security Control Console; Brookhaven has (1) Central Security Control Console; National Capitol have (2) Central Security Control Console (one at each site)

106. Are the submission requirements for Factor 1, Subfactor 1, Experience the same as described within past performance section M.3.2.6 (i.e. 3 projects active within the last 3 years)?

107. We note that overtime cannot be billed separately. See Section 1.6.12.2 at RFP page 17. How much overtime does the IRS expect to request?

ANSWER: OT hours are factored case by case depending upon the emergent circumstances.

108. Wage Determinations and the governing CBA are referenced at Sections 8.3.1 and 8.3.2 at RFP page 77 but not attached. Please supply copies of those documents.

109. Please ask what is contemplated by Section 3.9 at RFP page 24—is the IRS requesting an ongoing overall security assessment of its locations?

ANSWER: As indicated in Section 3.9 the Contractor shall provide continuous assessment and evaluation to identify security weaknesses and vulnerabilities and provide problem identification notification and recommended corrective action to the COR/Alternate COR immediately verbally and via email within 24 hours. For instance, during external or internal patrols a guard identifies defective lightening or locking devices, he/she must immediately report status in accordance with established local post orders.

110. Numerous specs in the Statement of Work appear to require security officers to perform detentions and other law enforcement duties: Section 6.5.5 at RFP page 66; Section 6.5.9 at RFP page 66; Section

6.5.10 at RFP page 66; Section 6.5.11 at RFP page 66; and Exhibit 3 Section 4.7. Please clarify how security officers who are not deputized law enforcement officers are to discharge those duties.

ANSWER: Contract Security Officers under this requirement are authorized to ensure order and safety at the IRS facility in accordance with the RFP Section 6.4 and FPS Security Guard Information Manual Section 3.6 Detainment Authority.

111. Alarm response requirements at Section 6.5.4.1 at RFP page 64 and Section 6.5.7.2 at RFP page 65 and PWS Exhibit 3 Section 4.7 at page 7. What is the maximum response time that is expected?

ANSWER: Alarm response time is as stated in the post orders. This will be provided after contract award.

112. Section 1.6.14.2 at RFP page 18 and Sections 4.4.5- 4.4.6 at RFP page 41 require security personnel to administer CPR and deploy AEDs. Our officers will have the requisite training but are not professionally engaged in those activities. Please clarify standard of care that is expected of security officers in the performance of those duties.

ANSWER: The contract officers are required to trained and proficient to provide the standard of care applicable to the fundamental principles consistent with their American Red Cross certification.

113. Section 6.5.12 at RFP page 66 and PWS Exhibit 3 Section 4.3 at page 6 also require security personnel to report on hazardous environmental and facility related conditions for which other service providers are responsible. Since those duties are not specifically security related we assume that our obligation to report on those conditions is limited to the extent of our actual observance. Is that correct?

ANSWER: Yes, Security guard post orders require the contractor staff to report any deficient areas identified i.e., life safety issues and/or hazardous environmental and facility related conditions to their Supervisor.

114. Section 1.6.24.1 at RFP page 23 requires CPR/EAD/First Aid Training to be conducted by American Red Cross instructors in accordance with American Red Cross standards. May we substitute American Heart Association instructors and standards in satisfaction of those requirements?

ANSWER: Please refer to paragraph 1.6.24.1 of the RFP – “…Training certification shall be valid for the period stated on the card(s) from the American Red Cross.”

115. We assume that the “no facial hair policy” at Section 3.15.2 at RFP page 35 is subject to legally required exceptions for medical and religious reasons. Please confirm that is correct.

ANSWER: See reference RFP Section 3.15.2 FACIAL HAIR – Beards are not permissible. The face shall be kept clean of facial hair except for a mustache, if desired. The moustache shall not extend past the corners or the mouth, and must be kept trimmed as to not obscure the outline of the mouth and lip.

116. We assume that the obligation to comply with the medical requirements at Sections 6.5.1 and 6.5.2 at RFP pages 58-60 and Exhibit 13, as well as the physical requirements at Section 6.5.3 at RFP pages 60-62 is subject to any limitations imposed by applicable law or regulation. Please confirm that is correct.

ANSWER: See reference RFP section 6.5.1.2 ..Failure by a guard to meet any of the required medical qualifications may result in the guard being disqualified from performing under the contract.

117. Do the SF1449 and SF30’s count as part of the pricing page count?

ANSWER: No.

118. Is it a mis-type that the IRS wants 4 Police Batons with holder, per security officer? If so, is the correct number 1 Police Baton with holder?

ANSWER: See reference amended Exhibit #15A.

119. Is the correct number for Duty Belt “Keepers” Expandable, 1?

ANSWER: See reference amended Exhibit #15A.

120. Regarding “Gold ‘supervisory’ handcuffs, are you wanting a gold /yellow color or actual gold handcuffs? Is there a specific make and model to which you are referring?

ANSWER: See reference amended Exhibit #15A

121. There was no mention of Body Armor in the uniform requirements. Will body armor be required since the guards are to be armed? Exhibits and attachments Page 44 4.3.3.4

PSEP Consolidated Armed Security Guard Services GENERAL QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS (Q&A) Cont’d:

122. In the uniform issue, there is no mention of a hat, boots/shoes, double magazine case, or winter gloves. Are these items still required by the contractor to supply or will this be the responsibility of the individual security officer? Exhibits and attachments Page 44

ANSWER : All items in question have been addressed. Please note the following within Exhibit 15a – Contractor Furnished Uniform Requirements:

Hat: Mentioned in both the Class A and B uniform descriptions; paragraph 5a and paragraph 8.

Boot/Shoes: Addressed in both the Class A and B uniform description; paragraph 5c; and paragraph 7.

Double Magazine Case: Addressed in the Uniform Inventory under description/color, fifth item down. “3 magazines/2 pouches.”

Winter gloves: Addressed in in paragraph 10 and in the Uniform Inventory under Uniform Components – 6th item down.

See reference amended Exhibit #15A.

123. Do the SF1449 and SF30’s count as part of the pricing page count? General query as there is only a 15 page pricing count. Other proposals we have responded to state that the 1449 and SF30s are the pricing documents (specifically the 1449, which will serve as the cover page for the pricing documents).

For this effort, the 1449 on its own, is 10 pages – which leaves only 5 pages for any backup rate documentation.

ANSWER: The SF 1449 and SF 30 do not count as part of the pricing page count.

124. Can the IRS provide the contract numbers and total contract amounts for previously awarded contracts in Austin, TX; Brookhaven, NY; and that National Capital?

ANSWER: No. Each contract is managed by different Procurement Branches.

125. Does the existing workforce meet the training requirements outlined in the performance work statement for training and annual certifications as outlined in the PWS (pages 25 – 28)?

ANSWER: Please refer to paragraph 1.6.14.1 regarding all training for this contract requirement.

126. Will trainer waivers be granted for existing workforce who has successful completed basic training, On-boarding, and government providing training and OJT?

ANSWER: Please refer to RFP paragraph 1.6.14.1 regarding all training for this contract.

127. Can the IRS identify the weapon platform that is currently being utilized in Austin, TX, Brookhaven, NY, and the National Capital?

ANSWER: Please refer to paragraph 1.6.19 regarding the weapons requirement for this contract.

128. Do all locations require an FCC license?

ANSWER: Yes, each location must operate under a current FCC license. Obtaining FCC licensure is the responsibility of the contractor.

129. Page 11 of 157; requirements state that there will be a 30 day transition period. Given the magnitude of required licensing and permits, equipment and training requirements for the security staff, would the Government consider extending the transition or allowing vendors to propose transition timelines in their proposal to the government?

130. Is there a list of incumbent watch commanders and supervisors?

ANSWER: Yes. There will be 30-day transition period after contract award, in which the Information above may be obtained.

131. Page 18 of 157 states that the contractor shall provide all certification and required training for security guard personnel performing services under the contract within (10) days after contract award notification to the COR. Given the magnitude and scope of the training requirements, licensing, and armed guard qualification, will the government consider an extension of this timeline?

ANSWER: There will be a 30-day transition period allowed to ensure compliance prior to performance.

132. Page 37 states the PM will have office space provided by the IRS, located at the National Capital Region, Main IRS Headquarters. Can the IRS confirm whether or not the PM is required to be located in In the National Capital Region, or if the IRS will accept proposals where the PM is located in either New York or Texas?

ANSWER: Please refer to paragraph 4.1.1 of the RFP. “The PM will have office space, provided by IRS, located at:

National Capitol Region – Main IR Headquarters Office 1111 Constitution Avenue NW, Washington D.C. 20224”.

While the IRS will not dictate the physical office location of the Project Manager, provided the Program Manager can effectively fulfill the Project Manager Duties from their chosen location.

However, this is the only space that will be provided by the IRS for use by the Project Manager.

Additionally, the office space allotted for the Project Manger is to only be utilized for that purpose.

If the Contractor does choose to seek other accommodations for the Project Manager the allotted office space within Main IR Headquarters Building will be returned to the IRS real estate portfolio for reassignment.

Alternative Program Manager Accommodations will be provided at the expense of the Contractor.

These accommodations are not to be charged to and will not be reimbursed by the IRS in any way.

133. Can the government confirm the requirements for a fully certified CSCC Operator as outlined on Page 49 of 157, section 6.1.3?

ANSWER: See reference RFP section 4.4.3 The Contractor shall submit a completed employee-training plan (outline) to the COR within 10 days after receipt of the award notice.

Please refer to the bolded and underlined text in Paragraph 6.1.3 of the RFP.

“6.1.3 Central Security Control Console (CSCC) – Positions working inside the CSCC will be identified under the Guard II criteria. Each site location will establish initial training requirements in the security control center prior to completion of initial OJT. Select officers may be identified and qualifications submitted to COR for approval to be assigned in the CSCC. Select candidates must then complete 40 hours of OJT inside the CSCC along side a fully certified CSCC Operator prior to an assignment as the sole CSCC Operator on duty. Contractor will outline training and certification procedures in Quality Control Plan.”

134. Can the government confirm whether or not the incumbent workforce meets the requirements for Medical Standards, as outlined on 6.5.2?

ANSWER: No. There will be 30-day transition period after contract award, in which the Information above may be obtained.

135. What are the requirements to obtain a TOP SECRET facility clearance as outlined on page 73, Section 6.5.23.2.3?

ANSWER: Services required in this RFP do not require National Security Information (NSI) clearance.

136. The solicitation makes reference to Attachment 4 regarding Past Performance, however that Document is not available on www.fbo.gov.

ANSWER: Please refer to Amendment No. 0006 http://www.fbo.gov/

PSEP Consolidated Armed Security Guard Services

GENERAL QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS (Q&A) Cont’d:

137. Item #1.6.1.1 A description of the type, level, and frequency of inspections performed by the Contractor’s Quality Control Monitors. (This does not pertain to routine inspections performed by Area Supervisors as part of their normal duties.)

Does the above-referenced section imply that the contractor cannot utilize the services of an Operations Manager or Area Supervisor who serves in multiple roles including Quality Control Monitor?

ANSWER: No. Please refer to paragraphs 4.9.8 in the RFP. Regardless of position, job title or assigned duties within the contract company, Quality Control Monitors must meet this standard.

Additionally, Paragraph 4.9.7 states “Under no circumstances shall individuals appointed as Quality Control Monitors serve as uniformed employees working under this Contract.”

138. Item #1.6.8 Quality Assurance: The government will evaluate the contractor’s performance under this contract in accordance with the Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan. Will bidders be privy to the standards outlined in the referenced Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan?

ANSWER: Please refer to Exhibit 3.

139. Item #1.6.16.2…additional training may be required on Magnetometer/x-ray if/when the equipment or technology is changed.

Page 18 of 157 (as stated above) Is the IRS willing to assume the costs related to Magnetometer/X-Ray training required, if equipment or technology is changed?

ANSWER: Please refer to paragraph 1.6.14.2 of the RFP..”… All training-related costs must be factored into the offering price, as they will not be itemized or paid for separately by the Government after Contract award.”

140. Item #1.6.17.3 Newly hired security officers must be assigned to work the site for a minimum of 60 Days and have met all required initial training prior to consideration as a supervisor/watch commander.

Page 18 of 157 (as stated above) Does the above-referenced statement imply that the contractor cannot Hire a supervisor/watch commander from outside of the existing guard force?

ANSWER: Yes, the IRS maintains the position that a minimum of 60 days of on-site experience is needed to become familiar with the physical facility and facility/IRS specific security procedures.

This is to allow the supervisory candidate time to become sufficiently prepared to effectively take command and direct the guard force in an emergent situation such as a perimeter breach, fire or natural disaster.

PSEP Consolidated Armed Security Guard Services

GENERAL QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS (Q&A) Cont’d:

141. Item #1.6.18.1 Upon the Contractor employees’ completion of the Initial Training and a favorable Adjudication through IRS Personnel Security Page 19 of 157 (as stated above) Is there a cost to the contractor associated with adjudication or any Internal background checks obtained through IRS Personnel Security? If so, what are the costs?

ANSWER: The only cost that would fall to the contractor would the cost to obtain manual – original fingerprints on form FD-258 when the employment candidate cannot, through circumstances, arrange an appointment time to have the fingerprints taken electronically via the USAccess System. The cost of this service is dictated by the law enforcement agency providing the service. The contractor would be solely responsible for obtaining and paying for this service.

142. Item #1.6.19.4 All weapon range training and qualification must be conducted using current Treasury Transition II Target.

Page 20 of 157 (as stated above) What is the “Treasury Transition II Target”?

ANSWER: “US Treasury Transitional Target II” They are a center mass silhouette, which displace six tones transition tones of blue or green and are available commercially.

143. Item #1.6.22.1 All Contract employees must receive IRS-specific training prior to working under this contract.

Page 21/22 of 157 (as stated above), please address the items below:

(i) Are training costs associated with “IRS-specific” training billable to the IRS as an incidental cost?

ANSWER: Please refer to paragraph 1.6.25.2 of RFP. ”… All training-related costs must be factored into the offering price, as they will not be itemized or paid for separately by the Government after Contract award.”

(ii) Does the COR maintain a current list of incumbent employees that have undergone “IRS-specific” Training and will this list be made available to the successful bidder?

ANSWER: As part of the 30-day transition period, the requested information may be obtained by the incumbent.

144. Page 23 of 157, regarding the request for training to meet standards based “on American Red Cross techniques”. Will the IRS accept training from comparable certifying agencies such as the American Heart Association or American Lifeguard Association?

ANSWER: Please refer to paragraph 1.6.24.1 of the RFP – “…Training certification shall be valid for the period stated on the card(s) from the American Red Cross.”

145. Item #1.6.29.1…the CO may temporarily waive the time frames in which training and/or testing must be provided to a contract employee…Under no circumstances may the Contractor work any Contract employee under a temporary waiver.

Page 25 of 157 (as stated above), under what circumstances would the “training waiver” be applicable?

ANSWER: : The training/testing waiver would only be applicable in those circumstances where the Contractor has requested a training/testing waiver, in accordance with the requirements of paragraph 1.5.29.1 of the RFP, for an officer who has or will be absent from scheduled training or a test and the Contracting Officer has approved it.

The training/testing waiver would allow the guard to remain on the contract in an inactive status until the required training/testing is completed. Under the approved waiver, all other current qualifications and training would be allowed to stand for a period not to exceed 120 days. Beyond this period the Contractor would be required to remove the officer from the contract.

146. With regards to the productive hours listed in Exhibit #2 – Contract Security Post Hour Requirements, are the Site Supervisors and/or Watch Commander post hours included?

ANSWER: No – only the productive guard posts are listed.

147. To what method should the Past Performance Questionnaire (PPQ) be returned?

ANSWER: Submit the PPQ with the proposal.

However, if your reference would prefer to submit the questionnaire directly to…