Questions and Answers 23-U-BKFT.pdf

Q1) According to Section 5.5.3, in the event the backflow assemblies fail a test this should be reported on the daily report. Will this contract include a provision for repairing and retesting for the assemblies to remain in compliance?

A1) The only requirement of this contract is to report the failed assemblies on the daily report. Historically, a Combined Synopsis Solicitation is posted as a contract opportunity on SAM.gov for any backflow repairs needed.

Q2) Is there a time frame that all backflow assemblies must be tested? PWS just states annually and prior to 31 December.

A2) All backflow testing must be completed annually NLT 31 December of the contract year; it is the contractor’s preference when testing occurs (i.e. complete all the testing in one month or spread it out throughout the year).

Q3) Does this contract require of any liability insurance for testing backflow assemblies during the duration of this contract? Section 4 just states workmen’s compensation, employers’ liability, and automobile liability.

A3) The minimum insurance requirements are outlined in Section 4. The government will request a Certificate of Insurance based on these requirements only.

Q4) Will there be any provisions in the event an emergency incident occurs for a backflow assembly that needs to be tested or repaired outside of the period before or after the assemblies have been tested?

A4) No. At the time of certification, any backflow assembly that fails, shall be tagged as failed IAW 5.4.4.

& 5.5.3.

Q5) Will the government provide the tester form as outlined in on page 87 on the PWS?

A5) No, the government does not provide the forms.

Q6) Will the contractor be able to submit for a payment on a monthly basis off the progress reports (weekly and monthly) and the number of backflow assemblies tested for completion?

A6) Yes.

Q7) Will there be any secured area that an escort must be used, or the contractor must coordinate with the project manager to gain access to this location?

A7) Yes, the government will coordinate access to these sites and an escort will be provided. Please see 5.2.1.

Q8) Would it be possible for us to complete the testing of all 682 backflow preventers in a two–to-four week period of time, preferably during the spring or summer of this year or do you require the testing to be more spread out across the entire year?

A8) Yes, it would be possible to complete all the testing in 2-4 weeks depending on the contractors experience, knowledge of Fort Drum etc.

Q9) If we encounter a leaking device or if a test causes a device to leak, what exactly are the next steps that the winning bidder should take?

A9) Please see PWS 5.5.3., “The Contractor shall report any backflow prevention assemblies that fail testing in the daily report.

Q10) The winning bidder is expected to report failing devices – will there be a future RFP covering the repairs that are needed at Fort Drum?

A10) Historically, a Combined Synopsis Solicitation is posted as a contract opportunity on SAM.gov for any backflow repairs needed.