Bur. of Geological Survey - Coal Analysis Contract

The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), Bureau of Geological Survey, is seeking a contractor to conduct comprehensive coal analysis services. The procurement involves various technical tests, procedures, preparations, and analyses on coal, coal-related rocks, and materials using ASTM International Standards. Specific required analyses include tests for specific gravity, grindability, moisture, ash, sulfur, calorific value, and trace elements. The contractor must have staff representation on ASTM Committee D05, participate in the Vanguard Solutions Interlab Round-Robin Testing Program, and maintain facilities within 25 miles of the Pennsylvania Turnpike between Harrisburg and Pittsburgh. The contract period runs from July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023, with potential for up to four additional one-year renewals. Deliverables include hardcopy and electronic test results within 30 calendar days of receiving samples, with the contractor responsible for receiving, analyzing, and returning residual sample materials. The proposal was posted on April 29, 2022, with a response deadline of May 13, 2022.

The contract includes provisions for potential small business participation, as evidenced by the DCNR Small Business Initiative document. Eligible contractors must complete an electronic Invitation for Bid and provide a Worker Protection and Investment Certification Form demonstrating compliance with various state labor and workplace safety laws. The Department reserves the right to request references and reject bids with inadequate documentation. While a specific contract value is not explicitly stated, the Department may negotiate up to a 5% price increase during renewal discussions and will award the contract based on the total sum of bid line items. Pricing must be submitted to two decimal points, and the contract includes provisions for comprehensive worker protection and compliance certifications. Bidders must be prepared to meet stringent technical requirements, including geographic location restrictions and active participation in specific industry committees.