Gloves, leather puncture resistant, contract

The State of Maine Department of Corrections is soliciting bids for leather puncture-resistant gloves, with bids due November 28, 2007. The primary product specified is the HexArmor NSR Model 4041 or approved equivalents, with approximately 894 pairs distributed across eight correctional facilities. A sample pair must be submitted by the bid opening date to Sue Garcia at the Division of Purchases in Augusta, Maine.

The gloves must comply with EN420:2003 for comfort and fit and EN388:2003 for safety performance, achieving abrasion resistance level 4, blade cut resistance level 5, and puncture test level 1. They are available in seven sizes from small (size 7) to extra-extra-large (size 11) and demonstrate needle-stick resistance when tested using a modified ASTM 1342 standard with a 25-gauge medical-grade needle.

The contract runs through December 31, 2008, with two optional one-year renewal periods. Facility-specific quantities range from 19 to 377 pairs. Bidders must specify their delivery timeline for completing the full order. Pricing must be submitted on a net basis with all transportation charges prepaid and included, FOB destination, and must remain firm throughout the contract duration. The State of Maine requires all vendors to accept the State Procurement Card as payment with no surcharges permitted. The successful bidder is responsible for inspecting all garments before shipment and repairing or replacing defective items at no cost to the state. The Division of Purchases retains authority to extend the contract period with contractor consent or cancel with thirty days' written notice, or immediately if the contractor fails to meet contract terms and specifications.