Handheld analyzers for chemical identification (uasi 2021 grant)

Tampa Fire Rescue is procuring two handheld chemical analyzers through an Urban Area Security Initiative (UASI) 2021 Grant for hazardous materials (HazMat) operations. The specific procurement involves one Raman Spectroscopy device and one Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) Spectroscopy device, designed to enhance first responders' capabilities for identifying hazardous chemicals and unknown substances in the field. The devices must meet stringent technical specifications, including being handheld, weighing under 5 lbs, featuring specific laser wavelengths, operating on battery power, and having robust data export capabilities. The Invitation to Bid (ITB) requires electronic submission through the OpenGov eProcurement Portal, with bids due on December 19, 2024, at 3:00 pm. The contract period is one year from the effective date, with potential renewal options for three additional one-year periods, and the City reserves the right to extend the contract for up to three additional 30-day periods. Vendor training is mandatory, with remote or in-person sessions required for the Tampa Fire Hazmat team.

The procurement includes significant set-aside and diversity requirements through the City of Tampa's Equal Business Opportunity Program. Bidders must comply with Women/Minority Business Enterprise (WMBE) and Small Local Business Enterprise (SLBE) participation guidelines, which involve proactive outreach to qualified diverse businesses and detailed documentation of solicitation efforts. The solicitation emphasizes tracking subcontractor payments and demographics through forms like MBD-30 and requires completion of Good Faith Effort Compliance Plan (GFECP) documentation. While a specific incumbent vendor is not identified, the procurement targets businesses capable of providing advanced chemical detection equipment with specific technological capabilities. The department's budget for this procurement is $120,000, with vendors required to provide unit pricing for each analyzer. Additional compliance requirements include E-Verify registration, adherence to public records law, and compliance with federal grant-related regulations specific to the UASI 2021 Grant funding mechanism.