PFAS DRINKING WATER SAMPLING

The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) has issued an Invitation for Bid (IFB) for PFAS Drinking Water Analysis services, specifically targeting private well water sample testing in Richland County. The procurement seeks a commercial laboratory to analyze 400-550 water samples using EPA Method 533 liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), with requirements to report results for 25 identified PFAS compounds at a minimum reporting limit of 2 nanograms per liter. Bidders must be certified by DHEC's Office of Environmental Laboratory Certification or an acceptable governmental accreditation body, with potential on-site inspection prior to award. The contract will span five years, beginning February 2, 2023, with one initial year and four potential renewal options. Key submission deadlines include bid responses due by January 26, 2023, at 2:30 PM Eastern Time, with questions accepted until January 18, 2023, at 12:00 PM Eastern Time. The laboratory must provide a 30-day turnaround for analysis, deliver sample kits, provide PFAS-free deionized water, and arrange return shipment of samples, with all costs to be included in the per-sample unit pricing.

No specific set-aside designations or restrictions for disadvantaged enterprises were identified in the solicitation documents. The contract does not indicate an incumbent vendor or require integration with existing infrastructure. While a precise award value is not explicitly stated, the solicitation anticipates collecting up to 500 samples plus 50 field blanks over the contract period, suggesting a potential multi-year engagement. Bidders may submit proposals online through the South Carolina Enterprise Information System (SCEIS) or via hard copy for those experiencing registration delays, with California ELAP accreditation also being acceptable. The successful contractor will be responsible for maintaining detailed records for six years post-contract completion and must propose qualified personnel with relevant experience. Monthly invoices will include comprehensive data results, and the laboratory must be prepared to reanalyze any lost or damaged samples at no additional cost to DHEC.