RP025-26, Provision of Firefighter Turnout Gear

Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners is requesting competitive sealed proposals for the provision of firefighter turnout gear (protective coats and pants) for the Department of Fire and Emergency Services on an annual contract with four optional one-year renewal periods, with proposals due October 7, 2026 at 2:50 P.M. Firms currently on the Gwinnett County ineligible source list are not eligible to submit.

The anticipated annual order volume includes approximately 50 recruit sets (25 recruits twice per year), 90 second sets of gear, and 100 replacement sets, with additional replacement orders as needed. All materials and construction must comply with NFPA 1970 (2025 Edition) and related standards, with certification by Underwriters Laboratories or Safety Equipment Institute. The scope includes detailed specifications for coat and pants construction with composite materials, thermal protective performance minimum 39.5, total heat loss minimum 283, custom pocket configurations, drag rescue devices, and integrated harness systems. The successful supplier must deliver a complete fitter line within 30 days of purchase order receipt.

Evaluation is structured in three phases: Phase 1 (Technical Evaluation, 40 points) covers delivery terms, quality of references, understanding and adherence to specifications, and innovation; Phase 2 (Wear Test, 40 points) involves nine fire personnel conducting comprehensive evaluations using 12 scenarios including live fire exercises, estimated for completion by March/April 2027; Phase 3 (Fee Evaluation, 20 points) is cost-based. Pricing must remain firm for 12 months following award. Required insurance includes Commercial General Liability of $2 million, Automobile Liability of $1 million, Workers Compensation at Georgia statutory limits, and Umbrella/Excess Liability coverage based on contract value. Suppliers must provide ISO 9001 registration and comprehensive quality assurance documentation.

A pre-proposal conference with fittings is scheduled for September 23, 2026 at Gwinnett County Fire and Emergency Services Headquarters in Lawrenceville. Sealed proposals must include one unbound original, five bound copies, and one electronic copy on USB. Public opening occurs at 3:00 P.M. virtually via Microsoft Teams.