The Department of Veterans Affairs intends to issue a Firm-Fixed Price contract to Radiation Physics Consultants for Radiation Officer Services at the Fargo VA Medical Center. The contractor must provide a certified Medical or Health Physicist to deliver routine and emergency Radiation Safety Officer (RSO) services 24/7, including prompt response to emergencies and testing of medical equipment. The procurement process is authorized under FAR 13.106-1, and the NAICS code is 541380. Although this is a sole-source intent, interested parties may submit capability statements by June 17, 2025, detailing their qualifications and business status. Responses should include company information and verification of authorized distribution. The contractor is expected to manage Radiation Materials Licensing, contribute to the comprehensive Radiation Safety Program, and accommodate travel expenses in their proposal. The sole-source determination will be based on the responses received, but the government holds the discretion to pursue competitive procurement if deemed appropriate. This notice underscores the VA's commitment to safety and compliance in radiation use for veterans' health care services.
The document outlines a Justification and Approval (J&A) request for a sole source contract exceeding $150,000 by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for radiation safety services at the Fargo VA Health Care System. The unique requirement arises from the necessity of having a qualified Radiation Safety Officer (RSO) with specialized expertise in nuclear medicine and compliance with radioisotope/material licensing. The contract will ensure 24/7 RSO coverage capable of responding swiftly to both emergency and non-emergency situations related to radiation safety.
The justification cites FAR 6.302-1, indicating that only one responsible source can fulfill the agency's requirements. Market research revealed that while several businesses sometimes provide basic radiation safety services, none can meet the specific needs related to the Fargo VA’s nuclear medicine department, particularly the stringent on-site response times required for compliance and safety. Although the current vendor is not a disabled veteran business, they are deemed uniquely qualified to provide the necessary expertise.
The J&A emphasizes the importance of timely and compliant services in managing radiation hazards effectively, confirming the urgency and necessity of engaging the chosen vendor for this critical task.
The Fargo VA Healthcare System seeks a contractor to provide Board Certified or Board Eligible Medical Radiation Safety Officer (RSO) services, ensuring compliance with radiation safety standards in support of veterans' healthcare. The contractor must offer 24/7 virtual and onsite RSO support, manage radiation materials licensing in accordance with federal regulations, and oversee the comprehensive Radiation Safety Program. Personnel qualifications include board certification in medical physics, experience in radiation safety, and adherence to ongoing education and licensure requirements.
Key responsibilities encompass conducting radiation safety surveys across multiple facilities, providing emergency consultation, and facilitating dosimetry programs. The contractor is also required to report any unsafe radiation conditions and ensure compliance with various regulatory bodies such as NRC, OSHA, and FDA.
Personnel changes must be communicated timely, and the contractor must comply with stringent health and safety protocols, including vaccinations, tuberculosis testing, and background checks. The document outlines extensive protocols for maintaining a clear safety framework, preventing conflicts of interest, and maintaining rigorous standards of professional conduct.
Overall, this RFP emphasizes the importance of establishing a reliable Radiation Safety framework to safeguard both staff and patients in the diverse environments of the Fargo VA Healthcare System.