The Indian Health Service (IHS) is issuing a Sources Sought Notice for a Water Management Plan and Testing services contract at Colorado River Service Unit locations, with a budget of $19 million under NAICS Code 541690. The contract will follow a base year with four optional years and requires the contractor to furnish all necessary personnel, supplies, and expertise as outlined in the Statement of Work (SOW).
To comply with the Buy Indian Act, priority is given to Indian Economic Enterprises (IEEs) and Indian Small Business Economic Enterprises (ISBEEs), with specific ownership and operational criteria outlined. Interested parties must submit written responses by January 15, 2025, including company details and a capability statement.
This notification serves as market research only, not as a request for quotes, and aims to ascertain compliance with the Buy Indian Act while ensuring an adequate pool of eligible vendors. Necessary forms for self-certifying eligibility are attached, along with the SOW. The IHS emphasizes that complete and accurate responses are essential for evaluation to inform acquisition decisions.
The Colorado River Service Unit (CRSU) aims to develop a comprehensive Water Management Plan to ensure compliance with relevant standards including ASHRAE 188 and ANSI/AAMI ST108, focusing on phasing in increased testing protocols for waterborne pathogens such as Legionella across its health facilities in Arizona and California. The plan encompasses existing equipment documentation, a technical survey, and regular maintenance and oversight processes to enhance water safety and patient health outcomes.
The contractor will conduct an in-depth assessment of all water systems, revise current protocols, and provide necessary training and documentation to meet Joint Commission accreditation requirements. Services will include conducting quarterly tests, providing analytical validation, and developing detailed risk management plans addressing water safety. The proposal stipulates that all work must occur weekdays during standard hours, and any travel expenses must adhere to federal regulations.
Ultimately, this initiative represents CRSU's commitment to improving healthcare safety while meeting federal and state regulatory obligations, emphasizing proactive management of water systems in healthcare settings.
The Indian Health Service is issuing a representation form related to the Buy Indian Act, which aims to promote Indian Economic Enterprises in government contracting. This form serves as self-certification confirming that the Offeror qualifies as an “Indian Economic Enterprise” during specific time periods: at the offer's submission, contract award, and throughout contract performance. If the contractor's status changes, they must notify the Contracting Officer immediately. Furthermore, Offerors must be registered with the System of Award Management (SAM). Providing false information is illegal and subject to severe penalties under various U.S. federal laws. The form requires the signature of a 51% owner of the Indian Economic Enterprise and collects essential enterprise information, including the name of a federally recognized tribal entity and the Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) number. This process ensures compliance with the Buy Indian Act and safeguards the integrity of contracting for Indian businesses.