Sources Sought for DVR Autoclave Preventive Maintenance and Repair Services

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has issued a Sources Sought Notice to conduct market research and identify qualified contractors, particularly small businesses, capable of providing preventive maintenance and repair services for Division of Veterinary Resources (DVR) autoclave equipment. Located in Bethesda and Poolesville, Maryland, these autoclaves are critical for sterilizing equipment and maintaining animal health and NIH’s AAALAC accreditation. The anticipated contract is expected to feature a one-year base period starting September 1, 2026, followed by four one-year option periods. The selected contractor must supply all labor, tools, and expertise to perform quarterly preventive maintenance visits, provide 24-hour emergency repair responses, manage utility connections, and secure necessary replacement parts. Technicians must be highly trained to service diverse autoclave brands (including Amsco, Getinge, BetaStar, BMT, and Sterivap) and comply with strict animal facility entry and biosafety sequencing protocols. Interested vendors must submit a capability statement of no more than three pages by July 20, 2026, at 11:00 AM ET. Submissions should be emailed to Linda Smith and Danielle Tines, detailing company information, relevant experience with the specified manufacturers, technical capabilities, past performance from the last five years, socioeconomic status, and potential government contract vehicles.

This Statement of Work outlines the requirements for preventive maintenance and repair services for Division of Veterinary Resources (DVR) autoclave equipment at NIH facilities in Bethesda and Poolesville, MD. These critical autoclaves support animal health, waste sterilization, and AAALAC accreditation. The contract features a one-year base period (September 1, 2026 – August 31, 2027) with four one-year option periods. The selected contractor must perform four scheduled preventive maintenance (PM) visits annually, spaced approximately 90 days apart, to inspect, adjust, and lubricate mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and steam utility connections. The first PM inspection must occur within 30 days of contract award. All PM labor is included in the contract, while replacement parts and extra repairs require separate, pre-approved quotes. Additionally, the contractor must provide emergency and call-back repair services, responding on-site within 24 hours of notification and completing repairs within five business days of quote approval. Because the autoclaves are located in active animal facilities, contract personnel must strictly adhere to specific facility entry and biosecurity protocols (Conventional, Limited Access, and Specific Pathogen-Free classifications) to prevent cross-contamination. Technicians must be properly trained, licensed where applicable, and obtain necessary hot work permits from the Fire Marshal when performing hazardous tasks. Status updates for out-of-service machines must be submitted to the Contracting Officer's Representative (COR) weekly.