R -- REVISION OF ASTM 2548 STANDARD PRACTICES FOR BULK SAMPLE COLLECTION

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) intends to negotiate a fixed price purchase order using the simplified acquisition procedure on a sole source basis with AOAC International under the authority of FAR 13.106(b)(1), Soliciting From a Single Source, service for revision of ASTM E2458, Standard Practices for Bulk Sample Collection and Swab Sample Collection of Visible Powders Suspected of Being Biological Agents from Nonporous Surfaces. In 2006, a task group led by NIST with representation from multiple federal agencies (CDC, EPA, FBI, DOD), the International Associations of Fire Chiefs, the U.S. National Guard, and sate and local public health and response agencies produces a validated standard for the sampling of suspicious powders that was approved by AOAC and ASTM and released by ASTM within one year. The process of implementing this standard has pointed to the need for additional review and possible revision to better the needs of the first responders and other stakeholders. AOAC is the only source that can provide these services as they establish procedures for government and non-government standards and professional committees working the areas related to NIST activities. AOAC International a standards development organization is the only source qualified based on its unique experience as they are a unique source for standards development with experience in the development of biological weapons sampling standards as they initially developed the ASTM E2458 standard that will be revised. The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code for this acquisition is 813920, and the size standard is $6.5M. This notice of intent not a request for proposals. No solicitation package will be issued and proposals will not be requested. Any responses received by January 12, 2008 will be considered by the Government. A determination by the Government whether to compete the proposed acquisition may be based upon responses to this notice is solely within the discretion of the Government. Information received will normally be considered solely for the purpose of determining whether to conduct a competitive procurement.