CPSC Intent to Sole-Source Infant Research

The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announces its intention to negotiate and issue a sole source award to University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) for expert services to include data collection and analysis related to infant breathing, infant biomechanics, and infant anthropometry.  UAMS researchers have developed unique test methods and test equipment to monitor and record infant movement, muscle activity and oxygen saturation while testing infants. UAMS researchers have established safety protocols to end testing before the infant is distressed. Safely testing infants is a very specialized field of study and requires experienced researchers, technicians, medical staff and safety oversight. These are capabilities unique to UAMS team.  CPSC is authorized to enter into contracts to conduct continuing studies and investigations on the safety of consumer products and on improving the safety of such products (5 U.S. C. § 2054).  Currently, the only known U.S research

facility with expertise related to infant and toddler breathing, infant biomechanics, and infant anthropometry is the UAMS. CPSC intends to negotiate this requirement under the authority of FAR 6.302-1 and 41 U.S.C. 253(c)1. The sole source procurement will be awarded as a simplified acquisition in accordance with FAR Subpart 12 & FAR Subpart 13.  Interested persons may identify their interest and submit a capability statement demonstrating their ability to meet this requirement. This notice of intent is not a request for competitive quotations; however, all quotations/responses received within five (5) business days of the issuance of this notice will be considered by the government.  A determination by the government not to compete this proposed procurement based upon responses to this notice is solely within the discretion of the Government.  Any quotation/response must be in writing and can be sent via email to the Contract Specialist at csterba@cpsc.gov by 10am Eastern Time on March 17, 2020. No phone calls will be accepted.