14.402-1
Unclassified bids
FAR 14.402-1 ensures that unclassified bids are opened publicly, recorded accurately, and safeguarded to maintain transparency and integrity in the sealed bidding process.
Overview
FAR 14.402-1 outlines the procedures for opening unclassified bids in sealed bidding processes. It establishes the responsibilities of the bid opening officer, the process for publicly opening and recording bids, and the rules for safeguarding and allowing public examination of bids. The regulation ensures transparency, integrity, and proper documentation during the bid opening phase, while also protecting the security and authenticity of the original bids.
Key Rules
- Bid Opening Procedure
- The bid opening officer determines when the scheduled bid opening time has arrived, announces it, and then personally and publicly opens all bids received before that time.
- Reading and Recording Bids
- Bids should be read aloud to those present if practical, and all bids must be recorded.
- Safeguarding Bids
- The original bids must be carefully protected, especially until the abstract of bids is completed and verified.
- Delegation of Duties
- The bid opening officer may delegate the opening procedure to an assistant but retains full responsibility for their actions.
- Public Examination of Bids
- Interested parties may examine bids if it does not disrupt government business, but original bids must remain under government control and supervision to prevent tampering.
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers: Ensure proper, public, and secure bid opening and recording; safeguard original bids; supervise public examination.
- Contractors: No direct actions, but should be aware of public opening and examination procedures.
- Agencies: Oversee compliance with bid opening protocols and maintain bid integrity.
Practical Implications
- This section exists to promote transparency and fairness in the sealed bidding process while protecting the integrity of submitted bids.
- It impacts daily contracting by establishing clear, auditable procedures for bid opening and public access.
- Common pitfalls include improper safeguarding of bids, failure to record bids accurately, or allowing unsupervised public access to original documents.