18.107
AbilityOne specification changes
In emergencies, contracting officers can change AbilityOne specifications without the usual notification requirements to expedite urgent acquisitions.
Overview
FAR 18.107 provides an exception for contracting officers regarding the standard notification requirements when making changes to AbilityOne specifications or descriptions in response to emergency needs. Under normal circumstances, changes to AbilityOne product or service specifications require advance notification, but this section allows for expedited action during emergencies. This flexibility is intended to ensure that urgent government requirements can be met without delay, even when AbilityOne products or services are involved. Contracting officers should reference FAR 8.712(d) for standard procedures, but recognize that those procedures are waived in emergency situations under this provision.
Key Rules
- Emergency Specification Changes
- Contracting officers are not required to provide the usual notification when changing AbilityOne specifications to address emergency needs.
- Reference to Standard Procedures
- Standard notification procedures are outlined in FAR 8.712(d), but are not applicable in emergencies under this section.
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers: May bypass standard notification requirements for AbilityOne specification changes in emergencies, but should document the emergency justification.
- Contractors: Should be prepared for rapid changes to AbilityOne specifications during emergencies and respond accordingly.
- Agencies: Should ensure oversight of emergency actions and maintain records for audit purposes.
Practical Implications
- This section exists to provide acquisition flexibility during emergencies, allowing the government to respond quickly to urgent needs.
- It impacts daily contracting by enabling faster procurement actions when AbilityOne products or services are involved in emergencies.
- Common pitfalls include failing to document the emergency justification or misunderstanding when the exception applies.