23.108-2 Chemically-intensive products
Source: FAR 23.108-2 on acquisition.gov
FAR 23.108-2 encourages the use of EPA Safer Choice-certified products, ensuring that only the safest chemical ingredients are procured for federal use.
Overview
FAR 23.108-2 highlights the "Safer Choice" program, an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) initiative that certifies products containing safer chemicals. The regulation encourages the use of Safer Choice-certified products in government procurement, emphasizing that every chemical ingredient in such products is rigorously evaluated by the EPA to ensure only the safest are included. The section also provides a resource link for contracting professionals to access more information about Safer Choice-certified products, supporting informed purchasing decisions that align with federal environmental objectives.
Key Rules
- Safer Choice Program
- Products labeled as Safer Choice have all ingredients evaluated by the EPA for safety, regardless of their percentage in the product.
- Resource Availability
- Contracting professionals are directed to the EPA's Safer Choice website for up-to-date information on certified products.
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers: Should consider and, where appropriate, prioritize Safer Choice-certified products in procurement actions.
- Contractors: Should be aware of and offer Safer Choice-certified products when responding to solicitations that reference environmentally preferable purchasing.
- Agencies: May provide oversight to ensure compliance with EPA purchasing programs and promote the use of safer chemical products.
Practical Implications
- This section exists to promote the procurement of products that are safer for human health and the environment.
- It impacts daily contracting by encouraging the selection of products with the Safer Choice label, supporting federal sustainability goals.
- Common pitfalls include overlooking the availability of Safer Choice-certified alternatives or failing to consult the EPA resource for updated product lists.
(a) Program. Safer Choice is EPA's label for products that contain safer chemicals. Every chemical, regardless of percentage, in a Safer Choice-certified product is evaluated through EPA's rigorous scientific process and only the safest ingredients are allowed.
(b) Resource. For information on Safer Choice-certified products, see https://www.epa.gov/saferchoice" target="_blank">https://www.epa.gov/saferchoice.