Reutilization priorities
Follow the prescribed reutilization priority order to ensure government property is reused or disposed of efficiently and in compliance with federal regulations.
Overview
FAR 45.602-2 establishes the required order of priority for reutilizing government property that is no longer needed by a contractor but does not qualify for abandonment or destruction. Plant clearance officers must follow a specific sequence to maximize the reuse and proper disposition of excess property, ensuring compliance with federal regulations and promoting efficient use of government assets.
Key Rules
- Reutilization Sequence
- Property must first be considered for reuse within the owning agency, then for transfer to schools/nonprofits, followed by reporting to GSA for federal reuse or surplus donation, and finally, disposal according to agency procedures for certain categories.
- Special Disposal Categories
- Certain property types (e.g., hazardous waste, perishables, controlled substances, classified items) may be disposed of directly under agency procedures without GSA reporting.
- Nuclear Materials
- Nuclear materials must be disposed of in accordance with NRC, state, federal, and agency regulations.
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers/Plant Clearance Officers: Must initiate and document reutilization actions in the prescribed order and ensure compliance with all reporting and disposal requirements.
- Contractors: Must cooperate with plant clearance officers and provide accurate information about excess property.
- Agencies: Must oversee compliance, especially for sensitive or hazardous items, and ensure proper reporting to GSA or other authorities as required.
Practical Implications
- This section ensures government property is reused or disposed of efficiently and lawfully, reducing waste and supporting public benefit (e.g., educational transfers).
- Failure to follow the correct priority order or mishandling sensitive items can result in compliance violations, loss of government resources, or legal penalties.