45.603
Abandonment or destruction of personal property
FAR 45.603 sets strict procedures and approval requirements for abandoning, destroying, or donating contractor inventory to ensure compliance, safety, and cost-effectiveness.
Overview
FAR 45.603 outlines the procedures for the abandonment or destruction of contractor inventory (personal property) that cannot be reutilized, transferred, or sold. It establishes when and how plant clearance officers or authorized officials may direct destruction, abandonment, or donation of such property, ensuring compliance with federal regulations and public safety considerations.
Key Rules
- Direct Destruction or Abandonment
- If property has no commercial value, does not require demilitarization, and poses no public danger, officials may direct destruction or abandonment without further approval.
- Sensitive Property
- Sensitive property may only be abandoned with contractor consent.
- Higher-Level Approval
- For other property, abandonment or destruction requires approval from a higher-level government official and must meet specific criteria (e.g., no value, not sensitive, costs of care exceed sale proceeds).
- Donation Option
- Non-sensitive, non-dangerous property may be donated to public bodies instead of being abandoned or destroyed, with no government cost for donation.
- Public Notice Requirement
- Unless exempted, public notice must be given before abandonment or destruction, per federal regulations.
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers: Ensure proper screening, approvals, and compliance with notice requirements.
- Contractors: Comply with directions for destruction, abandonment, or donation; provide consent for sensitive property abandonment.
- Agencies: Oversee approvals, ensure public notice, and follow FMR guidelines.
Practical Implications
- Ensures property is disposed of responsibly and cost-effectively.
- Prevents improper abandonment or destruction of valuable or sensitive items.
- Requires careful documentation and adherence to approval and notice processes.