46.000
Scope of part
FAR 46.000 establishes the foundation for ensuring that all government contract deliverables meet specified quality and quantity requirements through inspection, acceptance, and warranty measures.
Overview
FAR 46.000 establishes the scope of Part 46, which sets forth the policies and procedures for ensuring that all supplies and services acquired by the government meet the quality and quantity requirements specified in the contract. This section highlights the importance of inspection, acceptance, warranties, and other quality assurance measures as integral parts of the acquisition process. The intent is to provide a framework for both government and contractor responsibilities in maintaining contract standards and ensuring deliverables conform to contractual expectations.
Key Rules
- Quality Assurance Policies and Procedures
- Outlines the need for formal processes to verify that contract deliverables meet specified standards.
- Inspection and Acceptance
- Emphasizes the requirement for inspection and acceptance activities to confirm compliance with contract terms.
- Warranty and Other Quality Measures
- Includes the use of warranties and additional quality-related provisions to safeguard government interests.
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers: Must ensure contracts include appropriate quality assurance provisions and oversee compliance.
- Contractors: Must deliver supplies and services that meet all specified quality and quantity requirements.
- Agencies: Responsible for establishing and enforcing quality assurance policies and procedures.
Practical Implications
- This section exists to protect the government’s interests by ensuring it receives goods and services that meet contractual standards.
- It impacts daily contracting by requiring clear quality requirements and robust inspection processes.
- Common pitfalls include inadequate inspection procedures, unclear quality standards, or failure to enforce warranties.