52.246-9 Inspection of Research and Development (Short Form)
Source: FAR 52.246-9 on acquisition.gov
Contractors must allow Government inspection of R&D work and premises at reasonable times and provide necessary support for these inspections.
Overview
- FAR 52.246-9 establishes the Government's right to inspect and evaluate research and development (R&D) work performed under a contract, including the premises where the work is conducted. This clause ensures that the Government can verify contract compliance and quality at any reasonable time, provided the inspection does not unduly delay the contractor's work.
Key Rules
- Government Inspection Rights
- The Government may inspect and evaluate R&D work and premises at all reasonable times.
- Contractor and Subcontractor Support
- Contractors must provide, and require subcontractors to provide, reasonable facilities and assistance to enable safe and convenient inspections.
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers: Must include this clause in applicable R&D contracts and coordinate inspections as needed.
- Contractors: Must allow Government access for inspection and ensure subcontractors do the same; must provide necessary support and facilities.
- Agencies: Oversee compliance and ensure inspections are conducted without undue disruption.
Practical Implications
- This clause exists to protect the Government's interests by allowing oversight of R&D contract performance and deliverables.
- Contractors must be prepared for inspections and ensure their subcontractors are also compliant.
- Common issues include delays due to lack of preparation or inadequate facilities for inspection.
As prescribed in 46.309 , insert the following clause:
Inspection of Research and Development (ShortForm) (Apr 1984)
The Government has the right to inspect and evaluate the work performed or being performed under the contract, and the premises where the work is being performed, at all reasonable times and in a manner that will not unduly delay the work. If the Government performs inspection or evaluation on the premises of the Contractor or a subcontractor, the Contractor shall furnish and shall require subcontractors to furnish all reasonable facilities and assistance for the safe and convenient performance of these duties.
(End of clause)