8.406-2
Inspection and acceptance
FAR 8.406-2 ensures supplies and services ordered under FSS contracts are properly inspected and accepted according to contract requirements, protecting the government from nonconforming deliveries.
Overview
FAR 8.406-2 outlines the procedures for inspection and acceptance of supplies and services ordered under Federal Supply Schedule (FSS) contracts. It distinguishes between inspection requirements for supplies and services, specifying when and how inspections are to be conducted, who is responsible, and the limits of acceptance. The section ensures that supplies and services meet contract requirements before acceptance and payment, protecting the government’s interests and ensuring quality.
Key Rules
- Inspection of Supplies
- Supplies are generally inspected at the destination by the consignee, unless the schedule contract requires source inspection or the ordering activity requests inspection assistance due to complexity, volume, or supplier history.
- Source Inspection Procedures
- If source inspection is required, the ordering activity must provide two copies of the order to the schedule contracting agency, which will then notify the ordering activity of acceptance or rejection.
- Limits on Reinspection
- Supplies inspected and accepted at source should not be reinspected for the same purpose at destination; only kind, count, and condition are checked upon receipt.
- Finality of Acceptance
- Acceptance is generally final unless there are latent defects, fraud, or gross mistakes.
- Inspection of Services
- The ordering activity has the right to inspect all services per contract requirements and must conduct inspections as specified in the quality assurance surveillance plan without causing undue delays.
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers: Ensure proper inspection procedures are followed and communicate requirements to all parties.
- Contractors: Deliver supplies and services that meet contract requirements and cooperate with inspection processes.
- Agencies: Oversee inspection and acceptance, provide necessary documentation, and ensure compliance with quality standards.
Practical Implications
- This section exists to ensure that only conforming supplies and services are accepted and paid for under FSS contracts.
- It impacts daily contracting by clarifying inspection responsibilities and limiting unnecessary reinspection.
- Common pitfalls include failing to follow source inspection procedures or misunderstanding the finality of acceptance.