Analytical Laboratory Inspection Services

The Rhode Island Department of Health, Division of State Health Laboratories, is soliciting proposals under RFP27006984 for expert consultant services to conduct on-site inspections of twenty-three analytical laboratories and three cannabis analytical laboratories within Rhode Island. The selected vendor will perform six to eight inspections annually to ensure compliance with EPA standards and Rhode Island state regulations, specifically focusing on personnel competence and the adequacy of equipment and facilities. The initial contract period is expected to begin around November 1, 2026, with the possibility of four additional 12-month renewals based on performance and funding. Up to two vendors may be awarded this reimbursement-based contract. Qualified consultants must hold a bachelor's degree and have at least three years of experience in state oversight and on-site inspections of environmental laboratories. A mandatory requirement is the completion of the EPA Certification Officers Training Course in inorganic chemistry, organic chemistry, and/or microbiology. Proposals are evaluated on a technical score, where a minimum of 55 out of 70 points is required to proceed to the cost evaluation. Technical submissions are limited to six pages and must include staff qualifications, vendor capability with three client references, a detailed work plan, and a compliance methodology. Cost proposals are evaluated based on the hourly rate for inspection services, with in-state mileage fixed at 0.76 per mile and out-of-state travel reimbursed at actual or federal per diem rates. Additionally, bidders must submit a conflict of interest attestation and an ISBE participation plan, with up to six bonus points available for MBE, WBE, or Disability Business Enterprise participation.