Ferret Isolation Units

The USDA ARS National Animal Disease Center in Ames, IA, intends to award a fixed-price sole source purchase order for three (3) PLAS ferret isolator cages for ongoing animal projects. All of these cages are interconnected to provide a consistent testing environment to preserve the integrity of the testing process. The required ferret isolation units are designed to protect test animals and the personnel involved in testing from cross contamination. The cages can be used for both acute and chronic studies. Because of the integrity of each compartment, multiple species can be housed in the same room if desired. All units are set up for negative pressure operation as a standard arrangement. The isolation cubicles are match die-molded of "hi-tech" thermoset plastic that is autoclavable or may be steam sterilized and are similar to existing isolators already in use at the laboratory. This will allow the USDA to utilize the same cage banks by safely moving them between the BSL-2 and BSL-3 suites. These requested isolation cubicles are designed to be warm; absorb sound (quiet) and feel soft to the touch of various species. This helps eliminate the potential of hypothermia. When needed, individual cubicles can be removed from the stainless steel support frame for cleaning. The polycarbonate doors include a hinged waste pan access with continuous stainless steel hinge, silicone gasket and are mounted using "slip-a-part" stainless steel hinges for additional ease when removing. The isolation units are set up for negative pressure operation. Cages include two (2) HEPA filters (one each at the air inlet and also the exhaust outlet). Pre-filters protect the more expensive HEPA filters. Both the pre-filters and main HEPA filters can be changed from outside the cage. Each unit includes a stainless steel interior wire door with pin hinges and spring latches which will accommodate mounting of water bottles and feeders for easy cleaning and administration of feed and water. All controls are mounted in weather tight electrical outlet boxes. All hardware is stainless steel and adjustable to compensate for wear. Casters are non-scuffing with locks, brakes and zerk fittings. In addition, each unit includes a 3" deep removable high temperature waste collection pan. A removable clear polycarbonate escape shield with 12" diameter access opening allows for easy access to the animals. The isolation units will be used to determine the pathogenicity of the influenza virus strains within ferrets. The units may also be used in immunity studies as well as testing with effectiveness of vaccines. Units must be interchangeable with Plas-Labs item FIC-30-2/PIU/SP to have the ability to work with existing laboratory isolation units. Plas-Labs is the only known source that can provide the required compatible interconnected units required for this project. The net purchase order value is $48856.00. The cost has been determined fair and reasonable based on current technical knowledge of fair market value. This procurement will be conducted in accordance with the procedures in FAR Part 13.106 and 6.303-2. This is not a request for quotation. However, all interested parties may contact the Contract Specialist listed below. Sources interested in responding to this requirement must be able to provide compelling evidence that they can provide the required units. Responses must be submitted electronically, via email to contact@example.gov. The deadline for submittal of responses is 11:00am CST, May 31, 2017.