FURNISHING AND DELIVERY OF LABORATORY SERVICES FOR BACTERIAL ANALYSIS OF WATER, SOIL, FOOD, AND LIMITED CHEMICALS

This contract solicitation issued by the Middlesex County Department of Public Safety and Health, specifically the Office of Environmental & Solid Waste in New Jersey, seeks vendors to furnish and deliver comprehensive laboratory services for bacterial analysis of water, soil, food, and a limited range of chemicals. The scope of work predominantly involves microbiological testing such as total coliform, fecal coliform, E. coli, enterococcus, and mold using established laboratory methods like membrane filtration and standardized procedures (e.g., Method-1600). Testing extends beyond water samples to soil and limited chemical assessments including pH, hardness, chlorine, and other selected parameters, with all results required to meet state and federal environmental and health standards. The award will follow a Lowest Price Technically Acceptable (LPTA) methodology, with bids evaluated primarily on cost after meeting all mandatory technical and administrative criteria. Prospective bidders must demonstrate compliance with water quality standards, hold proper licenses, furnish all required documentation, including proof of insurance, ADA compliance, and submit completed W-9 forms. Packages must be electronically submitted via the Middlesex County procurement portal by the June 2, 2026 deadline, accompanied by physical delivery of bid guarantees. Contract terms include F.O.B. destination delivery to the Middlesex County Environmental Health Division with a five-day delivery window post-request. The contract emphasizes strict adherence to non-discrimination policies under New Jersey law, mandates equal employment opportunity compliance reflecting Executive Order 11246, and requires extensive vendor certifications including disclosures on lobbying, ownership, affirmative action, and prohibited business activities. Payment relies on submission of approved monthly invoices with prompt payment provisions, subject to funding appropriations, and the contract allows for a one-year base term with possible short extensions. Special conditions include mandatory security clearances for personnel requiring state police background checks with fingerprinting, highlighting the sensitive nature of work involving environmental health. Although no specific key personnel or OCI clauses are outlined, the contract enforces anti-fraud measures and compliance with federal environmental acts, prohibiting the use of certain telecommunications equipment and addressing debarment status via federal system checks. Inspection and acceptance are conducted at the delivery site with quality standards requiring first-quality materials, replacements for defective goods, and a one-year guarantee on all services and products. The solicitation’s comprehensive vendor questionnaire further mandates representations on entity status, socio-economic classifications under New Jersey’s Qualified Business Enterprise program, and certifications related to business integrity, ensuring transparent and compliant contracting practices throughout the award and performance lifecycle.