BioWatch Field Operations National Capital Region

Provide continuous, daily retrieval of BioWatch samples, deliver them to the proper laboratory for analysis, following a rigorous set of procedures to ensure sample integrity; maintain the Chain of Custody (COC) for each sample; maintain the equipment; keep an adequate level of inventory; and relocate collectors if necessary. There is also a need to provide surge capacity during increased operations when required. Monitor and track deficiencies within the assigned BioWatch sampling network, and work with the DHS CWMD BioWatch Program Office to determine required enhancements within the NCR. The Program Office will approve all enhancements. Each month, the contractor shall provide DHS BioWatch with feedback on collector performance, proof of collector flow calibration and validation testing as directed, and issues that arise from daily operation, as well as the funds expended in a format provided by DHS. To ensure operational effectiveness, the contractor shall cooperate with annual performance evaluations conducted by DHS BioWatch Program Office and participate in not more than two related exercises, workshops, and training sessions as requested by DHS BioWatch DHS hosts, when funding permits, BioWatch Workshops, or conferences, which is a communication vehicle for each BioWatch partner. The workshops or conferences can be regional or national every year or every other 2 to 3 years. Two designated contractor personnel shall attend this workshop or conference. The BioWatch Program is an advanced development, operational testing, and evaluation program; DHS will use the workshop/conference to incorporate a system to collect feedback, a training tool for new technologies, and best practices. Provide field services for a sampling network to be located within the NCR, to include Maryland and Virginia. The contractor shall follow all applicable DHS Directives and the BioWatch Field SOP. The contractor shall assemble clean filters/holder assemblies for sampling, install assemblies into collectors, remove filter assemblies from collectors after sampling, and deliver them to the NCR BioWatch and LRN analyzing laboratories. Also: 1) implement safety practices, conduct procedures to avoid cross contamination, and provide COC tracking services; 2) Initiate filter monitoring from filter assembly to delivery of sample to the analyzing laboratory using software supplied by DHS, and Chain of Custody forms on evidence bags; 3) Perform and provide field support services and maintenance to NCR under the provisions of the contract in compliance with the BioWatch Field SOP. The BioWatch Field Operations Standard Operating Procedure shall serve as the standard for the contractor to achieve.