Backflow Testing Services

Background
The Department of Veterans Affairs is issuing this solicitation for Backflow Testing Services at the Minneapolis VA Medical Center. The contract aims to ensure compliance with health and safety standards by testing backflow preventers throughout the facility, which is critical for maintaining safe water supply systems. This contract is set aside for Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Businesses (SDVOSB).

Work Details
The contractor will provide all necessary tools, materials, parts, equipment, and labor to inspect, test, and repair approximately 120 backflow preventer/Reduced Pressure Zone (RPZ) devices located at the Minneapolis VA Health Care System campus. Key tasks include:
- Conducting inspections and tests according to ASSE Standard 5110.
- Completing inspections between September 1st and October 31st each year.
- Filling out inspection forms and tags for each RPZ tested, including business name, license number, pass/fail status, and date tested.
- Updating an Excel spreadsheet with test dates, results, and notes on any additional RPZs found or those that could not be located.
- Submitting all test records to the Facilities Engineering Department and filing reports with the City of Minneapolis Regulatory Services.
- Ensuring that testing for RPZs in surgery and operating rooms occurs on Wednesdays between 4:00 am and 8:00 am.
- Providing documentation of technician certifications including ASSE Standard 5110 certification and OSHA 30 training.

Period of Performance
The contract's base period will run from August 1, 2026, to July 31, 2027. There are options for four additional years of performance extending through July 31, 2031.

Place of Performance
Minneapolis VA Medical Center, 1 Veterans Dr., Minneapolis MN 55417.

Bidder Requirements
Bidders must be Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Businesses (SDVOSB). They must possess the necessary contractor licenses for plumbing services and provide bid/payment/performance bonds as required. Technicians must have certifications for ASSE Standard 5110 testing of reduced pressure principal devices and confined space training. At least one technician must hold an OSHA 30 certification. All employees must pass a background check to obtain security access badges.

Incumbent Analysis (see Incumbents section for more detail)
This opportunity appears to have a confirmed incumbent based on prior contract 36C26321P0739 awarded to DWG Plumbing And Excavating for annual RPZ backflow testing at the Minneapolis VA Medical Center. The prior award value was $103,830 with a period of performance from 08/15/21 to 08/14/26, and the described work aligns with the current requirement to inspect and test RPZ/backflow preventer devices on an annual schedule and submit required test records and documentation.