Technical expertise for ATF explosives testing using Institute of Makers of Explosives Safety Analysis for Risk (IMESAFR)

Background
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) is seeking to award a contract to A-P-T Research, Inc. (APT), the developer and owner of the Institute of Makers of Explosives Safety Analysis for Risk (IMESAFR) software. This software is utilized by ATF to assess risks associated with explosives storage sites across the United States.

The goal of this contract is to obtain technical expertise and support for explosives testing, which will enhance the algorithms and models within IMESAFR, ensuring accurate risk evaluations for public safety.

Work Details
The contract includes the following services:
1. **Explosives Testing Support**: APT will provide pre-test support, test plan preparation, site preparation and execution, and post-test support during ATF explosives testing.
- Development of an explosives test plan: $25,000
- Onsite test support: $9,000 per person/per week
- Completion of the test report: $25,000

2. **IMESAFR Science Panel (ISP) Support**: APT will facilitate ISP meetings and develop presentation materials as directed by ATF.
- ½ day video teleconference: $13,000
- ½ day meeting (outside Huntsville, AL): $19,000
- Full day meeting (hosted by APT in Huntsville, AL): $22,000

The estimated total cost for these services is approximately $50,000 for a one-year period.

Period of Performance
One year from the date of award.

Place of Performance
Services will be performed primarily at ATF locations including Redstone Arsenal in Alabama and Washington D.C.

Bidder Requirements
APT is the sole source for this contract due to its unique qualifications as the developer and owner of IMESAFR software. No other company can provide the specific services required because IMESAFR is proprietary technology essential for evaluating risks associated with explosives.

Incumbent Analysis (see Incumbents section for more detail)
This opportunity appears to have a confirmed incumbent, as A-P-T Research, Inc. is listed as the awardee on closely related prior contracts (15A00024PAQA00105 and 15A00026PAQA00195) valued at approximately $40,000 and $42,000, respectively. Those prior awards are described as “IMESAFR 2.1 TUITION,” which suggests continued involvement with the IMESAFR platform used by ATF for explosives risk assessment. The current requirement for explosives testing support and technical meeting facilitation to improve IMESAFR algorithms/models appears to be a continuation of APT’s role supporting the same proprietary software and its use in ATF explosives risk evaluations.