(b) When the product specialist determines that use of higher-level contract quality requirements is warranted-
(90) The product specialist shall-
(i) Insert the following STO in the PID:
“HIGHER-LEVEL CONTRACT QUALITY REQUIREMENT APPLIES. SEE FAR 52.246-11.”
(ii) When a quality standard other than ISO 9001:2000 is required:
(A) Remove the NSN from the automated system; and
(B) Identify the applicable quality standard in the Material Master.
(91) The contracting officer shall-
(i) When soliciting NSNs with a higher-level contract quality requirement:
(A) Insert the clauses as required at 46.311; and
(B)(1) When ISO 9001:2000 is required, check the block next to ISO 9001:2000 in the clause at FAR 52.246-11; or
(2) When a quality standard other than ISO 9001:2000 is required, complete the clause at FAR 52.246-11 as follows:
(i) Do not check the block next to ISO 9001:2000;
(ii) Check the next block down; and
(iii) Enter the quality standard the product specialist has indicated as being required.
(ii) When evaluating offers for an NSN with a higher-level contract quality requirement and the offeror in line for award has proposed an alternative quality standard:
(A) Determine whether to delay award to evaluate the alternative quality standard:
(1) Obtain confirmation from the supply planner and product specialist that delay of award is unlikely to result in backorders. This determination shall be based on the Agency supply position and the anticipated lead time required for evaluation.
(2) For any purchase, if the time before proposed award does not permit evaluation of an alternative quality standard, and delay of award would adversely affect the Government, then such offers may be considered technically unacceptable for the current acquisition, and award may be made to the otherwise acceptable offeror. The benefits which may accrue to the Government if the alternative quality standard were accepted must be weighed against any adverse effects caused by delaying award. Consideration shall be given to requesting expedited evaluation of the alternative quality standard if the benefits are significant.
(3) Alternative quality standards shall not be evaluated for the instant procurement when acquiring Priority 1 items (IPG 1-3), items on backorder, or Not Mission Capable (NMC) items.
(B) When it is determined to delay award to evaluate an alternative quality standard, refer the offer to the product specialist for review.
(iii) When making award for an NSN with a higher-level contract quality requirement and the product specialist has approved an alternative quality standard for the awardee, complete the clause at FAR 52.246-11 as follows:
(A) Do not check the block next to ISO 9001:2000;
(B) Check the next block down; and
(C) Enter the alternative quality standard approved for the award.
