(d) The contracting officer or authorized representative shall notify the SBS prior to initiation of any adverse action against an SBA subcontractor. In cases involving initiation of default procedures, at the request of the SBS, the contracting officer shall provide the facts required for notification to DDAS.
(90) Requests for technical and/or management assistance which are in excess of DSC or DCMA capability and resources shall be referred through the SBS to DDAS. Through agreement between HQ DLA and SBA, technical and management assistance teams can, under certain circumstances, be made available to augment assistance provided by the contracting officer.
(91) As described in FAR 42.5, postaward orientation conferences with contractors are conducted to assure a clear understanding of the scope of the contract, the technical requirements, and the rights and obligations of the parties. The contracting officer or technical representative should initiate a request for such a conference on all first time 8(a) contractors and when the 8(a) firm has experienced problems. Assure that all matters requiring clarification or resolution are considered and contractual requirements are explained. Specific attention shall be given to the requirements of statutes, executive orders, and labor provisions.
(92) Early notification to the SBA of deficiencies in contract performance by a Section 8(a) firm is particularly important in the administration of 8(a) contracts.
(93) Whenever it becomes known that the 8(a) subcontractor has encountered problems which could jeopardize contract performance, the SBS shall be notified. The contracting officer or authorized representative shall provide all reasonable assistance to the subcontractor to correct deficiencies.
