R -- Hydrogen Transportation First Responder/Safety

The Department of Transportation (DOT), Research and Innovative Technology Administration, intends to award a three year sole source contract to the National Association of State Fire Marshals (NASFM) supporting first responder and safety issues related to the use of hydrogen in transportation. Under this contract NASFM will establish a team of nationally and internationally recognized experts in hydrogen, fire, and first responder safety, conduct a series of invitation workshops and produce a set of recommendations for DOT and State Fire Marshals and fire chiefs to implement, including drafting requirements and the initial content for educational and training materials, as well as developing communication plans for disseminating training materials and other information. NASFM is uniquely qualified to perform these requirements. NASFM is part of the international consortium for health and fire safety, and is the only nationwide entity that represents the State Fire Marshals who are the key state safety and permitting authorities for each state and play key roles in setting the codes and standards, permitting and safety training for their respective state. Additionally, NASFM has a strong existing relationship with related organizations including fire chiefs, police, and Emergency Medical Technicians. NASFM is also well versed in DOT’s programs, and regulatory and advocacy role in providing for Public safety given its history with the former Research and Special Programs Administration, and is uniquely qualified to fulfill this requirement because of its expertise in the fire and public safety field and extensive networking and broadcasting capabilities. This is not a request of offers from other sources. See note 22.