Analysis of Ruptured Aluminum Cylinder and Valve - Notice Of Intent To Sole Source

The US Department of Transportation (DOT), Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA), Acquisition Services Division hereby issue this notice of intent to sole source. PHMSA intends to award a sole source firm-fixed price purchase order to WHA International,Inc. located at 5605 Dona Ana Road, Las Cruces, New Mexico 88007 to conduct a forensic and meallurgical evaluation of a mixed flammable gas cylinder wich exploded at a metal working shop. PHMSA is authorized to purchase the services of WHA International, Inc., from a single source as this request falls under 41 U.S.C. 3304(a)(2) and Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR 6.302-2 Unusual and compelling urgency. It is critical that these tests are to be completed as soon as possible, for safety and security measures, which directly impact over 6,500 cylinders. If the testing results demonstrate that this particular cylinder failed as a result of preexinsting defects or defective valve components, it will significantly impact PHMSA's accident investigation and potential safety advisories. PHMSA's need for forensic and metallurgical analyses of the ruptured flammable gas cylinder is of unusual and compelling urgency. The task will require the application of sound knowledge of engineering principles and related experience. The Federal Government would be seriously injured unless it is permitted to limit the number of sources from which it solicits bids or proposals. Furthermore, WHA International Inc. has a proven track record with PHMSA in delivering these services in a timely manner. The NAICS code is 541380 (TESTING LABORATORIES). This is not a request for competitive quotes. It is anticipated that an award will be issued to WHA International, Inc., with approximately fifeteen (15) days after the date of this notice unless the Government determines that any onter organization has the capacity to meet this requirement.