SSO Federal Acquisition Regulations 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Under FAR Part 12, which acquisition approach applies when purchasing commercial maritime security services for vessel protection?
- Simplified acquisition procedures only
- Commercial item acquisition procedures (Correct answer)
- Sealed bidding exclusively
- Emergency acquisition authority
Correct answer: Commercial item acquisition procedures
FAR Part 12 governs the acquisition of commercial items and services, including commercial maritime security services, streamlining the procurement process.
Question 2: A Ship Security Officer identifies a need for emergency security equipment mid-voyage. Which FAR provision authorizes urgent, unplanned purchases below the micro-purchase threshold?
- FAR 6.302-2 (unusual and compelling urgency)
- FAR 13.201 (micro-purchase procedures) (Correct answer)
- FAR 15.402 (pricing policy)
- FAR 52.204-9 (contractor code of business ethics)
Correct answer: FAR 13.201 (micro-purchase procedures)
FAR 13.201 governs micro-purchase procedures, allowing quick, low-value purchases without competitive bidding for urgent needs.
Question 3: When a vessel operator enters a government contract for maritime security services, which FAR clause requires the contractor to maintain an adequate cost accounting system?
- FAR 52.215-2 (Correct answer)
- FAR 52.222-26
- FAR 52.232-25
- FAR 52.203-13
Correct answer: FAR 52.215-2
FAR 52.215-2 (Audit and Records — Negotiation) requires contractors to maintain adequate accounting systems and allow government audits of cost records.
Question 4: Under the FAR, what is the primary purpose of a Performance Work Statement (PWS) in a maritime security services contract?
- To specify the number of security personnel required
- To describe required outcomes and performance standards rather than how to perform the work (Correct answer)
- To list all equipment the contractor must provide
- To set fixed pricing for all security services
Correct answer: To describe required outcomes and performance standards rather than how to perform the work
A PWS describes the required results, quality standards, and performance objectives, giving contractors flexibility in how they achieve the required security outcomes.
Question 5: Which FAR subpart governs the use of Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contracts commonly used for recurring vessel security assessment services?
- FAR Subpart 8.4
- FAR Subpart 16.5 (Correct answer)
- FAR Subpart 14.2
- FAR Subpart 19.8
Correct answer: FAR Subpart 16.5
FAR Subpart 16.5 covers indefinite-delivery contracts including IDIQ contracts, which allow agencies to order varying quantities of security services over a contract period.
Question 6: A contracting officer awards a maritime security contract after receiving only one bid. Which FAR justification is most appropriate for this sole-source award?
- FAR 6.302-1: Only one responsible source (Correct answer)
- FAR 6.302-3: Industrial mobilization
- FAR 6.302-5: Authorized by statute
- FAR 6.302-6: National security
Correct answer: FAR 6.302-1: Only one responsible source
FAR 6.302-1 authorizes other-than-full-and-open competition when only one responsible source can meet the government's requirements.
Question 7: Under FAR Part 9, before awarding a vessel security contract, the contracting officer must verify that the contractor is not listed on which system?
- Maritime Administration registry
- System for Award Management (SAM) exclusions (Correct answer)
- Coast Guard inspection database
- Department of Labor wage determination list
Correct answer: System for Award Management (SAM) exclusions
FAR Part 9 requires contracting officers to check the System for Award Management (SAM) to ensure a contractor is not debarred, suspended, or otherwise ineligible for award.
SSO Federal Acquisition Regulations 2
Under FAR Part 12, which acquisition approach applies when purchasing commercial maritime security services for vessel protection?