Overview
This section establishes the authoritative source for defining "hazardous material" within the framework of federal acquisition, specifically directing users to Federal Standard No. 313.
Key Rules
- External Reference: The FAR does not provide an independent definition but incorporates by reference the latest version of Federal Standard No. 313.
- Version Control: The definition is dynamic, requiring adherence to the "latest version" of the standard rather than a static or historical text.
- Source of Documentation: The General Services Administration (GSA) is designated as the official entity responsible for maintaining and distributing these standards to both the public and federal agencies.
Practical Implications
- Technical Compliance: Contracting officers and contractors must look beyond the FAR to technical GSA documentation to determine if a specific substance triggers hazardous material requirements (such as Safety Data Sheet submissions under FAR 52.223-3).
- Due Diligence: Because the definition relies on the "latest version," parties must periodically check for updates to Federal Standard No. 313 to ensure ongoing compliance with safety and reporting regulations.