Overview
FAR 23.303 establishes the procedures and requirements for contractors to provide advance notification to the government before delivering radioactive materials. It ensures that the government can implement necessary safety safeguards and verify that all required licenses and permits are active prior to receipt.
Key Rules
- Mandatory Notification: Per FAR clause 52.223-7, contractors must notify the Contracting Officer (CO) prior to the delivery of any radioactive material.
- Government Safety Actions: Upon receiving a notice, the CO is obligated to inform the receiving activities so appropriate safety protocols can be established.
- Waiver Conditions: The CO may waive the notification requirement only if the contractor confirms that a previous notification remains accurate and current, and only after the CO consults with technical representatives.
- Customizable Lead Time: The CO must specify the exact number of days for advance notice within the contract clause.
- RPO Coordination: The CO must coordinate with the installation’s Radiation Protection Officer (RPO) to determine the appropriate notification period and ensure all necessary licenses or permits are obtained before the material arrives.
Practical Implications
- Operational Planning: Contractors must incorporate the contractually mandated notification window into their logistics and delivery schedules to avoid delivery rejections at the facility gate.
- Compliance Integration: Successful execution requires proactive communication between the contractor's safety team and the government's Radiation Protection Officer to ensure all regulatory paperwork is synchronized before the shipment reaches the installation.