Overview
This section prescribes the mandatory use of FAR clause 52.204-2, Security Requirements, and its alternates in solicitations and contracts that involve access to classified information or specific security protocols.
Key Rules
- General Mandate: The Contracting Officer must include FAR 52.204-2 in any solicitation or contract where the contractor may require access to classified information.
- Alternate I: Must be used for cost-reimbursement research and development (R&D) contracts with educational institutions.
- Alternate II: Must be used for construction or architect-engineer contracts that require employee identification for security purposes.
- Agency-Specific Clauses: If a contracting agency is not covered by the National Industrial Security Program (NISP), they may use their own agency-prescribed clauses that are "substantially the same" as the FAR version.
Practical Implications
- Contractors must carefully review which version of the security clause is present to determine specific compliance requirements for personnel vetting, facility clearances, and site access.
- The inclusion of these clauses signals that the contractor will likely need to engage with the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA) or specific agency security offices to fulfill contractual obligations.