Overview
This section outlines the mandatory coordination procedures between Government personnel and the Contract Administration Office (CAO) prior to visiting a contractor's facility to ensure efficiency and prevent redundant oversight.
Key Rules
- Advance Notification: Government personnel must provide the CAO with specific details (names, security clearances, duration, and purpose) sufficiently in advance to allow for necessary arrangements.
- Elimination of Duplication: The primary purpose of coordination is to prevent repetitive reviews, audits, and investigations regarding functions already delegated to the CAO.
- Information Verification: Before a visit occurs, the CAO must determine if the required information is already available within the Government; if it is, the CAO will discourage the visit and provide the existing data.
- CAO Authority: The CAO has the final authority to decide if a representative will accompany visitors during the facility tour or meeting.
- Post-Visit Reporting: Visitors are required to inform the CAO of any agreements made with the contractor or any results that might impact contract administration.
Practical Implications
- Prevents "Audit Fatigue": By requiring the CAO to screen information requests, these rules protect contractors from redundant data requests and unnecessary site visits.
- Maintains Unified Government Presence: Ensuring the CAO is informed of all agreements prevents conflicting instructions being given to the contractor by different Government entities.