Overview
This section defines the purpose of First Article Testing (FAT) as a verification measure to ensure a contractor can meet all contract requirements before full-scale production. It mandates that Contracting Officers perform a cost-benefit and risk analysis before incorporating these requirements into a solicitation.
Key Rules
- Purpose of FAT: To provide assurance that the contractor’s production process will yield a product conforming to all contract specifications for acceptance.
- Mandatory Considerations: Before requiring testing and approval, the Contracting Officer must evaluate:
- The impact on the contract's total cost and delivery schedule.
- The technical or financial risk to the Government if FAT is omitted.
- The existence of less expensive quality assurance alternatives that could provide similar levels of confidence.
Practical Implications
- Balancing Risk and Efficiency: FAT is not a default requirement; it is a specialized tool used when the risk of failure outweighs the added time and expense of testing.
- Lead Time Impact: Contractors should expect significantly longer lead times for initial delivery when FAT is required, as production typically cannot proceed until the first article is approved.