To stress the importance of safety and health performance, a new evaluation criterion has been added to Section M covering both past performance and proposed approach of the offerors and major subcontractors in the area of safety and health. When the draft Hanford RFP was released, the sections which dealt with employees and their benefits were the first area to draw significant comment. The changes clarified policies regarding the hiring of incumbent employees and requirements for a Defined Contribution Program. These changes reflect DOE s recognition that a skilled and motivated Site workforce is critical for success. However, the new contractor still has a unilateral right to determine the number and skill mix of employees necessary to do the work.
Modifications stress continual right-sizing to support a changing mission needs.
Site-wide integration is necessary to optimize cost effectiveness and mission needs. The language in the final RFP has been strengthened to emphasize cost effective innovative approaches to solving the problems of the site. Further, the offeror's past performance and proposed approach to cost reduction will receive weight in selection of the new contractor. Activities shall be privatized where greater efficiencies can be achieved. Additional changes were made in the RFP to maximize competition and ensure that all potential offerors have an equal opportunity to be selected even if they have no past DOE experience.