Forensic Proficiency Tests

The County of San Mateo is issuing an RFQ to acquire a qualified, ISO/IEC 17043‑accredited proficiency testing provider for its forensic laboratory. The provider will design, produce, and manage proficiency test kits across multiple forensic disciplines (DNA, latent prints, firearms, controlled substances, toxicology, and crime‑scene investigation), ensure secure distribution and result handling, evaluate participant performance, and deliver comprehensive reports to both the lab and its accrediting body (ANAB). The contract will be awarded to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder, with a base term of one year and the option for two additional one‑year extensions. • Required accreditation: ISO/IEC 17043 (Proficiency Testing Provider) • Disciplines covered: Forensic Biology/DNA, Latent Prints, Firearms, Controlled Substances, Toxicology, Calibration, Crime Scene Investigation • Services: test material preparation, secure distribution, confidential administration, result submission, evaluation, reporting, and forwarding results to ANAB • Evaluation criteria: cost, conformity to specifications, product availability, and vendor qualifications • Contract term: 1 year with up to two 1‑year extensions (maximum 3 years) • Procurement type: RFQ (lowest responsive bid)