Authorized Protective Eyewear List

Amendment / Modification

This Engineering Change Request (ECR) proposes a modification to the instruction booklet requirement for MIL-PRF-32432A. The change allows for an alternative to providing a physical instruction booklet by permitting a QR code that directs users to an electronic version of the instruction booklet. This change is intended to address supply chain issues, increased print material costs, and lead times.

• Paragraphs 3.5.1.8 and 4.5.3 of MIL-PRF-32432A are affected.

• The requirement for a physical instruction booklet will be updated to include the option of a QR code.

• Verification procedures in Paragraph 4.5.3 will be updated to include scanning the QR code.

• This modification is presented as an improvement that removes lead times from instruction booklet manufacturing.

• The change is approved for MIL-PRF-32432 Rev A until the requirement can be updated in MIL-PRF-32432 Rev B.

Amendment / Modification

This Engineering Change Request (ECR) proposes a deviation from the MIL-PRF-32432A specification regarding insect repellent.

• Reason for Change: The previously recommended insect repellent (3M Ultrathon Insect Repellent Lotion) has been discontinued due to the use of benzene, a known carcinogen.

• Proposed Interim Solution: The ECR recommends using Ben's 30 Tick & Insect Repellent Pump Spray as a temporary replacement for testing purposes while the Army Public Health Center (APHC) evaluates new products.

• Deviation Details: This deviates from the requirement for a "controlled-release" insect repellent. However, the proposed alternative contains 30% DEET, which is considered a harsher concentration, necessitating stricter testing requirements.

• The ECR impacts the chemical resistance testing requirements outlined in section 3.8.3 of the MIL-PRF-32432A specification.

• It also affects the recommended source of supply in section 6.12.

• This deviation is intended to maintain testing continuity.

• The change will be in effect until APHC releases new recommended DEET products or is updated in a future revision (Revision B) of MIL-PRF-32432.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document contains two certifications required for compliance with U.S. Government procurement regulations related to the "Authorized Protective Eyewear List".

• Buy American Act and Trade Agreement Act Compliance Certification: Certifies that end products delivered are in compliance with these acts, as specified in FAR 52.225.
• Berry Amendment Compliance Certification: Certifies that all textile materials (components and end product) are fully compliant with 10 U.S.C § 2533(a) (The Berry Amendment), requiring domestic sourcing, and that all manufacturing, packaging, inspection, and shipping operations were performed in the United States. It also includes a section to list specific textile products and their manufacturers.
• Both certifications require the company name, name of binding authority, signature, name and title, and date from an authorized representative.

Bidders responding to opportunities related to the "Authorized Protective Eyewear List" must complete and submit these certifications to demonstrate compliance with critical domestic sourcing and manufacturing requirements. Failure to comply may render a bid non-responsive.

Amendment / Modification

This document is an Engineering Change Request (ECR) that proposes an update to the packaging requirements for MIL-PRF-32432A, specifically concerning the display of the APEL label.

• The core change is to modify paragraph 5.1 of the MIL-PRF-32432A requirement.

• The update allows for alternative methods of packaging, provided the APEL logo is clearly displayed within or on the packaging.

• This change aims to accommodate vendor requests for alternative APEL logo display methods beyond just printing on a bag or adhering a sticker.

• It also addresses the use of zipper lock bags, heat seal plastic packaging, and blister packs, which were previously not explicitly allowed or were ambiguously defined.

• The revised wording will permit the APEL label to be visible on the front surface of a zipper lock, adhesive, or heat sealed bag, or packaged in a blister packed product. The label can be an applied sticker, permanently printed on the container, or part of an insert.

• Paragraph 5.1 of MIL-PRF-32432A (Packaging Requirement).

• The document also references MIL-PRF-32432A: Military Combat Eye Protection (MCEP) System as an attachment.

• The change is intended to ease the burden on vendors by modernizing and clarifying packaging options.

• It is noted that packaging is not a measured and verified requirement, but is checked periodically.

• This change is approved as a temporary update until MIL-PRF-32432 Rev B is released.

Amendment / Modification

This Engineering Change Request (ECR) proposes an update to MIL-PRF-32432A to allow the use of both regular Fragment Simulating Projectiles (FSP) and Elongated FSP for ballistic testing.

• MIL-PRF-32432A, Paragraph 4.8.4 (Ballistic fragmentation protection, Class 1)

• MIL-PRF-32432A, Paragraph 4.8.5 (Ballistic fragmentation protection, Class 2 and 3)

• MIL-PRF-32432A, Paragraph 4.8.3 (Projectile obliquity and yaw determination)

• The ECR aims to address difficulties vendors and test facilities have experienced in sourcing regular FSP and controlling projectile tumble during impact.

• It allows vendors the preference to use either regular FSP or elongated FSP.

• Test results indicate that the elongated FSP provides a more strenuous test by decreasing misfires due to projectile yaw, though it may result in a lower V50 velocity, potentially indicating a higher likelihood of penetration at lower velocities.

• The change is considered a "Major" classification ECR.

• FSP Requirements and Drawing (Excerpt from MIL-PRF-32432A)

• Report No. ATC-13242 (Validation of the Elongated.15 and 22 Caliber Fragment-Simulating Projectiles (FSPs))

Amendment / Modification

• This Engineering Change Request (ECR) proposes updating the reference standard within MIL-PRF-32432A from ANSI Z87.1 - 2015 to ANSI Z87.1 - 2020.

• The update is to align with the latest revision of the ANSI Z87.1 standard, which was published in 2020.

• The change is intended to remain current until the next revision of MIL-PRF-32432A is published.

• MIL-PRF-32432A, specifically references to ANSI Z87.1 - 2015 will be updated to ANSI Z87.1 - 2020.

• The document "Summary of 2015-2020 differences (ANSI Z87.1 Comparison Notes.docx)" is attached for reference.

• The ECR indicates no effect on cost/price or delivery schedule.

• The change is classified as 'Major' but does not critically affect the requirements of the MCEP program, nor does it change any critical safety features.

Amendment / Modification

• This Engineering Change Request (ECR) proposes a modification to the adhesion test requirement within MIL-PRF-32432A.

• The current requirement (Paragraph 4.13.4) specifies a test tape with an adhesion rating of 40 ounces per 2.5 centimeters of width.

• The proposed change is to update this requirement to use a test tape with an adhesion rating of 45 ounces per 1 inch of width.

• MIL-PRF-32432A, Paragraph 4.13.4 (Adhesion Test Requirement).

• The document notes that test labs have reported difficulty finding tape that meets the 40oz requirement, as the previously used tape has been discontinued.

• Vendors surveyed reported no issues with the proposed update and indicated that most were already testing with higher-rated tape.

• The change is considered a minor width difference (0.04cm or 1.57% increase) and a 12.5% strength requirement increase.

• This deviation is approved until MIL-PRF-32432 Rev B is released, expected in September 2021.

• No impact on proposal deadlines or submission rules is indicated, but this change affects the technical requirements for testing.

Statement of Work (SOW) / Performance Work Statement (PWS)

This document establishes the performance specification for the Military Combat Eye Protection (MCEP) system. The MCEP system is designed to provide protection from dust, flying debris, and ballistic hazards for both training and battlefield scenarios, while maintaining compatibility with existing Soldier equipment. It also establishes requirements for MCEP Qualification, a process involving product testing and vendor auditing to ensure technical acceptability and quality management.

• Covers both prescription and non-prescription wearers.

• Provides protection against ballistic fragmentation, electromagnetic radiation (including bright sunlight and UV radiation).

• Ensures compatibility with various military helmets (ACH, ECH, CVC-H, LWH, IHPS) and weapons systems.

• Includes requirements for system configuration, materials, workmanship, and packaging.

• Ballistic fragmentation protection and UV protection are required in all configurations.

• Specific requirements for optical characteristics (transmittance, neutrality, chromaticity, distortion, UV absorption).

• Durability requirements including resistance to fogging, abrasion, chemicals, temperature extremes, solar radiation, and humidity.

• System retention, weight, and interface requirements.

• Safety and health hazard compliance.

Not specified in this document.

• Eyewear must be compatible with Universal Prescription Lens Carrier (UPLC).
• Various classes (Spectacles, Goggles, Hybrid Goggles) and styles (UPLC Compatible, Transition Lenses, Cold Weather Goggles) are defined.
• Includes requirements for carrying cases, instruction booklets, cleaning cloths, and anti-fog reapplication.
• Must meet ANSI Z87.1 standards for occupational and educational eye and face protection.