Tower Climbing Training & Equipment

Statement of Work (SOW)

This Statement of Work (SOW) outlines the requirements for tower climbing training for the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) under the Unattended Ground Sensor (UGS) Program. The training is critical for Border Patrol Agents (BPAs) who work on Integrated Fixed Towers (IFTs) and other locations.

• Procurement of a firm fixed price (FFP) contract for Tower Climber Training and Equipment.

• Training must align with safety management standards such as ANSI/ASSE Z359.2 and ANSI/ASSE Z490.1.

• Training is essential for safely performing tasks at height, including those involving mechanical/electrical spaces and telecom infrastructure.

• The contractor will provide commercially available supplies and services.

• Competent Tower Climber and Rescue Training: Minimum 40 hours, including classroom instruction and hands-on practical exercises covering fall hazard identification, fall protection systems, equipment inspection, anchorage systems, fall clearance estimation, procedure development, safe climbing methods, and rescue techniques. Includes written and practical assessments.

• Train the Trainer Program: For participants who have completed the Competent Tower Climber and Rescue course. Administered as pass/fail with a minimum passing score of 80%.

• Training Materials: Manuals, lesson plans, presentations, evaluation tools, and certificates.

• Required Equipment: Specific equipment for training is listed, including harnesses, ascenders, carabiners, descenders, first aid kits, and specialized ropes. All equipment must be new, non-refurbished, TAA compliant, and include a one-year warranty.

• Training Delivery: Hands-on, performance-based, meeting OSHA and ANSI standards. Requires safe instructor-to-student ratios and utilization of indoor/outdoor environments.

• Performance Evaluation: Includes written testing and practical demonstrations.

• Period of Performance: Twelve (12) months from contract award, with up to four (4) additional twelve (12) month option periods.

• Place of Performance: Contractor's facility, located within 100 miles of a major commercial airport, equipped for both indoor and outdoor training, accommodating up to 25 students.

• Contractor must have a minimum of ten (10) years of experience delivering similar training to U.S. government agencies.

• Contractor must maintain accreditation through the International Association for Continuing Education and Training (IACET).

• Instructors must be verifiable, qualified, and have documented experience in fall protection, tower climbing, and rescue operations.

• Training facility must support year-round delivery.

• All fall protection personal protective equipment (PPE) for students will be provided by the contractor.

• Government will not provide Government Furnished Equipment (GFE) or Information (GFI).

• All procurement and related artifacts are Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI).

Request for Information (RFI)

This RFI is issued by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), U.S. Border Patrol, to conduct market research regarding industry capabilities for providing tower climbing training and equipment. The goal is to gather information on viable sources, industry practices, and answers to specific questions. This RFI is for information and planning purposes only and does not constitute a solicitation for quotes or proposals, nor does it obligate the government to award a contract.

• Company contact information (Name, Address, POC, Phone, UEI, Email)

• NAICS code and business size classification (specifically inquiring about NAICS 237130)

• Estimated lead time for equipment delivery

• Ability to initiate training within 30 days of contract award

• Existing GSA contract information for similar supplies/services

• General pricing information for products/services

• Any concerns or questions regarding the draft Statement of Work

• The anticipated contract is for tower climbing equipment and training.

• It is expected to have a base period with four (4) one-year option periods.

• Responses must be submitted via email to the Contracting Officer, Starla VanWinkle (starla.r.vanwinkle@cbp.dhs.gov).

• Verbal questions will not be accepted; all questions must be submitted in writing via email.

• The deadline for RFI responses is May 12, 2026, no later than 2:00 p.m. ET.

• All RFI submissions become Government property and will not be returned.

• Not responding to this RFI does not preclude participation in any future RFQ or RFP.

• If a solicitation is released, it will be synopsized on SAM.gov. Potential quoters are responsible for monitoring SAM.gov for updates.