Companies with expertise in safety, security, quality control and labor compliance have an opportunity to assist HISD with its 2012 bond program by submitting a proposal to do all or part of the work.

The district released an RFP on June 10 with a scope of work that covers everything from job site safety inspections to hazard controls and background checks for construction workers. In addition, the district is seeking to find a vendor that will ensure all contractors and subcontractors are paid the prevailing wage rate, as required by federal and state law.

“This RFP is extremely important to the success of the 2012 bond program,” said Alexis Licata, general manager for HISD’s Office of Business Assistance. “We’ve said from the start that we want a quality bond program that doesn’t cut corners on safety or standards and that minimizes the potential for labor disputes. This RFP speaks to that commitment.”

Licata said she hopes the bid opportunity will generate a lot of interest, especially among certified Minority and Women-owned Business Enterprises (M/WBEs). The RFP is structured so that a company can bid on all or only part of the work, depending on their capacity.

Proposers will be evaluated on a variety of factors, including price, quality, commitment to the district’s M/WBE goals and past relationship with the district.

“This is a great opportunity for companies that understand that details matter,” Licata said. “When construction starts at these schools, we want people on the ground dedicated to making safety a priority.”

The deadline for submissions is 2 p.m. on July 3 in the Board Services office of the administration building.