When working with contractor personnel on a non-personal services contract, what is expected of the COR?

In a non-personal services contract, it is essential for the Contracting Officer's Representative (COR) to maintain an arm's length relationship with contractor personnel. This approach helps ensure that the contractor operates independently and that the government maintains appropriate oversight without crossing into areas that could create perceived or actual conflicts of interest.

An arm's length relationship is vital because it delineates the roles and responsibilities of the government and the contractor. It allows contractors the freedom to manage their personnel and operations while maintaining accountability to the government through the COR’s oversight role. This separation is particularly important in non-personal services, where the government is not acquiring services that involve the direct supervision of personnel by government employees.

Building a personal rapport, collaborating closely, or becoming involved in daily tasks could blur the lines of this relationship, potentially leading to misunderstandings about roles and responsibilities, or even implications of government control over contractor operations. Hence, maintaining professional boundaries fosters a healthy working relationship that supports the effective execution of the contract while upholding the integrity and objectives of government procurement practices.