DCMA AND QAR?
When the Government buys supplies, we need to ensure they meet the required quality level and meet any specifications that dictate their form, fit, and function.
In the DoD, we primarily rely on Quality Assurance Representatives (QARs) employed by the Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA) to inspect and accept the supplies we buy.
The contractor is expected to only deliver supplies to us that meet all contractual requirements. Contractors must maintain an inspection system acceptable to the Government. The Inspection of Supplies clause provides the Government with the available remedies in case the contractor fails to deliver supplies that meet contractual requirements. The Inspection of Supplies clause also establishes the Government’s right to judge a contractor’s quality and inspection systems.
If we perform inspection on the contractor’s or a subcontractor’s premises, they must provide all reasonable facilities and assistance at no increase in the contract price. If we perform inspection at other than the contractor’s premises, then the Government is liable for all costs of performing inspections.
