Notice of Intent (NOI) to award Sole Source - WAHTS

This action is to procure a Wireless Automated Hearing Test System (WAHTS). The WAHTS is manufactured by “WAHTS Hearing” out of Lebanon New Hampshire and this system will be purchased directly from the Manufacturer through a Sole Source Firm Fixed Price (FFP) purchase order. The Manufacturer is registered with SAM.GOV. The wireless WAHTS headset has a built-in audiometer that emits calibrated stimuli (e.g., pure- and warble-tones, narrow-band noise, speech, etc.). Test takers respond by pressing a button in the tablet-based audhere app. This test can be completed without a booth (booth-less). Overhead District funding will be utilized to procure the WAHTS.

Background: The WAHTS system allows us to meet DoD requirements for hearing tests (audiograms) & fit testing with our Hearing Conservation Program as required by OSHA CFR 1910.95, OSHA 3074 and DoDi 6055.12.

Justification: It is booth-less, wireless, portable, and remote. We can provide compliance audiograms for employees at the District Office (without purchasing a hearing booth) as well as project sites.

Impact: Without the WAHTS Hearing System, USACE LRL will not be in compliance with OSHA and DoDi.

Alternatives: The WAHTS Hearing System is the only one of its kind, so no other source for a similar product is available. This system is recommended by the USACE National Occupational Health Center (NOHC).