Item:
Title
Award Contract for Velocity EHS
Body
Date of BOCC Meeting: September 28, 2026
Request for Board Action:
Agenda Text
The Board is requested to approve a service contract with Velocity EHS for the continued provision of a cloud-based Safety Data Sheet (SDS) and Chemical Inventory Management platform, in an amount not to exceed $29,815.74 for a three-year term.
Velocity EHS/MSDS Online, has been utilized by Durham County since 2021 to support countywide compliance with OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard and other applicable occupational safety regulations. The platform provides centralized management of Safety Data Sheets, chemical inventory tracking, and essential regulatory documentation required to maintain a safe work environment across all County departments.
Velocity EHS is the sole-source provider of the HQ Account system. Through this system, Durham County receives 24/7 access to an industry-leading SDS database containing millions of indexed safety data sheets. This enables departments to build, manage, and maintain a complete and up-to-date SDS library that supports federal and state compliance requirements. County employees have real-time access to SDS information through a mobile app or a secure, County-specific web link, ensuring critical safety information is readily available during daily operations and emergency situations.
The HQ Account also includes the Plan1 First Responder Share Service, a supplemental tool designed to deliver the most critical and up-to-date chemical hazard information directly to emergency response personnel. This feature enhances responder situational awareness and supports informed decision-making during hazardous materials incidents.
The current service agreement is approaching its renewal period. Continued use of Velocity EHS is essential to maintaining regulatory compliance, ensuring accurate chemical inventory management, and providing employees and first responders with immediate access to vital hazard communication resources.
Approval of this contract renewal will allow Durham County to preserve uninterrupted access to the Velocity EHS platform, maintain operational continuity, and ensure ongoing support and system updates. Safety recommends approval of the three-year service contract to sustain compliance, operational efficiency, and employee safety across all County departments.
Alignment with Strategic Plan: The action aligns with the High Performing Organization and Financial Stewardship focus areas.
Resource Persons: Kathy R. Everette-Perry, Esq., CHRO/Chief Employment Counsel, Ngat Awass, Safety & Workers’ Compensation Manager, Todd Andrews, Safety & Occupational Health Specialist
County Manager’s Recommendation: The County Manager recommends that the Board authorize the County Manager to enter into the service contract with Velocity EHS in an amount not to exceed $29,815.74 for (3) three years. The initial term of the contract will be July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2029.
Signature
County Manager: ____________________________