(a) Prequalification procedures may be used when necessary to ensure timely and efficient performance of critical construction projects. Prequalification--
(1) Results in a list of sources determined to be qualified to perform a specific construction contract; and
(2) Limits offerors to those with proven competence to perform in the required manner.
(b) The head of the contracting activity must--
(1) Authorize the use of prequalification by determining, in writing, that a construction project is of an urgency or complexity that requires prequalification; and
(2) Approve the prequalification procedures.
(c) For small businesses, the prequalification procedures must require the qualifying authority to--
(1) Request a preliminary recommendation from the appropriate Small Business Administration regional office, if the qualifying authority believes a small business is not responsible;
(2) Permit the small business to submit a bid or proposal if the preliminary recommendation is that the small business is responsible; and
(3) Follow the procedures in FAR 19.6, if the small business is in line for award and is found nonresponsible.