When it comes to safeguarding public institutions like schools, municipalities, and emergency response agencies, efficient procurement of life-saving equipment is not just helpful—it’s essential. This is where State Contract 84690 steps in, providing a statewide cooperative procurement solution designed specifically for New Jersey’s public entities.
Let’s break it down and understand how this contract works, what it covers, why it’s essential, and what kind of pricing you can expect.
What is State Contract 84690?
At its core, State Contract 84690 is a New Jersey state-level procurement agreement. It’s part of a long-standing effort to streamline how public agencies purchase critical safety gear—specifically Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) and evacuation chairs. These tools can be the difference between life and death in an emergency, and State Contract 84690 ensures these products are accessible, compliant, and cost-effective.
The contract is linked to:
- T-2478 (Evacuation Chairs)
- T-2358 (AED Equipment)
This arrangement allows schools, fire departments, municipalities, and state-run institutions to bypass long bidding processes and buy directly from pre-vetted vendors at state-negotiated prices.
Why It Matters – The Need for Life Safety Equipment!
Emergencies don’t come with warnings. Whether it’s a fire in a multi-story building or a sudden cardiac arrest at a school gymnasium, the response time and available equipment often determine the outcome.
Evacuation chairs are designed to help people with mobility challenges safely exit multi-level facilities during an emergency. On the other hand, Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) can revive someone experiencing cardiac arrest within minutes—dramatically improving survival rates.
Having this equipment isn’t optional; it’s a moral and regulatory necessity. However, sourcing this life-saving gear from reputable suppliers can be time-consuming and expensive. That’s why contracts like 84690 are so valuable—they simplify and secure the procurement process.
Who Uses This Contract?
State Contract 84690 is designed for use by a wide array of public entities across New Jersey, including:
- School Boards and Public Schools
- Fire Departments and EMS Units
- Municipal Governments
- Libraries, Community Centers, and State Offices
For example, the Glen Rock Board of Education utilized this contract to invest nearly $84,866 in AEDs and medical supplies, while the Fair Lawn Board of Education made similar purchases exceeding $90,000.
These aren’t isolated cases. From Tinton Falls Fire District to various townships and boroughs, dozens of public institutions have relied on this state contract to meet their safety and compliance needs.
Confused About the Process? – Here’s How the Contract Works!
Public procurement can often be bogged down by bureaucracy and inefficiencies. But State Contract 84690 changes that. Here’s how it works:
- Pre-approved Vendors: Only certified suppliers are selected under the contract. This ensures every vendor has met state standards for quality, safety, pricing, and service.
- Standardized Pricing: By negotiating pricing in advance, the state ensures public entities receive fair market rates without the need for lengthy bidding processes.
- Easy Ordering Process: Instead of issuing multiple RFQs (Requests for Quotations), agencies can purchase directly through the contract using a simple ordering mechanism.
- Multiple Equipment Options: Agencies have access to a range of evacuation chairs, AED models, batteries, pads, cases, and wall mounts—all covered under one agreement.
Real-World Pricing for State Contract 84690:
Understanding what you’ll pay is key to responsible budgeting. Based on real-world public records and contract documents, here’s a snapshot of typical pricing under State Contract 84690:
AED Pricing Estimates
| Item | Estimated Price |
| Defibtech Lifeline AED (Hard Case) | $799 |
| Defibtech Lifeline AED (Soft Case) | $764 |
| Training Simulator | $299 |
| Adult Electrode Pads | $27 – $35 |
| Pediatric Electrode Pads | $76 |
| Full AED Kit (Hazlet Township) | $1,195 – $1,450 |
Notable Purchase Examples:
- Glen Rock Board of Education spent $84,866 on AEDs under this contract.
- The Fair Lawn Board of Education made a similar AED purchase worth $90,932.40.
- Bergenfield School District purchased multiple AEDs and accessories for $104,469.89.
- Hazlet Township received quotes for AED kits ranging from $1,195 to $1,450 per unit.
These numbers show how cost-effective and scalable the contract can be—especially for bulk purchasing.
Benefits of State Contract 84690 – Save Time & Money!
The advantages of participating in this statewide contract go far beyond just saving money.
Efficiency:
Procurement cycles that once took weeks or months are now completed in days. The process is streamlined and stress-free.
Cost Control:
Bulk purchasing allows for discounted rates, ensuring tight municipal budgets can stretch further.
Compliance:
Agencies are protected under state procurement laws. No red flags, no legal risks.
Quality Assurance:
Each item purchased through Contract 84690 is vetted for reliability and certification compliance, especially crucial for emergency medical equipment.
Support & Training:
Many vendors offer on-site training and technical support for staff using AEDs and evacuation chairs—further enhancing public safety.
Real-World Impact – Success Stories from Across NJ!
Let’s take a quick look at how this contract is being used across New Jersey.
Glen Rock Board of Education:
By leveraging Contract 84690, Glen Rock invested in AEDs for use across school campuses. The move was prompted by growing concerns about student and staff safety, especially during high-stress athletic events and large assemblies.
Tinton Falls Fire District:
Recognizing the need for updated life-saving equipment, the Tinton Falls Fire Department used the contract to procure top-of-the-line AEDs. These were distributed across stations and vehicles, ensuring quick access during field emergencies.
Margate City Government:
In 2022, Margate’s city officials confirmed continued usage of Contract 84690 to maintain a full suite of emergency evacuation tools for community buildings.
How to Participate in the Program?
If your agency or organization is located in New Jersey and qualifies as a public institution, you may be eligible to use State Contract 84690. Here’s how to get started:
- Visit the NJSTART Vendor Database: Look for active vendors listed under Contract T-2478 (Evacuation Chairs) and T-2358 (AEDs).
- Get Administrative Approval: Most agencies require board or council approval before executing a purchase under a state contract.
- Place an Order with a Contracted Vendor: Choose a vendor from the list, confirm your budget, and submit your purchase order.
- Receive and Install Your Equipment: Many vendors offer delivery, installation, and training services, ensuring that your team is fully equipped and educated.
FAQs About State Contract 84690:
1. Can small towns or volunteer fire stations use this contract?
Answer: Yes! Small towns, local schools, and volunteer fire departments can all use State Contract 84690. You don’t need to buy a lot of equipment. Even if you just need one AED or one evacuation chair, you can still get the low prices and fast ordering offered by this contract.
2. Does the contract include batteries and other parts too?
Answer: Yes, many vendors offer extra parts like batteries, pads, wall mounts, and even repair services. Some items come with your AED kit, while others you can buy separately. Just ask the vendor for a full list of what’s included.
3. Can I use grant money or safety funding with this contract?
Answer: Yes, many government safety grants (like FEMA or school safety programs) allow or prefer purchases made through state-approved contracts like 84690. It helps prove you followed safe and legal buying rules, which is often needed to use the money.
4. Are instructions available in Spanish or for people with disabilities?
Answer: Yes, most vendors offer Spanish instructions, and some provide large print, braille, or video guides to help people with disabilities. Be sure to ask your vendor for these if your team or community needs them.
5. What if new AED models come out later? Can I upgrade?
Answer: Many vendors offer upgrade options or trade-in programs if new models come out. You don’t always need to start over. Just contact the vendor to ask about switching to newer equipment or getting an upgrade plan.
Final Thoughts:
In a world where emergencies are unpredictable and often unforgiving, State Contract 84690 empowers New Jersey’s public entities to act proactively and responsibly. By offering a streamlined, compliant, and cost-effective way to procure life safety equipment, the contract plays a key role in strengthening community resilience across the state.
Whether you’re a school administrator, a fire chief, or a municipal officer, understanding and using this contract could save time, money—and potentially, lives.
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