In what context does a COR have to adhere to ethical standards?

A Contracting Officer Representative (COR) must adhere to ethical standards throughout all contract interactions to ensure integrity, transparency, and fairness in the procurement process. Ethical conduct is essential in maintaining public trust and confidence, as CORs often operate in environments funded by taxpayer dollars.

By abiding by these standards at all times during contract management—whether during negotiations, performance monitoring, or stakeholder interactions—the COR helps to prevent conflicts of interest and promotes accountability. This ethical framework guides decision-making, ensuring that the COR acts in the best interests of the government while fostering equitable treatment among all contractors and stakeholders involved in the process.

Adhering to ethical standards only during negotiations or specific situations, such as reporting performance issues, would not encompass the full scope of their responsibilities, potentially leading to lapses in integrity in other crucial areas of contract management.