Specifications include, but are not limited to: 1. Complete the background checks within seven (7) calendar days of receipt of a completed background check application from background check applicant (Turn-Around Time). The completed background check application means an application received by Contractor that contains all information required on the application, current and past residences, and fingerprints necessary for Contractor to conduct background checks; 2. Conduct the background checks in the most expedient, convenient manner possible, taking into account matters of time, distance, physical conditions, and resources of the Department and of the persons or entities in need of the background checks; 3. Conduct the first level review of appeal in the event a person or entity receives an unacceptable background check result and submits an appeal of the result pursuant to Department procedures. 4. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the turn-around time excludes circumstances beyond Contractor’s control, including: (i) delays due to applications submitted with incomplete information; (ii) Contractor needing to contact DOH or the applicant or the applicant's current or prospective employer for additional information; (iii) requests from DOH to extend processing times or keep cases open; (iv) delays due to research sources' (FBI, court, school, employer, etc.) failure to respond to written requests from Contractor in a timely manner; (v) delays in obtaining information from a research source due to the source being no longer in operation, unavailable or otherwise slow to respond to requests; or (vi) delays due to a research source requiring information requests or results, or both, be submitted via U.S. Mail (as opposed to fax, email or other expedited methods). If such extenuating circumstances occur, the CONTRACTOR shall immediately notify DOH of the delay in the turn-around time and keep DOH informed as to when the delayed task is completed.