36C24219B0038-0002001.pdf

RFI’s for Upgrade Pharmacy to 800HD

1. Will the VA consider a modular mobile 800-compliant clinic as a backup to ensure

“continuous production”?

ThinkForm Response: VA to respond. (ThinkForm would not object provided that the modular option is less expensive than the current proposal, could be installed and operational prior to the December 1 deadline, and doesn’t require MEP services in addition to currently designed provisions.)

VA Response: The intent for the back up glovebox is not only to be CETA certified by 12/1/19 but the negative pressure glovebox (CACI) will remain as the dedicated backup. The positive pressure glovebox will already be purchased so utilizing a modular option does not seem like the a more cost effective option.

2. What are the expected evaluation criteria for award?

VA Response: Per FAR 14.101(e) the Government will plan to award to the lowest priced bid received from a bidder that is deemed responsible based on the criterion as outlined in solicitation 36C24219B0038.

3. When is work expected to start?

ThinkForm Response: VA to respond with approximate or specific date.

VA Response: Upon issuance of NTP.

4. Will the 270 days still be allowed given the December 1 date mandated by the solicitation?

ThinkForm Response: 270 Days is the total allowed duration of the project. The December 1 deadline is to have two (2) gloveboxes operational and certified for use by the pharmacy but the contractor will have until October 31 to complete the C-SCA spaces to allow 30 calendar days for commissioning of equipment.

5. "Installation of the CACI sill be by others, but the Contractor is not to proceed with the next phase of work until the CACI unit is connected to mechanical systems" will the installers be expected to complete their work by December 1? Who will certify their work and validate it comports to USP800?

ThinkForm Response: The Contractor is to coordinate their work schedule with the work of equipment vendors to enable installation of the equipment in a timely manner for completed and certified operation of gloveboxes by December 1. The Contractor will be responsible for coordinating any required (CETA) certifications of their work beyond installation and operation of the equipment.

6. Have the installers already been chosen?

ThinkForm Response: No. The VA is not allowed to sole source the equipment and it must solicit bids from three (3) separate vendors. This process is currently underway.

7. "Coordinate alteration work in areas occupied by Department of Veterans Affairs so that Medical Center operations will continue during the construction period." Is there a single point of contact for the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Medical Center?

ThinkForm Response: Yes, the VA Contracting Officer for the project will assign a Representative (Resident Engineer) to enforce requirements to maintain Medical Center Operations during the construction period.

8. What is the ongoing plan for terminal clean following delivery? Is there a spec for this maintenance?

ThinkForm Response: Trained pharmacy technicians, environmental services and infection control staff are responsible for ongoing terminal cleaning procedures for the rooms and equipment following delivery. Procedures typically include following a cleaning checklist.