S06 RFIs Replace Steam Traps 11-7-24.pdf

# Question VA Final Answer 1 Please clarify what drawings are required for the project - drawing of every trap station to scale or general P&ID's for various trap types, operating pressures and applications?

This ties to Item 11. If we provide them drawings, is it going to change the drawing configuration/pipe sizes with the replacement? If so, we should have them revise the drawings. We may want to have them create a general drawing for various traps and locations where we don’t have drawings. We can use this documentation moving forward.

2 Regarding replacement trap design recommendations, should the contractor provide condensate load calculations for each location and the resulting required replacement trap capacity including an appropriate safety factor?

This may tell us if the trap is sized correctly. Otherwise, they may just replace like for like.

Please price as an option line item

3 If during the design phase insulation is found that may be asbestos containing, who is responsible for testing? In the event said insulation is found to be asbestos containing, who is responsible for removal?

VA will provide the test to see if it is asbestos. Contract mod will be issued for removal of the asbestos. Please provide a cost per linear foot with your bid.

4 If the contractor is responsible for either of the above, can the VA provide a survey or list of all pipe locations in the hospital that are still known to have asbestos insulation?

VA will provide asbestos reports for each building.

5 Does the Lebanon VA classify any of the areas that were included in the walkthrough as confined spaces?

Please adhere to company confined space policy while working in tunnels or crawl spaces or designated confined spaces.

6 Current VA specifications and directives prohibit the use of cast, malleable and ductile iron components in steam applications 15psi or higher (steel construction in required). Will the contractor be responsible for changing all components in the steam trap station that may not meet this requirement (isolation valves, strainer, check valve, fittings, etc.) or just the steam trap and any pipe/fittings that were required to replace the steam trap?

Please provide an add option line item to replace components that use iron, ductile, or malleable fittings and components in high and medium pressure steam systems within a 3-foot area of the steam trap being replaced.

7 The SOW states that the DB A/E is responsible for performing asbestos survey investigations and samplings. Given the streamlined schedule and magnitude of this project, please confirm that asbestos surveying is only required to the extent necessary for trap replacements, not the entire steam distribution system.

Only as it applies to the areas of disturbance during the trap replacement.

8 Does the Lebanon VA have a confined space program that contractors must follow or does the VA defer to the contractors confined space program and procedures?

Contractors must follow the VA confined space guideline where applicable. See Item 5.

9 It is clear from the SOW that the DB A/E will identify the impact of ACM.

Is it also expected that the DB contractor will abate any ACM during construction or will this be removed by the VA?

DB Contractor to remove ACM.

VA to provide ACM air monitoring.

10 The SF1442 item 11 states a period of performance of 270 calendar days however, the "Project Schedule" section of the SOW states full design development and construction within 180 calendar days. Please confirm that the period of performance is 270 calendar days with 90 days of design and 180 days of construction as stated on the SF1442 and Price Schedule.

90 days for design, 180 for construction for a total of 270 days

11 Will the VA be provided current as-builts of the steam distribution and buildings related to the scope of work so that the AE can verify existing conditions.

It will also depend on what is determined for Item 1. If we provide drawings, we should have them updated as necessary.

12 The SOW states all construction must be performed between April 15 to October 15. Please confirm Phase II awards will be made in a reasonable timeframe to allow contractors to complete design and 100% construction documents prior to this date.

Calendar days begin after the project is awarded and Notice to Proceed is issued. (See Item 10).

13 Section 3.4.3.2 Evaluation Factor 2 "Technical Qualifications". Please confirm that projects from both the Prime Contractor and Subcontractor AE will be accepted for evaluation.

Yes, contractors are encouraged to illustrate both the contractor’s and subcontractors’ qualifications and their working relationship.

14 Exhibit A Statement of Prior Experience Part 2 requires us to send Exhibit C package to our references. Will a CPARS be accepted in Lieu of part 2?

The VA will consider CPARS. However, contractors are strongly encouraged to provide Exhibit C to illustrate the contractor's and subcontractors' prior experience with the unique nature of this contract and your prior collaboration. Failure to include Exhibit C may impact the VA’s ability to analyze your proposal fully.