36C24619B0041-003.doc

652-19-106 Public Restroom Upgrades

DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS

MASTER SPECIFICATIONS

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Section 00 01 10

DIVISION 01 ‑ GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

DIVISION 02 – EXISTING CONDITIONS

DIVISION 03 – CONCRETE (NOT USED)

DIVISION 04 – MASONRY (NOT USED)

DIVISION 05 – METALS (NOT USED)

DIVISION 06 – WOOD,PLASTICS AND COMPOSITES (NOT USED)

DIVISION 07 ‑ THERMAL AND MOISTURE PROTECTION (NOT USED)

DIVISION 08 – OPENINGS

DIVISION 09 – FINISHES

DIVISION 10 – SPECIALTIES

DIVISION 11 – EQUIPMENT (NOT USED)

DIVISION 12 – FURNISHINGS

DIVISION 22 – PLUMBING

DIVISION 23 – HEATING, VENTILATING, AND AIR CONDITIONING (HVAC)

DIVISION 26 – ELECTRICAL

SECTION 01 00 00

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

1.1 GENERAL INTENTION

A.

Contractor shall furnish labor, materials, equipment, tools, transportation and qualified supervision necessary to perform the design and construction to reconfigure, renovate, and completely prepare the site for building operations, including demolition and removal of existing structures, and furnish labor and materials to remodel required by drawings and specifications of all bathrooms areas at the McGuire VA Medical Center’s Main Building(bldg 500 and 507) referenced in the drawings Public Restroom Upgrades.

B.

Primary construction skill trades are anticipated to be, pipe fitting, structural (ceilings, carpentry, metal stud walls, flooring, painting), asbestos removal, electrical, plumbing and demolition.

C.

All design and construction shall comply with applicable VA, Federal, OSHA, NFPA, State, Industry, and BOCA requirements and construction standards.

D.

Asbestos-containing materials (ACM) exist within the project area and shall be abated by the contractor as required.

F.

Only one (1) site visit will be conducted on the date of the pre-proposal conference. The date, time and location of the pre-proposal conference is as stated in the solicitation. Attendance is recommended, but not required.

G.

All employees of general contractor and subcontractors shall comply with VA security management program and obtain permission of the VA police, be identified by project and employer, and restricted from unauthorized access.

H.

Prior to commencing work, general contractor shall provide proof that a OSHA certified “competent person” (CP) (29 CFR 1926.20(b) (2) will maintain a presence at the work site whenever the general or subcontractors are present. Deliver documentation to COR and Facility Safety Manager.

I.

Training:

1.

All employees of general contractor or subcontractors shall have the 10-hour OSHA certified Construction Safety course and other relevant competency training, as determined by VA CP with input from the ICRA team.

2.

Submit training records of all employees for approval before the start of work. Submit records to COR and VA Safety Manager.

3.

The General Contractor’s competent person shall have completed the 30-hour OSHA certified training course.

4. General Contractor’s employees shall have “McGuire VA Medical Center Safety Competency for Contracted Workers” training before start of work. Coordinate training with VA Safety Manager. The Facility Safety Manager can be contacted at 804-675-5904.

1.2 STATEMENT OF PROPOSAL ITEM(S)

A.

PROPOSAL ITEM I, (BASE PROPOSAL): Contractor shall furnish professional engineering design services, labor, materials, equipment, tools, transportation and qualified supervision necessary to perform the construction for upgrading the bathrooms and drinking areas located on floors LL, 1st, 2nd, and 3rd of Building 500 indicated by the reference drawings including:

· Renovate all bathrooms, in Bldg 500 rooms 1D-155, 1D-156, 1D-119, 1D-122, 1G-200, 1G-201, 1G-202, 1G-203, 1H-137, 1H-138, 1B-106, 1B-107, 1C-101, 1C-102, 1G-121, 1G-125, 1D-148, 1D-149, 1Y-108, 1Y-109, 1B-172, 1B-173,1B-139, 1B-140, 1B-141, 1G-157, 1G-158, 1G-187, 1G-188,1E-124, 1E-125, 1G-159, 1G-164, 1G-166, 1E-146, 1E-153, 1E-155, 1X-202, 1X-178, 1X-180 and in Bldg 507 B-101, and B-102. NOTE: For work in Bldg 507 the contractor shall provide and maintain a fully heated/AC, lighted ADA compliant temporary bathroom trailer with associated access walkway connected to Bldg 507 during the restroom renovation.

· Including all demolition, abatement, new finishes and tile, replacement of plumbing fixtures, alterations, casework, finishes, mechanical, electrical, plumbing work and all associated work for renovation.

All work shall be performed within one hundred eighty (365) calendar days of receipt of the Notice to Proceed.

B. PROPOSAL ITEM II (Proposal Alternate 1): Perform all work as described in PROPOSAL ITEM I (Base Proposal) except DELETE all construction work associated rooms 1X-202, 1X-178, 1X-180, 1G-200, 1G-201, 1G-202, 1G-203, 1H-137, and 1H-138.

All work shall be performed within one hundred fifty (300) calendar days of receipt of the Notice to Proceed.

1.3 SPECIFICATIONS AND DRAWINGS FOR CONTRACTOR

A.

Drawings and specifications attached to the solicitation are provided for information, only. The Contractor shall be responsible for successful completion of the project in accordance with the project scope of work.

1.4 construction security requirements

A.

Security Plan:

1.

The security plan defines both physical and administrative security procedures that will remain effective for the entire duration of the project.

2.

The General Contractor is responsible for assuring that all sub-contractors working on the project and their employees also comply with these regulations.

B.

Security Procedures:

1.

General Contractor’s employees shall not enter the project site without appropriate badge. They may also be subject to inspection of their personal effects when entering or leaving the project site. General Contractor’s employees without appropriate badge will be removed from site.

2.

For working outside the “regular hours” as defined in the contract, The General Contractor shall provide (72) hour notice to the COR so that security arrangements can be provided for the employees. This notice is separate from any notices required for utility shutdown described later in this section.

3.

No photography of VA premises is allowed without written permission of the Contracting Officer.

4.

VA reserves the right to close down or shut down the project site and order General Contractor’s employees off the premises in the event of a national emergency. The General Contractor may return to the site only with the written approval of the Contracting Officer.

C.

Document Control:

1.

The General Contractor is responsible for safekeeping of all drawings, project manual and other project information. This information shall be shared only with those with a specific need to accomplish the project.

D.

Key Control:

1.

The General Contractor shall provide duplicate keys and lock combinations to the Resident Engineer for the purpose of security inspections of every area of project including tool boxes and parked machines and take any emergency action.

2.

The General Contractor shall turn over all permanent lock cylinders to the VA locksmith for permanent installation. See Section 08 71 00, DOOR HARDWARE and coordinate.

1.5 FIRE SAFETY

A.

Applicable Publications: Publications listed below form part of this Article to extent referenced. Publications are referenced in text by basic designations only.

1.

American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM):

E84-2008 Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials

2.

National Fire Protection Association (NFPA):

10-2006 Standard for Portable Fire Extinguishers

30-2007 Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code

51B-2003 Standard for Fire Prevention During Welding, Cutting and Other Hot Work

70-2007 National Electrical Code

241-2004 Standard for Safeguarding Construction, Alteration, and Demolition Operations

3.

Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA):

29 CFR 1926

Safety and Health Regulations for Construction

B. Fire Safety Plan: Establish and maintain a fire protection program in accordance with 29 CFR 1926. Prior to start of work, prepare a plan detailing project-specific fire safety measures, including periodic status reports, and submit to COR and Facility Safety Manager for review and compliance with contract requirements in accordance with Section 01 33 23, SHOP DRAWINGS, PRODUCT DATA AND SAMPLES. Prior to beginning any work, all General and Subcontractor’s employees shall undergo a safety briefing provided by the general contractor’s competent person per OSHA requirements. This briefing shall include information on the construction limits, VAMC safety guidelines, means of egress, break areas, work hours, locations of restrooms, use of VAMC equipment, etc. Documentation shall be provided to the COR that individuals have undergone contractor’s safety briefing before start of work.

C.

Site and Building Access: Maintain free and unobstructed access to facility emergency services and for fire, police and other emergency response forces in accordance with NFPA 241.

D.

Separate temporary facilities, such as trailers, storage sheds, and dumpsters, from existing buildings and new construction by distances in accordance with NFPA 241. For small facilities with less than 6 m (20 feet) exposing overall length, separate by 3m (10 feet).

E.

Temporary Heating and Electrical: Install, use and maintain installations in accordance with 29 CFR 1926, NFPA 241 and NFPA 70.

F.

Means of Egress: Do not block exiting for occupied buildings, including paths from exits to roads. Minimize disruptions and coordinate with COR and facility Safety Manager.

G.

Egress Routes for Construction Workers: Maintain free and unobstructed egress. Inspect daily. Report findings and corrective actions to COR weekly.

H. Fire Extinguishers: Provide and maintain extinguishers in construction areas and temporary storage areas in accordance with 29 CFR 1926, NFPA 241 and NFPA 10.

I.

Flammable and Combustible Liquids: Store, dispense and use liquids in accordance with 29 CFR 1926, NFPA 241 and NFPA 30.

J.

Sprinklers: Install, test and activate new automatic sprinklers prior to removing existing sprinklers.

K.

Existing Fire Protection: Do not impair automatic sprinklers, smoke and heat detection, and fire alarm systems, except for portions immediately under construction, and temporarily for connections. Provide fire watch for impairments more than 4 hours in a 24-hour period. Request interruptions in accordance with Article, OPERATIONS AND STORAGE AREAS, and coordinate with Facility Safety Manager. All existing or temporary fire protection systems (fire alarms, sprinklers) located in construction areas shall be tested as coordinated with the medical center. Parameters for the testing and results of any tests performed shall be recorded by the medical center and copies provided to the Resident Engineer.

L.

Smoke Detectors: Prevent accidental operation. Remove temporary covers at end of work operations each day. Coordinate with facility Safety Manager.

M.

Hot Work: Perform and safeguard hot work operations in accordance with NFPA 241 and NFPA 51B. Coordinate with COR and Facility Safety manager. Obtain permits from facility Safety Manager or designee at least thirty-six (36) hours in advance. Designate contractor's responsible project-site fire prevention program manager to permit hot work. Hot work permits expire at 2pm daily.

O.

Fire Hazard Prevention and Safety Inspections: Inspect entire construction areas weekly. Coordinate with COR and report findings and corrective actions weekly to Facility Safety Manger and COR.

P.

Smoking: Smoking is prohibited in and adjacent to construction areas inside existing buildings and additions under construction. In separate and detached buildings under construction, smoking is prohibited except in designated smoking rest areas.

Q.

Dispose of waste and debris in accordance with NFPA 241. Remove from buildings daily.

R.

Perform other construction, alteration and demolition operations in accordance with 29 CFR 1926.

S.

If required, submit documentation to the COR that personnel have been trained in the fire safety aspects of working in areas with impaired structural or compartmentalization features.

T.

Temporary Construction Partitions:

1.

Install and maintain temporary construction partitions to provide smoke-tight and dust tight separations between any applicable construction areas and adjoining areas. Partition to be constructed of metal studs and drywall- taped and finished on side occupied by Hospital.

1.6 OPERATIONS AND STORAGE AREAS

A.

The Contractor shall confine all operations (including storage of materials) on Government premises to areas authorized or approved by the COR. The Contractor shall hold and save the Government, its officers and agents, free and harmless from liability of any nature occasioned by the Contractor's performance.

B.

Temporary buildings (e.g., storage sheds, shops, offices) and utilities may be erected by the Contractor only with the approval of the Contracting Officer and shall be built at the Contractor’s own expense. The temporary buildings and utilities shall remain the property of the Contractor and shall be removed by the Contractor at his expense upon completion of the work. With the written consent of the Contracting Officer, the buildings and utilities may be abandoned and need not be removed.

C.

The Contractor shall, under regulations prescribed by the Contracting Officer, use only established roadways, or use temporary roadways constructed by the Contractor when and as authorized by the Contracting Officer. When materials are transported in prosecuting the work, vehicles shall not be loaded beyond the loading capacity recommended by the manufacturer of the vehicle or prescribed by any Federal, State, or local law or regulation. When it is necessary to cross curbs or sidewalks, the Contractor shall protect them from damage. The Contractor shall repair or pay for the repair of any damaged curbs, sidewalks, or roads.

D.

Working space and space available for storing materials shall be determined by the COR. Storage area shall be enclosed by 6’ high white vinyl privacy fence, chain link not acceptable. Site shall be returned to original condition.

E.

Workmen are subject to rules of Medical Center applicable to their conduct.

F.

Execute work so as to interfere as little as possible with normal functioning of Medical Center as a whole, including operations of utility services, fire protection systems and any existing equipment, and with work being done by others. Use of equipment and tools that transmit vibrations and noises through the building structure, are not permitted in buildings that are occupied, during construction, jointly by patients or medical personnel, and Contractor's personnel, except as permitted by COR where required by limited working space.

1.

Do not store materials and equipment in other than assigned areas.

2.

Schedule delivery of materials and equipment to immediate construction working areas within buildings in use by Department of Veterans Affairs in quantities sufficient for not more than two workdays. Provide unobstructed access to Medical Center areas required to remain in operation.

3.

Where access by Medical Center personnel to vacated portions of buildings is not required, storage of Contractor's materials and equipment will be permitted subject to fire and safety requirements.

F. Utilities Services: Where necessary to cut existing pipes, electrical wires, conduits, cables, etc., of utility services, or of fire protection systems or communications systems (except telephone), they shall be cut and capped at suitable places where shown; or, in absence of such indication, where directed by COR. All such actions shall be coordinated with the Utility Company involved:

1.

Whenever it is required that a connection fee be paid to a public utility provider for new permanent service to the construction project, for such items as water, sewer, electricity, gas or steam, payment of such fee shall be the responsibility of the Government and not the Contractor.

G.

Phasing: This project will be phased to minimize the interruption to medical services. The contractor will only work on no more than four non-adjacent restrooms at one time. The Contractor is responsible for creating implementing the phasing schedule after VA approval of the phasing plan. Contractor shall carefully review phasing requirements. The contractor shall include all measures to fulfill the intent of these phasing requirements, whether specifically shown or detailed. Adjacent clinical operations will remain in service during construction. Any work that will adversely affect these operations (excess noise, deliveries, disposal, fumes, dust, site access, etc) must be conducted between 4:00pm to 7:00am weekdays or on weekends. To insure such executions, Contractor shall furnish the COR and Contracting Officer with a schedule of approximate dates on which the Contractor intends to accomplish work in each specific area of site, building or portion thereof. In addition, Contractor shall notify the COR two weeks in advance of the proposed date of starting work in each specific area of site, building or portion thereof. Arrange such phasing dates to insure accomplishment of this work in successive phases mutually agreeable to Medical Center Director, Resident Engineer and Contractor, per phasing plans on the reference drawings.

H.

The main hospital building No. 500 will be occupied during performance of work. Contractor shall take all measures and provide all material necessary for protecting existing equipment and property in affected areas of construction against dust and debris, so that equipment and affected areas to be used in Medical Center operations will not be hindered. Contractor shall permit access to Department of Veterans Affairs personnel and patients through other construction areas which serve as routes of access to such affected areas and equipment. Coordinate alteration work in areas occupied by Department of Veterans Affairs so that Medical Center operations will continue during the construction period. Framed signage shall be posted outside each construction area to route patients and staff to the nearest restroom or drinking fountain area.

J.

When a building is turned over to Contractor, Contractor shall accept entire responsibility therefore.

1.

Contractor shall maintain a minimum temperature of 4 degrees C (40 degrees F) at all times, except as otherwise specified.

2.

Contractor shall maintain in operating condition existing fire protection and alarm equipment. In connection with fire alarm equipment, Contractor shall make arrangements for pre‑inspection of site with Fire Department or Company (Department of Veterans Affairs or municipal) whichever will be required to respond to an alarm from Contractor's employee or watchman.

K.

Utilities Services: Maintain existing utility services for Medical Center at all times. Provide temporary facilities, labor, materials, equipment, connections, and utilities to assure uninterrupted services. Where necessary to cut existing water, steam, gases, sewer or air pipes, or conduits, wires, cables, etc. of utility services or of fire protection systems and communications systems (including telephone), they shall be cut and capped at suitable places where shown; or, in absence of such indication, where directed by COR.

1.

No utility service such as water, gas, steam, sewers or electricity, or fire protection systems and communications systems may be interrupted without prior approval of COR. Electrical work shall be accomplished with all affected circuits or equipment de-energized. When an electrical outage cannot be accomplished, work on any energized circuits or equipment shall not commence without the Medical Center Director’s prior knowledge and written approval. Refer to specification Sections 26 05 11, REQUIREMENTS FOR ELECTRICAL INSTALLATIONS, for additional requirements.

2.

Contractor shall submit a request to interrupt any such services to COR, in writing, at least 15 calendar days in advance of proposed interruption. Request shall state reason, date, exact time of, and approximate duration of such interruption.

3.

Contractor will be advised (in writing) of approval of request, or of which other date and/or time, such interruption will cause least inconvenience to operations of Medical Center. Interruption time approved by Medical Center may occur at other than Contractor's normal working hours.

4.

Major interruptions of any system must be requested, in writing, at least 15 calendar days prior to the desired time and shall be performed as directed by the COR.

5.

In case of a contract construction emergency, service will be interrupted on approval of COR. Such approval will be confirmed in writing as soon as practical.

6.

Whenever it is required that a connection fee be paid to a public utility provider for new permanent service to the construction project, for such items as water, sewer, electricity, gas or steam, payment of such fee shall be the responsibility of the Government and not the Contractor.

7. No utility service (e.g. water, electricity, steam) may be interrupted for more than eight (8) hours. Request interruption at least 15 calendar days prior to the desired time and shall be performed as directed by COR. Contractor will be advised of approval of requests, or of which other date and/or time such interruption will cause least inconvenience to Medical Center operations. Interruption time approved by Medical Center may occur outside of Contractor’s normal working hours.

L.

Abandoned Lines: All service lines such as wires, cables, conduits, ducts, pipes and the like, and their hangers or supports, which are to be abandoned but are not required to be entirely removed, shall be sealed, capped or plugged. The lines shall not be capped in finished areas, but shall be removed and sealed, capped or plugged in ceilings, within furred spaces, in unfinished areas, or within walls or partitions; so that they are completely behind the finished surfaces.

M.

To minimize interference of construction activities with flow of Medical Center traffic, comply with the following:

1.

Keep roads, walks and entrances to grounds, to parking and to occupied areas of buildings clear of construction materials, debris and standing construction equipment and vehicles. Wherever excavation for new utility lines cross existing roads, at least one lane must be open to traffic at all times.

2.

Method and scheduling of required cutting, altering and removal of existing roads, walks and entrances must be approved by the COR.

N.

Coordinate the work for this contract with other construction operations as directed by COR. This includes the scheduling of traffic and the use of roadways, as specified in Article, USE OF ROADWAYS.

1.7 ALTERATIONS

A.

Survey: Before any work is started, the Contractor shall make a thorough survey with the COR and Contracting Officer areas of buildings in which alterations occur and areas which are anticipated routes of access, and furnish a report, signed by all three, to the Contracting Officer. This report shall list by rooms and spaces:

1.

Existing condition and types of resilient flooring, doors, windows, walls and other surfaces not required to be altered throughout affected areas of buildings.

2.

Existence and conditions of items such as plumbing fixtures and accessories, electrical fixtures, equipment, venetian blinds, shades, etc., required by drawings to be either reused or relocated, or both.

3.

Shall note any discrepancies between drawings and existing conditions at site.

4.

Shall designate areas for working space, materials storage and routes of access to areas within buildings where alterations occur and which have been agreed upon by Contractor and COR.

B.

Any items required by drawings to be either reused or relocated or both, found during this survey to be nonexistent, or in opinion of COR, to be in such condition that their use is impossible or impractical, shall be furnished and/or replaced by Contractor with new items in accordance with specifications which will be furnished by Government. Provided the contract work is changed by reason of this subparagraph B, the contract will be modified accordingly, under provisions of clause entitled "DIFFERING SITE CONDITIONS" (FAR 52.236‑2) and "CHANGES" (FAR 52.243‑4 and VAAR 852.236‑88).

C.

Re‑Survey: Thirty days before expected partial or final inspection date, the Contractor and COR together shall make a thorough re‑survey of the areas of buildings involved. They shall furnish a report on conditions then existing, of resilient flooring, doors, windows, walls and other surfaces as compared with conditions of same as noted in first condition survey report:

1.

Re‑survey report shall also list any damage caused by Contractor to such flooring and other surfaces, despite protection measures; and, will form basis for determining extent of repair work required of Contractor to restore damage caused by Contractor's workmen in executing work of this contract.

D.

Protection: Provide the following protective measures:

1.

Wherever existing roof surfaces are disturbed they shall be protected against water infiltration. In case of leaks, they shall be repaired immediately upon discovery.

2.

Temporary protection against damage for portions of existing structures and grounds where work is to be done, materials handled and equipment moved and/or relocated.

3.

Protection of interior of existing structures at all times, from damage, dust and weather inclemency. Wherever work is performed, floor surfaces that are to remain in place shall be adequately protected prior to starting work, and this protection shall be maintained intact until all work in the area is completed.

4. Dampen debris to keep down dust and provide temporary construction partitions in existing structures where directed by Facility Engineer. Blank off ducts and diffusers to prevent circulation of dust into occupied areas during construction.

1.8 INFECTION PREVENTION MEASURES

A.

Implement the requirements of VAMC’s Infection Control Risk Assessment (ICRA) team. ICRA Group may monitor dust near the construction work and require the Contractor to take corrective action immediately if the safe levels are exceeded. Inspections may take place at any time. Infection Control applies to all contracts where there are patients or staff offices in adjacent rooms, or vicinity of, and dust would have detrimental effects on veterans and staff in the opinion of the ICRA Group.

B.

Establish and maintain a dust control program as part of the contractor’s infection preventive measures in accordance with the guidelines provided by ICRA Group Guidelines will be discussed at pre-bid conference. Prior to start of work, prepare a plan detailing project-specific dust protection measures, including periodic status reports, and submit to COR and Facility Safety Manager for review for compliance with contract requirements in accordance with Section 01 33 23, SHOP DRAWINGS, PRODUCT DATA AND SAMPLES.

1.

All personnel involved in the construction or renovation activity shall be educated and trained in infection prevention measures established by the medical center.

C.

Medical Center Infection Control personnel shall monitor for airborne disease (e.g. aspergillosis) as appropriate during construction. A baseline of conditions may be established by the medical center prior to the start of work and periodically during the construction stage to determine impact of construction activities on indoor air quality. In addition:

1.

The COR and VAMC Infection Control personnel shall review pressure differential monitoring documentation to verify that pressure differentials in the construction zone and in the direct and indirect patient-care areas are appropriate for their settings. The requirement for negative air pressure in the construction zone shall depend on the location and type of activity. Upon notification, the contractor shall implement corrective measures to restore proper pressure differentials as needed.

2.

In case of any problem, the medical center, along with assistance from the contractor, shall conduct an environmental assessment to find and eliminate the source.

D.

In general, following preventive measures shall be adopted during construction to keep down dust and prevent mold. Analyze each site during design to determine the effects of blocking HVAC ducts and their impact on existing air handling systems that must remain operational before initiating a dust control program. The method of capping ducts shall be dust tight and withstand airflow.

1.

Dampen debris to keep down dust and provide temporary construction partitions in existing structures where directed by COR. Blank off ducts and diffusers to prevent circulation of dust into occupied areas during construction.

2. Construct anteroom to maintain negative airflow from clean area through anteroom and into work area where required.

3.

Do not perform dust producing tasks within occupied areas without the approval of the COR. For construction in any areas that will remain jointly occupied by the Medical Center and Contractor’s workers, the Contractor shall:

a.

Provide dust proof fire-rated temporary drywall construction barriers to completely separate construction from the operational areas of the hospital in order to contain dirt debris and dust. Barriers shall be sealed and made presentable on hospital occupied side. Install a self-closing rated door in a metal frame, commensurate with the partition, to allow worker access. Maintain negative air at all times. A fire retardant polystyrene, 6-mil thick or greater plastic barrier meeting local fire codes may be used where dust control is the only hazard, and an agreement is reached with the COR and Medical Center.

b.

HEPA filtration is required where the exhaust dust may reenter the breathing zone. Contractor shall verify that construction exhaust to exterior is not reintroduced to the medical center through intake vents, or building openings. Install HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Accumulator) filter vacuum system rated at 95% capture of 0.3 microns including pollen, mold spores and dust particles. Insure continuous negative air pressures occurring within the work area. HEPA filters should have ASHRAE 85 or other prefilter to extend the useful life of the HEPA. Provide both primary and secondary filtrations units. Exhaust hoses shall be heavy duty, flexible steel reinforced and exhausted so that dust is not reintroduced to the medical center.

c.

Adhesive Walk-off/Carpet Walk-off Mats, minimum 600mm x 900mm (24” x 36”), shall be used at all interior transitions from the construction area to occupied medical center area. These mats shall be changed as often as required to maintain clean work areas directly outside construction area at all times.

d.

Vacuum and wet mop all transition areas from construction to the occupied medical center at the end of each workday. Vacuum shall utilize HEPA filtration. Maintain surrounding area frequently. Remove debris as created. Transport these outside the construction area in containers with tightly fitting lids.

e.

The contractor shall not haul debris through patient-care areas without prior approval of the COR and the Medical Center. When, approved, debris shall be hauled in enclosed dust proof containers or wrapped in plastic and sealed with duct tape. No sharp objects should be allowed to cut through the plastic. Wipe down the exterior of the containers with a damp rag to remove dust. All equipment, tools, material, etc. transported through occupied areas shall be made free from dust and moisture by vacuuming and wipe down.

f.

Using a HEPA vacuum, clean inside the barrier and vacuum ceiling tile prior to replacement. Any ceiling access panels opened for investigation beyond sealed areas shall be sealed immediately when unattended.

g.

There shall be no standing water during construction. This includes water in equipment drip pans and open containers within the construction areas. All accidental spills must be cleaned up and dried within 8 hours. Remove and dispose of porous materials that remain damp for more than 48 hours.

h. At completion, remove construction barriers and ceiling protection carefully, outside of normal work hours. Vacuum and clean all surfaces free of dust after the removal.

4. High risk patient and support areas may require additional measures like air locks, special signage, and negative pressure alarms. Identify these areas on the drawing and coordinate with COR and Medical Center personnel to achieve desired level of isolation suited to the scope of risk involved.

E.

Final Cleanup:

1.

Upon completion of project, or as work progresses, remove all construction debris from above ceiling, vertical shafts and utility chases that have been part of the construction.

2.

Perform HEPA vacuum cleaning of all surfaces in the construction area. This includes walls, ceilings, cabinets, furniture (built-in or free standing), partitions, flooring, etc.

3.

All new air ducts shall be cleaned prior to final inspection.

1.9 PROTECTION OF EXISTING VEGETATION, STRUCTURES, EQUIPMENT, UTILITIES, AND IMPROVEMENTS

A.

The Contractor shall preserve and protect all structures, equipment, and vegetation (such as trees, shrubs, and grass) on or adjacent to the work site, which are not to be removed and which do not unreasonably interfere with the work required under this contract.

B.

The Contractor shall protect from damage all existing improvements and utilities at or near the work site and on adjacent property of a third party, the locations of which are made known to or should be known by the Contractor. The Contractor shall repair any damage to those facilities, including those that are the property of a third party, resulting from failure to comply with the requirements of this contract or failure to exercise reasonable care in performing the work. If the Contractor fails or refuses to repair the damage promptly, the Contracting Officer may have the necessary work performed and charge the cost to the Contractor.

(FAR 52.236‑9)

1.10 RESTORATION

A.

Remove, cut, alter, replace, patch and repair existing work as necessary to install new work. Except as otherwise shown or specified, do not cut, alter or remove any structural work, and do not disturb any ducts, plumbing, steam, gas, or electric work without approval of the COR. Existing work to be altered or extended and that is found to be defective in any way, shall be reported to the COR before it is disturbed. Materials and workmanship used in restoring work, shall conform in type and quality to that of original existing construction, except as otherwise shown or specified.

B.

Upon completion of contract, deliver work complete and undamaged. Existing work (walls, ceilings, partitions, floors, mechanical and electrical work, lawns, paving, roads, walks, etc.) disturbed or removed as a result of performing required new work, shall be patched, repaired, reinstalled, or replaced with new work, and refinished and left in as good condition as existed before commencing work.

C.

At Contractor's own expense, Contractor shall immediately restore to service and repair any damage caused by Contractor's workers.

D.

Expense of repairs to such utilities and systems not shown on drawings or locations of which are unknown will be covered by adjustment to contract time and price in accordance with clause entitled "CHANGES" (FAR 52.243‑4 and VAAR 852.236‑88) and "DIFFERING SITE CONDITIONS" (FAR 52.236‑2).

1.11 As-Built Drawings

A.

The contractor shall maintain two full size sets of as-built drawings which will be kept current during construction of the project, to include all contract changes, modifications and clarifications.

B.

All variations shall be shown in the same general detail as used in the contract drawings. To insure compliance, as-built drawings shall be made available for the COR review, as often as requested.

C. Contractor shall deliver two CD’s containing the as-built drawings in editable AutoCAD (.dwg) format within 15 calendar days of the final inspection.

D.

Paragraphs A, B, & C shall also apply to all shop drawings.

1.12 USE OF ROADWAY

A.

For hauling, use only established public roads and roads on Medical Center property and, when authorized by the COR, such temporary roads which are necessary in the performance of contract work. Temporary roads shall be constructed by the Contractor at Contractor's expense. When necessary to cross curbing, sidewalks, or similar construction, they must be protected by well constructed bridges.

1.13 TEMPORARY USE OF EXISTING ELEVATORS

A.

Use of existing elevators for handling building materials and Contractor's personnel will be permitted subject to following provisions:

1.

Contractor makes all arrangements with the COR for use of elevators. The COR will ascertain that elevators are in proper condition

2.

Contractor covers and provides maximum protection of following elevator components:

a.

Entrance jambs, heads soffits and threshold plates.

b.

Entrance columns, canopy, return panels and inside surfaces of car enclosure walls.

c.

Finish flooring.

3.

Contractor shall limit use during normal business hours and coordinate deliveries and disposal of materials for off-hours when possible and practical.

1.14 AVAILABILITY AND USE OF UTILITY SERVICES

A.

The Government shall make all reasonably required amounts of utilities available to the Contractor from existing outlets and supplies, as specified in the contract. The amount to be paid by the Contractor for chargeable electrical services shall be the prevailing rates charged to the Government. The Contractor shall carefully conserve any utilities furnished without charge.

B.

Electricity (for Construction and Testing): Furnish all temporary electric services.

1.

Obtain electricity by connecting to the Medical Center electrical distribution system. The Contractor shall meter and pay for electricity required for electric cranes and hoisting devices, electrical welding devices and any electrical heating devices providing temporary heat. Electricity for all other uses is available at no cost to the Contractor.

C.

Water (for Construction and Testing): Furnish temporary water service.

1.

Obtain water by connecting to the Medical Center water distribution system. Provide reduced pressure backflow preventer at each connection. Water is available at no cost to the Contractor.

2.

Maintain connections, pipe, fittings and fixtures and conserve water‑use so none is wasted. Failure to stop leakage or other wastes will be cause for revocation (at COR’s discretion) of use of water from Medical Center's system.

1.15 INSTRUCTIONS

A.

Contractor shall furnish Maintenance and Operating manuals and verbal instructions when required by the various sections of the specifications and as hereinafter specified.

B.

Manuals: Maintenance and operating manuals (four copies each) for each separate piece of equipment shall be delivered to the COR coincidental with the delivery of the equipment to the job site. Manuals shall be complete, detailed guides for the maintenance and operation of equipment. They shall include complete information necessary for starting, adjusting, maintaining in continuous operation for long periods of time and dismantling and reassembling of the complete units and sub‑assembly components. Manuals shall include an index covering all component parts clearly cross‑referenced to diagrams and illustrations. Illustrations shall include "exploded" views showing and identifying each separate item. Emphasis shall be placed on the use of special tools and instruments. The function of each piece of equipment, component, accessory and control shall be clearly and thoroughly explained. All necessary precautions for the operation of the equipment and the reason for each precaution shall be clearly set forth. Manuals must reference the exact model, style and size of the piece of equipment and system being furnished. Manuals referencing equipment similar to but of a different model, style, and size than that furnished will not be accepted.

1.16 CONTRACT COMPLETION DATE

A.

Work shall be accomplished within the period specified under each proposal item. Completion Date" shall mean that date as established by Contracting Officer upon which Contractor will turn over entire project or portions thereof to the Government. Contract completion includes final inspection and completion of all (if any) punch list items, to include final clean up.

1.17 GOVERNMENT‑FURNISHED PROPERTY

A.

The Government shall deliver to the Contractor, the Government-furnished property specified by the Resident Engineer.

B.

Equipment furnished by Government to be installed by Contractor will be furnished to Contractor at the Medical Center.

C.

Storage space for equipment will be provided by the Government and the Contractor shall be prepared to unload and store such equipment therein upon its receipt at the Medical Center.

D.

Notify Contracting Officer in writing, 60 days in advance, of date on which Contractor will be prepared to receive equipment furnished by Government. Arrangements will then be made by the Government for delivery of equipment.

1.

Immediately upon delivery of equipment, Contractor shall arrange for a joint inspection thereof with a representative of the Government. At such time the Contractor shall acknowledge receipt of equipment described, make notations, and immediately furnish the Government representative with a written statement as to its condition or shortages.

2.

Contractor thereafter is responsible for such equipment until such time as acceptance of contract work is made by the Government.

E.

Equipment furnished by the Government will be delivered in a partially assembled (knock down) condition in accordance with existing standard commercial practices, complete with all fittings, fastenings, and appliances necessary for connections to respective services installed under contract. All fittings and appliances (i.e., couplings, ells, tees, nipples, piping, conduits, cables, and the like) necessary to make the connection between the Government furnished equipment item and the utility stub‑up shall be furnished and installed by the contractor at no additional cost to the Government.

F.

Completely assemble and install the Government furnished equipment in place ready for proper operation in accordance with specifications and drawings.

G.

Furnish supervision of installation of equipment at construction site by qualified factory trained technicians regularly employed by the equipment manufacturer.

1.18 CONSTRUCTION DIGITAL IMAGES

A.

During the construction period through completion, furnish Department of Veterans Affairs with 2(two) views of each location of digital images, including one color print of each view and one Compact Disc (CD) per visit containing those views taken on that visit. Digital views shall be taken of interior as selected and directed by Resident Engineer (RE). Each view shall be taken with a professional grade camera with minimum size of 6 megapixels (MP) and the images will be a minimum of 2272 x 1704 pixels for the 200x250mm (8x 10 inch) prints and 2592 x 1944 pixels for the 400x500 mm (16 x 20 inch) prints, as per these specifications:

1.

Images will be taken at monthly intervals. However, the Resident Engineer may also direct the taking of special digital images at any time prior to completion and acceptance of contract. If the number of trips to the site exceeds an average of one per month of the contract performance period then an adjustment in contract price will be made.

B.

Images shall be taken by a commercial photographer and must show distinctly, at as large a scale as possible, all parts of work embraced in the picture.

C.

Prints shall be made on 200 x 250 mm (8 by 10 inch) regular‑weight matte archival grade photographic paper and produced by a process with a minimum of 300 pixels per inch (PPI). Prints must be printed using the commercial RA4 process (inkjet prints will not be acceptable). Photographs shall have 200 x 200 mm (8 by 8 inch) full picture print with no margin on three sides and a 50 mm (2 inches) margin on the bottom for pre-typed self‑adhesive identity label to be added by Resident Engineer. It is required that the prints are professionally processed so the quality will meet or exceed that of the same size print made with a film camera. Prints must be shipped flat to the Resident Engineer:

D.

Images on CD-ROM shall be recorded in JPEG format with a minimum of 24 bit color and no reduction in actual picture size. Compressed size of the file shall be no less than 80% or the original with no loss of information. File names shall contain the date the image was taken, the Project number and a unique sequential identifier. The CD-ROM shall also contain an index of all the images contained therein in either a TXT or Microsoft Word format.

E.

In case any set of prints are not submitted within five days of date established by Resident Engineer for taking thereof, the Resident Engineer may have such images/photographs taken and cost of same will be deducted from any money due to the Contractor.

F.

Interior Final Photos: After completion of all work in an area final interior photos will be taken. The camera must allow the colors to be as close as possible to the actual colors. View shall be taken after final completion of work. The images shall also be provided on a CD to the RE Office.

- ‑ ‑ E N D ‑ ‑ ‑

SECTION 01 33 23

SHOP DRAWINGS, PRODUCT DATA, AND SAMPLES

1-1. Refer to Articles titled SPECIFICATIONS AND DRAWINGS FOR CONSTRUCTION (FAR 52.236‑21) and, SPECIAL NOTES (VAAR 852.236-91).

1-2.

For the purposes of this contract, samples (including laboratory samples to be tested), test reports, certificates, and manufacturers' literature and data shall also be subject to the previously referenced requirements. The following text refers to all items collectively as SUBMITTALS.

1-3.

Submit for approval, all of the items specifically mentioned under the separate sections of the specification, with information sufficient to evidence full compliance with contract requirements. Materials, fabricated articles and the like to be installed in permanent work shall equal those of approved submittals. After an item has been approved, no change in brand or make will be permitted unless:

A.

Satisfactory written evidence is presented to, and approved by Contracting Officer, that manufacturer cannot make scheduled delivery of approved item or;

B.

Item delivered has been rejected and substitution of a suitable item is an urgent necessity or;

C.

Other conditions become apparent which indicates approval of such substitute item to be in best interest of the Government.

D.

Submittals shall be submitted directly to the VA, and e-copies shall be sent to the Architect/Engineer for review to save time.

E.

Note; All Plumbing Fixtures have al ready been submitted and Approved.

1-4.

Forward submittals in sufficient time to permit proper consideration and approval action by Government. Time submission to assure adequate lead time for procurement of contract ‑ required items. Delays attributable to untimely and rejected submittals will not serve as a basis for extending contract time for completion.

1-5.

Submittals will be reviewed for compliance with contract requirements by Architect‑Engineer, and action thereon will be taken by Resident Engineer on behalf of the Contracting Officer.

1-6.

Upon receipt of submittals, Architect‑Engineer will assign a file number thereto. Contractor, in any subsequent correspondence, shall refer to this file and identification number to expedite replies relative to previously approved or disapproved submittals.

1-7.

The Government reserves the right to require additional submittals, whether or not particularly mentioned in this contract. If additional submittals beyond those required by the contract are furnished pursuant to request therefor by Contracting Officer, adjustment in contract price and time will be made in accordance with Articles titled CHANGES (FAR 52.243‑4) and CHANGES ‑ SUPPLEMENT (VAAR 852.236‑88).

1-8.

Schedules called for in specifications and shown on shop drawings shall be submitted for use and information of Department of Veterans Affairs and Architect‑Engineer. However, the Contractor shall assume responsibility for coordinating and verifying schedules. The Contracting Officer and Architect‑ Engineer assumes no responsibility for checking schedules or layout drawings for exact sizes, exact numbers and detailed positioning of items.

1-9.

Submittals must be submitted by Contractor only and shipped prepaid. Contracting Officer assumes no responsibility for checking quantities or exact numbers included in such submittals.

A.

Submit samples required by the schedule of finishes, in quadruplicate. Submit other samples in quadruplicate units unless otherwise specified. Submit shop drawings, schedules, manufacturers' literature and data, and certificates in quadruplicate, except where a greater number is specified.

B.

Submittals will receive consideration only when…