RFI Responses 679-22-100.docx

679-22-100 - Requests for Information (RFI) Page | 2

1. Controls Integration Do the elevator sump pump alarms and mini-split thermostats require integration into the Campus-Wide Direct Digital Control (DDC) system?

1. Yes, connect to metasys

2. Campus Controls Integration Contractor Please identify the Campus Controls Integration Contractor, including company name, primary contact, phone number, and email address.

1. BAS: Johnson Control’s Metasys

2. Kyle Onofry

3. Email: kyle.bryant.onofry@jci.com

4. Mobile: 205-615-6835

3. Security Systems Contractor (PACS / CCTV) Please identify the existing security contractor responsible for campus-wide video surveillance and Physical Access Control Systems (PACS), including company name, primary contact, phone number, and email address.

1. Johson Controls, Security

2. Michael Hunter

3. michael.hunter@jci.com

4. Fire Alarm Systems Contractor Please identify the existing fire alarm contractor responsible for the campus-wide fire alarm system, including company name, primary contact, phone number, and email address.

1. Johson Controls, Fire Alarm

2. Traci Curlee

3. (334)309-1500

5. Fire Alarm Conduit Identification Are any existing fire alarm conduits required to be painted red? If so, please identify locations and applicable standards.

1. No

6. CRAC and Condensate Units – Demolition Scope Confirmation Please confirm that the existing CRAC Unit (B137 A1-103), the associated condensate unit located on the Sports Atrium roof, and all related refrigerant piping and condensate drain lines are not included in the demolition scope.

1. That is correct. The CRAC unit in A1-103 is not being demolished

7. Steel Coating – Building 2 Elevator Penthouse What is the coating system on the miscellaneous steel located in Building 2, Elevator Penthouse, Room 100?

1. Per specification section 055100.2.3.F, the steel should be shop primed to meet SSPC Paint 25. Field paint with (2) coats of MPI 94 Exterior Alkyd semi-gloss similar to specification section 099100.3.8.B.

8. Drawing Note Clarification On Sheet 5/6, Detail 2.A-100, should the note labeled “Ship’s Ladder” be revised to read “Stair Riser”?

1. The slope is steeper than is generally classified as a "stair", hitting approximately a 45 degree angle with risers at 11.5" tall. The specification section for this item is 055100 Metal Stairs, which notes that it includes "industrial ships ladder stairs and platform".

9. Structural Capacity – Elevator Loads Has the VA verified that the existing concrete slabs meet all applicable deflection and load criteria (static and dynamic) for the reactions imposed by the new elevator equipment?

1. All loads for the new elevators will be in conformance with A17.1 requirements. Selected contractor is responsible for performing the required load measurements and staying in conformance with the Code. No changes in the capacity of the elevators is specified. Review submittal requirements in elevator specifications.

10. Elevator Oil Compliance Have all existing elevator oils been tested and confirmed to be PCB-free?

1. Hydraulic fluid in the tanks has not been tested; however, it is typical hydraulic fluid provided by the elevator industry. Elevator geared traction machines are gear oil. Removal of equipment requires proper disposal of both types of fluid. Elevator equipment does not have oil-filled transformers.

11. Electrical Capacity and Emergency Power Have all transformers, panelboards, and feeders been evaluated and confirmed to be adequate for the new electrical loads, including emergency power requirements where applicable?

1. All equipment has been evaluated and confirmed during the design, with appropriate load calculations

12. Emergency Power – GFCI Receptacles Are GFCI receptacles provided for maintenance personnel required to be connected to emergency power?

1. GFCI receptacles provided are to be circuited as indicated on the plans.

13. IT Closet Proximity Please provide the distance from each elevator machine room or controller location to the nearest IT closet.

1. See attached RFI Answer Map.

2. Building 1 – Telephone/IT/SSTV: Room 332. Bid 295’. Bid two 4” core drills and UL listed sleeves.

Building 2 – Telephone/IT: Room 021. See sheet 2.GL100. SSTV: Room 116A. Bid 295’.

Building 5 – Telephone/IT/SSTV: Room 05A. See 5.GL100.

Building 38 – Telephone/IT/SSTV: G06. Bid 295’. Bid 4” core drill and UL listed sleeve.

Building 135 – Telephone/IT: B07. See sheet 135.GL100.

Building 137 – Telephone/IT: J1-111. See sheet 137.GL100.

14. Sign In Sheet Please provide the sign-in sheet from the pre-bid jobsite walk. –

1. Provided in amendment 0002.

15. EL-01 Elevator All Elevator System Type and Configuration Confirm the exact elevator system type proposed for each unit (gearless traction, geared traction, or hydraulic) and identify whether the controller arrangement is machine-room-less (MRL) or traditional machine-room based. The drawings indicate capacity and stops only and do not clearly define system configuration. This clarification is required to properly coordinate electrical power requirements, HVAC cooling needs, architectural clearances, and life-safety interfaces and to avoid conflicts during installation and acceptance.

1. All elevators are existing being remediated in place. Each specific elevator has detailed specifications for modernization.

16. EL-02 Elevator All Elevator System Type and Controller Configuration Drawings indicate elevator capacities and number of stops but do not clearly identify the specific elevator system type (gearless traction, geared traction, or hydraulic) or whether the controllers are machine-room-less (MRL) or traditional machine-room based. Please confirm the exact elevator system type, controller location, and drive configuration for each elevator. This information is required to properly coordinate electrical power requirements, HVAC cooling provisions, architectural clearances, and life safety interfaces.

1. All elevators are existing being remediated in place. Each specific elevator has detailed specifications for modernization.

17. EL-03 Elevator All OEM Environmental Operating Requirements Provide the elevator manufacturer’s required operating temperature and humidity ranges for controllers, drives, and associated equipment. Confirm whether existing elevator machine rooms and equipment rooms meet these requirements under all operating conditions. This clarification is required to ensure OEM warranty compliance and prevent failed inspections or equipment shutdowns due to environmental conditions.

1. All HVAC and cooling requirements have been engineered for the intended loads. Elevator contractor shall provide required submittals as shown in specifications.

18. EL-04 Elevator All Machine Room Heat Load Responsibility The contract documents do not include calculated heat rejection values for the new elevator equipment. Confirm responsibility for providing heat load calculations and verify whether existing HVAC systems have been evaluated and approved to support the new equipment under full operational load. This clarification is required to avoid scope gaps and post-installation HVAC modifications.

1. All HVAC and cooling requirements have been engineered for the intended loads. Elevator contractor shall provide required submittals as shown in specifications.

19. EL-05 Elevator All Hoistway Venting Compliance Confirm whether existing hoistway venting systems comply with current code and elevator manufacturer requirements. If existing vents are undersized, blocked, or non-compliant, clarify whether modifications or new venting are included in the contract scope or will be addressed by others. This clarification is required to ensure code compliance and successful elevator acceptance.

1. Ventilation requirements have been taken out of the elevator code at this time. Provide all work noted on drawings.

20. EL-06 Elevator All Elevator Pit Ventilation and Moisture Control Clarify whether elevator pits require active ventilation, sump pumps, or moisture detection devices. Confirm whether any existing pit drainage or waterproofing systems must be modified or replaced as part of this project. This clarification is required to prevent water intrusion, corrosion, and equipment failure.

1. Provide mechanical work as shown in the drawings. No waterproofing or drainage modifications are anticipated except what is shown on the drawings, such as the sump pump requirements.

21. EL-07 Elevator All Structural Capacity for New Elevator Loads No structural calculations or details are provided verifying that existing slabs, walls, and anchorage points can support new elevator rail and equipment loads. Confirm whether structural analysis has been performed and whether reinforcement is anticipated. This clarification is required to avoid delays during installation and inspection.

1. All loads are existing and new equipment will be replacing the existing speed and capacity. No calculations are required by code.

22. EL-08 Elevator All Door, Frame, and Hoistway Interface Scope Clarify the division of responsibility between the elevator contractor and architectural trades for door frames, hoistway infill panels, fire-rated assemblies, and finish restoration at elevator openings. This clarification is required to avoid scope overlap or gaps during construction.

1. This is a means and methods questions. GC and elevator contractor are required to complete the work specified.

23. EL-09 Elevator All Firefighter Emergency Operation Floors Confirm the designated primary and alternate recall floors for each elevator and verify coordination with fire alarm programming and VA Fire Marshal requirements. This clarification is required to ensure proper life-safety operation and successful system testing.

1. Answered in the specifications

24. EL-10 Elevator All Testing, Inspection, and Acceptance Requirements Clarify required testing procedures, inspection sequence, and witnessing requirements, including participation by VA Engineering, the VA Fire Marshal, State Inspector, and elevator manufacturer. This clarification is required to properly schedule acceptance activities and avoid re-testing.

1. Before contacting the VA for final testing the contractor shall verify that all equipment, systems, and programming have been installed/performed. Additionally, they shall perform all manufactured required testing/inspection and provide the results to the COR.

2. After the contractor’s work has been satisfactorily completed as approved by the COR, the COR will schedule a 3rd Party Elevator inspector to witness and inspect the contractor’s work as the contractor performs a Category 5 test according to ASME A17.1. The results shall be provided to the contractor and corrections shall be made. If retesting is required, the contractor shall pay for additional retesting by the 3rd party inspector (specs 14 24 10 3.6.O & 14 21 10 3.6.P). See the VHA HYDRAULIC ELEVATOR INSPECTION REPORT and TRACTION ELEVATOR INSPECTION REPORT on the VHA TIL website (https://www.cfm.va.gov/til/).

3. Additionally, either concurrently with the category 5 testing or after (whatever is most convenient for the VA), the contractor shall provide labor to perform the Elevator Recall Testing with the VA provided Fire Alarm Contractor.

4. After everything has been corrected, the contractor will schedule a final walkthrough with the AE and COR to create the final punchlist.

25. EL-11 Elevator All Elevator Shutdown and Phasing Constraints Confirm maximum allowable elevator shutdown durations and verify whether additional phasing restrictions apply beyond the note indicating only one elevator per bank may be renovated at a time. This clarification is required to coordinate work with facility operations and infection control requirements.

1. Only one elevator in each building is allowed to be down at a time. Before proceeding with a second elevator in a building, the contractor shall complete all required testing and complete all punchlists before receiving an additional elevator.

2. During design, the VA anticipated the contractor utilizing 3 separate construction crews working concurrently. Final phasing is subject to the contractor’s manpower, lead time, and COR approval.

26. EL-12 Elevator All OEM Start-Up and Acceptance Prerequisites Confirm all elevator OEM prerequisites required prior to start-up and acceptance testing, including environmental stabilization periods, completion of HVAC TAB, fire alarm testing, and documentation requirements. This clarification is required to properly sequence work and avoid failed acceptance attempts.

1. Answered in the specifications

27. EL-13 Elevator All Temporary Elevator Protection Requirements Clarify required levels of temporary protection for elevator cabs, doors, thresholds, and finishes during phased construction. Confirm duration and maintenance responsibility for protective measures.

1. Elevator interior work shall be completed and finished for each elevator prior to turnover. This question is not relevant. For the duplex and 3 car projects, Elevator cab shall be installed as specified during turnover of each unit. Pads are specified.

28. EL-14 Elevator All Inspection Authority Hierarchy Confirm governing inspection authority and order of precedence between State Elevator Inspector, VA Fire Marshal, VA Engineering, and elevator OEM to avoid conflicting directives.

1. The VA is the AHJ. The VA shall utilize a 3rd Part QEI, fire alarm contractor, and the design AE QEI to inspect all elevators.

29. EL-15 Elevator All Hoistway Door Tracks "After review of the contract drawings and specifications, GC has identified an ambiguity regarding the scope of work for hoistway door tracks associated with the elevator modernization. The contract documents clearly indicate replacement of hoistway doors, frames, operators, and associated components; however, the documents do not clearly state whether the existing hoistway door tracks are to be retained or replaced. Please clarify the following:

1. Are the existing hoistway door tracks permitted to be retained, provided they meet alignment, condition, and compatibility requirements with the new elevator door system?

OR

2. Are all hoistway door tracks required to be fully replaced with new, regardless of existing condition?

1. If replacement is required, please confirm:

1. Whether replacement includes all floors and all elevator groups

2. Any specific material, mounting, or dimensional requirements

3. Whether this requirement is considered base contract scope or a change to the contract

3. All tracks are to be replaced per the specifications.

If retention is permitted, please confirm:

All tracks are to be replaced per the specifications

30. M-01 Mechanical All HVAC Coordination for Elevators Confirm whether existing HVAC systems serving elevator machine rooms have sufficient capacity to support the heat rejection requirements of the new elevator controllers and drives under full operational load. If existing systems are inadequate, clarify whether supplemental cooling is included in the contract scope or will be addressed by contract modification. This clarification is required to ensure OEM warranty compliance and avoid failed elevator acceptance testing.

1. Provide all mechanical work specified and in the drawings.

31. M-02 Mechanical All HVAC Coordination for Elevators Confirm whether elevator machine room cooling systems are required to operate continuously (24/7), including during off-hours and elevator shutdowns. This clarification is required to ensure equipment protection and continuous compliance with manufacturer requirements.

1. Provide as specified. Elevator equipment is a 24/7 device

32. M-03 Mechanical All HVAC Coordination for Elevators Clarify whether redundancy or failure alarms are required for elevator machine room cooling systems. If alarms are required, identify monitoring method and responsible trade. This clarification is required to coordinate mechanical, electrical, and BAS scopes.

1. Refer to drawings. There is a BAS thermostat in each mechanical room. There are water monitors for drain pans. There are BAS alarms for each sump pump.

33. M-04 Mechanical All HVAC Coordination for Elevators Confirm approved routing and termination points for condensate drains associated with any new or modified machine room cooling equipment. This clarification is required to avoid improper drainage and water damage.

1. Condensate drains shown on M series sheets.

34. M-05 Mechanical All HVAC Coordination for Elevators Confirm that hoistway venting and mechanical penetrations do not violate smoke compartment or fire-rated assembly requirements. This clarification is required to maintain life-safety integrity.

1. Penetrations maintain life-safety integrity.

35. M-06 Mechanical All HVAC Coordination for Elevators Clarify whether elevator pits require mechanical ventilation and how this ventilation must be coordinated with infection control requirements. This clarification is required to prevent moisture and air quality issues.

1. Elevator pits do not require venting.

36. M-07 Mechanical All HVAC Coordination for Elevators Confirm whether any HVAC modifications associated with elevator work trigger Testing, Adjusting, and Balancing (TAB) or commissioning requirements. This clarification is required to properly schedule and price required services.

1. Refer to TAB specifications, TAB is included. No commissioning in project.

37. M-08 Mechanical All HVAC Coordination for Elevators Confirm applicable noise and vibration criteria for mechanical equipment serving elevator spaces adjacent to occupied patient care areas. This clarification is required to ensure compliance with VA standards.

1. Noise requirements are met.

38. M-09 Mechanical All HVAC Coordination for Elevators Clarify HVAC system isolation and shutdown requirements during construction phases impacting elevator shafts and lobbies. This clarification is required to coordinate with ICRA controls.

1. Any outage of utility systems must be coordinated with the COR. Each HVAC system’s requirements will be unique to the building.

39. M-10 Mechanical All HVAC Coordination for Elevators Confirm responsibility for providing supplemental cooling if existing systems are determined to be inadequate. This clarification is required to avoid scope disputes..

1. Any outage of utility systems must be coordinated with the COR. Provide supplemental cooling for elevator mechanical rooms during extended outages (more than 8 hours).

40. M-11 Mechanical All Elevator Machine Room Cooling Capacity Confirm whether existing HVAC systems serving the elevator machine rooms have sufficient capacity to support the heat rejection requirements of the new elevator controllers, drives, and associated equipment under full operational load. If existing systems are inadequate, clarify whether supplemental cooling systems are included within the contractor’s scope or will be addressed through a contract modification. This clarification is required to ensure compliance with elevator OEM requirements, maintain equipment warranties, and prevent failure during elevator acceptance testing.

1. HVAC designed to meet new heat loads.

41. M-12 Mechanical All Machine Room Cooling on Emergency Power Confirm whether elevator machine room cooling systems must be connected to emergency power when elevators are on emergency power. Clarify scope responsibility for required upgrades.

1. Elevators on emergency power are required to have all equipment on EP. Follow drawings and specifications.

42. M-13 Mechanical All Temporary Cooling During Commissioning Clarify whether temporary cooling is required during elevator commissioning prior to permanent HVAC stabilization and whether it is included in the contract scope.

1. Any outage of utility systems must be coordinated with the COR. Provide supplemental cooling for elevator mechanical rooms during extended outages (more than 8 hours).

43. M-14 Mechanical All HVAC Capacity Verification Method Confirm whether existing HVAC capacity verification must be based on engineering calculations, field measurements, or both, and identify the responsible party.

1. Refer to specification and general sheet notes.

44. E-01 Electrical All Electrical Coordination for Elevators Confirm that existing electrical feeders, breakers, and panels serving the elevators have sufficient capacity to accommodate the electrical loads of the new elevator equipment. If upgrades are required, clarify whether they are included in the contract scope.

1. Elevator electrical loads are design for the specified speed and capacity. No load increases are planned.

45. E-02 Electrical All Electrical Coordination for Elevators Provide available fault current values at elevator disconnects to verify that new elevator equipment meets required SCCR ratings. This clarification is required to avoid equipment rejection.

1. For panels and breakers, use the withstand rating shown on the electrical plans. For disconnect switches, most are rated far in excess of the required withstand rating already.

46. E-03 Electrical All Electrical Coordination for Elevators Confirm which elevators are required to be connected to emergency power and identify the serving ATS. This clarification is required to coordinate life-safety systems.

1. Building 1

1. Room Penthouse

2. Emergency Power: P1 & P2

3. ATS: 1-ATS-EQ-5WA

4. Generator: 937 KVA, 480V

2. Building 2

1. Room 22

2. Emergency Power: P3

3. ATS: 2-LATS-EM-GCB

4. Generator: 625 KVA, 480V

3. Building 5

1. Room 13

2. Emergency Power: P13

3. ATS: 5-ATS-EM-BWA

4. Generator: 937 KVA, 480V

4. Building 38

1. Room B-08

2. Emergency Power: P6 & P7

3. ATS: 38-ATS-ELEV-BSE

4. Generator: 625 KVA, 480V

5. Building 135

1. Room B17

2. Emergency Power: P14 & P15

3. ATS: 135-ATS-EM-BWA

4. Generator: 625 KVA, 480V

6. Building 137

1. Room 1D-106

2. Emergency Power: P17 – P19

3. ATS: 137-HATS-EM-1WA

4. Generator: 875 KVA, 480V

47. E-04 Electrical All Electrical Coordination for Elevators Clarify the power source and breaker requirements for elevator shunt trip devices, including coordination with fire alarm systems.

1. Shunt trip breakers and their associated power are to be reused as indicated.

48. E-05 Electrical All Electrical Coordination for Elevators Confirm grounding and bonding requirements for elevator rails, machines, controllers, and associated equipment. This clarification is required for code compliance.

1. Answered in the specifications

49. E-06 Electrical All Electrical Coordination for Elevators Clarify requirements for temporary power during elevator cutover, testing, and commissioning activities.

1. Power is existing

50. E-07 Electrical All Electrical Coordination for Elevators Confirm firestopping requirements for new electrical penetrations associated with elevator work.

1. Answered in the specifications

51. E-08 Electrical All Electrical Coordination for Elevators Confirm whether spare capacity is required in panels serving elevators for future expansion.

1. Power is existing

52. E-09 Electrical All Electrical Coordination for Elevators Clarify responsibility for restoring lighting disturbed by elevator work in lobbies and machine rooms.

1. Contractor is to restore any lighting disturbed by required work.

53. E-10 Electrical All Electrical Coordination for Elevators Confirm electrical testing and documentation requirements tied to elevator acceptance.

1. All required testing is identified in the specifications.

54. E-11 Electrical All Elevator Feeder and Panel Capacity Verification Confirm that the existing electrical feeders, breakers, and panelboards serving the elevators have sufficient capacity to accommodate the electrical loads of the new elevator equipment. If upgrades or replacements are required, clarify whether this work is included in the current contract scope or will be addressed via a contract modification. This clarification is necessary to avoid delays during equipment installation and testing.

1. All equipment has been evaluated and confirmed during the design, with appropriate load calculations

55. FA-01 Fire Alarm All Fire Alarm and Elevator Interface Provide the complete sequence of operations for elevator recall and shunt trip activation, including interaction with smoke detectors and sprinkler systems.

1. This is per Code. A17.1 2022

56. FA-02 Fire Alarm All Fire Alarm and Elevator Interface Confirm locations and types of fire alarm devices serving elevator lobbies, machine rooms, and hoistways.

1. Devices and appliances are shown on the drawings. Reference the floorplans, details, and notes. All new fire alarm devices, appliances, and equipment must fully integrate with the existing Simplex 4120 Fire Alarm System.

57. FA-03 Fire Alarm All Fire Alarm and Elevator Interface Clarify responsibility for relocation of existing fire alarm devices impacted by elevator work.

1. Contractor shall relocate fire alarm devices.

58. FA-04 Fire Alarm All Fire Alarm and Elevator Interface Confirm fire alarm impairment procedures, notification requirements, and required approvals.

1. Any outage of utility systems must be coordinated with the COR. Fire Alarm outages shall be coordinated and approved by the TVAMC Safety Department.

59. FA-05 Fire Alarm All Fire Alarm and Elevator Interface Clarify testing and witnessing requirements for elevator-related fire alarm functions.

1. Either concurrently with the category 5 testing or after (whatever is most convenient for the VA), the contractor shall provide labor to perform the Elevator Recall Testing with the VA provided Fire Alarm Contractor.

60. FA-06 Fire Alarm All Fire Alarm and Elevator Interface Confirm responsibility for fire alarm programming and required as-built documentation.

1. This is described in division 28 specifications. In general, it is the responsibility of the division 28 contractor. Coordinate all division 28 work with the division 14 contractor’s work.

61. FA-07 Fire Alarm All Fire Alarm and Elevator Interface Clarify notification appliance coverage during construction phasing and temporary barriers.

1. They must be provided and the coverage is dictated by NFPA 72.

62. FA-08 Fire Alarm All Fire Alarm and Elevator Interface Confirm coordination requirements between sprinkler waterflow devices and elevator shutdown.

1. Sprinkler waterflow devices do not shut down the elevator. Elevator machine room heat detectors will initiate elevator shut down and disconnect elevator power.

63. FA-09 Fire Alarm All Fire Alarm and Elevator Interface Clarify smoke detector placement relative to smoke compartments above elevator doors.

1. Elevator lobby smoke detectors are required to be within 17’-0” of the elevator door centerline. All smoke detector instillation requirements must follow NFPA 72 guidelines according to ceiling height/pitch/and structure.

64. FA-10 Fire Alarm All Fire Alarm and Elevator Interface Confirm fire watch requirements during any fire alarm system outages.

1. The requirement is that fire watch must be provided if smoke detectors and/or notification appliances are taken down for a period longer than 4 hours. This should be a last resort and the primary goal should be to limit any outages to less than four hours. If detectors and notification appliances must be temporarily removed or taken out of commission, then temporary appliances shall be provided to avoid having to provide fire watch. When fire watch is provided, it must meet all requirements outlined in codes, guidelines, and station standards. In particular, it must, at a minimum, meet all the requirements set down in NFPA 101.

65. FA-11 Fire Alarm All Elevator Recall and Shunt Trip Sequence of Operations Provide the complete and coordinated sequence of operations for elevator recall and shunt trip activation, including the interaction between smoke detectors, sprinkler waterflow switches, elevator controllers, and fire alarm control panels. This clarification is required to ensure code compliance and successful testing with the VA Fire Marshal.

1. This is detailed on FA001. Detail 2 gives a general riser with descriptions for how the relays, smoke and heat detectors work with the elevators. In general, the relays for primary and secondary recall will be in the machine room and will interface with the controller. This interface is in the form of an output that is received from the control panel that is reacting to an input from a smoke detector or some other input.

66. FA-12 Fire Alarm All Smoke Control Testing Scope Confirm whether elevator modifications trigger smoke control testing beyond recall and shunt trip functions and clarify responsibility.

1. Testing is only in regards to the new scope. All new equipment will need to be tested. Also, any equipment that is taken down temporarily and reconnected after elevator work is completed will need to be tested.

67. FA-13 Fire Alarm All Limits of Fire Alarm Re-Programming Clarify whether fire alarm programming changes are limited to elevator interfaces or require broader system re-validation.

1. Fire alarm programming is limited to new fire alarm devices added to the existing system along with any old devices taken off the existing system. No other programming is required.

68. FA-14 Fire Alarm All Fire Watch Staffing Requirements Confirm required fire watch staffing levels, duration, and responsibility during fire alarm impairments related to elevator work.

1. If the Fire Protection system remains offline for more than 8 hours or during non-business hours/days, the contractor shall provide fire watch in the affected areas.

2. During the time that the fire protection renovation work is being performed, and the fire protection system is out of commission, contractor shall have sufficient personnel onsite to keep a “fire watch” on the facility in accordance with VA requirements. An out of service tag must be placed at the fire alarm panel and the fire department connection. Refer to international fire code chapter 9, section 901.7.

3. Fire watch personnel are to keep watch for fires in the general area of performance, the persons performing the fire watch are not permitted to perform any other duties.

4. Fire watch personnel are to have fire extinguishing equipment readily available and to be trained in its use.

5. The quantity of personnel involved in the fire watch is to be adequate such that each floor, level, and room of the fire area is covered.

69. BAS-01 BAS / Controls All BAS Coordination for Elevators Confirm whether elevator machine room cooling systems are required to be monitored by BAS, including temperature sensing and alarms.

1. DDC temperature sensors in the rooms are monitored by BAS. Drain pan water sensors are monitored by BAS.

70. BAS-02 BAS / Controls All BAS Coordination for Elevators Clarify required BAS points, alarms, and trending duration for elevator-related systems.

1. High temp / low temp on DDC temperature sensor. Water detected on drain pan sensor. Sump pump water detection alarm and sump pump failure alarm.

71. BAS-03 BAS / Controls All BAS Coordination for Elevators Confirm whether BAS integration is required for new or modified mechanical systems serving elevators.

1. Refer to above answers.

72. BAS-04 BAS / Controls All BAS Coordination for Elevators Clarify responsibility for BAS network connectivity and IP requirements.

1. Refer to 23 09 23 DDC spec.

73. BAS-05 BAS / Controls All BAS Coordination for Elevators Confirm requirements for BAS graphics updates related to elevator systems.

1. Refer to 23 09 23 DDC spec.

74. BAS-06 BAS / Controls All BAS Coordination for Elevators Clarify scope responsibility between BAS contractor and elevator/mechanical contractors.

1. Refer to 23 09 23 spec.

75. BAS-07 BAS / Controls All BAS Coordination for Elevators Confirm existing BAS platform compatibility requirements.

1. Refer to 23 09 23 spec.

76. BAS-08 BAS / Controls All BAS Coordination for Elevators Clarify responsibility for BAS control wiring and power.

1. Refer to 23 09 23 spec.

77. BAS-09 BAS / Controls All BAS Coordination for Elevators Confirm commissioning support requirements for BAS-related elevator systems.

1. Mechanical commissioning not in project.

78. BAS-10 BAS / Controls All BAS Coordination for Elevators Clarify alarm routing and notification recipients for BAS alarms.

1. Refer to 23 09 23 Spec.

79. BAS-11 BAS / Controls All BAS Monitoring of Elevator Machine Room Cooling Confirm whether elevator machine room cooling systems are required to be monitored by the Building Automation System (BAS), including space temperature sensing, alarm notification upon loss of cooling, and historical trending. If BAS integration is required, clarify responsibility for controls installation, programming, graphics, and commissioning support.

1. Refer to 23 09 23 spec and above answers.

80. BAS-12 BAS / Controls All BAS Trending Duration Confirm required duration of BAS trending for elevator-related systems prior to acceptance.

1. Refer to 23 09 23 spec.

81. BAS-13 BAS / Controls All Alarm Escalation Protocols Clarify BAS alarm escalation procedures, notification recipients, and response expectations for elevator-related alarms.

1. Refer to 23 09 23 spec.

82. IC-01 ICRA / ILSM All Infection Control and ILSM Coordination Confirm the Infection Control Risk Assessment (ICRA) classification applicable to elevator construction activities in each building.

1. The contractor shall provide Class 3 ICRA requirements in every building according to sheet G002 and specification 01 35 26 1.12.

83. IC-02 ICRA / ILSM All Infection Control and ILSM Coordination Clarify containment and barrier requirements at elevator lobbies and machine rooms.

1. The contractor shall provide Class 3 ICRA requirements in every building according to sheet G002 and specification 01 35 26 1.12.

2. Refer to 1/G-002. This detail outlines a barrier around the elevator entrance at each level with only one elevator of each elevator bank in renovation at any time. Elevator Machine Rooms receive an ICRA barrier and sticky mats where shown on drawings. Other machine rooms are not accessed via mechanical or attic spaces and do not need the barrier; however, sticky mats are needed at the mechanical room door in accordance with 2/G-002.

84. IC-03 ICRA / ILSM All Infection Control and ILSM Coordination Confirm negative air pressure and HEPA filtration requirements during construction.

1. The contractor shall provide Class 3 ICRA requirements in every building according to sheet G002 and specification 01 35 26 1.12.

85. IC-04 ICRA / ILSM All Infection Control and ILSM Coordination Clarify daily inspection and documentation requirements for ICRA compliance.

1. The contractor shall provide Class 3 ICRA requirements in every building according to sheet G002 and specification 01 35 26 1.12.

86. IC-05 ICRA / ILSM All Infection Control and ILSM Coordination Confirm approved debris removal routes and schedules.

1. See the attached VA provided RFI answer map document for routes.

2. Routes for moving materials and debris must be approved by the COR for each portion of the work. Per ICRA Note 4A on G-002, the debris must be contained in carts with tightly fitted covers.

87. IC-06 ICRA / ILSM All Infection Control and ILSM Coordination Clarify elevator shutdown impacts on egress and Interim Life Safety Measures (ILSM).

1. Egress will be unaffected in buildings 1, 38, 135, and 137 as long as only one elevator is in construction. Buildings 2 and 5 have only one elevator. The 2nd floor of building 2 and the 1st and 2nd floor of building 5 will have access limited to stairs only.

2. Elevators will not impact egress requirements. Per 1/G-002, only one elevator of each elevator bank may be removed from service at any time.

88. IC-07 ICRA / ILSM All Infection Control and ILSM Coordination Confirm above-ceiling work controls adjacent to patient care areas.

1. Above ceiling work shall either be performed within an ICRA barrier or via a mobile ICRA cart.

89. IC-08 ICRA / ILSM All Infection Control and ILSM Coordination Clarify ICRA permit approval process and required lead times.

1. An ICRA permit has already been generated for this project. Contractor shall abide by the permit which is detailed in sheet G002 and specification 01 35 26 1.12.

90. IC-09 ICRA / ILSM All Infection Control and ILSM Coordination Confirm terminal cleaning requirements prior to barrier removal.

1. Per ICRA Note 6A on G-002, terminal cleaning will be performed by VA. Per same note, Contractor is to clean the area prior to VA terminal cleaning, and the barriers are not to be removed until the cleaning has occurred and VA Infection Control Officer has inspected and approved the cleaning.

91. IC-10 ICRA / ILSM All Infection Control and ILSM Coordination Clarify coordination between fire alarm impairments and ICRA requirements.

1. Maintain ICRA requirements during fire alarm outages. Coordinate any issues with the COR.

92. IC-11 ICRA / ILSM All Infection Control Risk Assessment Requirements Confirm the Infection Control Risk Assessment (ICRA) classification applicable to elevator construction activities in each building. Clarify all required containment measures, negative air requirements, inspection protocols, and approval processes required prior to starting work. This clarification is necessary to ensure compliance with VA infection control policies and prevent work stoppages.

1. The contractor shall provide Class 3 ICRA requirements in every building according to sheet G002 and specification 01 35 26 1.12

93. IC-12 ICRA / ILSM All ICRA Escalation Triggers Confirm conditions that may trigger escalation of ICRA requirements and entitlement to additional time or compensation.

1. No conditions are known.

94. IC-13 ICRA / ILSM All Terminal Cleaning Responsibility Clarify responsibility for terminal cleaning following elevator construction, including timing and acceptance criteria.

1. Per ICRA Note 6A on G-002, terminal cleaning will be performed by VA. Per same note, Contractor is to clean the area prior to VA terminal cleaning.

95. IC-14 ICRA / ILSM All After-Hours Work Enforcement Confirm enforceable work hours and approval requirements for after-hours elevator work when infection control measures apply.

1. Per 1/G-002, work is to be performed during off hours. Normal business hours are 7am to 5pm Monday through Friday. Any work outside of normal business hours is to be coordinated with the COR.

96. G-01 General / Contract All Latent Conditions in Shafts and Pits Confirm process for addressing concealed or latent conditions encountered in elevator shafts and pits, including entitlement to time and cost adjustments.

1. Coordinate any unforeseen conditions with the COR and CO.

97. G-02 General / Contract All Concurrent VA Project Coordination Clarify coordination responsibilities and schedule impacts related to concurrent VA projects in the same buildings.

1. The only other project that may affect the subject project is the Tuscaloosa EHRM (Electronic Health Record Modernization) project which will be replacing existing data drops, renovating IT closets, and running fiber in the buildings. New or Existing IT closets that the elevators need to run communications too will be marked in the provided RFI answer map document.

98. G-03 General / Contract All Elevator Substantial Completion Criteria Confirm criteria for substantial completion and beneficial use of elevator systems, including required documentation and inspections.

1. Before contacting the VA for final testing the contractor shall verify that all equipment, systems, and programming have been installed/performed. Additionally, they shall perform all manufactured required testing/inspection and provide the results to the COR.

2. After the contractor’s work has been satisfactorily completed as approved by the COR, the COR will schedule a 3rd Party Elevator inspector to witness and inspect the contractor’s work as the contractor performs a Category 5 test according to ASME A17.1. The results shall be provided to the contractor and corrections shall be made. If retesting is required, the contractor shall pay for additional retesting by the 3rd party inspector (specs 14 24 10 3.6.O & 14 21 10 3.6.P). See the VHA HYDRAULIC ELEVATOR INSPECTION REPORT and TRACTION ELEVATOR INSPECTION REPORT on the VHA TIL website (https://www.cfm.va.gov/til/).

3. Additionally, either concurrently with the category 5 testing or after (whatever is most convenient for the VA), the contractor shall provide labor to perform the Elevator Recall Testing with the VA provided Fire Alarm Contractor.

4. After everything has been corrected, the contractor will schedule a final walkthrough with the AE and COR to create the final punchlist.

5. Once final punchlist and all deficiencies are corrected, then elevator can be introduced into circulation and utilized by the facility.

99. G-04 General / Contract All Elevator Outage Concurrency Across Multiple Buildings "Contract Documents state that only one elevator renovation per bank may be completed at a time. Please clarify whether elevator renovations may occur concurrently in multiple buildings (i.e., one elevator per bank in different buildings simultaneously), or whether the VA intends to limit elevator outages campus-wide. Clarification is requested to properly sequence work, coordinate ICRA/ILSM measures, and accurately account for schedule and cost impacts that only one elevator bank can be taken down at a time, will multiple elevators be allowed to be taken down throughout the different Buildings?"

1. Egress will be unaffected in buildings 1, 38, 135, and 137 as long as only one elevator is in construction. For buildings 1, 38, and 135 their elevator banks are the elevators within the contract. In building 137, 2 service elevators are located next to the 3 passenger elevators. The service elevators shall remain operational during construction and are a separate bank to be maintained by the existing service contractor. Buildings 2 and 5 have only one elevator. The 2nd floor of building 2 and the 1st and 2nd floor of building 5 will have access limited to stairs only.

2. Only one elevator in each building is allowed to be down at a time. Before proceeding with a second elevator in a building, the contractor shall complete all required testing and complete all punchlists before receiving an additional elevator.

3. During design, the VA anticipated the contractor utilizing 3 separate construction crews working concurrently. Final phasing is subject to the contractor’s manpower, lead time, and COR approval.

100. G-05 General / Contract All Payment Eligibility for Materials Delivered to Site and Stored Prior to Installation "GC requests clarification regarding eligibility for payment of materials delivered to the project site and stored prior to installation, including but not limited to elevator equipment, electrical materials, and fire alarm components. The Contract Documents do not explicitly state the requirements for payment of stored materials. To ensure compliance with VA payment procedures and to properly structure the Schedule of Values and procurement sequencing, GC requests confirmation of the following:

1. Whether materials delivered to the Tuscaloosa VA Medical Center site, properly stored, protected, and clearly identified for this project, are eligible for payment prior to installation.

1. Subject to the CO’s, TVAMC Project Chief, and the VISN 7 CAM approval, stored materials can be paid for.

· Approved submittals prior to delivery - Yes

· Proof of ownership transfer to the Government - Yes

· Inventory logs, photographs, and/or serial numbers – Yes, and paid invoices

Please confirm the following:

1. Staffing Roles Required On Site Confirm whether the VA requires the following GC roles to be maintained on site during construction activities:

Confirm whether the VA permits one individual to perform multiple roles simultaneously (e.g., Superintendent also acting as Elevator Coordinator, Safety Officer also acting as QA/QC), or if the VA requires these roles to be separate and independently staffed.

3. Duration of Staffing Requirement Confirm whether the above staffing roles are required:

- Contractor is required to provide at least 2 project coordination roles. They shall provide a full time site superintendent and a full time QA/QC manager for the duration of the project. Both roles can dual hat as a Dedicated ILSM / Infection Control / Safety Officer or Elevator Coordination Lead. However, the contractor must designate the individuals they are dual hatting for what roles. Provide named individuals (with construction and elevator expericance) subject to approval by COR. Provide daily logs and documentation specific to Safety, ILSM/ICRA, and QA/QC functions regardless of dual-hatting."

102. FP-01 Fire Protection All Drawings (overall set – no FP sheets included) "Confirm whether any fire sprinkler system modifications are required as part of this project for elevator-related areas including machine rooms/penthouses, elevator pits, hoistways, and elevator lobbies. The current drawing set does not include FP discipline plans/details, and the specification compilation references sprinkler sections without clearly providing the project-specific sprinkler scope. This clarification is required to determine whether sprinkler head relocations, new drops, branch line modifications, or protection measures are included in the contract, or if sprinkler work is by VA/others. Request: If sprinkler work is included, provide the applicable FP drawings, detail sheets, and scope limits for each building/elevator group."

1. No Fire Sprinkler work is anticipated in this project.

103. FP-02 Fire Protection All Confirm Presence/Requirement of Sprinklers in Elevator Pits and Hoistways "Confirm whether sprinklers are existing and/or required in each elevator pit and/or hoistway impacted by modernization. If pit/hoistway sprinklers exist or are required, clarify the following for each elevator group:

1. Whether any relocations are required due to new equipment, pit work, or clearances;

2. Whether sprinkler head guards/drip pans are required to protect elevator equipment;

3. Whether shunt trip interlocks are required (and the intended sequence of operation).

This clarification is required to avoid failed acceptance testing and fire marshal rejection due to missing or incorrectly coordinated sprinkler/shunt conditions."

4. No Fire Sprinkler work is anticipated in this project.

104. FP-03 Fire Protection All Machine Room/Penthouse Sprinkler Head Clearances and Required Relocations "Confirm if existing sprinkler heads and/or sprinkler piping in elevator machine rooms/penthouses must be relocated to maintain required clearances from new elevator controllers/drives and other electrical equipment. The current plan set does not show FP modifications, but modernization typically changes equipment layout and can conflict with sprinkler coverage/clearance criteria.

If relocations are required, provide:

1. No Fire Sprinkler work is anticipated in this project

This clarification is required to properly plan work phasing and carry the correct General Conditions and fire protection subcontract scope without schedule impacts."

1. No Fire Sprinkler work is anticipated in this project