Clarifications 12-15-2020.pdf

Project: 580-17-121 VA Houston - Upgrade and Renovate SPS Solicitation #: 36C25621R0014

Clarifications 12/15/2020

1. QUESTION: Specification section 01 00 00, page 17, paragraph 1.18(C), states, “Contractor shall be prepared to receive this equipment from Government and store or place such equipment not less than 90 days before Completion Date of project.” Some phases might be less than 90 days. If so, how is the Contractor to plan to receive and store or place equipment for a phase that might not have commenced yet? Please consider revising this language. Otherwise, please understand that this requirement may cause increased pricing so Offerors include provisions for onsite storage.

ANSWER: Since the project is phased and equipment may require installation at different periods the contractor will need to coordinate the delivery and installation with the VA. VA will coordinate with the equipment manufacturer to schedule delivery based on contractor’s schedule of completion of each phase.

2. QUESTION: We apologize, but we have not been able to locate the maximum number of days between phases that the VA will be required. This is critical to planning and covering costs associated with general conditions. Please provide the maximum number of days Offerors must include between each phase.

ANSWER: 30 calendar days is required between each phase for government transition purposes.

3. QUESTION: Certain phases include A and B. Is Phase 1A supposed to be completed prior to Phase 1B, or can they run concurrently?

ANSWER: Phase 1A and 1B can run concurrently.

4. QUESTION: What phase is the catwalk supposed to be installed in? It appears to cross through multiple phases and it may be difficult to partially install in phases; at the very least, it will significantly increase costs by adding multiple mobilizations from the Unistrut installer.

ANSWER: This is means and methods. The catwalk can be constructed in whichever phase the contractor chooses. Please note: The catwalk is located above the Phase 1B work and the ceiling will be removed at that time and the open space above the ceiling is accessible.

5. QUESTION: Regarding the catwalk installation, it appears to cross through new walls (e.g., Wall Type 1).

We have two questions regarding this issue: 1) Has the above ceiling space been investigated and evaluated to ensure the wall type and catwalk has sufficient space between the upper deck and new ceiling height to be installed? If not, please evaluate this prior to bid as this may result is significant delays post-award (Note: Offerors did not have an opportunity to inspect above the ceiling in BB-285, Supply Processing & Distribution, so field verification was not possible). 2) If the catwalk is to penetrate new wall types (e.g. those that extend to the upper deck), how is the fire rating to be maintained? For example, are new doors/frames/hardware, etc., to be provide? If so, none of those are required. Please clarify this scope and include quantities and locations.

ANSWER: This was investigated and there is adequate space. However there is ductwork and other existing features (e.g. acoustical tile supports) requiring relocation.

6. QUESTION: Please include that Offerors are not responsible for relocating, moving, storing (onsite or offsite), or in any way touching VA-owned equipment, systems, or material fixed or non-fixed in any of the spaces, such as within the BB-285, Supply Processing & Distribution room or any other rooms. During the site visit there was a significant number of rolling racks, desks, computers, personal items, etc., that will need to be removed prior to demolition. Please confirm all this will be the responsibility of the VA. If not, please clearly indicate what items are to be touched, how/where they are to be removed, relocated or stored.

ANSWER: All furnishings and portable equipment currently in spaces, including the carts, will be moved by the VA hospital staff.

7. QUESTION: Drawing G-102 under the ICRA Checklist states this project classified as III. Within the definition of Class III, plastic walls are allowable. However, Drawing G-103, Detail 1, lists substantial temporary wall construction, including metal studs, gypsum board and insulation; plastic Is not shown.

Please clarify the types of temporary wall construction for ICRA as there are significant cost impacts associated with the wall types shown in Detail 1 on G-103.

ANSWER: The ICRA details are standard details and the Houston VA will accept a plastic type barrier as long as it complies with fire resistance requirements. Some walls being worked on are two-hour rated and will require a framed wall to obtain the rating requirement.

8. QUESTION: Drawing ED-103 and EL-103 shows demolition of lights and installation of new lights in BA-201 and BA- 201A during Phase 3. However, these rooms are not included on GC-100, nor are they included in any architectural demolition or new construction drawings. Furthermore, Drawing AE-403, Detail #2, notes this area is within Phase 6, but again doesn’t indicate what work is required and it contradicts ED-103 and EL-103.

Please clarify whether or not these rooms are included in the project, and for which phase. And, if so, please update the phasing and architectural drawings as it appears the existing layout of BA-201 does not match the electrical drawings either; there is only one large room, with what appears to be a chase on the wall that is adjacent to the corridor. References to BA-201A do not reflect in-field conditions. See attached photos below.

ANSWER: Space BA-201 is being modified to provide a pass-through window at BA-201A and the walls will be modified. Ceiling to be modified and lights replaced. This work is Phase 1A.

9. QUESTION: Drawing EL-107, please provide a detail showing how the overhead lights on the catwalk are to be installed.

ANSWER: Luminaire Type-‘G’ is to be chain-hung from existing floor-deck. Alternately, Luminaire Type-‘G’ can also be chain-hung or mounted directly to the surface of the existing floor-deck support beam. Luminaire Type-‘G’ shall be mounted approximately 7-feet above the catwalk grating plank (walking surface – see Sheets S-201 & S-202 for walkway details). Provide clamps/supports as necessary.

10. QUESTION: Regarding S3185 on the equipment schedule on QH-102 is blank and doesn’t indicate if it is VV, VC, or CC. On drawing E-402, S3185 is listed as VC (VA provided, Contractor installed). Please clarify who is responsible for providing and installing this equipment.

ANSWER: This is VA furnished and Contractor installed.

11. QUESTION: Regarding the Contractor provide and install, and the VA provide but Contractor install, equipment listed on the equipment schedule on QH-102 and E-402, is there a proprietary contractor that is required to install this specialty medical equipment or can any firm install?

ANSWER: Contractor is responsible for the determination of how/whom installs the contractor install items.

12. QUESTION: Regarding the Contractor provide and install, and the VA provide but Contractor install, equipment listed on the equipment schedule on QH-102 and E-402, please provide the cut sheets and manufacturer installation instructions so Offerors can understand and price how to install this equipment.

ANSWER: Cut sheets are attached.

13. QUESTION: On GC-100, Phase 1B is noted with cross marks, but Phase 1A is only noted with arrows; this is also shown on AD-101. However, on Drawing AD-121, what was identified as Phase 1B is now shown as Phase 1A, and Phase 1B is not shown at all. Please clarify the phasing requirements and revise the drawings accordingly.

ANSWER: Phase 1A is the entire Storage Room BC352.

14. QUESTION: Please confirm that when the catwalk is installed, all VA equipment and personnel will be vacated from the space to avoid any injury or damage. During the site visit, it was mentioned that personnel may be working below when the catwalk is installed. This creates significant risk for the VA and Contractor to have either equipment or VA staff/personnel below during construction. In addition to the risk, there is considerable cost that will be added to the project for providing a protection platform to allow the installation of the catwalk above while workers and equipment operate below.

ANSWER: The contractor shall coordinate this work with the VA COR. Some work may need to be completed on weekends or at night to protect personnel.

15. QUESTION: There can be significant costs difference associated with saw cutting existing slabs based on the thickness. We can’t locate the thickness of the existing slab. Please provide this information so Offerors understand and can price the appropriate thickness.

ANSWER: 8” max.

16. QUESTION: The plumbing demolition drawings include under slab piping that we do not believe is part of this scope. Please confirm that the bold hashed lines with the circular legend indicating limits of demolition and the Number #1 are only the lines required to be removed as part of this scope. Similarly for cutting and capping flush to the floor, those drains that only have an arrow pointing to them with the Number #2 are those required to be cut and capped.

ANSWER: The sanitary pipe for the sink on PD101 shall be cut and capped at the floor. The 3 drains pointed to by the Number 2 are the only drains on PD102 to be cut and capped flush to the floor.

17. QUESTION: If not, please revise the drawings appropriately to show the complete plumbing demolition scope. There are references to saw cutting slabs in other phases on the new construction drawings, but no plumbing demolition drawings indicate such. As a fully designed project, Offerors should be given reasonable information to understand the full scope. Statement like, “as required” do not provide reasonable information for Offerors to accurately and completely price the scope of work.

ANSWER: Refer to answers of RFI #16 above.

18. QUESTION: Please confirm that the sanitary piping is the only piping below the existing basement slab and that all other plumbing piping (e.g., domestic, HVAC piping, etc.) are routed from above within the interstitial space.

ANSWER: Yes. Sanitary pipe is the only pipe to be installed below the existing slab.

19. QUESTION: Regarding the medical gas plans, are there isolation valves or zone valves that can isolate the new work/renovated work so only that portion of work has to be re-certified, or should offerors assume that the full basement-wide system has to be re-certified? There is significant cost impacts with having to re- certify only a small portion versus the a much larger portion.

ANSWER: There is a zone valve box for Area F which includes the SPS.

20. QUESTION: Please confirm that the medical gas work is only associated with Phase 1, 4 and 6.

ANSWER: Correct.

21. QUESTION: 3-Tier lockers appear to be Contractor-Furnished, Contractor-Installed. On the Equipment Schedule on QH-102, the manufacturer and model states to refer to specifications. However, we can not locate the specifications. Please provide the requirements for the lockers or revise to be VA provided and installed.

ANSWER: See attached specifications; 105113 Metal Lockers

22. QUESTION: Blocking for countertops and cabinetry appear to be missing cross members. On Drawing AE-412 for example, Details 12, 13 and 11 include blocking against the wall and on the front of the cabinets and countertops (parallel to the wall), but there is no blocking shown along the sides (perpendicular to the walls. How will the front blocking be support? Please review and revise the details that show blocking to include those not only on AE-412.

ANSWER: The blocking should be against walls for the counter top support and cabinet installation and the cross supports should be part of the cabinet.

23. QUESTION: The door schedule and Section 08 71 00 do not appear to align. For example, hardware set HW-10A on the door schedule does not indicate there is an electric unlatch strike. Also, we can not locate any requirement on the electrical drawings for this. Another example, hardware HW-8F has a note in 08 71 00 for “Automatic Door Operators and Controls by Section 08 71 13; specifically it states, “each ADO pair to have:” but doesn’t indicate which HW-8F is to receive the ADO. And, again, the door schedule does not address this and the electrical drawings do not indicate any either. Another example, HW-1A includes “1 Auto Door Button” but doesn’t indicate an opener or any electrical requirements. The door schedule neither includes information on this and neither does the electrical drawings. Please clarify these requirements are it appears requirements involving electrical scope and door openers, which both include significant cost impacts, are hidden in a hardware specification and not shown on any door schedule or electrical drawings.

ANSWER: All HW-8F are to have ADO. Provide a 120V circuit (including conduit & conductors) for Automatic Door Openers and make connections to sensors & pushbuttons as required and recommended by the manufacturer.

24. QUESTION: The door schedule on AE-601 includes details for a marble threshold on certain doors. It refers Offerors to the door schedule on the same drawing. When reviewing the threshold detail number, it lists AG-601. We can not locate AG-601. Please clarify.

ANSWER: All details are on sheet AE601. There is no AG sheet.

25. QUESTION: Specification section 10 14 00, page 3, paragraph 2.1 (A) states, “Provide signs of type, size and design shown on the construction documents. However, there is not a signage drawing.

Please revise and provide a drawing that shows the type, size, design and location of all signs so Offerors can accurately price this scope of work.

ANSWER: See attached Addendum 1 for signage requirements.

26. QUESTION: Please confirm that Line Item No. 2 should be reflected as a deductive number (i.e., - $XXXX) since the equipment is changed from Contractor furnished and installed to Government furnished and installed.

ANSWER: Line item No. 2 is a reduced scope of work and should result in less cost to the government.

27. QUESTION: Is there a proprietary contractor for the fire alarm system?

ANSWER: Firetron.

28. QUESTION: Is there a proprietary contractor for the DDC controls system?

ANSWER: No, but DDC contractor need to be certified to work in proprietary JCI BAS software.

(Metasys).

29. QUESTION: Is there a proprietary contractor for the access control system?

ANSWER: DAC, is the current service contractor for access control system.

30. QUESTION: Drawing T-106 includes the key note #1 on the drawing, but it does not define what key note #1 mean. Please clarify and provide revised drawings.

ANSWER: Refer to Note # 1 is shown on drawing T101

31. QUESTION: Drawing T-101 includes Key Note #1, but it’s not shown anywhere on this drawing. Please confirm that key note #1 is not applicable to the work shown on T-101. If not accurate, please clarify and revise the drawing as appropriate.

ANSWER: Note #1 is for drawing T106.

32. QUESTION: Please confirm that there is no public address system, no nurse call system and no mass notification system required on this project.

ANSWER: see detail 1 on drawing T501 for the paging system, also see drawings for speaker locations.

33. QUESTION: Drawing C-103 includes Detail #1 for temporary partition types for ICRA requirements: A and B. However, on Drawing GC100, the only drawing that indicates the temporary partition times for ICRA, only shows type B. Please confirm that temporary partition type A is not required on this project.

ANSWER: Only Type B ICRA wall is shown.

34. QUESTION: Drawing C-103 only indicates IRCA and temp partitions for Phase 1B. Please confirm that no temporary partitions or ICRA requirements are required for Phase 1A.

ANSWER: The same required ICRA barrier at entry point is required.

35. QUESTION: Drawing C-103 only indicates temp partition types for Phase 3 within the existing offices.

Please confirm that no temporary partition wall types are required for the work being performed within the existing locker room, adjacent to the dumb waiter machine room.

ANSWER: Temporary partitions and entry points are required wherever work is being performed throughout the project. Including the toilet areas and Locker rooms.

36. QUESTION: Drawing C-103 only indicates on Key Note #1 the installation of a 90-minute temp hard door and rated frame with closer for construction access. However, Drawing G-103 only calls for suspended plastic zipper wall curtain barrier. Please confirm G-103 is correct and revise C-103 to remove Key Note #1.

ANSWER: G-103 is generic ICRA information and GC-103 is specific to the project and what is required.

37. QUESTION: Drawing C-103 on Phase 4 shows 4A and 4B nearly adjacent to each other just outside DECON door and BB-230 door. Please identify which is Phase 4A and which is Phase 4B, and clarify if these phases have to be completed sequential or can they be completed concurrently.

ANSWER: Phase 4A is room BC-352. The note for Phase 4B next to Phase 4A is a mistake, phase 4B is the sterilizer line. 4A & 4B can run concurrently.

38. QUESTION: Drawing C-103 does not indicate any wall type for the ICRA barriers for the work just outside DECON door and BB-230 door. Pleas confirm this is accurate.

ANSWER: If you are referring to drawing GC-100, then Phase 4A is the construction of the temp door and 4B is the space for the sterilizers. See Sheet Notes on sheet GC-100. Phase 4B door and temp wall are installed in previous phase. The Phase 4A is a permanent wall shown on AE402.

39. QUESTION: Drawing C-103 does not identify any ICRA requirements for Phase 6A or 6B. Please confirm.

ANSWER: GC-100 shows ICRA requirements prior to Phase 6 which shall still be in place.

40. QUESTION: Phase 6B requires work to be performed outside normal operating hours. It further states that the area must be ready for use by the start of operations the next working day. Is it acceptable to have VA staff work while progress is partial? For example, can we demolish the existing floor one night, then have the VA staff work in the area with the flooring removed. Then the following night attempt to install the new flooring. If the new flooring is not installed in one night, can we leave the partially completed flooring while the VA staff works in the area the next day, then again, at night try and finish the flooring? Same question regarding the painting requirement in this phase.

ANSWER: Yes, that will be acceptable. Please note that work will be required to be performed during outside working hours when demand is at a minimum. Tripping hazards of unfinished work shall be addressed by the contractor before VA resumes operations during this phase.

41. QUESTION: Please confirm that the wall rating legend shown on a majority of the drawings indicate the existing wall fire ratings so that offerors how to patch, match or seal for penetrations and that they do not indicate locations of ICRA temporary partitions.

ANSWER: This is the rating indicated on the as-built drawings and assumed to be correct.

42. QUESTION: With regard to the current situation with COVID, would the VA please consider incorporating FAR 52.249- 14 into the contract documents?

ANSWER: No, FAR 52.249-14 is for cost reimbursement type contracts. This procurement is for a firm-fixed contract. Excusable delays can be found in 52.249-10 which is already included in the solicitation.

43. QUESTION: Because Offerors were not able to field verify, please confirm that the layout of the catwalk on AE-127 has been adequately evaluated and that only one metal ships ladder and platform over ductwork at catwalk, as shown by Key Note #3 on AE-127, is required.

ANSWER: This is correct as shown.

44. QUESTION: Drawing AE-411, Detail #7, calls for stainless steel wall panels to match existing. However, the finish schedule on AE -800 calls for gyp board finished with the SC-1 (high-build glazed coating).

Please clarify and if stainless steel wall panels are required, please provide specification for such material, and revise the drawings to be correct.

ANSWER: The stainless steel panels are shown over equipment as currently installed. The walls not at equipment follow the finish schedule.

45. QUESTION: Drawing AE-411, Detail #7, has an arrow pointing to V1, which appears to be a window, but the arrow states, “ Pass Thru Window”. On Drawing AE-601, the detail for V1 doesn’t indicate the window is a pass thru. Please clarify and revise the drawings as needed.

ANSWER: This window is a vision panel only, no pass thru window.

46. QUESTION: Detail #9 on AE-501 indicates a pass thru window, but on the AE-601 drawing, there is no or window type for a pass thru window. Please clarify and revise the drawings as necessary.

ANSWER: This pass thru is not a door, it is shown on sheet AE105 Phase 5.

47. QUESTION: Drawing AE-411, Detail #9, has two (2) V1 noted above equipment S0005X and S0020.

However, there is no block-out or square that is typical on all other V1 and V2 notes. Please confirm that two V1 windows are required in this location. Please revise the show the exact location as well.

ANSWER: This is the same view as Detail #7 but it is shown from other side of tables located in middle of room.

48. QUESTION: Drawing AE-403, Key Note #5, states new washer/disinfector unit to be installed, see QH-

601. There is no QH-601.

ANSWER: Should be QH-801 Equipment Schedule

49. QUESTION: Drawing AE-403, on the north wall of BB-210, where the new washer/disinfector units will be placed, there is a Key Note #3 that states to install new vision panel in wall between contamination and prep/assembly, SWW door schedule AE601; this Key Note #3 is also shown north of BB-261. It does not specify whether it is V1 or V2. Furthermore, Drawing AE-411, Detail 1, which shows the north elevation of BB-210, does not indicate any V1 or V2 (vision panel) in this location. And, on Drawing AE-410, there is only south, east and west elevations of BB-261 so there is nothing showing a requirement for vision panels in BB-261. Please clarify scope of work and revise the drawings as necessary.

ANSWER: The vision panels are shown on AE411, two V1 and one V2.

50. QUESTION: Drawing AE-501, Detail 11, states to verify pit size and depth with the manufacturer of the cart washing equipment. However, as a fully design project and because Offerors do not have approved submittals yet to know whether or not the proposed cart washing equipment is approved and/or correct, will the VA provide dimensions, both length, width and depth, so Offerors are all pricing the same scope of work? If not, will the VA consider any variations or changes to the concrete saw cutting as a differing site condition and issue an appropriate change order? Drawing AE-401, Detail #2 appears to indicate a length and width of one of the cart washers, but not depth and it doesn’t address the second one. Please advise.

ANSWER: The approximate size is shown and the equipment is existing so this can be bid since there will not be a major difference in the actual size and what is shown on the drawing.

51. QUESTION: Drawing AE-401, Detail #1 includes Key Note #5 which on the south wall below doors

BB-261B and BB-210. The note states new work station locations to be mounted to wall, ensure backing in wall to support work station and bracker. However, on Drawing AE-410, Detail #6, nothing is shown on the south elevation for any work stations. Please revise the drawings so Offerors know how much and where backing is to be provided. Also, there is no information about a work station to be provided in this area. Is the work station required also? Please clarify the scope regarding this Key Note #5 on AE-401.

ANSWER: The work stations are called out in the equipment schedule, needs to be a height for operation, see standard mounting heights and the backing is not an exact. Take-off needs to be determined by contractor based on conditions.

52. QUESTION: On Drawing AE-401, Detail 3, the wall types for Room BB-352A and BB-352B are not identified. Please indicate which wall type is required.

ANSWER: The wall types are indicated on sheet AE102.

53. QUESTION: Drawing AE-301, Detail 1, show an access panel through Key Note #6. However, we can not locate any detail of this access panel. Please provide a detail so we know the exact location, size, dimensions, etc., to include inclusion on AE-601.

ANSWER: The access panels are in the specifications.

54. During the site visit, we walked through was is labeled on the drawings as BC-352, Temporary Sterile Storage. The room on the plans appears to be free of any interior walls. However, during the site visit, the room had a sign that labeled it BC-350, and it had an interior wall with a pass-thru window.

QUESTION: is this interior wall to be demolished? The drawings do not indicate any requirements for this interior wall. Please revise the drawings to reflect existing conditions and clarify the scope.

ANSWER: This was not the correct room, that is for the Patient Storage space not BC352.

55. QUESTION: On Drawing GC-100, Phase 1A states to construct door for temporary sterile storage and construct door for temporary cart washer route. There already appears to be a door leading into the temporary sterile storage (see picture above, RFI 56) and the door for the temp cart washer route is clearly shown immediately east of Phase 1B hash marks. Please advise as to where the new door for the temporary sterile storage is to be located.

ANSWER: The location of the construction doors are shown.

56. QUESTION: On Drawing GC-100, Phase 1A states to construct new uniform storage access window.

Where is this window located on the drawings as we cannot appear to locate it. Also, is this access window V1 or V2? Please provide a detail so we know the location, etc. of the window.

ANSWER: This area is Detail 1 bottom left side of drawing.

57. QUESTION: On Drawing GC-100, Phase 1A states to install new ACT ceiling in temporary sterile storage BC-352. However, Drawing AD-121, does not include any of the existing ceiling ACT is to be removed within Phase 1A. Please clarify and revise the drawings as necessary.

ANSWER: Shown on AD 122

58. QUESTION: Drawing AD-101 includes a Key Note #1 outside of Phase 1A and Phase 1B, within room BB- 210, and instructs offerors to remove partition as indicate. Question: This appears to not be located within Phase 1A or 1 B. Please confirm. And there doesn’t appear to be a standard wall, but medical equipment with a stainless steel panel. Please clarify which phase this work is to be performed and clarify existing conditions. Revise the drawings as necessary. See picture below.

ANSWER: This information is indicated on the plan. This is the installation of a temporary door into the space

59. QUESTION: We have only located Wall Types 1 and 7 as being shown and required on the drawings.

However, a total of eight different wall types are included on Drawing AE-501. We are confused as to why there are so many when only two appear to be called out on the drawings and we’re concerned that we are overlooking wall types. Please confirm our understanding or point us in the direction of where Wall Types 2-6 and 8 are located on the drawings.

ANSWER: All wall types were shown, but most are not used in this project. Wall types 1 and 7 are the only types used in the project. 2-6 and 8 are not used.

60. QUESTION: Please confirm that TAB is to be contracted directly by the GC and not a subcontractor to the

GC, such as the mechanical subcontractor.

ANSWER: Yes TAB contractor needs to be hired directly by GC as required in Spec 23 05 93 Section 1.3-B

61. QUESTION: Please confirm that commissioning is not required. Any commissioning activities will be the responsibility of the VA.

ANSWER: VA will provide commissioning of the construction and Steris will commission their equipment after install.

62. QUESTION: Please confirm that any equipment or material provided by the VA for either VA-install or Contractor- installed will be tested by the VA and not the Contractor and that no submittals will be required from the contractor. Offerors cannot take responsibility for the operations and functionality of a piece of equipment we did not purchase.

63. QUESTION: Please confirm that the Unistrut installation will not require welding inspections and bolt inspections.

ANSWER: Inspection of bolts will be required.

64. QUESTION: Please confirm that the SSHO can be the same person as the Superintendent.

ANSWER: Yes, as long as they have the qualifications.

65. QUESTION: Section 01 45 00, page 7, requires QC Specialists and states that these individuals have to be employed by the general contractor and not a subcontractor or supplier. The categories include electrical, mechanical, civil, structural, environmental, architectural, materials technician, submittal clerk, TAB and Design QC Manager. This requirements seems excessively restrictive for a small SDVOSB contractor to have on-staff. This requirement has never been a part of a VA project we have bid in the past five years at the Houston VA. Furthermore, some of those categories are not even relevant to the project, such as Design QC. Please consider revising this list to only include those categories relevant to the project scope, and allow GCs to have subcontractors fulfill these roles as long as they meet the qualifications.

ANSWER: GC may have subcontractors to fulfill these roles. GC shall provide qualifications of the individuals as a submittal.

66. QUESTION: Section 01 45 00 includes multiple references to items that are applicable to this project, such as a requirement for Design Quality Control Plan. Please provide a revised QC section that is applicable to this project and the scope of work. It appears to have been a cut/paste from a USACE project.

ANSWER: Spec 01 45 00 is applicable to this project.

67. QUESTION: Please confirm that an onsite testing laboratory is not required as is mentioned in Section 01 45 00.

ANSWER: Contractor shall hire 3rd party testing firm for required testing.

68. QUESTION: There is no detail to show how in-ground sanitary piping is to be placed, backfilled, soil type, vapor barrier requirement, compaction, etc. Please provide the detail so offerors understand the requirements.

ANSWER: The detail shown on the drawings and in the detailed sketch attached are good for the slab repair. The Vapor barrier and concrete requirements are called out in the new concrete specification section 033000. The original requirements for the under-slab compaction was 90%. If the soil under the slab is only disturbed where the new piping is being installed, then the soil can be placed so as not to damage the new pipe and hand compacted in place. The new concrete patch will be supported by the existing slab with the rebar tie ins.

69. QUESTION: The special inspections document included after 01 45 35 does not appear to have been reviewed to apply to this project’s scope of work. There are significant number of testing requirements that do not pertain or involve any scope required on this project. Having an open-ended inspection requirement as it currently stands puts significant risk on the GC’s shoulders. Please revise this section to include only special inspections required for this project as applicable to the scope.

ANSWER: This spec section does not apply to this project.

70. QUESTION: Section 04 01 00 is included and addresses replacing existing damaged masonry units.

We have not located on the drawings any requirement for replacing damaged masonry units.

Please clarify the masonry scope of work, including locations, quantities, etc.

ANSWER: The wall between the temp sanitary storage BC352 and BC361 is CMU and will have a new doorway cut though the wall. Repair may be required so the spec section was added.

71. QUESTION: Section 05 12 00 is included and addresses structural steel framing. However, section 05 43 00 addresses the Unistrut requirements. We have not located any requirements for structural steel framing. Please clarify the structural steel framing scope of work, including locations, quantities, etc. Same question regarding Section 05 50 00.

ANSWER: No Structural Steel Framing is required for the catwalk installation.

72. QUESTION: Section 07 81 00 is included and address applying fire resistance to interior structural steel members shown. However, we can not locate any requirement like this on the drawings. Please clarify the applied fireproofing scope of work, including locations, quantities, etc.

ANSWER: It may be necessary to repair fire proofing with installation of the catwalk so this section was added

73. QUESTION: Section 09 05 16 addresses remedial actions for floor slabs that have unsatisfactory moisture or pH conditions. However, Offerors can not know the extent of this work during the bidding process and therefore can not price this accurately. Please clarify how the VA will address floors that do not meet the moisture or pH requirements.

ANSWER: If the floors do not meet the moisture or pH requirements, it will be treated as an unforeseen site condition. This spec section shall be used to remedy the situation.

74. QUESTION: Section 11 71 00 includes requirements for washer/disinfector, cart washer, steam sterilizer, water treatment system, detergent dispensing system, and sterilizer-enclosed panels (modular walls).

Please confirm that Offerors are not responsible for purchasing any of this equipment, and that the specification is only provided for Offerors review for installation requirements. Note, all these items are shown on QH- 102 Equipment Schedule as either VV or VC.

ANSWER: This is the specification for the required equipment, the Equipment Schedule states what equipment is required and who is responsible for purchase and installation.

75. QUESTION: Section 11 71 00 includes sterilizer-enclosed panels (modular walls). We can not locate this on the Equipment Schedule or anywhere on the drawings,. Please clarify the scope of work pertaining to this item and whether or not it is VA purchased and installed, VA purchased and Contractor installed or Contractor purchased and installed. If the two latter, please revise the drawings to clarify this requirement and to clearly indicate ethe scope of work.

ANSWER: Contractor to provide and install matching panels for empty spaces between the equipment.

76. QUESTION: We can not locate a specification section for the High-Density Carousel Storage units shown on the drawings and in Equipment Schedule. Are Offerors to only go off the Equipment Schedule or will a specification section be added to the contract documents?

ANSWER: There is no specification for this in the VA master spec. The manufacturer and their product number are provided in the equipment listing. Contractor is required to install per the manufacturer specifications.

77. QUESTION: Is the contractor responsible for temporary tie ins on the plumbing system to allow for the facility to continue to function?

ANSWER: Yes.

78. QUESTION: Can the Site Superintendent also serve as the Site Safety and the Quality Control?

ANSWER: See Response to RFI 67

79. QUESTION: Can the temporary duct for the catwalk install be flexible duct or does it have to be sheet metal duct?

ANSWER: Yes. Only temporary duct.

80. QUESTION: Can the areas where stainless steel duct is required be noted on the plans?

ANSWER: Exhaust duct from Cart Washers, Sterilizers, and Washer/Disinfectors.

81. QUESTION: Who is the existing nurse call vendor?

ANSWER: Rauland

82. QUESTION: Who is the existing fire alarm vendor?

ANSWER: See answer to #27.

83. QUESTION: Is there any tube systems for transport of documents and other items associated with this project?

ANSWER: No.

84. QUESTION: Please verify that the Steris and Hanel Equipment is supplied by the owner.

ANSWER: Steris Equipment is supplied by VA. Hanel Equipments is supply by GC. Please note that Hanel Equipment is included as bid deduct/alternate #1.

85. QUESTION: In the Past Performance section, you describe a “major subcontractor” as one that performed over 25% of the total price. Further down, we are told to “Provide a detailed summary of the most recent five (5) projects that include…subcontractors (Name, Rolls, Responsibilities, Percent of work).” We believe you want info only for “major subcontractors” in this portion of our response. Is that correct?

86. QUESTION: Will TB testing be required?

ANSWER: TB tests and flu shots are required for any contract employee who enters Building 100.

87. QUESTION: Will negative air be allowed to be discharged into the interstitial space?

ANSWER: No.

88. QUESTION: Please provide a specification section for Lockers as called out on the equipment schedule on sheet QH102 EQP #A1030. The note says “see specifications” but they specifications have not been provided.

ANSWER: See specifications attached.

89. QUESTION: The statement of work says that the VA’s Normal Working Hours are 7:00 am to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. The Sterile Processing Services department is a 24/7 operation.

Contractor shall coordinate work with the COR in order to not disrupt the end user’s operations which may include work earlier or later in the day. Please clarify the hours of construction for each respective phase of this solicitation.

ANSWER: The work hours may vary depending on the phase, and the type of work being performed within that phase. The phasing plan allows the Facility to continue operations while construction is being performed. Work, such as demo and utility shutdowns, shall be coordinated with the COR and performed when SPS load is at its minimum. Phase 6B shall be performed during the weekend and not during the Facility’s normal working hours. Contractor will be allowed to work off hours during construction of any phase at no additional cost to the government.

90. QUESTION: What is the thickness of the existing slab shown on detail 1/S-302?

ANSWER: 8” Max.

91. QUESTION: Please provide an infill detail for the cart washer pit that was demolished per sheet AD-

101.

ANSWER: We will send a detail next week showing this infill.

92. QUESTION: Please provide existing finish details for the corridor side of the door opening required to be infilled per note 11 on sheet AD105.

ANSWER: The wall material and finish are to match the existing painted drywall.

93. QUESTION: What are the limits of repair/ repainting on the corridor side for infills in the corridor where the existing door is removed as shown on note 11 on sheet AD105?

ANSWER: The match work is limited to the door being removed, painting is to match existing and may require the entire wall from double door to double door in that corridor.

94. QUESTION: What is the manufacturer and model of existing acoustic ceiling tiles that are to be reused?

ANSWER: Unknown. VA will accept similar replacement in case contractor needs to acquire more.

95. QUESTION: Please provide as built drawings for the existing partition walls that are to be removed.

Please include wall types and elevation details.

ANSWER: See attached as built drawings and partition detailed scheduled. Attachment names DE-1R, Area B-G and Area B-F.

96. QUESTION: What is the height of the existing partition walls? Are we to assume that they are full height from floor to deck?

ANSWER: New walls extend above the ceiling 4” to 6”, Rated walls extend to structure above.

97. QUESTION: Please provide a drawing, dimensions and details of the catwalk access door, noted on sheet AE127 note 2.

ANSWER: The access door is noted and detailed on the door schedule.

98. QUESTION: The demolition drawings do not clearly show that flooring is to be demolished and to what extent. Please clarify.

ANSWER: The limits of work are shown and the floor in the decom and Prep assembly are to be refinished over existing.

99. QUESTION: Please provide an access egress plan that shows access to the project from the exterior of the main building.

ANSWER: Contractor shall enter through the main entrance, take red elevators to the basement and turn right. Same route taken during the pre-bid walk through.

100. QUESTION: Please provide a laydown location for construction.

ANSWER: A laydown area is not guaranteed. An exact location is unknown at this time.

101. QUESTION: Will the contractor be allowed the use of the elevators?

ANSWER: Yes, only the service elevators. Please note: the contractor will be allowed to use the service tunnel to drop and pick up materials which is located in the basement, same level as the project.

102. QUESTION: Keynote 1 is referenced on sheet T0101, but it is not called out anywhere on the page. Please clarify.

ANSWER: See item 32 above.

103. QUESTION: Sheet T-102 shows symbol “ES” at two door locations between gridline 13 and

14. This symbol is not referenced on T-001. Please clarify.

ANSWER: Electric strike for the PACS door, see hardware schedule for more info.

104. QUESTION: Sheet T-101 has a note 1 called out on the page, but there are no keynote descriptions provided.

ANSWER: see item 32 above.

105. QUESTION: Sheet T-106 has note 1 called out on the page in multiple locations, but there are no keynote descriptions provided.

ANSWER: see item 31 above.

106. QUESTION: Please confirm that the existing paging system is to be re-used in existing locations.

ANSWER: See plans and detail 1 on T501.

107. QUESTION: The existing surveillance cameras are not shown on the plans or referenced in the specifications. Please confirm that they are not part of the scope of this project.

ANSWER: There are no cameras as part of this project.

108. QUESTION: Per the site visit, it was noted that the hospital does not presently have a plan or space for the relocation of the equipment within BB-285 for the Phase I construction. Please confirm the government will provide removal, storage, and reinstallation of this equipment.

ANSWER: Yes, government will relocate equipment affected in each phase.

109. QUESTION: Per the Bid Schedule, Alternate # 1; it states that the Five High Density Carousel Units are changed to GFGI. Please confirm that the contractor is to only price the rough in connections for these units?

ANSWER: Contractor is responsible to include the price for the rough-in connections in Alternate #1

110. QUESTION: Per the site visit, it was stated that the installation of the epoxy flooring that is to be installed in rooms BB-210 and BB-220 may be a issue due to the way the phasing is laid out and if epoxy flooring is to be installed in these entire areas. Please provide additional information regarding the epoxy flooring installation in these areas and if the contractor will have access to the full area in order to remove and replace the flooring. Will an epoxy flooring over the exiting tile floor be an acceptable approach?

ANSWER: Flooring to be install in entire areas shown; coordinate the installation with the VA.

111. QUESTION: Per the site visit, it was noted that a study may not have been performed on the existing electrical system and if the existing panels can support the new power requirements. Will an existing power survey be performed by the government or contractor after award? And should the contractor assume that the existing system has the adequate power for the new systems for bidding purposes?

ANSWER: Contractor shall assume the existing system has adequate power for the new systems.

112. QUESTION: Per drawing S-101 and S-102, will the contractor be allowed to install the catwalk system throughout the whole area at one time or will we be required to frame this out per phase?

ANSWER: It is not required to do this with phases construction.

113. QUESTION: Please confirm what the contractor should assume the transition time by the hospital personnel will be in between each phase?

ANSWER: See Response to RFI #2

114. QUESTION: Is the contractor responsible for paying temp utility fees (Water, electric, etc…) for our temporary construction facilities during the project duration?

ANSWER: No. The VA will provide temporary utility connections.

115. QUESTION: Per spec section 00 01 10-1 General Requirements, para. 1.2 (e), please confirm that the government will provide all laboratory testing for this project.

ANSWER: See response to #67.

116. QUESTION: Per drawing PD101 & PD102, the plumbing demolition drawings refer to phase 4 & 5 construction but general note E states that this work should be done within phase 1. What phase will the demolition and replacement of the existing domestic water and sanitary lines be provided in? It shows the new water line installation in drawings PW101-PW106, but we will have to remove the existing SOG as noted in order to remove and replace the existing lines and it appears this will need to be done in each phase and not all at once. Please provide clarification.

ANSWER: Work identified on PD101 shall be part of Phase 4. Work identified on PD102 shall part of Phase 5. Each phase needs to provide a functioning area as identified on GI103.

117. QUESTION: Per the electrical demolition drawings (ED-101-ED-106), is it the governments intent per general note C that the contractor remove all the electrical conduits and wiring back to the panel within the entire work area per phase? Will any existing electrical circuits be retained within each phase of construction? If so, all the existing wall finishes will have to be removed and replaced per this note and want to confirm that this is the governments intent per this note.

ANSWER: Sheet Note-‘C’ on Sheets ED101-ED106 shall be amended as follows:

“WITHIN THE EXTENT OF EACH PHASE: CONTRACTOR SHALL REMOVE ALL ELECTRICAL CONDUIT, CABLE, WIRING DEVICES, JUNCTION BOXES, FITTINGS, AND RELATED ITEMS, FROM ALL PORTIONS OF THE AREA

OF WORK INCLUDING WALLS, CEILINGS, & FLOORS EXCEPT WHERE THOSE COMPONENTS SERVE

FUNCTIONS TO REMAIN OR ARE CONCEALED BY FINISHES TO REMAIN. THIS SHALL BE FOR ALL WALLS, EVEN WALLS NOT SUBJECT TO REMOVAL.”

118. QUESTION: Please confirm that the government will be providing the special inspections and SIOR per spec section 01 45 35.

ANSWER: See response to #69.

119. QUESTION: How much down time is allowed for phase 6b. This phase will require the labs to be down to complete the work per plans.

ANSWER: 48 hours.

120. QUESTION: S3185 is called for in the plans as relocated. There is currently one shown on the plans as existing and final plans call for 2. Who is providing and relocating this equipment? The equipment schedule does not provide for this.

ANSWER: This is shown on the Equipment Schedule. VA provided material, contractor install.

121. QUESTION: What is the current below slab conditions, slab on grade or pan decking? Also what is the existing SOG thickness?

ANSWER: Slab on grade. Contractor is to assume 12” thick.

122. QUESTION: Please provide the hospital’s existing paging system contractor and/or manufacturer.

ANSWER: See response to #28.

123. QUESTION: Please provide the hospital’s existing physical access control system contractor and/or manufacturer.

ANSWER: See response to #28.

124. QUESTION: Please provide the hospital’s existing fire alarm system contractor and/or manufacturer.

ANSWER: See response to #27.

125. QUESTION: Is this project sales tax exempt? If the project is sales tax exempt can the government provide a sales tax exemption certif icate?

ANSWER: The government’s tax exemption does not pass down to contractors per FAR 29.303.

However, contractors can follow their state codes and may receive tax exemption per FAR 29.305.

126. QUESTION: Will the Government provide comprehensive written badging requirements for the project if badging is required?

ANSWER: Yes. Contractor will be required to apply for badges and use badges during the duration of the project. Badge requirements will include background check, fingerprints, two forms of government issue ID (at least one photo ID required), US citizenship or Government Issued Work Permit.

127. QUESTION: Where will the designated parking area be for workers accessing the construction site?

ANSWER: Lot W near the VA’s Parking Garage at the corner of Cambridge and Holcombe.

128. QUESTION: Will the government accept the use of the industry leading Procore Project

Management sof tware as the primary submittal and data tracking tool for this project? The sof tware is compatible with the VA’s networks and is currently in use at many VA locations.

ANSWER: Contractor will be required to use Newforma supplied by the AE of record.

129. QUESTION: During construction in an area where the ceilings or f ire suppression system will be disrupted, will NFPA 241 apply? Will the government require additional security measures beyond NFPA code such as f ire watch, temporary f ire alarms, adjustments to sprinkler heads, etc.

ANSWER: Yes, security measures required per NFPA 241.

130. QUESTION: Does the Government have a f ire alarm servicer that they currently work with? What is the name and contact information of the person or persons that will need to be coordinated with for security and f ire alarm and suppression systems work and/or disruptions?

ANSWER: See response to #27.

131. QUESTION: Has the work area been checked for asbestos?

ANSWER: There is no asbestos in Building 100.

132. QUESTION: What is the Governments’ policy if asbestos products are encountered during construction?

ANSWER: N/A. See response to #131.

133. QUESTION: Does the Government currently have a 3rd party testing service for those items requiring testing or is the contractor f ree to locate and hire applicable testing f irms?

ANSWER: Contractor shall hire third party testing firm.

134. QUESTION: Who is responsible for the utility locations?

ANSWER: Contractor is responsible for utility locating.

135. QUESTION: Due to current potentially signif icant tariffs being placed on the importation of building materials such as wood or steel by the current Presidential Executive Branch, if a tarif f is placed af ter bid time and before award will the government consider a price escalation on a contract value for products such as steel or wood should the executive branch levee tarif fs effecting…