VA.WAC FIRE ALARM - RFIs.xlsx

VA.WAC FIRE ALARM - BID RFI

PROJECT #674A4-21-108

UPGRADE FIRE ALARM SYSTEM, CAMPUS-WIDE

WACO, VA MEDICAL CENTER

FROM

VA CO

2 06/05/26 06/15/26 Per the original specifications dated 6/25/21 section 28 31 00 part 1.1.C states that certain buildings call for voice evacuation, (2,5,7,8,90,93,94) while others a general evacuation signal (4,6,15,16,17,18,24,99,202,216,219,222,224,225,226,) Is this still applicable or do those panels also need to be voice evacuation? Provide notification appliances and evacuation functions exactly as specified in Section 28 31 00 1.1.C for voice and general evacuation buildings, and in accordance with the contract documents, approved submittals, and applicable codes. No change in scope or expansion of voice systems beyond those buildings is authorized. VA COR /

VA CO

3 06/05/26 06/15/26 Will surface mounted conduit be allowed? New fire alarm raceways shall be metal and concealed in finished spaces, with exposure permitted only in unfinished spaces such as mechanical and electrical rooms, per FA general notes and Division 26/Section 28 31 00. Surface mounted conduit in finished areas is not approved as a general method and will be considered only where specifically requested and approved by the Government. VA COR /

VA CO

4 06/05/26 06/15/26 Will there be a designated area for a laydown yard? Staging and laydown areas, if available, will be identified and coordinated by the VA after award. The contractor shall include all logistics, handling, and internal material movements required to perform the work within the contract price. VA COR /

VA CO

5 06/05/26 06/15/26 Will the government pay for materials stored onsite? Payment for stored materials shall be governed by the contract and FAR requirements and will be based on properly supported, approved payment applications. Provision of a storage area by the Government does not change the contractor’s risk and responsibility for security and protection of stored materials. VA COR /

VA CO

6 06/05/26 06/15/26 What is the intended scope of work? Is the project meant to replace the existing fire alarm system on a 1-for-1 basis—replacing panels and devices as shown in the design documents—or is the intent to upgrade the system to meet current code and standards? The contractor shall provide a complete, code compliant, fully functional fire alarm system in each building within scope, meeting the narrative, drawings, and Section 28 31 00. The fire alarm drawings are diagrammatic and shall not be used as the sole basis for device counts or system design; the contractor shall furnish all devices and infrastructure required to meet NFPA and VA requirements. VA COR /

VA CO

7 06/05/26 06/15/26 Is there an existing Fiber network to be used for building-to-building communications? Existing fire alarm and communications infrastructure is shown for reference only; suitability, capacity, and condition are not guaranteed by the Government. The contractor shall field-verify existing conditions and provide any additional network infrastructure required to deliver a complete and operational system, except where specific reuse is clearly identified and approved. VA COR /

VA CO

8 06/05/26 06/15/26 What are the working hours for each building (laundry/ pharmacy, ect..) so we do not interfere with daily operations? Building access and work hours will be coordinated with facility operations after award, including any building specific restrictions for patient care and critical functions. The contractor shall plan for phased work in occupied healthcare facilities, including after hours work where required and at no additional cost beyond the contract price. VA COR /

VA CO

9 06/05/26 06/15/26 What are the ICRA levels we will have to adhere to for each building? The contractor shall comply with all project specific Infection Control Risk Assessment (ICRA) and infection control requirements as established by the VA Safety/ICRA team. All temporary barriers, negative air systems, and work practices shall be submitted and approved as part of the ICRA process at no additional cost. VA COR /

VA CO

10 06/05/26 06/15/26 What is the bldg. 94 (mental health) work hours and are there any security concerns? Work in Building 94 shall be coordinated with facility staff and conducted only within VA approved work windows. Contractor personnel shall comply with all Building 94 security, escort, and patient safety requirements, including any special tool control measures imposed by the facility. VA COR /

VA CO

11 06/05/26 06/15/26 Will this project interfere with any ongoing project in any of the buildings listed for replacement? Contractor shall coordinate work with all ongoing VA projects and contractors; no guarantee is made regarding concurrent construction activities or their schedules. Concurrent work does not relieve the contractor of completing the project within the contract requirements. VA COR /

VA CO

12 06/05/26 06/15/26 Will we be using red conduit as the standard for the new work? Existing conduit has been painted or is metallic. New fire alarm conduit shall comply with Division 26, Section 28 31 00, and the fire alarm general notes, including use of metal raceway and required identification (e.g., red couplings, striping where indicated). Specific identification details shall be confirmed during submittal review; no reduction in these requirements is authorized. VA COR /

VA CO

13 06/05/26 06/15/26 Are there any asbestos or LBP concerns? Has there been a HAZMAT survey done for all of the areas we will be working in and can it be provided to us? Available environmental and hazardous materials reports (asbestos, lead, etc.) will be provided for reference if available; accuracy and completeness are not guaranteed. The contractor shall comply with all hazardous material requirements in the contract and shall not disturb suspect materials without VA direction. VA COR /

VA CO

14 06/05/26 06/15/26 Can the VA provide the utility map of each of the areas we will be working in or around? Available utility mapping and underground infrastructure information will be provided for reference only. The contractor shall field verify all utilities, protect existing services, and is responsible for safe excavation and routing regardless of the completeness of VA records. VA COR /

VA CO

15 06/05/26 06/15/26 Can the VA provide an overlay/drawings for the pathways we are to use for this new install? No additional pathway drawings beyond the contract documents are available. The contractor shall field verify routing requirements and design/install all raceways and pathways necessary for a complete fire alarm network in accordance with NFPA 72, VA standards, and Section 28 31 00. VA COR /

VA CO

16 06/05/26 06/15/26 Can we re-use any of the existing fiber? Existing fiber may only be reused where its type, routing, capacity, condition, and performance are demonstrated suitable and compatibility is documented, and where reuse is approved through the submittal process. All reused fiber shall meet Section 28 31 00 requirements and be warranted as part of the new system. VA COR /

VA CO

17 06/05/26 06/15/26 Since the old system has to remain in place and functional while the new system is being installed; is there room in the existing fiber pathways for the new fiber cable or will we have to directional drill new pathways and new HDPE? The Government makes no representation regarding spare capacity or condition of existing pathways. The contractor shall determine pathway capacity during field investigation and provide any new pathways required to support the specified Class X campus network and building interconnections. VA COR /

VA CO

18 06/05/26 06/15/26 Can the VA provide an overlay or drawings for the existing fire alarm infrastructure, both above and below ground? Any available existing fire alarm as built drawings and infrastructure information will be provided for reference only. The contractor shall field-verify all existing conditions and shall not rely on legacy documents as complete or accurate. VA COR /

VA CO

19 06/05/26 06/15/26 How many duct detectors are there per building? Drawings are diagrammatic and are not intended to provide complete inventories or counts of duct detectors. The contractor shall field-verify quantities and locations and provide all duct detectors and interfaces necessary to meet NFPA 72, VA standards, and Section 28 31 00 requirements. VA COR /

VA CO

20 06/05/26 06/15/26 How many magnetic door holders are there per building? Drawings are diagrammatic and not a complete inventory of magnetic door holders. The contractor shall field-verify quantities and locations and provide all required door holders and interfaces to achieve a complete, code compliant system as required by the contract documents. VA COR /

VA CO

21 06/05/26 06/15/26 Will we be able to surface mount conduit? Surface mounted conduit in finished spaces is not granted blanket approval. Requests for surface mounted conduit in specific locations shall be submitted with justification and will be reviewed case by case by the Government; concealed raceways remain the default requirement. VA COR /

VA CO

22 06/05/26 06/15/26 Can we abandon conduit and back boxes in areas where the removal would require substantial damage to the existing structure? Existing abandoned conduit and backboxes may remain in place only where removal would damage existing construction and where specifically approved by the Government. Any abandoned raceways and boxes shall be rendered inactive, safely terminated, and documented on as built drawings. VA COR /

VA CO

23 06/05/26 06/15/26 Will all new panels be located in the same room where the current panels are located? Existing panel locations are not guaranteed to be reused. The contractor shall propose final fire alarm control panel and annunciator locations that meet code, accessibility, and operational requirements and obtain Government approval through the submittal process. VA COR /

VA CO

24 06/05/26 06/15/26 How many power supplies, amplifiers and boosters are there per building? Existing equipment counts are for reference only. The contractor shall field verify requirements and provide all power supplies, amplifiers, boosters, and associated infrastructure needed for a complete, code compliant system per Section 28 31 00 and the approved design. VA COR /

VA CO

25 06/05/26 06/15/26 Will the government have an FPE do all the review of the buildings or do we need to provide an FPE to do so? Government reviews, including by the VA Fire Protection Engineer, do not relieve the contractor of design, coordination, and code compliance responsibilities. The contractor shall provide all engineering and design services required by Section 28 31 00 (NICET III or FPE) and Division 28. VA COR /

VA CO

VA CO

28 06/05/26 06/15/26 Will the elevator contractor be available to test the elevator recall during final, or will we need to coordinate and pay for that? The contractor shall coordinate all testing activities, including elevator recall and related interfaces, with all affected trades and VA staff. Costs associated with contractor required coordination, scheduling, and vendor participation necessary to complete testing shall be included in the contract price. VA COR /

VA CO

29 06/05/26 06/15/26 Do you have a diagram of the existing fiber raceways? Existing fiber raceway diagrams and campus network drawings, if available, will be provided for reference only. The contractor shall field-verify all pathways and provide any additional raceways needed to implement the new campus fire alarm network. VA COR /

VA CO

30 06/05/26 06/15/26 Is there room for us to pull new fiber through the existing fiber raceway? No guarantee is made regarding available capacity in existing fiber raceways. The contractor shall assess capacity, fill, and condition and shall provide new raceways where existing capacity is insufficient to meet code and project requirements. VA COR /

VA CO

31 06/05/26 06/15/26 Is there enough existing fiber that we can tie into the existing fiber network, so we do not have to pull new fiber? Existing fiber availability, length, and performance are not guaranteed. The contractor shall provide all fiber infrastructure necessary for a complete and operational system; existing fiber may only be used where suitability is verified and approved by the Government. VA COR /

VA CO

32 06/05/26 06/15/26 If there is not enough new fiber, can we use the existing fiber and just move it to the new panel once we have completely tested it out to save money? Existing fiber may only be reused or relocated if it is demonstrated suitable, compatible with the new system, and approved through the submittal process. Any reuse remains fully the contractor’s responsibility and must meet all warranty and performance requirements. VA COR /

VA CO

33 06/05/26 06/15/26 The Price/Cost Schedule does not account for the bid alternates. Can the VA provide a revised schedule? Offerors shall follow the CLIN structure and Price/Cost Schedule as established in the solicitation and any amendments. Any revisions to the CLIN structure or alternate pricing format will be issued by amendment; no alternate pricing structures are authorized without such direction. VA COR /

VA CO

34 06/05/26 06/15/26 We will need to know if we are dealing with a dropped ceiling or a hard ceiling for all rooms. Can the VA provide a reflected ceiling plan for all buildings? The contractor shall field verify ceiling conditions (hard vs suspended) and coordinate device mounting accordingly. Existing reflected ceiling plans, if available, will be provided for reference only and shall not be relied upon as complete. VA COR /

VA CO

35 06/05/26 06/15/26 Will the VA provide a device equipment schedule to include quantities for each building? The contractor shall field verify all device quantities and locations; drawings and narratives are diagrammatic and not intended for device counting. The contractor shall furnish devices sufficient to meet NFPA 72, VA Fire Protection Design Manual, and Section 28 31 00 requirements. VA COR /

VA CO

36 06/05/26 06/15/26 Can the VA provide the mechanical plans for each building? Available mechanical drawings will be provided for reference only. The contractor remains responsible for coordination with mechanical systems, field verification of ductwork and equipment, and providing all fire alarm interfaces required by the contract documents. VA COR /

VA CO

37 06/05/26 06/15/26 Are duct detectors included in this project? Duct smoke detectors shall be provided, modified, replaced, or interfaced as required by the contract documents, fire alarm general notes, NFPA 72, and applicable VA standards. The contractor shall field verify all duct detector locations and ensure all required duct detectors are connected to and supervised by the new system VA COR /

VA CO

38 06/05/26 06/15/26 If duct detectors are included in the project, can the VA provide an equipment schedule for each building? Contractor shall field verify existing magnetic door holder quantities and locations. Drawings are not intended to provide complete inventories; contractor shall ensure all required fire door hold open devices are properly interfaced and controlled by the new fire alarm system. VA COR /

VA CO

39 06/05/26 06/15/26 What additional building components are tied into the fire alarm systems for each building (elevators, mag locks, HVAC, etc)? The contractor shall identify, field verify, and connect all required interfaces, including but not limited to sprinklers, kitchen hoods, smoke/fire dampers, HVAC equipment, elevators, door locks, fire doors, generators, and other systems as described in the narrative and Section 28 31 00. VA COR /

VA CO

40 06/05/26 06/15/26 Electrical Room Panel Installations — While the plans indicate no panels are to be installed in electrical rooms, several existing panels observed during the site visit are located within spaces typically designated as such. Could you clarify whether you have preferred alternate locations in mind for panel installation? Final fire alarm control panel, power supply, amplifier, and annunciator locations shall be coordinated with the Government, approved through the submittal process, and shall comply with all code, accessibility, maintainability, and VA operational requirements. Existing locations shown are not guaranteed. VA COR /

VA CO

41 06/05/26 06/15/26 Current System Documentation — Can you provide current as-built drawings or design documents for the fire alarm systems scheduled to be demo’d? Available as built and record drawings, if any, will be provided for reference only; their accuracy and completeness are not guaranteed. The contractor shall field-verify all conditions and shall produce accurate as built drawings in the required Revit format per Section 28 31 00. VA COR /

VA CO

42 06/05/26 06/15/26 Demolition Scope Above Ceiling — Will the demolition include removal of above-ceiling wiring and raceways, or will it be limited to devices and tying up wiring above the ceiling? Demolition shall be performed as necessary to complete the work in accordance with Section 28 31 00 1.2.B–C, which requires removal of all existing fire alarm equipment and conduit not reused. Existing systems shall remain operational until approved cutover is complete, after which demolition shall proceed as coordinated with the VA. VA COR /

VA CO

43 06/05/26 06/15/26 Conduit Requirements — What are the conduit expectations for this scope? Specifically, what type of conduit will be required? Conduit and raceways for the fire alarm system shall comply with the contract documents, NFPA 70, NFPA 72, applicable NEC requirements, Division 26, and Section 28 31 00, including use of metal raceways and required concealment in finished spaces. Approved submittals will govern specific product selections but shall not reduce these minimum requirements. VA COR /

VA CO

44 06/05/26 06/15/26 Reuse of Existing Conduit in Cinder Block Walls — In areas like the laundry building, where conduit runs into cinder block walls, will surface-mounted conduit be acceptable if reuse proves impractical due to system changeover sequencing? Maintaining operation of the current system during transition will make reuse challenging. Surface mounted conduit is not granted blanket approval. Where reuse of existing conduit (e.g., in cinder block walls) is not practical, the contractor may submit specific requests for surface mounted conduit with justification; each request will be reviewed on a case by case basis and must still meet aesthetics, historic, and code requirements. VA COR /

VA CO

45 06/05/26 06/15/26 What fire caulk requirements should we anticipate for penetrations or system transitions? All firestopping materials and methods shall comply with UL listed firestop systems, Section 07 84 00, Section 28 31 00, and applicable codes. Existing and new penetrations shall be sealed to restore required fire and smoke ratings, and all systems shall be submitted for VA review. VA COR /

VA CO

46 06/05/26 06/15/26 Lift Access and Restrictions — Are there any restrictions on lift equipment access or usage we should be aware of? Contractor shall coordinate lift access, locations, and use with facility operations and safety; restrictions may apply, particularly in patient care and sensitive areas. Contractor shall provide alternate OSHA compliant access (e.g., ladders) where lifts are not permitted. VA COR /

VA CO

47 06/05/26 06/15/26 Work Hour Limitations — Will any building-specific restrictions apply to working hours due to usage or occupancy considerations? Contractor shall coordinate building specific work hours with facility operations; work may require phasing and after hours activities to limit patient and operational impact. Any premium time necessary to meet these constraints is the contractor’s responsibility. VA COR /

VA CO

48 06/05/26 06/15/26 Evaluation Factor – Please confirm whether local presence / proximity to the place of performance will be favorably evaluated, given the Specification Section 28 31 00-5 1.6.H.2 requirement for a two-hour on-site response time. Evaluation criteria are limited to those identified in the solicitation. The two hour on site response time requirement in Section 28 31 00 is a performance requirement, not a separate evaluation preference for “local” offerors; offerors shall comply with all response time requirements specified. VA COR /

VA CO

49 06/05/26 06/15/26 The scope of work lists buildings by number to be included in the Base Bid, Bid Alternate 1, and Bid Alternate 2, but the drawing package includes additional buildings. Please confirm which buildings are included. Buildings included in the project are limited to those identified in the solicitation, contract documents (including the design narrative building list), and any subsequent amendments. In the event of discrepancies, the final building list will be defined by amendment; no additional buildings are included without written modification. VA COR /

VA CO

50 06/05/26 06/15/26 Per Statement of Work Requirements Paragraph 1, please confirm whether offerors must submit proof of Notifier distributorship at the time of proposal. Offerors shall comply with all solicitation and Section 28 31 00 requirements regarding manufacturer authorization, distributorship, and factory support documentation. Required proof shall be submitted at the time and in the format specified by the solicitation and any amendments. VA COR /

VA CO

51 06/05/26 06/15/26 Please confirm Prime Contractor shall employ NICET Level III or registered Fire Protection Engineer, per specifications. Contractor personnel qualifications shall comply with Section 28 31 00, including provision of a NICET Level III fire alarm technician or registered FPE for design, layout, and supervision. Government reviews do not waive these requirements. VA COR /

VA CO

52 06/05/26 06/15/26 Please confirm that the Prime Contractor shall have a Fire Alarm License from the Texas State Fire Marshal’s office. The contractor shall comply with all applicable Texas licensing requirements identified in the contract documents, including electrical and fire alarm licensing. No work may be performed without required state and local licenses. Additionally, the contractor shall comply with all Texas State Fire Marshal fire alarm licensing requirements applicable to this project. The licensed firm and individuals shall be identified in submittals as required by the contract documents. VA COR /

VA CO

53 06/05/26 06/15/26 Clarify pricing structure to match CLIN schedule for Base Bid, Alternate 1, Alternate 2. Contractor shall structure bid and pricing in accordance with the CLIN schedule and pricing instructions in the solicitation and any amendments. Any clarification or revision to CLIN structure or price breakout will be issued by amendment; no alternative structures are authorized without written direction. VA COR /

VA CO

54 06/05/26 06/15/26 Confirm subcontracting limitations related to SDVOSB participation and percentages. Contractor shall comply with all SDVOSB subcontracting limitations and self performance requirements identified in the solicitation, FAR, and VA regulations. No additional or reduced limitations are imposed beyond those governing requirements. VA COR /

VA CO

55 06/05/26 06/15/26 Confirm requirement for two parallel workstations for Simplex and Notifier systems if partial conversion occurs. Contractor shall provide temporary and permanent system configurations as necessary to maintain required fire alarm functionality throughout construction, including maintaining existing systems in service until new systems are accepted. Any parallel operation of old and new systems shall be coordinated with VA and included in the contract price. VA COR /

VA CO

56 06/05/26 06/15/26 Confirm intent for two parallel fiber networks and whether government provides fiber paths if required. Contractor shall provide all fire alarm network infrastructure required for a complete and operational campus wide system, including inter building Class X signaling line circuits and building SLC/NAC circuits, unless the contract documents specifically identify items provided by others. Existing Simplex campus network infrastructure will not be reused as the primary system. VA COR /

VA CO

57 06/05/26 06/15/26 If network failures exist, what remediation plan should be followed? Contractor shall identify existing network deficiencies discovered during installation and notify the Government. Correction of pre existing, unrelated deficiencies is not included in this contract without specific Government direction and modification; contractor remains responsible for proper performance of new work. VA COR /

VA CO

58 06/05/26 06/15/26 Confirm VA will facilitate access in Building 226. Access to Building 226, including any restricted areas, will be coordinated with facility personnel after award. Contractor shall plan work to comply with any security, safety, and logistics requirements imposed by the facility. VA COR /

VA CO

59 06/05/26 06/15/26 Will the VA provide an exterior area for a locked Conex box to secure tools and equipment? Contractor may request secured storage or Conex locations after award; availability and location will be determined by the VA based on site constraints. The contractor retains responsibility for security and protection of stored tools and materials regardless of VA provided space. VA COR /

VA CO

60 06/05/26 06/15/26 Clarify conflict between Uniform Building Code and International Building Code in SOW and narrative. Contractor shall comply with the codes and standards identified in the contract documents, including the VA Fire Protection Design Manual, NFPA 72, NFPA 101, and applicable IBC/IFC references. Any references to superseded codes (e.g., UBC) are overridden by the current adopted codes listed in the narrative and Section 28 31 00. VA COR /

VA CO

61 06/05/26 06/15/26 Provide drawings and information for VA Project #67A4-20-110, Improve Fire Suppression System. Available information and drawings for related projects (e.g., VA Project 67A4 20 110, Improve Fire Suppression System) will be provided for reference only. Accuracy and completeness are not guaranteed, and they do not alter this project’s scope unless specifically incorporated by amendment. VA COR /

VA CO

62 06/05/26 06/15/26 Confirm whether AutoCAD is acceptable instead of Revit for fire alarm submittals. Fire alarm submittals and as built record drawings shall comply with Section 28 31 00 requirements, which mandate preparation using Revit with VA defined layering. AutoCAD or other equivalent formats are not acceptable substitutes unless specifically authorized in writing by the VA. VA COR /

VA CO

63 06/05/26 06/15/26 Do all buildings require manual voice messaging microphone or only those three stories and above? Manual voice evacuation capability, including microphones, shall be provided where required by the contract documents and Section 28 31 00, including building FACPs and the campus FACUs in Buildings 225 and 18. No additional microphones beyond those requirements are authorized without written modification. VA COR /

VA CO

64 06/05/26 06/15/26 Will Manual Voice Messages from Building 225 broadcast to all buildings, and must zones be separated? Voice evacuation zoning and message distribution shall comply with the approved fire alarm design, NFPA 72, the VA Fire Protection Design Manual, and Section 28 31 00, including smoke zone based messaging and campus voice control from Building 225. Contractor shall implement the specified zoning; changes require VA approval. VA COR /

VA CO

65 06/05/26 06/15/26 Who is responsible for the fire alarm conduit? The fire alarm contractor shall provide all conduit and raceways required for a complete and operational fire alarm system, unless specific segments are clearly identified as provided by others. This includes building and campus raceways shown or implied in the drawings and specs. VA COR /

VA CO

66 06/05/26 06/15/26 Is there a more specific Fire alarm shop drawing available? No additional Government prepared fire alarm shop drawings will be issued. The contractor shall develop and submit complete NFPA 72 compliant fire alarm shop drawings in Revit, including floor plans, risers, wiring diagrams, IO matrix, and device schedules, in accordance with Section 28 31 00. VA COR /

VA CO

67 06/05/26 06/15/26 Will the NTP be issued prior to submittals and long lead time items being ordered? Notice to Proceed and submittal timing shall be administered in accordance with the contract. Contractor shall prepare submittals for prompt review after NTP and shall not rely on pre NTP material ordering unless specifically authorized by the Contracting Officer; long lead risk prior to NTP rests with the contractor. VA COR /

VA CO

68 06/05/26 06/15/26 What are the badging requirements for working at the Waco VA? Contractor personnel shall comply with all VA badging, background check, and security procedures required by the facility. Badging requirements and processes will be coordinated at project start; no additional compensation is provided for compliance. VA COR /

VA CO

69 06/05/26 06/15/26 Will this project require a separate QC and Site Superintendent? Contractor shall provide required Quality Control personnel and site supervision in accordance with the contract, including any requirements for separate QC Manager, Superintendent, and SSHO. Any proposed dual role arrangements (e.g., superintendent as SSHO) must be submitted and approved by the Contracting Officer. VA COR /

VA CO

70 06/05/26 06/15/26 Can any existing panel cans be reused with new Notifier components? Existing panel enclosures may only be reused if they are demonstrated suitable for the proposed installation, compatible with new equipment, and approved through the submittal process, and if reuse meets all listing, code, and manufacturer requirements. Otherwise, new enclosures shall be provided. VA COR /

VA CO

71 06/05/26 06/15/26 Is the installing contractor responsible for clearing any existing or reoccurring troubles on existing system? Contractor shall document existing system deficiencies and troubles observed prior to or during work and notify the Government. Correction of unrelated, pre existing deficiencies is not included in the contract unless specifically directed by the Government through modification; contractor shall correct troubles associated with new work and interfaces. VA COR /

VA CO

72 06/05/26 06/15/26 Can the installing contractor operate sprinkler valves for system testing? Contractor shall coordinate sprinkler valve operation and fire protection system testing with facility operations and the VA’s sprinkler contractor per Section 28 31 00 and related Division 21 specifications. Testing procedures shall follow approved plans; valve operation by the fire alarm contractor is permitted only as allowed by facility policy and under VA direction. VA COR /

VA CO

73 06/05/26 06/15/26 Are detailed drawings required for all new power supplies to NAC/FACP locations? Contractor shall provide complete shop drawings showing all new equipment, power supplies, NAC and SLC power distribution, pathways, and connections required for the installation, in accordance with Section 28 31 00. No additional VA prepared power supply drawings will be provided. VA COR /

VA CO

74 06/05/26 06/15/26 Did the engineer use a particular system for basis of design? The Basis of Design system, including panel type and manufacturer, is identified in the contract documents and Section 28 31 00. Any substitutions must be submitted in accordance with the specifications and approved by the VA before use. VA COR /

VA CO

75 06/05/26 06/15/26 Can the superintendent dual hat as the SSHO? Superintendent and SSHO staffing shall comply with contract and VA safety requirements. Any proposal for the superintendent to “dual hat” as SSHO must be submitted for review and may be approved only if it meets all contract and safety criteria. VA COR /

VA CO

76 06/05/26 06/15/26 Can the installing contractor operate sprinkler valves for system testing? Contractor shall coordinate operation of sprinkler valves for testing and cutovers with facility operations and applicable trades in accordance with Division 21 and Section 28 31 00. Valve operation procedures shall be included in test plans and approved by VA VA COR /

VA CO

77 06/05/26 06/15/26 Are detailed drawings required for all new power supplies to NAC/FACP locations? Contractor shall provide complete shop drawings for all new power supplies, NACs, and associated infrastructure, including circuiting, loading, and battery calculations, as required by Section 28 31 00; no additional VA power layouts are planned. VA COR /

VA CO

78 06/05/26 06/15/26 Is there room onsite for material storage (in building or exterior Connex)? Material storage and laydown areas, if available, will be coordinated with VA after award; availability and extent are not guaranteed. Contractor shall plan and price the work assuming limited or no on site storage and remains responsible for protection of all stored materials. VA COR /

VA CO

79 06/05/26 06/15/26 Is the use of temporary plastic wall panels (such as STARC panels) acceptable to meet ICRA requirements? Temporary containment systems (e.g., STARC panels) may be used where they comply with approved ICRA requirements, fire and egress considerations, and facility safety procedures. Contractor shall include such systems in their ICRA submittals for VA approval. VA COR /

VA CO

80 06/05/26 06/15/26 Is it acceptable for ICRA HEPA Negative air exhaust to be returned back into the hospital space above the ceiling? Negative air systems and HEPA exhaust configurations shall comply with approved ICRA requirements and facility infection control procedures. Exhausting back into ceiling spaces is not permitted without explicit VA Infection Control approval as part of the ICRA plan. VA COR /

VA CO

81 06/05/26 06/15/26 Will any outside monitoring be required? Monitoring requirements shall be provided in accordance with contract documents and Section 28 31 00, including use of a Digital Alarm Communicator Transmitter to a listed central station from the main campus fire alarm control unit. Contractor shall furnish all monitoring equipment required unless the contract specifically assigns portions to others. VA COR /

VA CO

82 06/05/26 06/15/26 If suitable, is any existing wire allowed to be reused? Existing wiring may only be reused where specifically permitted by the contract documents, where it meets NFPA 70/NFPA 72 and manufacturer requirements, and where reuse is approved through the submittal process. Reused wiring must be fully tested and is covered under the same warranty as new work. VA COR /

VA CO

83 06/05/26 06/15/26 Many new devices share the same location as the demolished devices. Does the VA have a preferred method of installation that maintains the system operation ie. "not in service" label while reusing the same box/location? Contractor shall develop and implement a phased installation plan that maintains required fire alarm protection throughout construction and complies with ILSM and impairment procedures. Temporary device relocations, “not in service” labelling, and junction boxes are allowed only where coordinated with VA and kept code compliant or supplemented by approved fire watch. VA COR /

VA CO

84 06/05/26 06/15/26 Does the VA have a plan showing areas needing asbestos removal? Do you have test results for asbestos and lead paint? Available asbestos and lead paint reports will be provided for reference only if available; completeness is not guaranteed. Contractor shall comply with all environmental and hazmat requirements and shall stop work and notify the Government upon encountering suspect materials where not already documented. VA COR /

VA CO

85 06/05/26 06/15/26 Can drywall patches be spot painted? Or seam to seam? Finish repairs shall match adjacent finishes in color, sheen, texture, and extent unless otherwise directed by the Government. Where spot painting does not produce a uniform appearance, VA may require broader repainting (e.g., wall to wall) at no additional cost beyond the contract. VA COR /

VA CO

86 06/05/26 06/15/26 Do we bid per the drawings provided to keep same pricing as other companies, or do we price how the systems should be installed to meet code? Contractor shall provide a complete, code compliant installation meeting all contract requirements, VA Fire Protection Design Manual, and applicable codes, regardless of device omissions on drawings. Drawings represent design intent and minimums and do not waive any NFPA or code required devices. VA COR /

VA CO

87 06/05/26 06/15/26 For example, there are many rooms labeled as an office that are pathways of egress and will need a strobe. The drawings do not reflect strobes in those offices. Contractor shall identify any specific discrepancies through the RFI process but shall include all notification appliances required by code and VA standards, including strobes in egress pathways even where rooms are labelled “office” on the drawings. General assumptions that limit code coverage are not authorized. VA COR /

VA CO

88 06/05/26 06/15/26 Drawings do not reflect path of egress smoke detection, all previous VA hospitals where work has been completed have path of egress smoke detection. Contractor shall provide full code compliant smoke detection where required by NFPA 72, NFPA 101, and VA standards, including egress paths where applicable, regardless of whether all devices are depicted on the drawings. Drawings do not limit required detection. VA COR /

VA CO

89 06/05/26 06/15/26 No locations are shown for fire panels, power supplies, and amplifiers. Are there preferred locations? Final locations for fire alarm panels, power supplies, amplifiers, and associated equipment shall be proposed by the contractor, coordinated with other trades and building functions, and approved by VA through the submittal process. Locations must comply with code, accessibility, environmental, and maintainability requirements. VA COR /

VA CO

90 06/05/26 06/15/26 Can drawings be provided to reflect the duct detectors and fire smoke dampers or are mechanical drawings available? Contractor shall coordinate all required duct detectors and fire/smoke damper interfaces as required by the contract documents, NFPA 72, and VA standards. Any additional drawings needed to support duct detector and damper coordination shall be developed by the contractor as part of their shop drawings. VA COR /

VA CO

91 06/05/26 06/15/26 Are devices required in the server rooms in various buildings? Sub floor devices as well? Contractor shall provide detection and monitoring for server rooms and similar critical spaces, including subfloor detection where raised floors and risk conditions exist, as required by NFPA 72, NFPA 75 (if applicable), VA standards, and the contract documents. VA COR /

VA CO

92 06/05/26 06/15/26 Is mass notification part of the scope needing to be priced? The VA hospitals typically have a stand-alone system with devices dedicated for mass notification. Mass notification functions shall be provided only as required by the contract documents and approved design; the primary system is the fire alarm voice system described in the narrative and Section 28 31 00. Contractor shall not assume additional MNS features beyond those specified without written direction. VA COR /

VA CO

93 06/05/26 06/15/26 Building 18 shows to have a computer workstation as well as 225, 225 does not reflect to receive a fire panel upgrade. Are we going to install two network computer workstations? Workstation requirements shall comply with the contract documents and approved fire alarm network design, including the campus FACUs and graphics workstations in Buildings 225 and 18. Any additional workstations requested beyond those specified shall be treated as changes. VA COR /

VA CO

94 06/05/26 06/15/26 Is the campus wanting Notifier NFS2-3030 or the newer Notifier N16 fire alarm panels? Contractor shall provide equipment consistent with the Basis of Design and the contract documents, including the specified Notifier system and panel type. Any proposed changes to panel model (e.g., N16 in lieu of NFS2 3030) shall be submitted as a formal substitution and require VA approval. VA COR /

VA CO

95 06/05/26 06/15/26 Can a drawing be provided of the existing fiber network, is it multimode or single mode? If fiber is needed who will be responsible for providing and troubleshooting any prior fiber issues? Existing network and fiber information, if available, will be provided for reference only. Contractor shall determine fiber type (single mode vs multimode), routing, and condition, and shall provide any new or replacement fiber required to meet the specified Notifier network performance. VA COR /

VA CO

96 06/05/26 06/15/26 Is the VA wanting an annunciator and remote mic at each called out nurses’ station on the plans? Annunciator and workstation requirements, including locations, functions, graphics, and annunciation features, shall comply with the approved fire alarm system design and Section 28 31 00. Building and campus annunciators, printers, and other required annunciation devices shall be provided as specified and as required by the approved design.

The Contractor shall program and configure all annunciation functions in accordance with the approved input/output matrix, graphics requirements, and system sequence of operations. Existing network information, when available, will be provided for reference only; however, the Contractor shall verify network suitability and compatibility with the fire alarm system and shall provide all modifications necessary to support system operation and annunciation requirements. VA COR /

VA CO

97 06/05/26 06/15/26 There are conflicting items within the SOW and the Bid Narrative/Specs. The period of performance shows 365 days in block 10, but shows 720 days in the SOW. Can you confirm the correct Period of Performance? The correct Period of Performance is 720 days The contract Period of Performance is 720 calendar days from Notice to Proceed. Any conflicting references to shorter durations are superseded by this requirement. VA COR /

VA CO

98 06/05/26 06/15/26 The Bid Narrative shows (23) buildings needing to be upgraded, but the SOW shows (12) buildings needing to be upgraded, can you please confirm the correct number of buildings and building numbers needing to be upgraded? Building scope shall be as identified in the solicitation, design narrative building list, and any subsequent amendments. In the event of conflict, the final list and number of buildings included in this contract will be defined by amendment; no additional buildings are included without written modification. VA COR /

VA CO

VA CO

101 06/05/26 06/15/26 Would you like the Contractor to fill out and submit Attachment 5 – Price Breakout, or only provide pricing on the Price/Cost Schedule and the Self-Performance? Pricing shall be submitted in accordance with the solicitation instructions and any amendments, including the Price/Cost Schedule and any required price breakout attachments. If both are required, the contractor shall complete all specified forms; no alternative formats are authorized without written direction. VA COR /

VA CO

102 06/05/26 06/15/26 Can you clarify what work has been completed in buildings 6 and 202, or what work still needs to be completed? Available information regarding prior work in Buildings 6 and 202 will be provided for reference only if available. Contractor shall perform all work identified in this contract regardless of prior projects, unless specific reductions or exclusions are defined by amendment. VA COR /

VA CO

103 06/05/26 06/15/26 Will hazardous materials (asbestos, lead paint) be encountered during demolition? If so, please provide the survey report? Available environmental/hazardous materials reports (asbestos, lead, etc.) will be provided for reference only if available. Contractor shall comply with all environmental requirements and shall follow VA direction for any hazardous materials encountered during demolition. VA COR /

VA CO

104 06/05/26 06/15/26 Will the contractor be permitted to work outside of normal hours (0700–1630, Monday through Friday) for fire alarm cutover activities to minimize disruption to patient care areas? If so, what approval process is required? After hours work for fire alarm cutovers may be permitted, and may be required in certain patient care areas, subject to Government approval and facility operational needs. Contractor shall include any required after hours work within the contract price and coordinate all outages and impairments with VA. VA COR /

VA CO

105 06/05/26 06/15/26 Please confirm the number of days for the performance period after NTP. There seems to be a conflict between a POP of one year and 720 days. It is 720 days See answer to RFI 97 above VA COR /

VA CO

106 06/05/26 06/15/26 What record drawings (as-builts) format is required at project closeout: CAD, PDF, or BIM? Record drawings shall be provided in the formats specified in the contract, including Revit models and printed/PDF drawings per Section 28 31 00 and Division 01. Contractor shall update Revit files to “as built” condition and submit them at closeout. VA COR /

VA CO

107 06/05/26 06/15/26 What is the required submittal schedule for O&M manuals and as-builts? O&M manuals and record documents shall be submitted in accordance with Division 01 and Section 28 31 00, typically with drafts prior to final testing and final documents before substantial completion. Specific schedule will be coordinated with the approved project schedule and closeout requirements. VA COR /

VA CO

108 06/05/26 06/15/26 Are there specific areas within any project building that require escort by VA staff at all times? If so, please identify those areas and provide an estimated ratio of VA escorts to contractor workers. Escort requirements for specific areas or buildings will be coordinated with facility security personnel. Contractor shall plan for and comply with any escort limitations, including constraints on crew sizes or access windows. VA COR /

VA CO

109 06/05/26 06/15/26 Does the VA still require the contractor to provide an employee assigned solely to watch tools while working within Building 94 patient floors? Contractor shall comply with all Building 94 security and tool control requirements established by the facility, including any requirement to assign a dedicated employee to monitor tools and equipment on patient floors. VA COR /

VA CO

110 06/05/26 06/15/26 Please confirm whether bid alternate 1 and bid alternate 2 must be priced as independent scopes or if they are cumulative (i.e., alternate 2 assumes alternate 1 is also awarded). Alternate pricing shall be submitted in accordance with solicitation instructions and any amendments, including whether alternates are independent or cumulative. The solicitation/amendments will govern how Alternate 1 and Alternate 2 are to be priced and presented. VA COR /

VA CO

111 06/05/26 06/15/26 Will wage determinations for Waco, Texas (McLennan County) be incorporated into the solicitation via amendment?