round two questions.pdf

1) Is the VAMC responsible for determining which rooms need to be vacated based on the contractor's schedule? Yes. Contractor will provide schedule/plan on what rooms will be affected. Contractor must provide minimum 2 weeks notification prior to any shutdown.

2) What is the maximum duration for the temporary closure of the project-impacted areas? To transfer power currently fed from EMCC-1 to TEMP, and then TEMP to new EMCC-1, it will have to be done individually and as quickly possible as they feed critical mechanical equipment, most of which do serve patient care areas. In general: 30min - 1hr

3) Is the new feeder path the only acceptable installation? If not, can we explore alternative routes with less impact on VAMC operations? New feeder does not have to use the same path, alternate paths can be explored, as long as means and methods follow the NFPA-70 National Electric Code.

4) What is the maximum square footage of ceiling that can be removed at one time to install 10-foot sections of 3-inch EMT? One ceiling tile per 50 sq ft.

5) Once the ceiling is removed, is it necessary to seal the entire corridor/room with ICRA containment? Yes, once you have taken more than one ceiling tile out per 50 ft sq ft. an ICRA barrier will be needed. It will also need the below list:

Levels are dependent on the amount of work being done. A PCRA/ICRA matrix will be developed to determine which level will be utilized

1. Perform work activity in a manner that does not create dust.

2. Immediately replace any ceiling tile, close access panels, etc., upon completion of work.

3. Any materials and equipment being brought into the facility must be free of contaminants and loose material.

Level II ☒ All control measures in Level I and the following:

1. Provide active means to control airborne dust from dispersing into occupied areas and/or water mist surface to control dust (e.g.,Mobile Dust Containment Cart or some other system).

2. Ensure worker clothing is clean and free of visible dust before leaving the work area.

3. Remove or isolate air diffusers (supply and return) to protect the HVAC system from dust and reduce air turbulence. Rebalance system to address diffuser isolation.

4. When the work involves or impacts potable water systems including stagnation due to reduced usage, the piping shall be flushed twice a week or isolated from the main system

5. Seal doors, to prevent dust migration.

6. Contain all trash and debris in the work area. Perform daily cleaning and disposal of trash (covered) from work area using an identified exit route.

7. Any equipment, tools, or materials removed from the work area must be in sealed containers and/or cleaned of dust and debris prior to removal from the area.

8. Nonporous/smooth and cleanable containers (with a hard lid) must be used to transport trash and debris from the construction areas. These containers must be damp-wiped cleaned and free of visible dust/debris before leaving the contained work area.

9. Install a sticky (dust collection) mat at entrance of contained work area based on facility policy. Sticky mats must be changed routinely and when visibly soiled.

10.Maintain clean surroundings when area is not contained by damp mopping or HEPA vacuuming surfaces at least daily.

Level III ☒ All control measures in Levels I and II and the following:

1. Ensure availability of equipment for cleaning hands.

2. Construct and complete critical barriers meeting NFPA 241 requirements. Barriers must extend to the ceiling or if ceiling tile is removed, to the deck above.

3. All (plastic or hard) barrier construction activities must be completed in a manner that prevents dust release. Plastic barriers must be effectively affixed to floor and ceiling (or floor/roof deck above) and secure from movement or damage.

4. Seal all penetrations in containment barriers, including floors and ceiling, using approved materials (UL schedule firestop if applicable for barrier type).

5. Maintain .01 inches /water gauge negative pressurization of the entire workspace by use of HEPA exhaust air systems directed outdoors (unless a work specific waiver is approved by VHA’s Office of Healthcare Engineering); this must be maintained continuously 24/7 for the duration of the project. Exhaust discharged directly to the outdoors that is 25 feet or greater from entrances, air intakes and windows is not required to be HEPA-filtered. Exhausting discharged air into shared or recirculating systems, or other shared exhaust systems (e.g., bathroom exhaust) is prohibited.

6. Install a differential pressure sensing device (e.g., magnehelic, manometer, or digital monitoring) on exterior of work containment to continually monitor and document negative pressurization. The “ball in the wall” or similar apparatus are not acceptable

6) Will a dedicated lay down/conex area be provided for this project? Space is limited at the facility. The VA will determine what area will be designated based on your required space needed

7) Is the ATS-6 to be replaced the same ATS-6 specified in project 635-21-121? No, we currently have two ATS’ named ATS-6. We define the one in BF-118 integrated into the current EMCC-1 as “ATS-6 EMCC.” Picture attached with ATS-EMCC section circled.

8) In section 01 00 00 -5 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS, item K calls for a construction fence. However, the drawings do not show a construction fence path. Please provide clarification. After award, you will provide a plan for review by the COR for approval.

9) What time(s) and day(s) have the least impact on the VAMC for the contractor to complete the SOW? No specific times and varies from day to day. Depending on which areas are impacted, it may be best to complete work after normal working hours. Contractor must provide minimum 2 weeks notification prior to any shutdown