RFI Q-A Response 03-02-26 FINAL.pdf

RFI Questions & Answers for Solicitation No. 36C26126R0010 Project No. 593-23-306

Replace Equipment in Mechanical Room VAMC Las Vegas, NV

VA Responses

Q1: :

SDVOSB Joint Ventures are no longer certified or listed by the SBA with the latest revision to their website. According to the SBA technical assistance staff, the only location for Joint Ventures to be listed as a disadvantaged business is within SAM.GOV. Please clarify what verification/documentation is required for a SDVOSB Joint Venture where the Managing Venturer Firm is SDVOSB certified and listed on the SBA Search website.

Q1 VA Answer:

Verification of Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) status for Joint Ventures (JVs), will be conducted in accordance with (IAW) Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) 19.1403(d) and 13 CFR 128.402.

The Government will rely on the offeror’s SDVOSB certification status as reflected in the Small Business Association’s (SBAs) Small Business Search Website https://search.certifications.sba.gov/ at the time of offer proposal submission and as otherwise required by the solicitation.

For Joint Ventures, eligibility and compliance will be evaluated IAW with FAR 19.1403(d) and 13 CFR 128.402, including but not limited to verification that:

− The SDVOSB managing joint venture partner is properly certified by the SBA on their Small Business Search Website.

− The Joint Venture meets applicable SBA SDVOSB program requirements.

− Representations and certifications are accurate in SAM.gov.

The Contracting Office does not independently certify SDVOSB status, but verifies representations using official Government systems and applicable regulatory criteria as cited above. Offerors are responsible for ensuring compliance with all SDVOSB and Joint Venture eligibility requirements.

This RFI response does not constitute an eligibility determination. This RFI response is informational only and does not amend or modify the solicitation, the resulting contract, or any applicable regulatory requirements.

Q2:

Site Access, Logistics & Phasing Spec/Note: The SOW requires a full Site Logistics Plan and restricts unauthorized access routes, but no drawings define contractor travel paths or exact laydown areas.

Question: Clarify limits of construction access routes and staging areas. Confirm where construction trailers may be placed and whether utilities are provided by the VA.

https://search.certifications.sba.gov/

Q2 VA Answer:

Power is available at the primary laydown area via 50-amp twist lock receptacles.

Q3:

Site Access, Logistics & Phasing Spec/Note: SOW notes after‑hours work is permitted but requires COR/CO approval; weekend allowances are not stated.

Question: Clarify whether the VA will allow weekend work for phased shutdowns.

Q3 VA Answer:

Yes.

Q4:

Heating Hot Water (HHW) System Spec/Note: SOW states downtime must not exceed 1-hour or contractor is responsible for all leaks system‑wide.

Question: Confirm methods and acceptable equipment for temporary hot water circulation – clarify temporary pump tie-in points.

Q4 VA Answer:

Hot water pumps are to be phased demolition. One pump will be circulating while the other is being demolished and installed.

Q5:

Clean Steam Generators Spec/Note: SOW mentions acceptable cooling and pre-heat time duration between demo and start-up, but gives no duration.

Question: Clarify acceptable durations for cooling and pre-heat time.

Q5 VA Answer:

Please reference manufacturer’s recommendations regarding cool down and pre-heat durations for clean steam generators.

Q6:

Clean Steam Generators Spec/Note: Drawings note prioritization for ORs and 100% OA units during phased CSG replacement.

Question: What are the allowable reduced-capacity conditions?

Q6 VA Answer:

Reduced-capacity conditions are those outdoor humidity and temperature conditions that meet outdoor temperature and humidity requirements that allow HVAC equipment to operate with lower humidification demands.

Q7:

Controls

Question: Does the VA have or will have a contract with a Johnson Controls Contractor to support this project in any capacity? If yes, in what capacity will support be provided.

Q7 VA Answer:

The contractor will need to contract with JCI for new work performed. Current VA contract with JCI is only for service and not installation.

Q8:

Utility Shutdowns Spec/Note: SOW states outages must occur after hours.

Question: Confirm whether steam, MPR, LPS(C), RLF, and electrical outages can occur during normal hours or must follow the 4:30 pm–4:30 am rule.

Q8 VA Answer:

MPR, LPS(C), RFL, and electrical outages must follow the 4:30 pm – 4:30 am rule. Any deviation requires CO/COR approval and must be scheduled in advance of any work done.

Q9:

Utility Shutdowns Spec/Note: SOW states contractors must provide temporary power, steam, HHW, etc., at contractor expense; no criteria for capacity/quality are given.

Question: What are acceptable temporary utility systems?

Q9 VA Answer:

Temporary utility for steam, HHW, etc. is not in the design. Provided contractors follow phased work, these utilities should not be necessary.

Q10:

3rd Party Inspections Spec/Note: Comprehensive 3rd party inspections, testing and written reports for all Divisions are required and paid by the General Contractor. Contractor shall employ third party inspection consultants to perform all inspections required by this contract.

Question: What 3rd party inspections and testing are required?

Q10 VA Answer:

Refer to specs for requirements including but not limited to controls, concrete, test and balance.

Q11:

Arc Flash/Coordination Studies Spec/Note: N/A

Question: Are Arc Flash / Coordination Studies required for modified panels

Q11 VA Answer:

Coordination studies to be conducted on all down stream devices from existing panels and switchboards

Q12:

Fire Protection Spec/Note: N/A

Question: Are fire sprinkler shutdowns or system modifications expected? Ref.

Q12 VA Answer:

No sprinkler shutdowns or fire suppression system modifications expected. Contractor should coordinate all construction activities with COR if fire systems need to be put in bypass due to construction debris or any field routing conflicts.

Q13:

Security Spec/Note: N/A

Question: Where are contractor laptops prohibited on-site?

Q13 VA Answer:

No.

Q14:

Clarify expected condensate return temperature and pressure for sizing steam traps and piping Needed for correct coordination, missing in schedules.

Q14 VA Answer:

No line is being referenced. Unable to provide specific answer.

Q15:

Method of Procedure (MOP) Approval Timeline Spec/Note: MOP must be approved by COR before any utility interruption (Section I.U).

Question: Confirm the review/approval duration for MOPs and whether rolling approvals are acceptable (e.g., 10 business days), to align with the CPM schedule and 14‑day shutdown notice requirement.

Q15 VA Answer:

Rolling approvals are acceptable.

Q16:

General Contractor On-Site Presence Spec/Note: Required Personnel from the General Contractor that are required to be on campus shall include Superintendent, Project Manager, Site Safety and Health Officer, and Quality Assurance/Quality Control manager. Each of the aforementioned roles must be held by a singular individual; dual or tri-hatted roles is prohibited.

Question: Clarify on-site presence expectations for the Project Manager and QA/QC Manager roles.

Q16 VA Answer:

PM and QA/QC Manager shall be separate. QA/QC shall be full time on site.

Q17:

General Contractor Staffing Spec/Note: Required Personnel from the General Contractor that are required to be on campus shall include Superintendent, Project Manager, Site Safety and Health Officer, and Quality Assurance/Quality Control manager. Each of the aforementioned roles must be held by a singular individual; dual or tri-hatted roles is prohibited.

Question: Confirm that all General Contractor roles listed must be personnel directly employed by the General Contractor and not a subcontractor’s employee. Or what roles can be provided by subcontractor personnel?

Q17 VA Answer:

Yes, directly employed with general contractors.

Q18:

Superintendent Spec/Note: The SOW requires a “competent person” / “Site Safety and Health Officer” presence whenever general or subcontractors are on‑site.

Question: Will the Superintendent be required on-site whenever subcontractors are present?

Q18 VA Answer:

Yes.

Q19:

QA/QC Staffing Independence Spec/Note: QA/QC personnel cannot perform construction work; Superintendent cannot be QA/QC (Section I.K).

Question: Confirm if QA/QC Manager may also serve as Project Manager or must be completely dedicated; clarify on site presence expectations.

Q19 VA Answer:

See Q16.

Q20:

Commissioning Spec/Note: The VA has arranged with a third-party consultant (TBD) to act as the Commissioning Agent. The Commissioning Agent is the designated person, company, or entity that plans, schedules, and coordinates the commissioning team to implement the commissioning process. The Contractor shall employ or appoint staff to act as a Commissioning Manager (see 01 91 00) to carry out all commissioning tasks including managing submittal requirements and resolution of the issues log, and coordination with the third-party Commissioning Agent.

Question: Confirm if QA/QC Manager may also serve as Commissioning Manager and what certifications are required for the role Commissioning Manager?

Q20 VA Answer:

Yes QA/QC manager may dual hat as commissioning manager. Refer to spec 01 91 00.

Q21:

Commissioning Manager Spec/Note: N/A

Question: What is the requirement for Commissioning Manager on-site presence?

Q21 VA Answer:

Refer to spec 01 91 00.

Q22:

Commissioning Scheduling Spec/Note: 01 91 00, 1.8, B&C./1.10

Question: Confirm that the Commissioning Manager controls the commissioning activities scheduling.

Q22 VA Answer:

The Commissioning Manager shall coordinate with the VA commissioning agent and schedule all activities accordingly.

Q23:

Personnel TB Test Spec/Note: The SOW states all contractor and subcontractor personnel working on site must submit TB test results (<12 months old).

Question: Does this only apply to personnel entering clinical/occupied areas? Clarify exemptions for workers restricted to mechanical rooms or exterior areas.

Q23 VA Answer:

This applies to all personnel.

Q24:

Schedule Submittals & Updates Spec/Note: CPM schedule due in 14 days of NTP; monthly updates; 3 week look ahead at weekly meetings (Section II.I).

Question: Confirm baseline schedule level of detail (activity durations, cost/resource loading) and native file format acceptance.

Q24 VA Answer:

The contractor shall include all pertinent information required to successfully project and track the project. The suggested details are sufficient. Contractors can use whatever software they would like and publish PDF versions of the schedule for ease of access/review.

Q25:

As Builts & O&M Turnover Spec/Note: Extensive records management/ownership by VA (Sections I.Y, III).

Question: Define as built format (CAD/PDF/BIM), O&M manual format, and metadata needed to meet VA records requirements at closeout.

Q25 VA Answer:

The as-builts will be delivered in PDF and .DWG format. O&Ms, test and balance reports, et.

can be in PDF.

Q26:

Submittal Register Spec/Note: The VA will provide the initial submittal register in electronic format. Thereafter, the Contractor shall track all submittals by maintaining a complete list, including completion of all data columns, including dates on which submittals are received and returned by the VA.

Question: Please clarify what electronic format the submittal will be provided in by the VA and what electronic format must the contractor maintain the submittal register in.

Q26 VA Answer:

Procore or equivalent.

Q27:

The Duct Humidifiers (DSH) scheduled on sheet M-104 indicate the locations within the building(s) but do not have the duct size for each DSH to determine the number of distributions tubes and size of manifolds. Please provide the inside duct dimensions for each scheduled DSH. Height & Width dimensions.

Q27 VA Answer:

Steam humidifier replacement is not in the scope of this project. Inclusion of the humidifier schedule is to aid the contractor and COR in coordinating and lowering facility capacity/demand during steam generator replacement if necessary.

Q28:

The Steam Humidifiers scheduled on sheet M-104 for the existing Air Handler Units (AHU) and Rooftop Units (RTU) do not have a size for each Steam Humidifier to determine the number of distributions tubes and size of manifolds. Please provide the inside AHU and RTU cabinet dimensions for each scheduled Steam Humidifier. Please provide the Height & Width & Clear space dimension downstream of Humidifier tubes.

Q28 VA Answer Steam humidifier replacement is not in the scope of this project. Inclusion of the humidifier schedule is to aid the contractor and COR in coordinating and lowering facility capacity/demand during steam generator replacement if necessary.

Q29:

There is not a specification for the Steam Humidifiers or Steam Generators. Will there be clarification and or specification for additional information provided?

Q29 VA Answer:

Steam humidifier replacement is not in the scope of this project. Inclusion of the humidifier schedule is to aid the contractor and COR in coordinating and lowering facility capacity during steam generator replacement.

AE is unsure of which specification contractor is referring to. Steam generating equipment is referenced in 230512, 230510, 232213

Q30:

Is this project tax exempt?

Q30 VA Answer:

This firm-fixed-price construction solicitation/contract does not establish any exemption from federal, state, or local taxes. The Government does not provide tax advice or determinations regarding specific tax liabilities. The contractor remains responsible for compliance with all applicable tax laws and regulations. Offerors/contractors should consult the appropriate taxing authorities or professional tax advisors regarding your firm’s tax treatment of this construction requirement.

This RFI response is informational only and does not modify the solicitation/contract terms or allocate tax liability beyond existing solicitation/contract provisions and clauses.

Q31:

What is the ICRA level?

Q31 VA Answer:

Sample PCRA provided for containment in known mechanical rooms Class III. Construction in corridor to have a plan submitted and approved prior to construction that accounts for durations, footprints, routing, and ILSM’s if applicable.

Q32:

Are temporary utilities or temporary steam generation required during changeover?

Q32 VA Answer:

No temporary steam generation was not included due to cost and space constraints, and phasing shall be utilized to minimize down time during changeover.

Q33:

Where are laydown, staging, and material storage areas?

Q33 VA Answer:

See Q2.

Q34:

What is the age and condition of existing mechanical/electrical systems?

Q34 VA Answer:

The existing equipment is approximately 13 years old. Equipment that is scheduled to be replaced is in poor condition (hence, reason for replacement).

Q35:

Who is the incumbent controls contractor at the facility?

Q35 VA Answer:

Johnson Controls. Contractor will need to contract directly with JCI for all new equipment installation.

Q36:

Please provide any existing hazardous materials surveys for BD423, BD160, BH002, and Building 1 piping systems. If none exist, please clarify how ACM scope will be quantified and addressed if encountered beyond the defined work areas.

Q36 VA Answer:

No hazardous materials have been found in the piping system. If something looks suspicious, VA can have it tested.

Q37:

“PIV badging takes 30–45 days, but the schedule includes all pre-construction activities in the 300-day POP” Please confirm whether delays associated with PIV/Non-PIV badging approvals will be considered a non-contractor-controlled delay for schedule impacts

Q37 VA Answer:

The contractor will be responsible for submitting accurate and complete badging paperwork to prevent delays and resubmittals. The VA can assist in escorting initially until badging is obtained.

Q38:

The contractor is made “solely responsible” for leaks if outages exceed 1 hour, regardless of existing system conditions. Please clarify contractor liability related to leaks or failures resulting from pre-existing system conditions, deteriorated piping, or latent defects discovered during temporary or permanent system changeover.

Q38 VA Answer:

With the heating hot water pump replacement, hot water must be circulating through the pipes to prevent shrinkage of the seals which result in leaks. Contractors shall isolate and replace one pump at a time or must keep the total shutdown to less than 1 hour or provide temporary pumps.

Q39:

Does the contractor need to include removal and replacement of the equipment pads?

Q39 VA Answer:

Not specifically. Existing equipment pads were detailed for reuse in accordance with details.

Pad needs to expand to house larger equipment, and contractor is responsible for facilitating new pad which will include verification of conditions in field.

Q40:

Will the contractor have to factor in afterhours work for equipment shutdowns?

Q40 VA Answer:

Yes, shutdowns affecting patient care will need to be after hours. Small shutdowns or breaker LOTO will be reviewed on a case by case basis.

Q41:

Will the VA provide the commissioning agent?

Q41 VA Answer:

Yes.

Q42:

Please confirm what brand/manufacturer the existing panelboards are?

Q42 VA Answer:

Varies between manufacturers, field verify for correct breakers

Q43:

Please confirm what brand/manufacturer the existing Fire Alarm System is.

Q43 VA Answer:

Edwards.

Q44:

Keyed note #8 on sheet E-101 mentions relocating existing light fixtures. Please verify how many existing light fixtures need to be relocated below new duct work.

Q44 VA Answer:

Contractor to verify existing conditions and resolve any conflicts based on elected routing and coordinate between mechanical and electrical in field for which fixtures need to be moved to allow access needed.

Q45:

The scope of work document indicates telecommunications and security work (Div 27 & 28).

Specifically, it mentions new cameras, and access control devices on doors. However, I’m not seeing anything on the drawings showing these. Please verify if these divisions are applicable.

Q45 VA Answer:

No telecommunications and security work is on this project

Q46:

Please confirm whether EMT conduit with compression fittings in mechanical rooms in acceptable.

Q46 VA Answer:

EMT conduit with steel compression fittings is an acceptable wiring method.

Q47:

The plan set does not include an equipment pad layout plan. Please provide an equipment pad layout plan with call outs for Details 6/M-501 & 7/M-501.

Q47 VA Answer:

Direction of pad expansion and length to accommodate new equipment was specified. Detail included for anchoring expansion m501 detail 7. Contractor to verify in field. Reference keynote 6 on MP102.

Q48:

Please confirm this project does not contemplate the abatement of hazardous materials such ACM, Lead, or PCBs.

Q48 VA Answer:

No abatement is expected.

Q49:

Please provide the location of the proposed contractor laydown yard.

Q49 VA Answer:

See Q2.

Q50:

Please confirm work hours are normal working hours, except for outages.

Q50 VA Answer:

Correct.

Q51:

Please confirm the VA will collaborate with the contractor to schedule and execute necessary project utility outages.

Q51 VA Answer:

Absolutely, the VA will work closely with the contractor to plan and execute outages. The contractor will need to provide an outage plan and identify durations and work with VA for affected equipment. 14 day minimum advanced notice is required.

Q52:

Please confirm the contractor will be granted access to the facility elevators to access the work areas.

Q52 VA Answer:

Yes, Service elevators will be available. Work is limited to the basement, and all basement corridors lead directly to the loading doc.

Q53:

Can the VA clarify whether Phase 0 activities (CSG pad modification, RO generator installation in BD160, RO/ROR piping in corridors, electrical rough-in, new FCU pad) must be completed in full before Phase 1 begins, or can some Phase 0 work overlap with Phase 1 if no conflict occurs?

Q53 VA Answer:

intent of phasing is to reduce facility impact and construction duration. Phasing deviations may be presented and approved by VA if applicable.

Q54:

For modification of existing CSG-DT-1 and CSG-DT-2 concrete pads, are there any structural engineering requirements, seismic bracing details, or VA-approved concrete mix designs/strengths that must be followed?

Q54 VA Answer:

Verify in field to match existing – refer to details on drawings and specs

Q55:

Installation of the new RO generator in BD160 and RO/ROR piping in corridors, are there any specific infection control, dust control, or corridor protection requirements (e.g., temporary barriers, HEPA filtration) since these are in occupied hospital corridors?

Q55 VA Answer:

Yes, Temporary ICRA barriers shall be utilized during work in corridors. Contractor shall prepare infection control plan for approval that reflects the contractors anticipated durations, footprints and work hours for approval in coordination with safety, infection control, and VA COR.

Q56:

Electrical rough-in for new circuits/wiring, can the VA confirm if any temporary power disruptions or panel shutdowns are anticipated during Phase 0 rough-in, and if so, what advance notice is required beyond the 45-day utility shutdown rule?

Q56 VA Answer:

Power interruptions are acceptable to NFPA 70E and OSHA requirements. All power outages to be coordinated with the VA and VA will determine the date, time and duration of outage. All power outages work to be done in that panelboard at the single time of outage.

Q57:

Does the VA have preferred shutdown windows, pre-approved MOP templates, or required participants for panel tie-in coordination meetings?

Q57 VA Answer:

All power outage to follow VA standard requirements.

Q58:

On the new equipment pad for the FCU in BD423: is this pad structural (load-bearing) or non-structural, and are there any fire-rating, waterproofing, or housekeeping pad requirements specified beyond the bid drawings and specs?

Q58 VA Answer:

Verify in field to match existing – refer to details on drawings and specs.

Q59:

The SOW states CSG DT-2 shall be replaced prior to CSG DT-1 while CSG DT-1 provides 50%–max capacity. Can the VA confirm the exact minimum acceptable capacity percentage during this period (e.g., 50% theoretical vs. actual measured output)?

Q59 VA Answer Contractor to monitor outdoor conditions and identify and recommend which steam devices shall be shut off in coordination with priority list on the schedules provided if needed. Clean steam schedules were provided for reference. Refer to test and balance and commissioning specifications for establishing actual measured outputs.

Q60:

During Phase 1 CSG replacement, the contractor must monitor weather and coordinate humidifier isolation for reduced capacity. Is there a specific weather data source (e.g., NOAA, on-site sensors) or humidity ratio threshold should be used to determine safe replacement windows?

Q60 VA Answer See general phasing notes Phase 1 part B. Ideally performed during times in which exterior conditions create less humidification requirements. Ideal conditions would occur during months with high relative humidity which would demand 50% or less of existing full operational capacity (outdoor humidity ratio of 0.005LB/LB (35 GRAINS/LB)). During this period of temporarily reduced steam capacity contractors will monitor weather conditions and coordinate with VA to modify humidifier operation during replacement. Humidifiers shall be isolated accordingly to accommodate a maximum theoretical 50% reduction in supply. In general: OR’s and 100% outside air units shall be prioritized, leaving many general use ‘canteen’ or AHU-DT-1A~2C humidifiers as viable equipment for reduced capacity.

Q61:

The SOW references months with high relative humidity for Phase 1. Is there a VA-preferred seasonal window (e.g., specific months) or flexibility to propose alternative timing if 50% capacity can be maintained?

Q61 VA Answer:

Proposed period was based on ASHRAE historic data.

Q62:

The SOW references M-401 schedule and 11/M-501 diagram. Who (contractor or VA) has final authority to approve which humidifiers are isolated during reduced-capacity periods, and will the VA provide a point of contact for daily coordination?

Q62 VA Answer:

The VA must approve the contractor’s recommended plan for humidification isolation. The contractor and COR shall coordinate this together and the COR will identify other VA staff accordingly.

Q63:

For ORs and 100% outside air units prioritized for humidification — if outdoor humidity exceeds the 0.005 lb/lb threshold during replacement, what contingency measures (e.g., temporary humidifiers) does the VA expect or require?

Q63 VA Answer:

Contractor to monitor outdoor conditions and identify and recommend which steam devices shall be shut off in coordination with priority list on the schedules provided if needed.

Q64:

During electrical connections in Phase 1 when CSG DT-2 is disconnected from existing circuit for removal and new CSG DT-2 reconnected to the same circuit. Can the VA confirm if any temporary power bypass or generator support is required during this transition?

Q64 VA Answer:

Coordinate all outages times and duration with VA. No additional generator support is required.

Q65:

HWP DT-1 replacement — existing pump disconnected, new pump connected to relocated VFD. Is there any required downtime duration limit for HWP DT-1 during this swap, or any critical system dependencies that must remain operational?

Q65 VA Answer:

Intent of phasing is that operational downtime is minimized. Existing pumps are parallel and redundant configuration. Each pump has capacity for 100% scheduled demand. Refer to commissioning requirements for startup procedures.

Q66:

Phase 2 replaces CSG DT-1 while new CSG DT-2 provides 100% capacity. Can the VA confirm that full system capacity is restored immediately upon completion of Phase 2, or is there any transition period?

Q66 VA Answer:

Intent of phasing is that operational downtime is minimized. New CSG has capacity to meet 100% demand of scheduled demand. Refer to commissioning requirements for startup procedures.

Q67:

Existing CSG DT-1 circuit demoed back to panel, new circuit connected in (E)PNL 1-EEL-BE. Is there any required testing or commissioning sequence for the new circuit before energizing the new CSG DT-1?

Q67 VA Answer:

Refer to Specification section 26 08 00 for all commissioning requirements for electrical.

Q68:

Existing circuit demoed back to (E)PNL 1-EEDH-BD (spare), new circuit connected to existing VFD (already used by HWP DT-1). Can the VA confirm if the VFD has sufficient capacity for both pumps simultaneously, or if any VFD reprogramming/testing is required?

Q68 VA Answer:

VFD to run only one pump. One pump at a time to be removed and new installed in phases.

Programming by controls contractor.

Q69:

Is there any requirement for simultaneous operation of both new CSG DT-1 and DT-2 during Phase 2 commissioning, or can the system remain on single-unit operation until final acceptance

Q69 VA Answer:

Commissioning shall ensure simultaneous operation of both CSG DT-1 and CSG DT-2 post installation.

Q70:

The SOW states general construction activities (duct modification in BH002, new FCU in BD423) can be independent of CSG/HWP phasing. Can the VA confirm if these activities must be sequenced relative to any specific phase (e.g., complete before Phase 1, or can run concurrently)?

Q70 VA Answer:

Can run concurrently. Will need to be put together in a plan and approved by VA so that VA operation is minimized with consideration of outages, similar systems, overlapping spaces.

Q71:

Are there any noise, vibration, dust, or odor restrictions for general construction activities (e.g., duct mods, FCU install) in occupied hospital areas, and if so, what mitigation measures are required?

Q71 VA Answer:

Please reference updated Specification titled “Attachment Specifications 02-24-26” which includes spec 01 57 00 with clarifications for noise activities, noise constraints and timing of activities that generate noise.

Q72:

For all phases, what is the VA's process for approving deviations from the phasing sequence if field conditions (e.g., equipment delivery delays, unexpected conflicts) require changes?

Q72 VA Answer:

When deviations are required, the contractor shall prepare and review alternative options with the COR for their approval and additional coordination with VA staff.

Q73:

Are there any pre-existing baseline performance data (e.g., steam output logs, humidifier schedules, HVAC pressure/airflow readings) for the CSG, HWP, or mechanical rooms that can be shared to establish post-replacement targets?

Q73 VA Answer:

Clean steam schedules were provided for reference. Refer to test and balance and commissioning specifications for requirements.

Q74:

Can the VA provide any updated or additional as-built drawings, equipment schedules, mechanical room zoning diagrams, HVAC piping/duct routing details, electrical single-line diagrams, or existing conditions documentation for the mechanical rooms (BD423, BD160, corridors, and related panels PNL 1-EEDH-BD and PNL 1-EEL-BD) beyond what is included in the current bid set drawings? If no as-builts are available, can the VA confirm that the contractor is responsible for field verification of existing conditions during the pre-construction period?

Q74 VA Answer:

Contractor to field verification all existing conditions prior to bidding.

Q75:

Has a hazardous materials survey (e.g., asbestos, lead, mercury, PCBs, or other regulated substances) been conducted for the mechanical rooms (BD423, BD160), corridors (BH002), ductwork, insulation, piping, or equipment to be demolished/modified/replaced? If yes, can the VA provide the report, survey results, or abatement documentation? If no, can the VA confirm that the contractor is responsible for conducting any required testing/survey during pre-construction?

Q75 VA Answer:

See Q36.

Q76:

For equipment containing refrigerants, has the VA performed or does it have available refrigerant recovery/inventory records or Phase-out compliance documentation (e.g., R-22 transition status)? If so, can these be shared to assist with pricing and disposal planning?

Q76 VA Answer:

This information is not available. Please clarify which equipment requires refrigerants.

Q77:

The PCRA mandates weekly site visits by a multi-disciplinary team, documented on a standard checklist. Who are the required participants in this multi-disciplinary team (VA Infection Prevention, COR), and will the VA provide the standard checklist form or template for documentation?

Q77 VA Answer:

These inspections are performed internally with the VA. The approved ICRA will be the checklist.

Q78:

The PCRA requires a full re-evaluation of remaining activity type and risk prior to changing control measures as the activity progresses. What triggers a re-evaluation (e.g., phase change, scope change, discovery of hidden conditions), and who (contractor or VA) initiates and approves the re-evaluation?

Q78 VA Answer Coordinate with COR. Infection control permit will detail the activities, locations and durations that permit is acceptable for. Any work outside of the permit’s descriptions is a trigger for re-approval and re-evaluation.

Q79:

The PCRA notes that it must be used in conjunction with the VHA Infection Control Risk Assessment (ICRA) for infection risks. Can the VA clarify if an ICRA has already been completed for this project, and if so, can it be shared with offerors? If not, will the VA require the contractor to complete the ICRA or provide input during the pre-construction phase?

Q79 VA Answer A sample PCRA for the mechanical room was provided. Keynotes clarify that routing, durations, and footprint of construction required for corridor work needs to be submitted in a plan and approved prior to construction in coordination with safety, COR, infection control to address any ILSM’s etc. Contractor to detail intensity, location and duration of work.

Q80:

The Duct Humidifiers (DSH) scheduled on sheet M-104 indicate the locations within the building(s) but do not have the duct size for each DSH to determine the number of distributions tubes and size of manifolds. Please provide the inside duct dimensions for each scheduled DSH. Height & Width dimensions.

Q80 VA Answer:

Steam humidifier replacement is not in the scope of this project. Inclusion of the humidifier schedule is to aid the contractor and COR in coordinating and lowering facility capacity during steam generator replacement.

Q81:

The Steam Humidifiers scheduled on sheet M-104 for the existing Air Handler Units (AHU) and Rooftop Units (RTU) do not have a size for each Steam Humidifier to determine the number of distributions tubes and size of manifolds. Please provide the inside AHU and RTU cabinet dimensions for each scheduled Steam Humidifier. Please provide the Height & Width & Clear space dimension downstream of Humidifier tubes.

Q81 VA Answer:

Steam humidifier replacement is not in the scope of this project. Inclusion of the humidifier schedule is to aid the contractor and COR in coordinating and lowering facility capacity during steam generator replacement.

Q82:

We didn’t find a specification for the Steam Humidifiers or Steam Generators. Can the VA provide clarification and or specification for additional information provided?

Q82 VA Answer:

Steam humidifier replacement is not in the scope of this project. Inclusion of the humidifier schedule is to aid the contractor and COR in coordinating and lowering facility capacity during steam generator replacement. AE is unsure of which specification contractor is referring to.

Steam generating equipment is referenced in 230512, 230510, 232213.

Q83:

Are the PM and QA/QC manager required to be onsite full time?

Q83 VA Answer:

Superintendent and QA/QC manager will be onsite full time.

Q84:

Can the SSHO dual-hat as the QA/QC Manager or Superintendent?

Q84 VA Answer:

No, SSHO cannot dual-hat as QA/QC manager. SSHO can dual-hat as the commissioning manager.

Q85:

Can you provide pictures of room #BD423

Q85 VA Answer:

See the attached photos to the solicitation amendment.

Q86:

Are there any known ACM materials within the mechanical rooms, duct insulation, pipe insulation, floor materials, or equipment pads?

Q86 VA Answer:

See Q36. No ACM has been found to date.

Q87:

If previously unidentified ACM is encountered outside of known surveyed areas, will that condition be handled via contract modification?

Q87 VA Answer:

Yes, upon positive testing results by VA.

Q88:

Has a current asbestos survey been performed for the project areas (BD423, BD160, BH002, etc.)? If so, please provide the report.

Q88 VA Answer:

No report is available. No asbestos has been found previously on this campus.

Q89:

What is the minimum clear corridor width that must remain unobstructed during active construction?

Q89 VA Answer:

Reference keynote 3 MP 101 - Construction in corridors needs to be coordinated with safety, infection control, COR based on contractor durations and footprint of activity.to be field verified and coordinated as needed.

Q90:

SOW period of performance is referring to a new air handler. M-401 equipment schedule doesn’t list an AHU but lists a new FC-BD423 (fan coil). Please clarify

Q90 VA Answer:

They have the same reference, new fan coil per plan in BD423.

Q91:

SOW period of performance note B is asking to provide temp pump heating hot water skid.

If pumps are swapped out in two phases like the Drawings show and replace one at a time will a temp pump be required. Or will we need a redundant pump while replacing skid pumps one at a time?

Q91 VA Answer:

Refer to phasing, no temporary pumps specified since pumps are in parallel, phased. Existing pumps are in parallel-redundant configuration.

Q92:

SOW period of performance - note A clean steam generators is asking to provide test ports at each of the clean steam lines in BD423. Do you need test ports at all (9) duct steam humidifiers and (21) AHU/RTU steam humidifiers.

Please clarify counts.

Q92 VA Answer:

Test ports are required at the steam generators.

Q93:

VA please verify whether this project is exempt or non-exempt from material sales tax.

Q93 VA Answer:

See Q30 answer.

Q94:

VA please confirm whether the Project Superintendent may serve in a dual capacity as the Quality Control Manager (QCM) for this project. The contract documents do not clearly indicate whether these roles must be held by separate individuals or if one individual may fulfill both responsibilities.

Q94 VA Answer:

The project superintendent and QCM must be separate.

Q95:

VA please identify the vendor or contractor currently servicing and maintaining the Fire Alarm System for this facility.

Q95 VA Answer:

Veterans Fire & Life Safety.

Q96:

VA please confirm whether temporary ICRA barriers are required to be hard walls constructed of metal framing with gypsum board, or temporary (similar to STARC system walls) movable walls are acceptable. Also, if fire-rated plastic barriers are acceptable for above-ceiling.

Q96 VA Answer:

STARC walls or similar are acceptable.

Q97:

VA please advise whether shutdown or temporary closure of Corridor CB-12 is permitted to facilitate RO and ROR piping installation from BD423 to BD160 as indicated on Sheet P-101.

Q97 VA Answer:

A partial closure of CB-12 will be permitted. A minimum of 50% of the corridor clear width must be maintained for facility operations and egress. The basement corridors will need to be closed off in sections to maintain support for the hospital and may include night/weekend work.

(END OF RFI Q&A RESPONSES)