Attachment 1 PG-18-10 Plumbing Design Manual.pdf

Plumbing

PG-18-10

FEBRUARY 1, 2024

designmanual

PG 18-10 – PLUMBING DESIGN MANUAL February 1, 2024

TABLE OF CONTENTS i

TABLE OF CONTENTS

TABLE OF CONTENTS ................................................................................................................ i 1 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS .........................................................................................1-1

1.1 PURPOSE ............................................................................................................1-1

1.1.1 DEVIATIONS AND VA AUTHORITY .......................................................................1-1

1.2 RESPONSIBILITY ..................................................................................................1-2

1.3 SUSTAINABLE DESIGN .........................................................................................1-2

1.4 COMMISSIONING ...............................................................................................1-2

1.5 METERING..........................................................................................................1-3

1.6 NATIONAL CODES AND STANDARDS....................................................................1-3

1.7 VA HOSPITAL BUILDING SYSTEM .........................................................................1-3

1.8 VA DESIGN STANDARDS ......................................................................................1-4

1.8.1 Master Construction Specifications (PG-18-1) .....................................................1-4

1.8.2 Design and Construction Procedures (PG-18-3) ...................................................1-4

1.8.3 Standard Details and CAD Standards (PG-18-4) ...................................................1-4

1.8.4 Equipment Guide List (PG-18-5)..........................................................................1-4

1.8.5 Design Manuals (PG-18-10) ................................................................................1-4

1.8.6 Design Guides (PG-18-12)...................................................................................1-5

1.8.7 Barrier Free Design Standard (PG-18-13) ............................................................1-5

1.8.8 Design Submission Requirements (PG-18-15)......................................................1-5

1.8.9 Design and Standards Alerts ...............................................................................1-5

1.8.10 VA Building Information Modeling (BIM) Standard (PG-18-13).............................1-5

1.8.11 Seismic Design Handbook (H-18-8) .....................................................................1-5

1.8.12 Signage Design Manual (PG-18-10) .....................................................................1-5

1.8.13 Cultural Resource Management Procedures (H-7545) .........................................1-6

1.9 ADDITIONAL DESIGN CRITERIA AND STANDARDS.................................................1-6

1.9.1 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)........................................................1-6

1.9.2 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Biosafety in Microbiological and

Biomedical Laboratories (CDC BMBL)..................................................................1-6

1.9.3 Architectural Barriers Act Accessibility Standards (ABAAS) ..................................1-6

1.9.4 Sustainability and Historic Federal Buildings .......................................................1-6

1.9.5 National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) ..........................................................1-6

1.9.6 National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) and related standards ........................1-7

1.10 COORDINATION..................................................................................................1-7

1.11 LOCAL CODES AND REQUIREMENTS ....................................................................1-7

1.11.1 Local Utility Providers.........................................................................................1-7

1.12 PROJECT SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS AND INFORMATION ......................................1-8

1.12.1 VA Provided Materials........................................................................................1-8

1.12.2 Proprietary Items ...............................................................................................1-8

1.13 COMPUTER AIDED FACILITIES MANAGEMENT REQUIREMENTS (CAFM) ...............1-8

2 PLUMBING DESIGN CRITERIA .....................................................................................2-1

2.1 TEST PRIOR TO DESIGN .......................................................................................2-1

2.2 EQUIPMENT PADS ..............................................................................................2-1

TABLE OF CONTENTS ii

2.3 PIPING................................................................................................................2-1

2.4 PIPE SUPPORT DESIGN ........................................................................................2-1

2.5 BASE AND VIBRATION ISOLATORS .......................................................................2-1

2.6 FREEZE CONDITIONS...........................................................................................2-2

2.7 SEISMIC REQUIREMENTS ....................................................................................2-2

2.8 CONTRACT DRAWINGS .......................................................................................2-2

2.8.1 General..............................................................................................................2-2

2.8.2 Basic Design Parameters ....................................................................................2-2

2.8.3 Plumbing Fixture Numbers .................................................................................2-3

2.8.4 Symbols and Abbreviations ................................................................................2-3

2.8.5 Cross Sections ....................................................................................................2-4

2.8.6 Stack and Riser Diagrams ...................................................................................2-4

2.8.7 Equipment Schedules .........................................................................................2-4

2.9 INTERDISCIPLINARY COORDINATION ...................................................................2-5

2.10 CALCULATIONS AND REVIEW SUBMITTALS ..........................................................2-5

3 PLUMBING FIXTURES, FAUCETS, FITTINGS AND EQUIPMENT .....................................3-1

3.1 PLUMBING FIXTURES ..........................................................................................3-1

3.1.1 General..............................................................................................................3-1

3.1.2 Bariatric Plumbing Fixtures.................................................................................3-3

3.2 SPECIAL EQUIPMENT ..........................................................................................3-3

3.2.1 Dialysis Machines...............................................................................................3-3

3.2.2 Heart and Lung Machines ...................................................................................3-3

3.2.3 Distilled Water Stills ...........................................................................................3-3

3.2.4 Sterilizers ...........................................................................................................3-3

3.2.5 Film Processing Areas.........................................................................................3-3

3.2.6 Chemical Fume Hoods........................................................................................3-4

3.2.7 Kitchen Equipment.............................................................................................3-4

3.2.8 Trash Room/Loading Dock..................................................................................3-4

3.3 ELECTRIC WATER COOLERS .................................................................................3-4

3.4 REDUCED-PRESSURE BACKFLOW PREVENTERS ....................................................3-4

3.5 PLUMBING FIXTURE SCHEDULE ...........................................................................3-4

4 WATER SUPPLY AND DISTRIBUTION ..........................................................................4-1

4.1 GENERAL ............................................................................................................4-1

4.2 DOMESTIC HOT WATER SYSTEMS........................................................................4-1

4.2.1 Water Heater Efficiency .....................................................................................4-2

4.2.2 Water Heater Energy Source Selection ...............................................................4-2

4.2.3 Water Heaters for Patient Care and Research Buildings ......................................4-3

4.2.4 Water Heaters for Non-Patient Care Buildings ....................................................4-4

4.2.5 Instantaneous Tankless Water Heaters (Point of Use) .........................................4-4

4.2.6 Sizing of Water Heaters ......................................................................................4-5

4.2.7 Thermostatic Mixing Valves................................................................................4-5

4.2.8 Hot-Water Recirculation Loops and Return Piping...............................................4-6

4.2.9 Shut-Off and Balancing Valves ............................................................................4-7

TABLE OF CONTENTS iii

4.2.10 Heat Traps .........................................................................................................4-7

4.3 DEVICE CALIBRATION..........................................................................................4-7

4.4 GENERAL PIPING DESIGN GUIDELINES .................................................................4-7

4.4.1 Definitions .........................................................................................................4-8

4.4.2 Requirements for Piping Systems .......................................................................4-8

4.5 LEGIONELLA MITIGATION IN VA FACILITIES ....................................................... 4-10

4.5.1 Purpose ........................................................................................................... 4-10

4.5.2 Background...................................................................................................... 4-11

4.5.3 Piping Design Guidelines for Legionella Mitigation ............................................ 4-12

4.5.4 Supplemental Water Disinfection Methods....................................................... 4-13

4.5.5 Emergency Water Disinfection Methods ........................................................... 4-14

4.5.6 Special Use Water Systems (e.g., hemodialysis, laboratory, pharmacy compounding) ................................................................................................. 4-15

4.6 INSPECTIONS AND WITNESS OF TESTS............................................................... 4-15

4.7 WATER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEMS ....................................................................... 4-15

4.7.1 Metering for Use.............................................................................................. 4-15

4.7.2 Measuring and Indicating Devices..................................................................... 4-16

4.7.3 Water Hammer Arresters ................................................................................. 4-16

4.7.4 Trap Primers .................................................................................................... 4-16

4.8 WALL HYDRANTS .............................................................................................. 4-17

4.9 COORDINATION................................................................................................ 4-17

4.10 BACKFLOW PREVENTERS .................................................................................. 4-17

4.10.1 Reduced Pressure Backflow Preventers ............................................................ 4-17

4.10.2 Atmospheric Vacuum Breakers......................................................................... 4-17

4.10.3 Hose Connection Vacuum Breakers .................................................................. 4-18

4.10.4 Fire Sprinkler Systems and Standpipes .............................................................. 4-18

4.11 PRESSURE-REDUCING VALVES........................................................................... 4-18

4.12 DOMESTIC WATER BOOSTER SYSTEMS .............................................................. 4-18

4.12.1 Minimum Pressure........................................................................................... 4-18

4.12.2 Patient Care Buildings ...................................................................................... 4-19

4.12.3 Non-Patient Care Buildings............................................................................... 4-19

4.13 SOLAR DOMESTIC WATER HEATING .................................................................. 4-19

4.13.1 Basic Solar System Design ................................................................................ 4-19

4.13.2 Simple System Calculation................................................................................ 4-20

5 SANITARY DRAINAGE SYSTEMS..................................................................................5-1

5.1 SANITARY DRAINAGE ..........................................................................................5-1

5.1.1 Pipe Design ........................................................................................................5-1

5.1.2 Floor Drains .......................................................................................................5-1

5.1.3 Fixture Units ......................................................................................................5-1

5.1.4 Sanitary Connections .........................................................................................5-2

5.1.5 Fats, Oil, and Grease (FOG) Removal Systems .....................................................5-2

5.1.6 Dialysis Sanitary Drains ......................................................................................5-2

5.1.7 Waste Neutralization Systems ............................................................................5-2

TABLE OF CONTENTS iv

5.1.8 Chemical-Resistant Piping ..................................................................................5-3

5.1.9 Cast Iron Piping ..................................................................................................5-3

5.1.10 Cleanouts ..........................................................................................................5-4

5.1.11 Waste and Vent Systems ....................................................................................5-4

5.2 GRAYWATER RECYCLING SYSTEM........................................................................5-4

5.3 SCHEDULE OF FLOOR DRAINS .............................................................................5-4

6 BUILDING STORM DRAINAGE SYSTEMS .....................................................................6-1

6.1 STORM SYSTEM DRAINAGE .................................................................................6-1

6.2 ROOF DRAIN LEADER INSULATION ......................................................................6-1

6.3 CALCULATIONS ...................................................................................................6-1

6.4 STORM CONNECTIONS .......................................................................................6-1

6.5 SCHEDULE OF AREA/ROOF DRAINS .....................................................................6-1

6.6 LOCATION OF DRAIN LEADERS ............................................................................6-1

6.7 UNDERSLAB AND FOUNDATION DRAINAGE.........................................................6-1

6.8 RAINWATER HARVESTING SYSTEM......................................................................6-1

7 SPECIALTY TRAPS, INTERCEPTORS, AND SEPARATORS ...............................................7-1

7.1 SAND/GRIT TRAPS ..............................................................................................7-1

7.2 OIL/WATER INTERCEPTORS.................................................................................7-1

7.3 GREASE INTERCEPTORS ......................................................................................7-1

7.4 PLASTER TRAPS/INTERCEPTORS ..........................................................................7-1

7.5 CONTAMINATED WATER AND SANITARY WATER RETENTION ..............................7-1

8 MEDICAL GASES AND VACUUM .................................................................................8-1

8.1 GENERAL ............................................................................................................8-1

8.1.1 Water-Cooled Equipment...................................................................................8-1

8.1.2 Renovation Projects ...........................................................................................8-1

8.2 MEDICAL GAS AND VACUUM SYSTEMS ...............................................................8-1

8.2.1 Oxygen, Medical Compressed Air, Medical Vacuum, Nitrous Oxide, Nitrogen

Systems, Carbon Dioxide, Waste Anesthesia Gas Disposal and Instrument Air .....................................................................................................................8-1

8.2.2 Medical Gas and Vacuum Systems Criteria:.........................................................8-2

8.2.3 Central Supply Systems ......................................................................................8-3

8.2.4 Piping Systems ...................................................................................................8-6

8.2.5 Alarms ...............................................................................................................8-7

8.2.6 Connections to Existing Medical Gas Systems .....................................................8-8

8.3 LABORATORY GAS AND VACUUM SYSTEMS FOR RESEARCH AND MEDICAL

LABORATORIES ..................................................................................................8-9

8.3.1 Central Supply Systems ......................................................................................8-9

8.3.2 Piping Systems ................................................................................................. 8-11

8.3.3 Alarms ............................................................................................................. 8-11

8.4 ORAL EVACUATION SYSTEM.............................................................................. 8-12

8.4.1 High Volume Oral Evacuation (HVE) - General ................................................... 8-12

8.4.2 Airflow and Vacuum Requirements .................................................................. 8-12

8.4.3 Vacuum Relief Valves ....................................................................................... 8-12

TABLE OF CONTENTS v

8.4.4 High Volume Oral Evacuation (HVE) Systems .................................................... 8-12

8.5 DENTAL COMPRESSED AIR SYSTEMS ................................................................. 8-14

8.5.1 Dental Compressed Air Systems and Equipment ............................................... 8-14

8.5.2 Central Supply System Pressure Requirements ................................................. 8-14

8.5.3 Piping Systems ................................................................................................. 8-15

8.5.4 Dental Air System Demand ............................................................................... 8-16

8.6 DESIGN FOR DENTAL UNIT WATER LINES........................................................... 8-17

9 FUEL GAS SYSTEMS ....................................................................................................9-1

9.1 INTERIOR FUEL GAS SYSTEMS .............................................................................9-1

10 SPECIALTY SYSTEMS................................................................................................. 10-1

10.1 PLUMBING FOR BIOLOGICAL SAFETY LEVEL 3 LABORATORIES ............................ 10-1

10.2 LABORATORY WATER SYSTEMS......................................................................... 10-1

10.3 PLUMBING FOR ANIMAL CARE (VIVARIUM) FACILITIES ...................................... 10-1

10.4 HEMODIALYSIS WATER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM DESIGN ..................................... 10-2

10.4.1 General............................................................................................................ 10-2

10.4.2 Hemodialysis Water Treatment System Description .......................................... 10-2

10.4.3 Hemodialysis Water Treatment Monitoring System .......................................... 10-3

10.5 PHARMACY PLUMBING REQUIREMENTS ........................................................... 10-4

10.6 STERILE PROCESSING SERVICES (SPS) ................................................................ 10-4

10.6.1 General Considerations .................................................................................... 10-4

10.6.2 Physical Layout ................................................................................................ 10-4

10.6.3 Water Distribution and Storage ........................................................................ 10-5

10.6.4 Water Quality Monitoring ................................................................................ 10-5

10.7 SILVER RECOVERY SYSTEM ................................................................................ 10-6

10.7.1 Automatic Film Processor................................................................................. 10-6

10.7.2 Silver Recovery Equipment ............................................................................... 10-6

10.7.3 Pipe Stub ......................................................................................................... 10-6

10.8 SHOP COMPRESSED AIR SYSTEM....................................................................... 10-6

10.9 THERAPEUTIC POOL EQUIPMENT ...................................................................... 10-6

10.9.1 Water Treatment System ................................................................................. 10-6

10.9.2 Pipes and Equipment ....................................................................................... 10-6

10.9.3 Filter ................................................................................................................ 10-6

10.9.4 Water Heater ................................................................................................... 10-6

10.9.5 Disinfection ..................................................................................................... 10-7

10.9.6 pH Balancing .................................................................................................... 10-7

10.9.7 Recirculating Pump .......................................................................................... 10-7

10.9.8 Equipment Room ............................................................................................. 10-7

10.9.9 Vacuum Cleaning Equipment............................................................................ 10-7

10.10 LAUNDRY ......................................................................................................... 10-7

10.10.1 Laundry Equipment .......................................................................................... 10-7

10.10.2 Floor Sinks and Floor Drains ............................................................................. 10-7

10.10.3 Dedicated Sump............................................................................................... 10-7

10.11 WATER SOFTENING SYSTEM ............................................................................. 10-8

TABLE OF CONTENTS vi

10.11.1 Softener........................................................................................................... 10-8

10.11.2 When required................................................................................................. 10-8

10.11.3 Salt Storage ..................................................................................................... 10-8

10.11.4 Dealkalizing Equipment .................................................................................... 10-8

10.11.5 Dealkalizer Tank ............................................................................................... 10-8

10.11.6 Brine and Caustic Soda Tanks ........................................................................... 10-8

10.11.7 Miscellaneous .................................................................................................. 10-9

10.12 REAGENT GRADE WATER SYSTEMS ................................................................... 10-9

10.12.1 Floor Space for Central Reagent Grade Equipment............................................ 10-9

10.12.2 Floor Space for Regenerant Chemicals .............................................................. 10-9

10.12.3 Emergency Shower and Eye/Face Wash............................................................ 10-9

10.12.4 Chemical-Resistant Piping and Drains ............................................................... 10-9

10.13 PLUMBING FOR PARKING STRUCTURES ............................................................. 10-9

10.13.1 Water Distribution Systems .............................................................................. 10-9

10.13.2 Storm Drainage Systems................................................................................... 10-9

11 APPENDIX A: VA HOSPITAL BUILDING SYSTEM ........................................................ 11-1

11.1 DESCRIPTION OF MODULES .............................................................................. 11-1

11.1.1 Introduction..................................................................................................... 11-1

11.1.2 Structural Bays................................................................................................. 11-1

11.1.3 Service Zones ................................................................................................... 11-1

11.1.4 Functional Zones .............................................................................................. 11-1

11.1.5 Fire Compartmentation .................................................................................... 11-1

11.1.6 Plumbing Utilities ............................................................................................. 11-1

11.2 ZONING OF PLUMBING SYSTEMS ...................................................................... 11-1

11.3 REFERENCES ..................................................................................................... 11-2

12 APPENDIX B: COMPUTER AIDED FACILITIES MANAGEMENT (CAFM) ....................... 12-1

12.1 CAFM AND EQUIPMENT SCHEDULE UTILIZATION .............................................. 12-1

12.1.1 Introduction..................................................................................................... 12-1

12.1.2 Submission Requirements ................................................................................ 12-1

12.1.3 Electronic Documentation ................................................................................ 12-1

12.1.4 Schedules ........................................................................................................ 12-1

13 APPENDIX C: A/E SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS AND PLUMBING DESIGN

MANUAL COORDINATION ............................................................................... 13-1

13.1 GENERAL .......................................................................................................... 13-1

13.1.1 Introduction..................................................................................................... 13-1

13.1.2 Coordination.................................................................................................... 13-1

13.1.3 Compliance Requirements ............................................................................... 13-1

13.1.4 BIM Requirements ........................................................................................... 13-1

13.1.5 Specific Drawing Requirements ........................................................................ 13-1

13.1.6 Equipment Schedules ....................................................................................... 13-2

13.1.7 Schematic Design Level 1 (SD1) Submission Requirements ................................ 13-2

13.1.8 Schematic Design Level 2 (SD2) Submission Requirements ................................ 13-3

13.1.9 Design Development Level 1 (DD1) Submission Requirements .......................... 13-3 vii

13.1.10 Design Development Level 2 (DD2) Submission Requirements .......................... 13-4

13.1.11 Construction Document Level 1 (CD1) Submission Requirements ...................... 13-4

14 APPENDIX D: SCHEMATIC DIAGRAMS ..................................................................... 14-1

14.1 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................ 14-1

14.1.1 Master Thermostatic Mixing Valve ................................................................... 14-2

14.1.2 Temporary Eradication System Connection....................................................... 14-3

14.1.3 Cold Water / Hot Water Connection of Plumbing Fixture .................................. 14-4

14.1.4 Acid Waste Neutralization System .................................................................... 14-5

14.1.5 Hot Water / Hot Water Return Pipe Routing in a Typical Ward .......................... 14-6

14.1.6 Hot Water Circulation with Master Thermostatic Mixing Valve.......................... 14-7

14.1.7 Thermostatic Balancing Valve ........................................................................... 14-8

15 APPENDIX E: SERVICE PIPE SCHEDULE ...................................................................... 15-1

15.1 PIPE SERVICE, MATERIAL, FITTINGS AND JOINTS ................................................ 15-1

16 INDEX ...................................................................................................................... 16-1

General Requirements 1-1

1 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

1.1 PURPOSE

This manual is a directive for Architecture and Engineering design professionals (hereafter referred to as A/E or designer) for the planning and design of the drainage, waste, vent, water distribution, storm drainage, natural gas and fuel gas, medical gas, medical vacuum, and specialty systems at U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) facilities. VA facilities have a wide range of occupants including patients, employees, volunteers, and visitors. An important mission of VA is to provide healthcare to Veterans who, in some cases, have severe disabilities, including sight, hearing, and mobility. The A/E must always keep the interest of the sick and/or disabled Veteran in mind when making decisions in locations where design choices affect Veterans.

This design manual will be utilized for all VA projects, including major, minor, and NRM projects.

Systems must be designed in a manner that will result in the facility being sanitary, safe, reliable, and sustainable. This manual is intended for use by the A/E and others engaged in the design and renovation of VA facilities. These facilities include but are not limited to:

• Acute Care

• Administrative Buildings

• Ambulatory Care Centers

• Animal Research Facilities

• Cemetery Administration Buildings

• Cemetery Visitor Facilities

• Central Utility Plants

• Clinical Additions

• Community-Based Outpatient Clinic

(CBOC)

• Community Living Centers (CLC)

• Domiciliary

• Drug/Alcohol Rehabilitation

• New Hospitals

• Equipment Storage

• Laboratory Buildings

• Laundry Facilities

• Medical Research

• Mental Health - Inpatient

• Outpatient Clinics

• Parking Structures

• Psychiatric Care Facility

• Rehabilitation Medicine

• Rehabilitation/Prosthetics

• Replacement Hospitals

• Warehouses

1.1.1 DEVIATIONS AND VA AUTHORITY

Deviations from this manual may be proposed to promote new concepts and design enhancements and to contend with adverse existing conditions and limitations in renovation projects. Deviations must not conflict with Federal Regulations, Public Laws, Executive Orders, or the needs of the end users. Any deviations are subject to review and written approval by the VA Authority. The VA Authority for all Veteran’s Health Administration (VHA) projects is the Director of the Office of Capital Assets Management, Engineering and Support (OCAMES). The VA Authority for VACO, VBA and NCA projects is the Director of the Office of Construction and Facilities Management (CFM). Request for deviations shall be submitted in writing by the A/E through the facility’s Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR) and to Waiver Requests (sharepoint.com) in sufficient detail to explain the issues. The amount of documentation will vary on a case-by-case basis but in general may contain some or all of the following elements:

https://dvagov.sharepoint.com/sites/VHA10NA5E/waiver/Pages/Waiver%20Requests.aspx https://dvagov.sharepoint.com/sites/VHA10NA5E/waiver/Pages/Waiver%20Requests.aspx

General Requirements 1-2

• Narrative explanation of the requested deviation (provided in all cases).

• Construction cost impact (provided in all cases).

• Equipment and material data sheets when applicable.

• Photographs of existing conditions when applicable.

• Calculations, including cost estimates.

• Drawings and sketches.

• Other background information such as codes, standards, etc.

The complete request for deviation must include all the required elements listed above in a concise narrative package with supporting data which clearly communicates what the deviation is, why the deviation is being required, and the operational, maintenance, energy, cost and schedule impacts of accepting the deviation and of rejecting the deviation. Deviations from Section 4.5 Legionella Mitigation in VA Facilities must be approved by the Facility Water Safety Committee.

1.2 RESPONSIBILITY

The A/E will provide all necessary professional services to perform planning and design of the systems for the project. The A/E is responsible and liable for the professional design in accordance with the contract, good engineering practices, VA standards, VA project-specific requirements (if any), and applicable codes.

1.3 SUSTAINABLE DESIGN

VA’s design and construction programs are required to comply with numerous federal mandates, including laws and Executive Orders, and VA policies related to energy efficiency, renewable energy, water conservation, and other sustainability requirements. Refer to the Office of Construction and Facilities Management’s (CFM’s) Technical Information Library (TIL) for details of VA’s Sustainability requirements.

Most major VA projects, including leases, are required to pursue third-party green building certification. The required rating system may include LEED®, Green Globes®, or another rating system specified within the CFM sustainability standards or General Service Administration (GSA) leasing standards. If the building(s) in a project is/are required to achieve third-party green building certification, coordinate plumbing design with appropriate disciplines and ensure plumbing design meets all minimum program requirements and targeted credits/point levels.

Sustainability Goals will be established by the Integrated Design Team (VA and A/E) at the beginning of a project. Overarching goals may be directed solely by the VA.

1.4 COMMISSIONING

Per the VA Whole Building Commissioning Process Manual, commissioning is typically conducted by a third-party Commissioning Agent (CxA) arranged by the VA Project Manager. The A/E will coordinate with VA project staff and the third-party CxA to identify commissioning-related requirements and support the commissioning process. In rare instances, the A/E may be contracted to provide commissioning services. In those instances, commissioning must be

General Requirements 1-3 performed in accordance with the VA Whole Building Commissioning Process Manual and applicable specifications published on the TIL.

1.5 METERING

For all new construction, renovations, Energy Savings Performance Contracts (ESPC), and Utility Energy Service Contracts (UESC), install building level utility meters in all buildings in the project that are greater than 5,000 gross square in feet. Provide meters for potable water, gas, steam, electricity, and thermal energy. Metering systems must be coordinated with the VA facility and the VA national metering reporting system.

1.6 NATIONAL CODES AND STANDARDS

The International Plumbing Code (IPC), National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 54 (National Fuel Gas Code), and NFPA 99 (Health Care Facilities Code), American Society of Heating Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) 90.1 (Energy Standard for Buildings Except Low-Rise Residential Buildings), ASHRAE Handbook HVAC Applications, and the American Society of Plumbing Engineers (ASPE) Data Books are the major referenced standards used in the Plumbing Design Manual. Most of these references are available to VA engineers and employees on the Healthcare Environment and Facilities Programs (HEFP) website (http://vaww.hefp.va.gov/) accessible via the VA intranet or can be obtained from the following sources:

• The latest IPC can be obtained from the International Code Council, 5203 Leesburg Pike, Suite 600; Falls Church, VA, 22041, https://www.iccsafe.org/.

• The latest NFPA 54 and NFPA 99 can be obtained from National Fire Protection Association, 1 Battery March Park, Quincy, MA 02269, https://www.nfpa.org/.

• The latest ASHRAE Standards and Guidelines can be obtained at https://www.ashrae.org/.

• The latest ASPE Data Book can be obtained at https://www.aspe.org/.

Unless specifically stated otherwise, the latest edition adopted by the VA and federal government will be used.

Additionally, Chapter 15 of the IPC lists standards that are referenced in various sections of the IPC and VA Master Plumbing Specifications. These references are also given in the text of this manual where appropriate.

1.7 VA HOSPITAL BUILDING SYSTEM

The VA Hospital Building System (VAHBS) is a methodology based on a modular concept for planning, designing, and constructing hospitals.

Due to the modular concept of the VA Hospital Building System and the Guiding Principles for Sustainable Federal Buildings, the A/E will find that plumbing schematic/design development decisions occur much earlier in the overall planning/design process when compared to a conventional design process. Equipment selection and main distribution sizing should be evaluated as soon as the size and number of modules is determined.

http://vaww.hefp.va.gov/ https://www.iccsafe.org/ https://www.nfpa.org/ https://www.ashrae.org/ https://www.aspe.org/

General Requirements 1-4

The methodology has been successfully used nationwide for capital and operating cost containment, shortened delivery schedules, and improved space utilization flexibility. All new and replacement VA hospital buildings will use the VAHBS system. This system is also recommended for major additions to existing hospitals where future adaptability is an important factor.

See VHA Program Guide PG-18-3, Design and Construction Procedures, Topic 3, VA Hospital Building System for further guidance. The complete reference for the VAHBS is contained in the 1976 Development Study (called the Redbook) and the 2006 Supplement. Additional details are included in Appendix 11-A.

1.8 VA DESIGN STANDARDS

VA standards are described in this section. All the manuals, guides, details, lists, requirements, and references in this section are found on the CFM TIL at https://www.cfm.va.gov/til/ unless otherwise noted. The key VA Design Standards concerning plumbing system design are listed below.

1.8.1 Master Construction Specifications (PG-18-1)

This reference defines a standardized specification for the A/E to assure that the contractors provide equipment and systems that meet the design intent in terms of performance, quality, regulatory compliance, and cost.

1.8.2 Design and Construction Procedures (PG-18-3)

This reference establishes minimum consistent design/construction practices and references the VAHBS methodology.

1.8.3 Standard Details and CAD Standards (PG-18-4)

VA has adopted the U.S. National CAD Standard (NCS) Version 4, which is amended by the VHA National CAD Standard Application. A link to the NCS standards and the VHA National CAD Standard Application Guide is found on the TIL website.

Note: The A/E will utilize VA Standard Details to the fullest extent possible. A modification to a Standard Detail requires the approval of VA Authorities.

1.8.4 Equipment Guide List (PG-18-5)

This is a reference for planning and development of equipment requirements for VA facilities.

1.8.5 Design Manuals (PG-18-10)

These standards are intended to convey general and specific design requirements for VA facilities.

• Fire Protection Design Manual: Provides the fire protection engineering design criteria for all categories of VA construction and renovation projects.

• Asbestos Abatement Design Manual: Serves as a guide for the planning and design of asbestos abatement projects location at VA facilities.

https://www.cfm.va.gov/til/

General Requirements 1-5

• Site Design Manual: Provides planning and design of the site layout, storm water management, building location and orientation, site utilities, landscaping and irrigation.

• Physical Security and Resiliency Design Manual for VA Facilities: Provides physical security standards required for facilities to continue operation during a natural or manmade extreme event and for facilities that are required to protect the life safety of patients and staff in an emergency.

• Sustainable Design Manual: Covers sustainability-related requirements that all projects must comply with.

• Automated Transport Systems (Elevator) Design Manual: Provides engineering design criteria for elevator systems.

1.8.6 Design Guides (PG-18-12)

Provides the designer with specific layout templates and medical equipment lists for all types of spaces/uses and specific design parameters for structural, electrical and mechanical design.

1.8.7 Barrier Free Design Standard (PG-18-13)

This supplement to Architectural Barriers Act Accessibility Standards (ABAAS) provides guidelines to better meet the barrier free needs of VA in its healthcare facilities.

1.8.8 Design Submission Requirements (PG-18-15)

These references provide a staged list of tasks in various design categories to define the A/E scope and assure thorough and timely completion of the final design package and bid documents. These references also provide general and specific VA cost estimating philosophies.

1.8.9 Design and Standards Alerts

CFM uses Standards Alerts to notify designers of changes to design standards that have not yet been included in VA specifications and design manuals. Design Alerts are used to alert designers to important recommendations related to the design of VA facilities. Alerts can be found on CFM’s TIL.

1.8.10 VA Building Information Modeling (BIM) Standard (PG-18-13)

VA has adopted BIM to achieve better quality documents for construction and to provide electronic data for facilities management.

1.8.11 Seismic Design Handbook (H-18-8)

This reference establishes code and other requirements, including occupancy categories, for new or existing VA facilities located in seismic areas so these facilities remain functionally operational after an earthquake.

1.8.12 Signage Design Manual (PG-18-10)

This reference provides guidelines for the design of signs and provides detailed information on the development of a signage system.

General Requirements 1-6

1.8.13 Cultural Resource Management Procedures (H-7545)

This handbook discusses requirements of cultural resource legal authorities outlined in VA Directive 7545 and elaborates on assignment of responsibilities.

1.9 ADDITIONAL DESIGN CRITERIA AND STANDARDS

There are several other federal and industry design references and standards that are applicable to VA projects. The standards, codes, and guides listed below are to be reviewed and incorporated on a project specific basis as determined by the project scope of work.

1.9.1 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)

The National Fire Protection Association develops and publishes codes and standards intended to minimize the possibility and effects of fire and other risks (https://www.nfpa.org/).

1.9.2 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Biosafety in Microbiological and Biomedical Laboratories (CDC BMBL)

The latest CDC BMBL publication provides fundamentals of containment include the microbiological practices, safety equipment, and facility safeguards that protect laboratory workers, the environment, and the public from exposure to infectious microorganisms that are handled and stored in the laboratory. (https://www.cdc.gov/biosafety/publications/)

1.9.3 Architectural Barriers Act Accessibility Standards (ABAAS)

This document contains scoping and technical requirements for accessibility at federal sites and facilities by individuals with disabilities. These requirements are to be applied during the design, construction, additions to, and alteration of sites, facilities, buildings, and elements to the extent required by regulations issued by federal agencies under the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA). ABAAS replaces the Uniform Federal Accessibility Standards (UFAS), which was VA’s previous standard for accessibility.

1.9.4 Sustainability and Historic Federal Buildings

The goal of this guidance is to assist federal decision makers, usually capital asset managers, facility managers, and other program and project managers, in their considerations regarding sustainability and historic federal buildings. Decision makers will consider historic preservation outcomes; and to take advantage of opportunities for meeting historic preservation, energy efficiency, and sustainability goals together in the administration of federal buildings.

(Sustainability and Historic Federal Buildings | Advisory Council on Historic Preservation (achp.gov)

1.9.5 National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA)

The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) requires federal agencies to integrate environmental values into their decision-making processes by considering the environmental impacts of their proposed actions and reasonable alternatives to those actions.

To meet NEPA requirements federal agencies conduct Capitalized Environmental Impact Assessments during project planning. In some cases, an agency prepares a detailed statement https://www.nfpa.org/ https://www.cdc.gov/biosafety/publications/ https://www.achp.gov/digital-library-section-106-landing/sustainability-and-historic-federal-buildings https://www.achp.gov/digital-library-section-106-landing/sustainability-and-historic-federal-buildings

General Requirements 1-7 known as an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). The results of NEPA analysis are integrated into planning and decision making, and often influence the design of projects. NEPA requirements must be addressed beginning at the earliest possible point in project planning; the A/E will be tasked to provide VA with the data and expert advice needed to address these requirements.

1.9.6 National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) and related standards

The National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) and related laws, regulations and executive orders collectively require federal agencies to consider, where possible protect, and if feasible make productive use of historic buildings, structures, sites, landscapes, and other types of “cultural resource” (See VA Directive/Handbook 7545). Under regulations implementing Section 106 of the NHPA, agencies review and consult about the effects of their proposed actions on historic properties and execute binding commitments that must be reflected in the design of projects.

Detailed standards issued by the Secretary of the Interior (https://www.nps.gov/orgs/1739/tps-publications.htm#technical) influence the design of projects that modify historic buildings and structures. Like NEPA requirements, those of the NHPA and related authorities must be addressed beginning at the earliest possible point in project planning; the A/E is often tasked to provide VA with the data and expert advice needed to address them.

1.10 COORDINATION

The A/E will coordinate all work to avoid design conflicts and eliminate potential change orders.

Of particular focus, are concealed and underground areas and site utility coordination.

The A/E will coordinate with federal, state, county, and local agencies to determine required permitting for the project and provide the VA Project Manager with a summary of the permit requirements, copies of permit applications and copies of correspondence, meeting minutes and other supporting documentation.

1.11 LOCAL CODES AND REQUIREMENTS

While federal agencies are not required to abide by most state and local building codes, the A/E must be aware of state and local codes in order to harmonize design characteristics to local and regional conditions. The A/E will bring local and regional climatic and geographic conditions and provisions of local building codes that are significantly different from national codes and conditions to the attention of VA.