Technical Questions Responses - AM Lake EHRM - 4-15-26.pdf

36C77626B0013 EHRM Infrastructure Upgrades – American Lake VAMC

Technical Questions and VA Response Tracking Sheet

ITEM

NO.

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QUESTION GOVERNMENT RESPONSE

1. 3-11-26 3-31-26 Will the Government provide detailed written requirements for contractor badging? Please clarify the process for obtaining PIV badges, including required documentation, background checks, and estimated processing timeframes.

Regardless of affiliation, everyone working within VA facilities or requiring access to VA information systems requires a VA PIV Card. PIV badging requirements can be found at:

https://www.osp.va.gov/How_To_Get_A_VA_ID

_Badge.asp

Immediately after the bonds are provided to the

Government, the contractor shall immediately start working with the identified COR at the site to commence the VA PIV process for all known contractor personnel that will be working on the project. All contractors must have a PIV Card in order to work on site.

2. 3-11-26 3-31-26 The VA’s Master Specification 01 32 16.15, 'Project

Schedules' (Small Projects - Design/Bid/Build), was revised effective December 1, 2025. The updated version is now available on the Technical Information

Library (TIL). Will the VA be updating the 01 32 16.15 spec for this project to include this spec instead of the older one?

Both the VA facility and AE team believe that the current version contained in the specifications are still valid and will result in the successful completion of this project.

3. 3-11-26 3-31-26 The Project Manual does not mention Liquidated

Damages in relation to the Period of Performance. Will

Liquidated damages for Period of Performance be assessed for this project and if so, how much?

The only liquidated damages concerning this solicitation are contained in VAAR 852.211-76

Liquidated Damages – Reimbursement for Data

Breach Costs (FEB 2023). The dollar value is cited in the clause. Please read carefully.

https://www.osp.va.gov/How_To_Get_A_VA_ID_Badge.asp https://www.osp.va.gov/How_To_Get_A_VA_ID_Badge.asp

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4. 3-27-26 3-31-26 Is this project exempt from sales tax? If so, will the VA provide a tax exemption certificate for material purchases?

Reference Special Notes Regarding FAR 52.229-

3, Offerors are hereby notified that all state and local sales or use taxes for construction materials must be included in their bid or proposal price. It is solely the responsibility of the offeror to include all other applicable taxes in their bid or proposal price as well.

5. 3-27-26 3-31-26 Will payment applications be accepted for materials stored on-site or in a bonded off-site warehouse?

In accordance with contract terms and conditions, Contractors should not submit an offer assuming the Government will approve monthly progress payments for material and/or equipment procured by the Contractor and stored on the construction site, as space is available, or at a local approved location off the site. Payment of stored materials and/or equipment is at the Contracting Officer’s discretion and will be handled on a case-by-case basis during the contract and under such terms and conditions as the Contracting Officer approves.

6. 3-27-26 3-31-26 Will the Government consider including an Economic

Price Adjustment (EPA) clause to address significant fluctuations in material pricing?

This will be awarded as a Firm Fixed Price (FFP) contract and all escalation should be factored in your FFP. Additionally, FAR 52.216-4

“Economic Price Adjustment – Labor and

Material” is not included in the solicitation and will not be added.

7. 3-27-26 3-31-26 If tariffs are imposed on materials (e.g., steel, wood) after bid submission but before award, will the

Government allow a price escalation even if the materials remain Buy American–compliant?

Reference response to Question 6 above.

8. 3-27-26 3-31-26 How soon after contract award does the Government anticipate issuing the official Notice to Proceed?

Notice to Proceed will be issued once all pre-construction submittals are complete.

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9. 3-27-26 3-31-26 Will the Government consider reducing the required bid validity period (e.g., to 60 days) to account for inflation and contractor pricing risk?

The Government standard concerning price-hold period is 90 calendar days and will not be altered.

10. 3-27-26 3-31-26 Can the Government confirm the stated contract duration is accurate, considering phased access and execution requirements?

The contractor shall complete the entire project no later than 650 calendar days after the contractor receives the Notice to Proceed.

11. 3-27-26 3-31-26 Will the VA provide and hire the commissioning agent, or is the contractor responsible?

Section 01 91 00 General Commissioning

Requirements 1.8 Item D states “The A/E will engage the CxA under a separate contract.”

12. 3-27-26 3-31-26 Trade Coordination:

Please clarify responsibility for resolving coordination conflicts between trades.

Question is too vague. Please reference

ATTACHMENT 6 - Construction Wage Rates –

Pierce.

13. 3-27-26 3-31-26 Prevailing Wage for Fiber & Electrical Crews: Do prevailing wage rates apply to the fiber installation, termination, and electrical panel replacement crews.

Yes, Construction Wage Rates apply.

14. 3-27-26 3-31-26 Since bids are not due until 4/21, will the Government extend the deadline for technical questions to 4/10 to ensure that contractors have sufficient time to get clarification as they prepare proposals?

No extension will be provided. The cut-off date and time for receipt of questions is March 27, 2026 at 1:00 PM (ET). The Government does not guarantee that questions received after the cut-off will be addressed.

15. 3-27-26 3-31-26 Limitations on Subcontracting Calculation: How should the self-performance requirement (general construction) be calculated for this upgrade project?

It is the responsibility of the bidder to make this determination. Reference ATTACHMENT 5 -

Limitations on Subcontracting – Construction for guidance.

16. 3-27-26 3-31-26 Change Order Pricing Requirements: What are the allowable overhead and profit percentages for change orders?

Reference VAAR 852.243-70 Construction

Contract Changes contained in the solicitation.

17. 3-27-26 3-31-26 Davis-Bacon Wage Updates During Performance: How will wage determination updates during the performance period be handled? If it changes during performance period, can we submit for and REA?

Davis Bacon Wage rates will not be adjusted after contract award. No price adjustment to the FEP contract will be made.

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18. 3-27-26 3-31-26 Payment Application Format & Schedule of Values:

What level of detail is required in the Schedule of Values for payment applications?

Please follow specification Division 1 requirements.

19. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Will the VA permit the use of Procore or an equivalent construction management software platform for submittals and project communications?

Yes.

20. 3-27-26 4-15-26 If abatement is required, will the VA identify known

ACM/LCM locations?

Refer to drawings sheet 000-GI004 and Telecom sheets.

21. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Hazardous Materials:

Please confirm asbestos/lead locations and abatement responsibilities.

Refer to drawings and Division 02 Existing

Conditions specs.

22. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Hazardous Materials / Asbestos in Pathways: Has a hazardous materials survey been performed for the existing fiber pathways and conduit routes? If abatement is required and not expected, who is responsible?

Refer to drawings and Division 02 Existing

Conditions specs.

23. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Personnel Qualifications – Double/Triple Hatting: Can any individual serve in more than one key role (e.g., Site

Supervisor and QC Manager, or SSHO and QC)? Please confirm in writing that no double- or triple-hatting is permitted and that all key personnel must be full-time, dedicated, and on-site daily.

Refer to Safety Requirements para.1.9: SSHO is full time.

24. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Does the VA require 24/7 on-site SSHO coverage during any off-hours or weekend work?

Refer to Safety Requirements Spec 1.9

25. 3-27-26 4-15-26 SSHO Qualifications & Full-Time Requirement: Must the SSHO be full-time and on-site for the entire duration of the project? Please confirm the minimum qualifications and daily presence requirement.

Refer to Safety Requirements Spec 1.9

26. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Will the contractor be required to provide a site office/trailer, or will space within the facility be made available?

Yes.

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27. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Will the VA allow temporary connection to existing utility infrastructure, with the contractor responsible for metered usage?

Refer to General Requirements Spec 1.18

28. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Utility Shutdowns:

Please confirm shutdown procedures, durations, and approval timelines.

Electrical - refers to notes on sheet 000-E-001 for planned outages or disruptions. Full utility shutdowns should not be required. Coordinate with COR. Refer to General requirements

29. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Will designated parking and staging areas be provided for contractor personnel and deliveries? Will the VA provide laydown space or containers, or must these be arranged off-site?

The VA can provide a laydown area. However, at this point int time we are not positive how much of area is needed. The VA will determine size at the Pre-Construction meeting.

30. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Does the existing roof have an active warranty? If so, who holds it and who is the manufacturer?

Yes, building 200 and Building 2 elevator 2P-1.

VA will coordinate this with GC at the Pre-

Construction meeting.

31. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Does the VA have an existing fire alarm/security service provider? If so, please provide the manufacture and contact information for required coordination.

The COR will coordinate at the Pre-Construction meeting.

32. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Fire Protection Scope:

Please clarify responsibility for fire alarm and suppression modifications.

Refer to Construction Documents. Contractor is responsible for modifications. Fire alarm technician is required to be certified NICET level

III or a registered fire protection engineer per

Specification 283100 Section 1.1.B. Installing fire sprinkler installer is required to be certified

NICET level III or IV per Specification 211313

Section 1.4.1.a.

33. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Work Hours / Phasing:

Please clarify allowable work hours and phasing constraints in occupied hospital.

Refer to General Requirements Spec.

34. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Will the facility remain occupied during construction, or will temporary relocation of staff/equipment be required?

Reference response to Question 33 above.

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35. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Will demolition of major systems (e.g., AHUs, utilities) require after-hours or phased work to minimize disruption?

Electrical - refer to notes on sheet 000-E-001 for planned outages or disruptions. Refer to General requirements.

36. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Off-Hours Work Allowance: Is off-hours or weekend work required for any fiber homerun cutovers or electrical panel replacements? If so, what premium time allowance must be included?

Reference response to Question 33 above.

37. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Is a pre-installation meeting required with the VA’s IT staff for all fiber homerun terminations?

Telecom- yes, a preinstallation meeting is required for all fiber homerun terminations.

38. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Will the VA provide temporary cooling/heating during system cutovers? If not, should the contractor include them?

Mechanical – VA to not provide temporary cooling/heating. Contractor would provide these per specification 23 05 11, however, there is no need for temporary equipment due to limited mechanical scope. There are only single zone split systems present in the scope of this project. Any demolition or shifting of existing systems will not require system shutdowns.

39. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Cable Pathways:

1. Are existing primary and secondary cable pathways intended to be reused?

2. Is contractor responsible for fire ceiling existing penetrations?

3. Is the General Contractor responsible for bringing up the existing infrastructure to code?

1. Telecom – No, primary and secondary cable pathways are not intended to be reused.

2. Contractor is responsible bring penetrations to code that are modified or used in this scope of work.

3. Existing conditions that are not code-compliant should be reported to the COR.

40. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Please confirm the manufacturer of the existing PACS and VASS systems (281300 & 282300).

PACS system is Andover Continuum. VSS system is PELCO. Both were noted as potentially being upgraded/replaced (to Avigilon Command

Center) by VA during design of EHRM project.

These systems still active and slated for EHRM upgrades.

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41. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Please provide the contactor contact information that maintains the existing PACS and VASS systems.

HTM Electronics maintains PACS and VASS systems. Currently have a maintenance contract for PACS system with Schneider Electric.

42. 3-27-26 4-15-26 PACS System and Integration:

1. Will existing brand-specific equipment require a J&A?

2. Must the PACS integrate with other security systems

(e.g., CCTV)?

3. Will the system reside on the VA Network?

4. If yes, are virtual servers required, or are standard servers acceptable?

1. The VA is moving toward the installation of

Avigilon system.

2.VA is also planning on Avigilon PACS to and

Integrate with CCTV.

3.Yes.

4. Standard servers

43. 3-27-26 4-15-26 PACS Electrical & Rough-In Requirements:

1. Are new conduits required within wall cavities versus surface mounting?

2. Is the contractor responsible for providing/installing all electrical power requirements for new PACS devices?

1. Preference is concealed by the raceway.

2. Yes, submit shop drawings/product submittals for review and approval by AE.

44. 3-27-26 4-15-26 PACS Internet Connectivity / EHRM Integration:

1. Will the PACS connect to the internet for integration with national databases?

2. Must the system integrate with equipment installed under the EHRM program?

1. No, throughout Puget Sound.

2. PACS should Integrate with CCTV

45. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Is American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC) certification required for fabrication and/or erection of structural steel?

Structural steel shall be detailed, fabricated and erected according to AISC "specification for structural steel buildings", latest edition.

46. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Reference: Spec 01 00 00; Drawing 000-GI003

Please clarify full extent of demolition where documents state demolition is not limited to shown items.

Demolition – refer to demolition drawings

47. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Reference: Spec 01 00 00; Drawing 000-GI003

Please confirm reliability of as-built drawings vs requirement for full field verification.

Refer to Drawing Sheet General Notes

48. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Reference: Drawings 000-GI004, 000-GI005

Please provide final layouts, rack counts, and clearance requirements for TR/TE rooms.

Telecom - Refer to Telecom plans

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49. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Reference: Drawing 000-GI014, 000-GI015

Please confirm Infection Control Risk Assessment level and containment requirements per area.

GC to conduct and follow protocol in Drawing

Sheet 000-GI014/15

50. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Phasing & ICRA Requirements for Fiber Homeruns:

What are the exact ICRA requirements for installing the two independent OS2 fiber homeruns through occupied buildings? Please confirm allowable work hours, containment, and negative-air requirements.

What is the exact ICRA class required for fiber homerun installations through occupied patient-care areas?

GC to conduct and follow protocol in Drawing

Sheet 000-GI014/15

51. 3-27-26 4-15-26 ICRA Requirements for Occupied Buildings:

Is ICRA Class IV or higher required for fiber homerun installations in occupied areas of Buildings?

GC to conduct and follow protocol in Drawing

Sheet 000-GI014/15

52. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Does the VA require a detailed Infection Control Risk

Assessment (ICRA) permit posted at each work area?

GC to conduct and follow protocol in Drawing

Sheet 000-GI014/15

53. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Temporary Systems:

Please define requirements for temporary HVAC, power, and life safety systems.

Mechanical – no temporary systems are required because nothing will impact existing systems and require system shutdowns for new construction or demolition.

Electrical - refers to notes on sheet 000-E-001 for planned outages or disruptions.

Refer to Safety Requirements Spec. para.1.17.

54. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Reference: Drawing 000-GS101

Please confirm delivery routes, staging areas, and campus restrictions.

The VA will provide a determination at the Pre-

Construction meeting.

55. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Reference: Division 26 & 27

Please provide coordinated routing for MEP and telecom systems.

Telecom – refer to the telecom drawings.

Mechanical – refer to M&P drawings

Electrical – refer to electrical drawings.

56. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Reference: Division 26

Please confirm UPS sizing, redundancy, and panel schedules.

Electrical – UPS sizes, redundancy, and panel schedules have been confirmed at the time of submission. Refer to notes on 000-E-001 for discrepancies.

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57. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Reference: Division 27

Please clarify routing paths and building interconnections.

Telecom – refer to the telecom drawings.

58. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Reference: Spec 01 91 00

Please confirm commissioning scope and acceptance criteria.

Refer to Commissioning Spec for scope and acceptance criteria.

59. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Are licenses available for the additional SSTV cameras? Campus is converting to Avigilon system. Most buildings are not converted. New camera should interface with future Avigilon recorder. If installing recorder too. It should have enough memory and input for future cameras.

If you add cameras, additional licenses must be purchased. Additional cameras should be

Avigilon since the campus has already started conversion to Avigilon.

60. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Is innerduct required for the fiber optic cabling in the duct banks?

Telecom – Yes, innerduct is required for the fiber optic cabling in the duct banks.

61. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Reference 312000 paragraph 3.6 DISPOSAL OF

UNSUITABLE AND EXCESS EXCAVATED

MATERIAL states that contractor will place excess excavated materials suitable for fill and/or backfill where directed. Will the VA allow use of the borrow area on campus for disposal of excess soils?

The VA will provide a determination at the Pre-

Construction meeting.

62. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Reference CU drawings sheet note 3. Sheet note 3 states that the contractor is responsible to provide a utility survey for low voltage comm infrastructure prior to starting work. Is this survey intended only to verify conditions shown on the drawings?

Civil – Correct, the intent of this utility survey is to identify conflicts and/or updated field conditions from when the design field work was completed and plans finalized. Any changes noted shall be noted and brought to the attention of the COR and Engineer.

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63. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Reference CU drawings sheet note 3. Sheet note 3 states that the contractor is responsible to provide a utility survey for low voltage comm infrastructure prior to starting work. Is this survey intended only to verify conditions that can be seen without demolition of existing features?

Reference response to Question 62 above.

64. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Reference CU drawings sheet note 7. Sheet note 7 states that all utility crossings are to have 24” of separation with a 10’ transition. Due to the age of the campus and quantity of systems shown and not shown, will the VA reduce the separation to 6”?

Civil – NO, separations for utility crossings shall be 24-inches with 10-ft transition.

EOR recommends no modification to the construction documents.

65. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Reference CU400 and 401. Details D1 and F1 on both sheets show an 8” thick by min 41” wide concrete cap directly under the existing pavement above the new ductbanks. This concrete cap will complicate future utility installations and conflict with existing utilities.

Will the government revise these details to show 8” of compacted base course in lieu of concrete?

Civil – Contractor to bid the project per the drawings/details. EOR recommends no modification to the construction documents.

66. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Will the VA require the trenching and underground work to be phased or will they allow the contractor to work in all areas as long as foot and vehicle traffic can be maintained with detours?

Civil – The intent is for the project to be phased so as to not create environmental concerns

(stormwater, trenching, etc.) or concerns with foot and vehicle traffic in and around the construction areas (blocked sidewalks, drives, parking, etc.).

The campus is very active and congested, leaving construction areas for extended times is not desirable.

67. 3-27-26 4-15-26 This project involves trenching through areas with established trees, especially tall firs. What specific measures must be taken to protect these trees during excavation and backfill?

Civil – See Spec Sectio 01 57 19 for information regarding Environmental Protection Plan

Requirements and protection of trees and other environmentally sensitive areas during construction.

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68. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Sheet 000-TY001 shows security door details. Does this detail require installation of new doors, frames and hardware at all doors to receive new access control?

Refer to architectural details/schedules for locations of new doors, frames, door hardware to be installed.

69. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Existing As-Built Drawings Accuracy: Will the

Government provide verified as-built drawings for the existing conduits and pathways in Buildings?

The contractor to use contract document issued at the contract award.

70. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Will the VA provide as-built drawings of existing fiber pathways before start of work?

Reference response to Question 69 above.

71. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Redundant Fiber Homerun Routing: What is the required routing and separation for the two independent 24-strand

OS2 fiber homeruns?

Telecom – refer to the telecom drawings.

72. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Are there any Power Study Requirements for Panel

Upgrades: Who is responsible for performing the power study for the 125A to 200A panel replacements, and who bears the cost?

Electrical – Study requirements stated in

Specification 26 05 73. The study shall be prepared by the equipment manufacturer, and performed by the equipment manufacturer’s licensed electrical engineer. Final settings of devices shall conform to study without additional cost to the VA.

73. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Are Surface-Mounted Conduits required to be painted? Electrical – Paint exposed conduit as specified in

Specification 09 91 00.

74. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Firestopping Responsibility for New Penetrations: Who is responsible for firestopping all new penetrations created by the fiber homeruns and conduit installations?

Telecom – Contractor will be responsible for firestopping all new penetrations.

75. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Flashing & Sheet Metal at Roof Penetrations: Is flashing and sheet metal work required at any roof penetrations for the new fiber pathways?

Yes.

76. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Joint Sealants Around New Penetrations: Are joint sealants required around all new pipe/duct/fiber penetrations?

Mechanical – Per Specification 23 05 11, provide sealant for watertight joint around penetration sleeve.

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77. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Painting Scope for Disturbed Areas: Is painting limited to touch-up of disturbed areas and conduit painting, or are full repaints of rooms required?

Refer to specification 09 91 00 para.1.01 and trade spec sections for painting requirements.

Refer to Drawings 000-GI003 Project General

Notes

78. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Temporary Power During Panel Replacements: Who provides temporary power and lighting during the phased electrical panel replacements?

Electrical – No panels are being replaced in this project.

79. 3-27-26 4-15-26 VA IT Coordination for Fiber Termination: Will VA IT be present for final fiber termination and testing, or must the Contractor coordinate separately?

Coordinated through COR and OIT.

80. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Warranty Start Date for Fiber & Electrical Work: When does the warranty period begin for the new fiber backbone, IT panels, and electrical panel replacements?

Electrical – Refer to 26 05 11, warranty starts from date of acceptance of the entire installation by the government’s contracting officer.

Telecom - Warranty starts at Government’s final acceptance date.

81. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Does the VA require a final commissioning report signed by an independent CxA prior to final acceptance?

Yes

82. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Pre-Construction Submittal Register Due Date: When is the detailed submittal register due, and what format is required?

Refer to Division 1 requirements.

83. 3-27-26 4-15-26 PCRA “Large” Control Measures Sufficiency: Are the

“Large” control measures in the PCRA sufficient for this project, or are additional measures required?

Refer to Safety Requirements Spec para.1.6;

Quality Control Spec para.3.7; Temporary

Environmental Controls para.1.1 and 1.5.5; Noise and Vibration Control for HVAC Piping and

Equipment para.1.1; Earthwork para.3.2.B in addition to PCRA.

84. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Noise & Vibration Control in Occupied Buildings: What noise and vibration limits apply during work in occupied buildings with employees present?

Refer to General Requirements para.1.7.G, Temporary Environmental Controls para.1.5.F, Noise and Vibration Control for HVAC Piping and Equipment.

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85. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Dust Control & Negative Air Requirements: Are negative-air machines and dust barriers required for all ceiling and conduit work?

Yes, per ICRA. Refer to General Requirements

Spec. para. 1.7.I.3, Safety Requirements para.1.14

1.15, Demolition para.1.3

86. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Temporary Barriers & Fencing Locations: Where must temporary barriers and construction fencing be installed on the campus?

Refer to General Requirements.

87. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Utility Shutdown Coordination & Lock-Out/Tag-Out:

Who coordinates and approves all utility shutdowns and lock-out/tag-out for the electrical panel replacements?

Electrical – Notes on 000-E-001, coordinate all planned outages with VA COR. No panels are replaced in this project.

88. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Is the Contractor responsible for patching and painting of all ceiling and wall penetrations?

Yes

89. 3-27-26 4-15-26 VA Staff Training on New Network Infrastructure: Is training required for VA staff on the new fiber infrastructure and IT panels?

Refer to Commissioning For Communications

Systems para.3.2.

90. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Must all new communications cabinets be bonded to the building’s grounding electrode system?

Telecom – all new cabinets shall be bonded to the grounding busbar within the telecom room or adjacent to the enclosure. Refer to Telecom drawings sheets 000-T-504/5

91. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Fiber Testing & Acceptance Criteria: What are the exact testing and acceptance criteria for the new 24-strand OS2 fiber homeruns?

Telecom- Per specifications 27 13 23i section

2.2.B, “All fiber optic backbone media shall pass all Tier 2 requirements (characterization by an

Optical Time Domain Reflectometer or OTDR resulting in indication of the uniformity of cable attenuation and connector insertion loss)”.

92. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Lightning Protection & Grounding for New IT Panels: Is lightning protection and grounding required for the new panels?

Electrical – Yes.

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93. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Seismic Bracing for New IT Panels & Racks: What seismic bracing is required for the new panels and associated racks?

Structural –

Refer to F2/000-S-001 for seismic bracing of new racks.

Refer to C2/000-S-001 for backing required for new wall mounted equipment.

Refer to IFC Structural Calculations Package, mounting design’, for further information on approved fasteners.

94. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Please provide a definitive scope matrix by building and floor for Division 28 identifying which systems are included in bid for each area: access control, video surveillance, intrusion detection, and fire alarm.

FP – Specification 28 31 00 applies only to

Building 199. Building 199 is the only building with fire alarm scope.

95. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Please confirm whether Sections 28 13 00 and 28 23 00 are fully applicable project scope, or whether portions of those sections are standard master specification language and only selective work shown on the drawings is intended to be bid.

Correct, those are master specifications. Not all sections are directly applicable but have been included for system information.

96. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Please issue a consolidated Division 28 device schedule identifying quantities and locations of all access control devices, CCTV devices, fire alarm devices, interface modules, power supplies, panels, and related head-end equipment included in bid.

FP – Fire alarm scope is limited to Building 199.

The new FARP associated with the new clean agent system in the data center is required to be tied in with the existing building FACP.

Additionally, the scope includes an addition of one smoke detector above the new FARP. See

Sheet 199-FA101 for details. Refer to contract drawings.

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97. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Please confirm the exact division of responsibility between Division 08 and Division 28 for electrified hardware, power transfers, readers, REX devices, door contacts, lock power supplies, and door interface components.

All electrified hardware, locksets, doors, frames, in-frame wiring, power transfer, and door accessories by Div 28. Card readers, REX, door contacts, power supplies, wiring to security panels are by Div 28. Requirements are more thoroughly detailed in specifications 087100 (door hardware) and 281300 (PACS), refer to specs for more information.

98. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Please identify all existing Division 28 devices, cabling, pathways, and associated equipment that are to be removed, abandoned, relocated, protected, or reused as part of the selective demolition scope

FP – Fire alarm scope is limited to Building 199.

The new FARP associated with the new clean agent system in the data center is required to be tied in with the existing building FACP.

Additionally, the scope includes an addition of one smoke detector above the new FARP. See

Sheet 199-FA101 for details. Refer to contract drawings. Existing security panels/head-ends to remain, OIT equipment only being removed from existing telecom spaces.

99. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Please provide the existing manufacturers, models, software versions, server/workstation locations, and licensing requirements for the existing access control, video surveillance, intrusion detection, and fire alarm systems that Division 28 work must interface with.

FP – Fire alarm scope is limited to Building 199.

See sheet 199-FA101 for existing fire alarm panel location.

100. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Please provide a list of all existing Division 28 equipment intended to remain in service and be reused, including head-end equipment, controllers, readers, cameras, field devices, and power supplies.

FP- Fire alarm scope is limited to Building 199.

See sheet 199-FA101 for existing fire alarm panel location.

Refer to contract drawings. Existing security panels/head-ends to remain, OIT equipment only being removed from existing telecom spaces.

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101. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Please clarify whether Division 28 fire alarm scope consists only of extension/modification of the existing fire alarm system to support the new telecom/EHRM work, or whether it also includes new devices, modules, NAC work, annunciation, releasing interfaces, and full system reprogramming.

FP – Fire alarm scope is limited to Building 199.

The new FARP associated with the new clean agent system in the data center is required to be tied in with the existing building FACP.

Additionally, the scope includes an addition of one smoke detector above the new FARP. See

Sheet 199-FA101 for details.

102. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Please confirm whether Division 28 is to include all costs for fire alarm outages, temporary impairment procedures, ILSM measures, fire watch, and after-hours testing/shutdown coordination.

FP – only “outage” would be tying in the FARP and new smoke detector in Building 199.

Contractors would be required to cover costs and must be maned at all times in the boiler plant during the fire alarm bypass.

103. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Please clarify which specific Division 28 systems are required to be commissioned and identify required contractor deliverables including pre-functional checklists, startup forms, functional test scripts, witness testing, training, and final documentation.

FP - Testing and final inspection and acceptance should be performed per Specification 283100

Sections 3.3 and 3.4.

104. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Please confirm the number of training sessions, required duration, attendee groups, and whether on-site end-user and owner O&M staff training are required for access control, CCTV, intrusion, and fire alarm systems as part of Division 28 commissioning.

Refer to General Commissioning Requirements and Commissioning of Electronic Safety and

Security Systems, Part 3.

105. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Please clarify whether the Division 28 subcontractor is responsible during the warranty period for quarterly inspections, service calls, testing, and documentation for the systems furnished under this contract, and if so, for which specific systems.

FP – Yes, per Spec 283100 Section 1.5. Note that fire alarm scope for this project is minimal, and a new system is not being provided.

106. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Please define permitted work hours and outage windows for Division 28 work in occupied buildings, including access control, CCTV, and fire alarm impairments, and confirm which scopes must be performed after hours, on weekends, or under escorted conditions.

FP – Fire alarm work is permitted during work hours, as the fire alarm scope for this project is minimal, and a new system is not being provided.

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107. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Please confirm which buildings with listed security drawing sheets contain actual in-scope Division 28 work to be priced, versus sheets shown for reference only.

FP- See Sheet 199-FA101.

108. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Temporary Protection of Existing VA Systems: Who is responsible for temporary protection of existing VA systems during construction?

The GC will be responsible.

109. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Waste Disposal & Recycling Requirements: What are the

VA’s waste disposal and recycling requirements for this project?

Must submit Waste & Recycling Requirements for COR approval.

110. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Progress Meeting Frequency & Attendance: What is the required frequency of progress meetings and who must attend (GC, VA, ALL SUBS)? Is the attendance in person on site or can it be done via online meeting platform?

Weekly progress meeting will be required. Via

Microsoft teams.

111. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Substantial Completion vs Final Completion: What constitutes Substantial Completion versus Final

Completion for this project?

Final Completion report is Required.

112. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Close-Out & Punch-List Process: What is the required close-out and punch-list process, including any VA-specific requirements?

Refer to General Requirements, Commissioning, Quality Control Specs.

113. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Given the operational requirements of the EHRM data environments and the performance characteristics of the

Victaulic Vortex™ hybrid nitrogen/water-mist system, will the design team and VA facility stakeholders accept

Victaulic Vortex™ as an approved alternate to the specified clean agent system for the American Lake data rooms?

FP – The VA Fire Protection Manual does not recognize Victaulic Vortex as an approved gaseous extinguishing system, and it does not meet the specifications (VA FPDM 6.3).

EOR recommends no modification to the construction documents.

114. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Does the VA design team recognize hybrid nitrogen/water-mist systems (e.g., Victaulic Vortex) as an acceptable technology class for mission-critical data spaces under current VA design guidelines?

Reference response to Question 113 above.

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115. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Are there any project-specific requirements—beyond the prescriptive clean-agent specification—that would prevent substitution, such as IT stakeholder preferences, coordination with VA infrastructure groups, or integration expectations?

You need to follow clean-agent specifications. No deviations will be acceptable.

116. 3-27-26 4-15-26 If Vortex is conditionally acceptable, what additional documentation, engineering analysis, or code compliance justification would be required to proceed?

If not acceptable, could the VA provide specific disqualifying criteria so we can address them or determine whether another compliant solution exists?

Reference response to Question 113 above.

117. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Commissioning Agent (CxA) Qualifications: Is an independent third-party Commissioning Agent required for the new electrical panels and IT infrastructure, or can the electrical contractor perform commissioning?

Electrical – refer to specification 01 91 00 for systems that require 3rd party testing.

Refer to General Commissioning Requirements para. 1.9.A

118. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Commissioning Scope & Responsibility: Will the VA or the Contractor bear the cost of third-party commissioning services for the electrical and network upgrades? Please confirm the full extent of commissioning required and who pays?

Refer to General Commissioning Requirements.

119. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Does the VA require a fully independent third-party

Commissioning Agent (CxA) separate from the

Contractor’s team?

Refer to General Commissioning Requirements.

120. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Will the VA accept the Contractor’s in-house CxA if they meet all qualifications in Section 01 91 00?

Refer to General Commissioning Requirements.

121. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Are temporary barriers and negative air pressure required for all ceiling tile removals under the Large-scale PCRA?

Refer to Safety Requirements.

122. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Does the VA require the Contractor to maintain a daily log of all ICRA permit activities?

Refer to Drawing Sheet 000-GI014.

123. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Must all fiber pathways be installed in existing conduits or can new pathways be added where shown on drawings?

Telecom- new pathways may be added as shown on the drawings.

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124. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Does the VA require firestopping of all new penetrations to be performed by a UL-listed installer?

Refer to Firestopping Spec.

125. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Will the VA provide a list of pre-approved manufacturers for the IT panels required in the EHRM scope?

VA will provide information at Pre-construction meeting.

126. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Are existing electrical panels to remain energized during upgrades or must they be de-energized?

Electrical – Demo note #1 on 000-E-001, all electrical equipment shall be de-energize prior to commencing any demolition work.

127. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Is temporary power required to be provided by the

Contractor for all phases of the work?

Electrical – Coordinate with VA COR on where temporary power is required to keep critical systems online during construction.

128. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Must all work in occupied buildings be scheduled during off-hours to minimize patient disruption?

Coordinate with COR. Refer to General

Requirements Spec

129. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Is commissioning of the new fiber infrastructure required?

Telecom - Yes, commissioning of the new fiber infrastructure is required.

130. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Must the Cabling Contractor submit a detailed phasing plan for all buildings prior to NTP?

Yes

131. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Are there any limitations on the number of simultaneous work areas allowed under the PCRA?

Refer to General Requirements Spec.

132. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Does the VA require seismic bracing for all new IT racks and cable trays per Section 13 05 41?

Structural – Yes, refer to structural drawings for mounting and bracing details, and refer to IFC

Structural Calculations package for further information on approved fasteners.

133. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Must all new electrical panels be arc-flash labeled by the

Contractor prior to energization?

Electrical – Yes, refer to specification 26 05 11 and NFPA 70E for arc-flash labeling.

134. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Does the VA require the Contractor to coordinate all cutover activities with the facility’s emergency generator?

Electrical – Yes, refer to notes on sheet 000-E-

001 for planned outages or disruptions.

135. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Are there any restrictions on the use of corded power tools in occupied areas?

Yes

136. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Must all hazardous materials surveys be updated prior to any demolition activities?

Yes

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137. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Will the VA provide a list of restricted areas that cannot be accessed during normal business hours?

Yes

138. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Must all closeout documentation include VA-specific

EHRM commissioning checklists?

Refer to General Commissioning Requirements.

139. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Are there any specific noise or dust limitations for work near patient-care areas?

Yes, per ICRA. Refer to General Requirements

Spec. para. 1.7.I.3, Safety Requirements para.1.14

1.15, Demolition para.1.3

140. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Will the VA accept a single mobilization for all buildings or require separate phases?

Refer to General Requirements.

141. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Must the Contractor provide a detailed waste management plan for all construction debris?

Refer to Construction Waste Management Spec.

142. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Is third-party testing required for all new electrical grounding and bonding installations?

Electrical – Refer to specification 01 91 00, 3rd party testing is required.

143. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Does the VA require as-built drawings to be submitted in both AutoCAD and PDF format?

Refer to General Requirements Spec.

144. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Are there any specific requirements for temporary lighting in work areas during off-hours?

Refer to Safety Requirements Spec.

145. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Must the Contractor coordinate all fire alarm interface work with the VA’s central monitoring station?

Yes

146. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Is a pre-final inspection required before the warranty period begins?

Yes

147. 3-27-26 4-15-26 Site Security & After-Hours Access Procedures: What are the after-hours site security and access procedures at the American Lake VAMC?

VA will provide information at Pre-construction meeting.