36E77619R0073-0005002.docx

36E77619R0073 618-16-120 Upgrade Pharmacy 18 Minneapolis VAHCS

Questions – 7/27/2019

1. “Plan Page 1361-GI007 Shows the Phasing for this project, Split into 8 sections on the lower level. Room# BR-113 General Pharmacy, due to the phasing is split into 5 areas including the north corridor. With the intended flooring being the Nora systems – Environcare nTx 3mm sheet goods. This will cause issues with lay pattern on the floor, essentially looking like a patchwork quilt. Without revisions to the phasing. The flooring provider will be forced to terminate sheets just short of the temp walls. Then during the next phase, butt the seams up and heat weld where they left off.

a. The VA recognizes that the phasing plan is prohibitive for sheet flooring installation. The contractor should make provisions to order all flooring as a single order to maintain matching colors and coordination during construction may allow for the installer to potentially leave excess material to be installed once the phase walls are removed to best align and minimize heat welded seams. Coordination of layout can occur during the 3-phase inspections as detailed in 01 45 00 Para 3.6

2. Please clarify the quantity and type of Pass-Thru windows. There are discrepancies between the Equipment Schedule and the Keyed Notes on the drawings.

a. The drawings and specifications were reviewed, and the correct quantities/type are detailed below – please note the change that ALL pass thru devices shall be fully welded and seamless.

i. BR-128 (East) – CAP18WFB (24x24x24, seamless, not HEPA filtered)

ii. 3F-117B (North) – CAP18WFBHF (18x18x18, seamless, HEPA filtered)

iii. BR-118B (West) – CAP18WFB (18x18x18, seamless, not HEPA filtered)

iv. BR-118B (South) – CAP18WFB (18x18x18, seamless, not HEPA filtered)

v. BR-118C (North) – CAP18WFBHF (18x18x18, seamless, HEPA filtered)

vi. BR-118C (West) – CAP18WFBHF (18x18x18, seamless, HEPA filtered)

3. Can more clarity be provided on the video storage/redundant video storage that is detailed on Sheet E603

a. The contractor shall calculate the necessary requirements to store original video footage and a redundant backup of the video footage. Lenel Network Video Recorders (LNVR) shall be used to maintain compatibility with the existing system. All devices shall be installed in existing spare racks in BT-102 as detailed on E603. The contractor shall submit video storage calculations with product submittal.

4. The table of contents indicates that 27 51 23 IP Network Compatible Intercom is included in the specifications but is not detailed within the specs.

a. This specification is included in the documents but was not inserted in the appropriate location. It can be found in the section that precedes 28 31 00 - FIRE DETECTION AND ALARM – EXTENSION.

Questions - 7/23/2019 (previously posted)

1. Will there be a dedicated staging area for this project?

a. There is currently minimal storage space available within the medical center. Contractors should plan for alternate storage outside the medical center. Storage boxes will be allowed on VA Grounds or back parking lots with prior approval. Additionally, workspace in the Penthouse of Building 70 is acceptable.

2. Doors BR-118B, BR118C and 3F-117B all ask for motion activated operators from both sides, note 4 on opening schedule. I want to know if they mean motion activated touchless wall plates? The area these doors are in is small and having these doors fully automatic with motion sensors as people walk by would have these doors opening and closing constantly. Having the touchless wave switches would make more sense.

a. Proceed as designed – additional information is provided in contract specifications.

3. The opening for door 3F-117B is listed as 6’0” x 7’0”, we need at least 7’6” in height, 7’8” is standard height for an automatic sliding door.

a. The opening for the pair of doors for 3F-117B is 6’-0” X 7’-0” as indicated on the schedule. Corresponding frame type AL-1 on AE602 indicates a 7’-8” frame height for the Stanley Dura-Glide unit.

4. Demolition of Dumbwaiter-What is extent of Demo? Car/Cab Hoist & Controls, Pit? Does this include tracks? Any structural considerations.

a. M4 Dumbwaiter – Near Central Elevators

i. The demolition of dumbwaiter M4 will include removal of the rated shaft up to the underside of the first floor. Provide a two-hour rated horizontal assembly under the first floor, attached to the first floor.

ii. At location of dumbwaiter M4 and shaft removal, replace gypsum interstitial barrier panel approximately 6-foot-wide from suspended support to suspended support by length (approximately 8-feet) required to cover existing opening location. Match components of existing interstitial barrier system.

iii. The pit for dumbwaiter M4 will require filling prior to concrete floor patching. The demolished portions of the lower level concrete floor (see AD100) can be utilized along with sand to provide an adequate base for a poured concrete slab. Align the concrete slab with the existing concrete floor. Drill the top sides of the existing concrete pit to fasten dowels that will extend and be set in the poured concrete slab.

b. M10 Dumbwaiter – Near Conference Room

i. The demolition of dumbwaiter M10 will include removal of cab and rails the entire length of the system (basement to 2nd floor) and removal of the rated shaft to the underside of the of the first floor. The system demolition is recommended to be subcontracted to an elevator company contracting through the successful general contractor. The elevator cab shall also be removed.

ii. At location of dumbwaiter M10, shaft wall and rail support removal, replace gypsum interstitial barrier panels (2) approximately 6-foot-wide from suspended support to suspended support by length (approximately 6”) required to cover existing opening location. Provide additional intermediate support structure as required to support panel. Match components of existing interstitial barrier system.

iii. Dumbwaiter M10 has no pit.

5. Is there a detail of the elevator shaft “cap”? Where does the Cap happen? Any fire rating or structural considerations?

a. See answers above for location.

b. The detail of the elevator shaft cap has not yet been provided. Use a USG horizontal 2-hour fire rated assembly with a Report # WHI-495, PSH0154/0167.

6. What other floors do these dumbwaiters service? Is there any demo or safety concerns on these levels?

a. M4 Dumbwaiter – Near Central Elevators

i. This dumbwaiter has been previously removed from service and all associated gear has been demolished from this shaft. Items as detailed in previous answers shall be completed.

b. M10 Dumbwaiter – Near Conference Room

i. Serves 1st floor in Radiology and 2nd floor OR suite.

ii. VA discussions with elevator company is that all demo is generally performed inside of the shaft with not physical space needing to be entered on any floors other than the basement. If this option is not chosen, then high level infection control procedures will be required for performing any work in those areas.

iii. If demo is performed within the shaft – a confined space permit will be required to be issued by the facility. Coordinate with COR.

7. On equipment schedule the “R” is to be removed and relocated. Will VA remove, store, and relocate?

a. All equipment, except for the Pneumatic Tube System, that is indicated as ‘R’ on the Equipment Schedule is the VA responsibility to remove, store, and relocate. Please note that there are some elements that indicate for the contractor to coordinate relocation with the VA COR. This is required due to the VA’s need to contract a vendor to perform the relocation of this equipment. Proper notice shall be given to the VA to coordinate these relocations.

b. The Pneumatic Tube System will be the contractor’s responsibility to relocate as detailed in the construction documents all cost and coordination shall be performed by the contractor.

8. Dec 15 is given as substantial completion date for phase 1. Any penalties if date is not met?

a. There are no penalties for missing this date. However, the contractor is expected to put forth full effort to meet this deadline. All delays will need to be detailed and documented.

9. Ductwork configuration would have to be completed before 1st phase completion. Has there been considerations for the phasing/requirements for general supply and return thru phases of construction?

a. Not all ductwork needs to be completed prior to Phase 1 but enough ductwork needs to be completed to have the Phase 1 rooms properly balanced and completely installed. There may need to be a section of 30” round ductwork offset to free up working space for Phase 1 but remaining main ductwork could occur after Phase 1 at the contractors scheduling discretion.

10. Is there an alternative to welding the stainless exhaust to speed up installation?

a. This is a VA requirement for all exhaust systems that are tied to Pharmacy compounding hoods. Any waiver from this will require VA National approval and will likely be too timely for consideration.

11. Is there special considerations for roof penetrations out of the rated shaft thru roof system?

a. The exhaust fan will be located in the Penthouse and not on the roof of the Penthouse. The exhaust will penetrate the rated shaft into the Penthouse and then routed through the exhaust fan and then penetrated through the roof.

12. Is there serviceable access to the new exhaust fan locations? If not is the contractor responsible for?

a. There is a ladder to the Penthouse roof located in the Penthouse near Stair 15. The exhaust fans will be mounted to the Penthouse floor. See Drawing M-153 Detail 1

13. No structural drawings included in plan set. Ex. Is reinforcing needed for exhaust on roof?

a. Exhaust fan is mounted to the Penthouse floor

14. Support method is required @ Shaft 7?

a. The penetration of the exhaust is through the sidewall of shaft 7 prior to entering the exhaust fan mounted on the penthouse floor and then routed through the penthouse roof.

15. Elevator Cap construction?

a. See Question #5

16. Any concrete trench infill with elevator?

a. See Question #4

17. Pneumatic Tube Station-previous question response was to keep active as long as possible. Does VA have a temp Location to relocate while 1A &1B work are taking place.

a. No relocation of the system will be required but is acceptable if the contractor determines that the required work around the system will exceed 1-2 weeks. Alternatives for maintaining VA access to the system would be a shift in the phasing wall to allow VA access until that area is required to be closed for demolition.

18. Phase 1 timing considerations and need of clear floor space on occupied side to build detailed temp wall. Will the VA clear enough space to build specified wall?

a. Yes – it is acceptable for the contractor to install a plastic wall while constructing the phasing walls.

19. Utilities between ACT ceiling and interstitial will limit effectiveness of proposed temp wall. Can the wall detailed be constructed to the bottom of ACT ceiling?

a. It is acceptable to build the detailed wall to the bottom of the ACT ceiling. Upon removal of the ACT on the work side of the barrier – install gyp board on the work side to the interstitial deck. This will require some cutting of the gyp board to work around sprinkler and other suspended lines. The gyp board on the occupied side of the wall is not required to be painted, but the joints should be taped to minimize migration of dust.

20. What is required for phases that affect access to occupied phases? I.E. phase 6 construction boundaries that abut finished phase 1 boundaries. Are there phases that have less restrictions that would allow different temp wall considerations.

a. The requirements for temp walls are due to physical security concerns for work adjacent to a Pharmacy work area.

21. What limitations are there for access/security to pharmacy? Will VA provide escort for construction needs? I.E. building a temp wall

a. Yes – VA will coordinate access to the space until the walls are built.

22. There will be considerable duration needs for crane to demolish and install new AHU 37. What pick locations are available for crane that include a stage area for dumpster and/or big rig for picking and dropping?

a. The General Contractor should work with the crane company to determine the best pick location. It appears that the loading dock would be an ideal pick point as well as large enough to have a vehicle staged for removal of the existing AHU. Demo material should be staged to allow for crane removal of old AHU and drop of new AHU to occur at the same time.

23. Will there be timing restrictions for hoisting? I.E. shutting down walkways and/or dock area in crane swing zone.

a. The restrictions will be based on the location of the pick point. If the loading dock is used, a Saturday or Sunday should be coordinated for the work to be performed. Advance notice shall be given to the VA and all vehicles can be removed from the dock prior to the work as well as any pedestrian areas closed.

24. Will the VA be providing submittal exchange to use for the project at no cost to contractor?

a. Yes

25. Will 25 days’ notice need to be given for shutdowns? Will they be able to happen sooner than that?

a. Minor shutdowns that have small facility impact can be addressed on a case-by-case basis. Larger shutdowns that impact multiple users within the facility will require a longer preparation time prior to shutdown.

26. Will a Tuberculosis screening be required of all workers that are onsite?

a. Yes – screening should be completed, and an updated list should be provided to the COR and maintained by the SSHO.

27. Can the SSHO be the Site Superintendent if he has OSHA 30 and five-years commercial construction experience?

a. Yes - this is acceptable. See 01 45 00 for other cross functional requirements.

28. Will a construction indoor air quality plan be required? Sustainable Construction Requirements?

a. Yes - see Specification Section 01 81 13

29. Specification Section 01 45 00 Para 3.4.B states that “The CQC System Manger is assigned as CQC System Manager but has duties as project superintendent in addition to quality control but shall not be a working superintendent.” Please define a working superintendent.

a. The superintendent on this project is dedicated to activities as detailed in 01 45 00 and shall not perform construction activities on this project. Construction activities include, but are not limited to cleaning, demolition activities, carpentry work, flooring, painting, etc. The CQC System Manager can be the project superintendent and can also be the Site Safety and Health Officer (SSHO) provided they meet the requirements detailed for that position.

30. Drawing E001 indicts that all circuits for this project will originate from BQ-110e and are sized per notes 1 @#8, 2 @#6, & 3 @#4; E600 equipment schedule indicts circuits originating from BQ-110e and BT-103, in addition this schedule shows that the conductor sizes are #12 wire with a general note that states minimum #10 for circuits over 75’. Which panel(s) are correct and what wire size is preferred?

a. Circuit to panels as indicated on sheet E001 unless noted otherwise, such as on sheet E600. Provide oversized wire to accommodate for voltage drop as required.

31. Drawing E104 shows the cable tray system to be used for the Cat 6A telecommunication cable, no other cables are allowed. Does the VA want all the Security Cabling (IE duress, cameras, and card access) installed in Yellow conduit per the newest standard?

a. Provide security cabling in yellow conduit.

32. There are discrepancies on Sheet M602 and M603 regarding the cooling coil schedule, supply fan schedule and balancing calculations. Can you please clarify?

a. See attached M602 and M603 drawing for changes.

b. On Drawing M601 – VAV.37.BR118C should be sized for 1750 CFM (cooling only).

33. Is an entire R.O. system to be installed per 22 67 19.16 or just an R.O. faucet as detailed on the drawing?

a. Delete Spec Section 22 67 19.16 from the contract documents. The drawings are clear in showing an undercounter RO system by VA/owner (key note #10 on drawing P102) to go with that contractor provided faucet.

Questions related specifically to Specification Section 10 56 26.13

1. Para 1.2.B.1 Is L/480 the actual anticipated deflection?

a. The mobile storage shelving system will be installed on the existing lower level concrete slab on grade.

2. Para 1.2.B.2 How will rail be put down? Will customer want rail in floor, subfloor? Who will provide and install what type of floor covering if needed?

a. Per the specifications, the rail will be grouted and mounted on top the existing slab on grade. The floor covering will be by others as indicated and determined by the G.C.

3. Para 1.3.A If we wish to be approved as equal so that we can bid, what to do you need from us and where do we send it?

a. No pre-approval to waive from the Basis of Design element is required. If the contractor/supplier feels that there are other acceptable products that meet the contract specifications those can be bid. Be prepared to submit all required documentation for review and approval.

4. Para 2.1.A Should add “Meeting all performance requirements”

a. Para 2.1.A shall be rewritten as “Products are based on mobile shelving system products manufactured by Montel Inc. or Approved Equal Contingent on meeting all specification performance requirements.

5. Para 2.3.C Carriages: Proprietary spec here. It excludes other manufacturers that use welded carriages

a. Proprietary information shall be excluded from the contract requirements. The contractor/supplier is required to submit enough information for the design team to evaluate the product as an approved equal. If enough information is not provided, the submittal will not be approved.

6. Para 2.3.F.4 Front Shelving unit-AE212 elevation does not show this. Need elevation drawing showing overall height, number of openings/shelves per section or face of shelving.

a. The typical shelving will have seven shelves between 10 ½” and 11 ¼”. The end shelving will be 12” deep with three shelves between 10 ½” and 11 ¼” below the manual control with three shelves above the manual control with two @ 11 ½” and top shelf @ 17”. The manual control will be at an accessible height.

7. Para 2.4.A 4 post shelving-description is proprietary to one manufacturer, which accessories are required? What’s being stored? 4 post shelving is typically used. I would ask that this be acceptable. All could bid then. The “clip” style and the description of design is prohibitive and proprietary.

a. Proprietary information shall be excluded from the contract requirements. The contractor/supplier is required to submit enough information for the design team to evaluate the product as an approved equal. If enough information is not provided, the submittal will not be approved.

b. Items being stored are pharmaceutical supplies in bins and/or boxes of various heights, weights, and sizes.

Questions – 7/15/2019 (Previously Posted)

1. Can questions be submitted after the 7/15/19 deadline?

a. Yes – contractors can continue to submit questions. However, after the 7/15/19 deadline they may not be answered.

2. Do items that are shown as “basis of design or approved equal” need to be pre-approved for bidding purposes?

a. No – all items must go through the formal submittal process during the construction contract, even if they are the basis of design. Pre-approval will not be given by the government on any items for this project. It is the contractor’s/supplier’s responsibility to verify that items are equal to or better than the basis of design and should be prepared to discuss those differences during the submittal process.

3. The contract states there are 4-weeks of time between phases. Must all work cease during this time?

a. The time between phasing is to allow the current user to reoccupy the newly constructed space while vacating the next phase. This time will be minimized when possible and the COR will work with the contractor during phasing discussions. MEP work can continue between phases in the interstitial and mechanical spaces but impact to the users should be minimized during this time.

4. Is the pneumatic tube system available during the entire Phase 1B period for movement?

a. The tube system should be scheduled to minimize the down time to the system as much as possible. This system is critical to the operation of pharmacy. Access to the system should be maintained for the pharmacy until it is required to be moved and access should be reestablished once it is operational again.