36L79725Q0001_1.docx

Combined Synopsis/Solicitation Notice Combined Synopsis/Solicitation Notice

GENERAL INFORMATION

1 Block North of 22nd Street Building 37 Hines, IL 60141

POINT OF CONTACT*

Monique Lara, Contract Specialist Monique.Lara@va.gov 708-786-4987

PLACE OF PERFORMANCE

3701 Loop Road East

Laundry Facility Building # 18

Tuscaloosa, AL

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

AGENCY’S URL

URL DESCRIPTION

EMAIL DESCRIPTION

DESCRIPTION

This is a combined synopsis/solicitation for commercial items prepared in accordance with the format in subpart 12.6, as supplemented with additional information included in this notice. This announcement constitutes the only solicitation; quotes are being requested and a written solicitation will not be issued. This solicitation is being issued under the authority of FAR Part 13 Simplified Acquisition Procedures.

(i) Solicitation 36L79725Q0001 is issued as a Request for Quotation (RFQ).

(ii) This solicitation document and incorporated provisions and clauses are those in effect through Federal Acquisition Circular 2025-01.

(iii) This solicitation is 100% Service-Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) Set-aside. The NAICS code associated with this solicitation is: 333310. The size standard is: 1000 employees.

(iv) SDVOSBs shall provide pricing for the following line items.

MFG. ______________________________

MODEL ____________________________

MFG. ______________________________

MODEL ____________________________

MFG. ______________________________

MODEL ____________________________

MFG. WHITE CONVEYOR

MODEL #: SOIL SIDE OVERHEAD SOIL MONORAIL SYSTEM

MFG. WHITE CONVEYOR

MODEL #: CLEAN SIDE OVERHEAD SOIL MONORAIL SYSTEM

TOTAL:

(v) Description of the Technical Specifications and Statement of Work for the items to be acquired. Item Numbers 0001 and 0002.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

ITEM #0001 SEMI-AUTOMATIC SOIL AND CLEAN SIDE OVERHEAD STORAGE MONORAIL SYSTEM

ITEM #0001A – SEMI-AUTOMATIC SOIL SIDE OVERHEAD STORAGE MONORAIL SYSTEM:

Furnish and install one (1) new semi-automatic soil side overhead storage monorail system on the soil side of the Textile Care Processing Facility.

SYSTEM SHALL BE ENGINEERED AND SEALED BY A LICENSED ENGINEER TO COORDINATE STRUCTURAL DESIGN WITH STRUCTURAL LOAD PARAMETERS FROM EITHER THE ROOF STRUCTURE OR FLOOR SUPPORTS. NO STRUCTURAL WORK SHALL BE PERFORMED, THE SYSTEM MAY EITHER BE SUPPORTED BY EXISTING ROOF STRUCTURE OR NEW FLOOR MOUNTS.

1) System shall be capable of receiving soil sling bags from sling carts and storing classified linen equal to 40% of the daily wash loads. The daily wash load is 5,000 pounds (LBS). Sling bags will be hoisted to the overhead storage area by employees by each lift station.

2) System shall be capable of calling off stored classified linen to the existing production washer extractors for manual sling bags loading by employees.

3) Any lift station required within the soil side of the system shall have rigid/sturdy safety guard rails for around the lift station area to prevent employees from walking into lowered lifting rails. Safety rails shall be painted SAFETY YELLOW.

4) Monorail lift stations shall be equipped with a safety lock device to prevent the lifting rail from falling in case of power or air loss, or chain/cable break.

5) All work shall be transported automatically without any assistance by employees to storage areas and wash systems from all lift stations.

6) Rail/track selection shall be accomplished automatically either electrical or pneumatic from lift stations.

Rail/Track: The rail/track may be produced from the manufacturer’s standard materials.

Suspension Brackets (If offered with system) Suspension Brackets that connect the rail/track to the support structure shall be made from the manufacturer’s standard materials. Painting and/or plating is approved methods of protection. Damage of any coatings during installation shall be repaired with a coating system matching color and durability characteristics of the original coating. The rail/track suspension shall include sufficient sway bracing to prevent sideways movement of the rails/tracks during transport of sling bags.

Sling Bag Assemblies: ALL Sling Bag Assemblies shall be equipped with the following:

1) Twenty-Five (25) removable trolley wheels and bearings for ease of maintenance.

2) Forty (40) easily removable sling bags for cleaning.

3) Sling bags shall be capable of handling the specified batch weight of all linen classifications including specified soil or moisture levels.

Sling Bag Stops:

1) Sling bag stops shall be capable of stopping the sling bags and preventing the release of multiple sling bags in the event of a break in electric or pneumatic supply to the system. The system shall be designed to make it possible to make minor adjustments to the location of stops easily on site and without the removal of rails/tracks.

Trolley Sensing Devices:

1) Trolley Sensing Devices shall utilize non-contact, inductive type Proximity Sensors. Sensors that are operated mechanically shall not be permitted.

Monorail Control Systems:

1) The soil Rail/track system shall be controlled by an industrial Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) linked to a Computer Terminal.

Sling in Transit Alert:

1) The rail/track system (Soil Side) shall be equipped with an audible and rotary LED light (colored Amber) warning device to indicate the sling bags are in transit and signage shall be provided by contractor to alert staff not to enter area when alarms are activated. The lights and alarms shall stay activated while in transit over employee walk areas.

Soil Side Computer Terminal:

1) One (1) Computer Terminal shall be provided with the soil side system.

2) The Computer Terminal shall provide a color graphical representation of the system, user interface and a data base for statistical reporting.

3) The monitor for the computer terminal shall be a Liquid-Crystal Display (LCD), anti-glare, large flat screen panel.

Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs):

1) The soil side system shall be controlled by a main brand industrial PLC that shall be mounted in an IP54 rated control cabinet.

2) The soil PLCs shall be linked via an Ethernet connection by the contractor. This connection shall allow the visualization and control of the Soil System from the Soil Computer Terminal and vice versa.

Maintenance and By-pass Monorail Sling Rail/Track:

1) A maintenance sling rail/track system shall be installed within the soil monorail system. The maintenance monorail section shall be designed to allow for inspection and maintenance to be performed on including but not limited to: trolleys, sling bags, ropes. Upon completion of maintenance of, including, but not limited to the sling bags, and trolleys, a lift station shall be connected to the maintenance rail/track to allow the sling bags to return to the empty sling bag storage tail/track. A by-pass rail/track shall also be provided.

Empty Sling Bag Storage:

1) Provisions shall be made to store all sling bags in the Empty sling bag Storage System. This is necessary for the Full Bag Storage System to be completely emptied.

2) All sling bags furnished shall be colored Blue with VA Logo on the soil area of the textile care processing facility.

3) The monorail storage and rail/track system shall be supported from either the roof structure or floor supports.

ITEM #0001B - SEMI-AUTOMATIC CLEAN SIDE OVERHEAD STORAGE MONORAIL SYSTEM:

Furnish and install one (1) new semi-automatic clean side overhead storage monorail system on the clean side of the textile care processing facility. The clean side overhead storage monorail system shall include monorail spurs for transporting linen sling bags to the small piece folders, ironing systems, hand folding stations and blanket folder.

SYSTEM SHALL BE ENGINEERED AND SEALED BY A LICENSED ENGINEER TO COORDINATE STRUCTURAL DESIGN WITH STRUCTURAL LOAD PARAMETERS FROM EITHER THE ROOF STRUCTURE OR FLOOR SUPPORTS. NO STRUCTURAL WORK SHALL BE DONE, THE SYSTEM MAY EITHER BE SUPPORTED BY EXISTING ROOF AND/OR NEW FLOOR MOUNTS.

1) System shall be capable of receiving clean sling bags from sling carts and storing classified linen equal to 40% of the daily wash loads. The daily wash load is 5,000 LBS. Sling bags shall be hoisted to the overhead storage area by employees by each lift station.

2) System shall be capable of calling off stored classified linen to the selected finishing areas by pneumatic switches to include dryers, ironer, small piece folders, blanket folder, and hand sorting tables.

3) All lift stations shall have rigid/sturdy safety guard rails installed around the lift station area to prevent employees from walking into lowered lifting rails. Safety rails shall be painted SAFETY YELLOW.

4) Monorail lift stations shall be equipped with a safety lock device to prevent the lifting rail from falling in case of power or air loss or chain/cable break.

5) All work shall be transported automatically without any assistance by employees to storage areas from lift stations.

6) Rail/track selection shall be accomplished pneumatically/automatically from lift stations.

7) All work shall be transported automatically from storage area to workstations to include dryers, ironer, small piece folders, blanket folder, and hand sorting tables.

8) Loading carts for sling bags shall be furnished. The loading carts shall be four-wheeled carts, with two stationary casters and two freewheeling casters. Carts shall be made of rust resistant material with four sides enclosed.

9) All sling bags furnished shall be colored Blue and have VA Logo imprinted on the sling bags in the clean side area of the textile care processing facility.

Rail/Track: The rail/track may be produced from the manufacturer’s standard materials.

Suspension Brackets (If offered with system) Suspension Brackets that connect the rail/track to the support structure shall be made from the manufacturer’s standard materials. Painting and/or plating is approved methods of protection. Damage of any coatings during installation shall be repaired with a coating system matching color and durability characteristics of the original coating. The rail/track suspension shall include sufficient sway bracing to prevent sideways movement of the rail/track during transport of sling bags.

Sling Bag Assemblies: ALL Sling Bag Assemblies shall be equipped with the following.

1) Twenty-Five (25) removable trolley wheels and bearings for ease of maintenance.

2) Thirty (30) easily removable sling bags for cleaning.

3) Sling bags shall be capable of handling the specified batch weight of all linen classifications including specified clean or moisture levels.

Sling Bag Stops:

Sling bag stops shall be capable of stopping the sling bags and preventing the release of multiple sling bags in the event of a break in electric or pneumatic supply to the system. The system shall be designed to make it possible to make minor adjustments to the location of stops easily on site and without the removal of rails.

Trolley Sensing Devices:

1) Trolley Sensing Devices shall utilize non-contact, inductive type Proximity Sensors. Sensors that are operated mechanically shall not be permitted.

a. Rail/track selection shall be accomplished automatically from lift stations.

Monorail Control Systems

1) The clean monorail System shall be controlled by an industrial Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) linked to a Computer Terminal.

Sling in Transit Alert:

1) The clean monorail system shall be equipped with an audible and rotary LED light (colored Amber) warning device to indicate the sling bags is in transit and signage shall be provided by contractor to alert staff not to enter area when alarms are activated. The lights and alarms shall stay activated while in transit over employee walk areas.

Clean Side Computer Terminals

1) One (1) Computer Terminal shall be provided with the clean side system.

2) The Computer Terminal shall provide a color graphical representation of the system, user interface and a data base for statistical reporting.

3) The monitor for the computer terminal shall be an LCD, anti-glare, large flat screen panel.

Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs)

1) Each System (Soil and Clean) shall be controlled by a main brand industrial PLC that shall be mounted in an IP54 rated control cabinet. Fixed Input/Output (I/O) or field I/O shall be accepted, however, if field I/O are employed, a system shall be provided to centrally diagnose the failure of I/O modules.

2) The Soil and Clean PLCs shall be linked via an ethernet connection by the supplier. This connection shall allow the visualization and control of the Clean System from the Soil Computer Terminal and vice versa.

3) UPS battery back-up shall be included to protect against data loss in the event of a power outage.

Maintenance and By-pass Monorail Sling Rail/Track:

1) A maintenance sling rail/track system shall be installed within the soil side monorail system. The maintenance monorail section shall be designed to allow inspection and maintenance to be performed on including, but not limited to: trolleys, sling bags, and ropes. Upon completion of maintenance to including, but not limited to the sling bags, and trolleys, a lift station shall be connected to the maintenance rail/track to allow the sling bags to return to the empty sling bag storage rail/track. A by-pass rail/track shall also be provided.

Empty Sling Bag Storage:

1) Provisions shall be made to store all sling bags in the Empty Sling Bag Storage System. This is necessary for the Full Bag Storage System to be completely emptied.

2) All sling bags furnished shall be colored Blue with VA Logo in the soil area of the textile care processing facility.

3) The monorail storage and rail/track system shall be supported from either the roof structure or floor supports.

ITEM #0002 - MANUAL SOIL STORAGE/SORTING CONVEYOR SYSTEM

Furnish and install one (1) system. The complete soil storage/sorting conveyor system shall be of such material and construction, and so designed, to withstand daily wipe-down and disinfecting of all soiled textile contact surfaces without damaging the system or its components, existing weights shall be utilized.

The soil storage/sorting conveyor system shall consist of the following:

1) Cart Dump System: Furnish and install one (1) end, or side loading type cart dump system designed to pick-up loaded textile carts (utilized by the medical center) and dump textiles onto a soil storage conveyor. Cart dumper shall be provided with safety chains, guard rails meeting OSHA requirements and an illuminated (when activated) emergency stop button (colored RED) with yellow background and legends. An hour meter shall also be installed on the cart dumper.

2) Incline Soil Storage Conveyor: Furnish and install one (1) Incline Soil Storage Conveyor. The size of this conveyor shall be based on 30% of the daily wash system production which is approximately 5,000 LBS. per day. Calculations representing 500 LBS. per productive employee hour shall be utilized as the evaluation factor examining the design and operation of these systems. The storage conveyor shall be designed to prevent any spillage. Storage conveyor shall be equipped with an illuminated (when activated) emergency stop button (colored RED) with yellow background and legends located within 25 feet of workstations.

The conveyor shall operate automatically and advance in increments without manual attention. The storage conveyor shall also have a manual jog button installed. Calculations for flat belts for textile storage shall be based on 7.0 LBS. per cubic foot. The incline soil storage conveyor shall be designed to receive fully loaded soiled textile bags from the cart dumper and automatically advance linen in increments. The system shall be designed to allow employees to manually jog textiles onto the incline storage conveyor which shall automatically convey textiles to the transfer conveyor(s).

The incline storage conveyor shall connect the transfer conveyor and have appropriate side guards to prevent any spillage and allow for proper transfer of textiles to the transfer conveyor. Any angle necessary for the incline storage conveyor shall be such to ensure positive transfer of pieces without tumbling. The incline storage conveyor shall be designed to prevent pieces of textiles from jamming between the incline conveyor and the transfer to the transfer conveyor.

3) Transfer Conveyor: Furnish and install one (1) transfer conveyor. The conveyor shall connect the incline and soil sorting conveyor and have appropriate side guards to prevent spillage and allow for proper transfer of textiles to the sorting conveyor. Any angle necessary for the transfer conveyor shall be such to ensure positive transfer of pieces without workflow disruption.

A soiled sling bag break-up station shall be incorporated in the design of the soil sorting system that shall allow employees to empty linen sling bags onto the sorting conveyor. The break-up conveyor shall include a work platform, safety rail and include a steel plate and covered with a 1/4-inch slip resistant, non-corroding, rubberized with urethane coating, anti-fatigue surface with color coded safety lanes.

The transfer conveyor shall be designed to prevent pieces of textiles from jamming between the transferring to the incline conveyor(s) and the transfer to the soil sorting conveyor. Transfer conveyor(s) shall not be utilized to calculate storage.

4) Sorting Conveyor: Furnish and install one (1) soil sorting conveyor. The sorting conveyor shall be designed to receive bulk quantities of soiled textiles from the transfer conveyor. The working height of the conveyor shall be adjustable and designed to prevent spillage. The sorting conveyor shall be equipped with illuminated (when activated) emergency stop buttons (colored RED) with yellow background and legends located within 25 feet of workstations.

The sorting conveyor shall include adjustable speed controls, positioned to allow for operator control without leaving the workstation. The sorting conveyor shall be equipped with an automatic stopping device (photocell) to prevent textiles from dropping to the floor at the end of the conveyor.

A trash receptacle shall be incorporated at the end of the sorting conveyor to collect falling trash automatically from the sorting belt. At all workstations of the sorting conveyor, large (minimum 5 Quart) receptacles for sharp objects and trash receptacles shall be installed.

The platform for soil sorting system shall be easily accessible by stairs and include rigid/sturdy safety handrail(s) painted yellow. The steps and platform shall be steel plate and covered with a 1/4-inch slip resistant, non-corroding, rubberized with urethane coating, anti-fatigue surface with color coded safety lanes.

A metal angle iron stop/guard shall be installed in front of the soil storage/sorting conveyor system to prevent sorting carts from hitting the sorting conveyor.

5) Soil Sorting Weight Sling Carts: A minimum of one (1) sling cart shall be provided with battery operated weigh indicator (digital readout in pounds) tolerance of +/- 2% accuracy is required. Micro Processor Digital readouts shall be readable by the soil sorters without leaving the workstation. Rechargeable battery packs are to be easily removed without tools so carts can be continually used, battery packs placed into chargers that shall be provided by the contractor. Fourteen battery packs are required along with enough chargers to charge six (6) battery packs at a time.

STATEMENT OF WORK

1. INTRODUCTION

1.1. Background

The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) Textile Care Management (TCM) Program consists of the Textile Care Processing and Textile Management Services (uniform management, textile management and distribution, and patient assistance program) both contribute to the proper distribution, handling, processing and management of textile goods and services within VA medical facilities. The TCM Program, outlines the procedures, reporting requirements, and operating guidelines for TCM and Textile Care Facility Operations within VA medical facilities.

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), on behalf of the Veterans Health Administration (VHA), Textile Care Management Program will procure Textile Care Processing Facility laundry equipment.

The mission of the National Acquisition Center (NAC), High Tech Medical Equipment Picture Archiving and Communication Systems and Laundry Division, is to meet the VA’s five core values that underscore the obligations inherent in VA’s mission: Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence.

1.2. Purpose and Objectives

Textile Care Processing Facilities (TCPFs) are responsible for providing textile processing services, which ensures a consistent supply of bacteriologically clean textiles to support patient treatment programs. VA laundries provide clean laundry for VA patients in a variety of settings.

Textile Care Processing operations are the primary focus of the established directive which outlines the responsibilities, procedures, and processes that:

1. Minimize the infection risks of handling and processing contaminated textiles.

1. Ensure an efficient operation through measurable quality assurance indicators.

1. Identify and require the practice of safety precautions to promote workplace safety.

1. Ensure continuity of service in case of an emergency shutdown.

1.3. Contract Duration

The total contract duration is 270 days.

The semi-automated soil storage system, semi-automated clean side monorail system and soil sorting conveyor system shall be delivered within 150 days after the effective date of the contract. Installation of the semi-automated soil storage, semi-automated clean side monorail system and soil sorting conveyor system shall take place no more than 120 days after the delivery date. The five (5)-days onsite shakedown and three (3) days of onsite training are included in the installation timeframe. Training shall consist of eight (8) hours per line item for both operator and maintenance personnel at a minimum. Trainings shall not to be conducted concurrently.

Note: Installation shall be continuous, without interruption, Monday through Friday, excluding Federal holidays, until all installation and testing work has been completed. Installation may take place on the weekends if the COR gives pre-approval.

2. Site Specific Project Requirements

2.1. The contractor shall furnish the supervision, labor, systems, tools, safety, rigging, hoisting, supplies, and installation services necessary to meet the terms and conditions in accordance with the Statement of Work (SOW).

2.2. This SOW includes removal of trade-in systems, delivery, installation, and training. The systems and installation shall be conducted in conformance with the SOW and Technical Specifications provided herein. All items provided by the contractor shall be new. The contractor shall not utilize any refurbished components, machinery, or parts.

2.3. The semi-automated soil storage system, semi-automated clean side monorail system and soil sorting conveyor system are to be located within Building 18

2.4. Within the new design layout of the laundry area, the contractor shall change existing light fixtures to light-emitting diode (LED), and provide new energy-efficient, LED lighting for any new lift workstations and lift storage areas. New lighting shall comply with VA Lighting Design Guide, January 2022; and shall be 50 foot-candles (minimum) measured 30-inches above floor for any lift workstations and 35 foot-candles (minimum) for lift storage areas.

2.5. The contractor shall remove all old rails, hangers, conveyors, dumpers, and support associated with the removed systems.

2.6. The existing drop ceiling on the soil side will be removed and disposed of. No new drop ceiling will be put back in.

2.7. All air lines shall be new and shall originate within 25 feet of the systems’ headers. Electrical utilities shall originate from the nearest electrical panel that shall support the new system. Please consult with the COR if the electrical panel does not support the new systems. All electrical lines, conduit, and air lines within this RFQ and resultant contract shall be new.

2.8. Waste Material Sorting/Recycling

The contractor shall divert discarded items and other wastes to recycling trash disposal scheduled regularly. Items which need to be sent for recycling or resale unless not feasible include pallets, metals (including, but not limited to: iron, copper, and brass) cardboard, mercury items, used oil, electronic, rechargeable batteries, wood products and debris.

The contractor shall not store waste materials and items held for recycling. Waste materials shall be stored prior to pick up in a manner that does not allow the items to become a fire, health, environmental or safety hazard or provide harborage for pests and consistent with federal, state and VA (listed in order of preference) laws and regulations governing storage of waste materials. Actions include using drip drains pans, storing liquid wastes or items that rot in closed containers, removing Freon from junked air conditioning, observing Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) limits on sizes of piles of lumber or wood products. Dumpsters larger than one and one-half (1 ½) cubic yards in size shall be located at least ten (10) feet from exterior walls of buildings.

Painted or treated lumber, paint chips, a potential asbestos containing, or asbestos contaminated items should not be recycled but shall be disposed of properly. No waste material disposal is allowed on Government property.

2.9. The COR designated contractor staging area shall be fully enclosed completely with fencing and fence covering provided by the contractor. The fencing height shall be a minimum of six (6) feet high, with covering, signage and sandbags or plastic temporary fence weights.

2.10. Motor Protection Filters shall be provided for all air intakes to include, but not limited to: monorail systems, electronic boxes, mechanical equipment wherever air intakes are located. These are used as a primary pre-filtration defense to help prevent damage and extensive maintenance that large volumes of lint/debris can cause. Filters are to fit all air intakes and shall be three-dimensional electrostatic media, encased in a 1/8"-3/8" rigid magnetic galvanized steel frame and contain 2 layers of polypropylene media. The media shall not shed fibers, absorb moisture, or promote bacterial growth; the filter shall be UV protected, stand up to extreme indoor exposure, withstand corrosive chemicals, withstand high velocity air flow, and withstand industrial cleaning and maintenance.

2.11. The contractor shall supply lock-out/tag-out devices for the systems. All lock-out/tag-out locations shall be marked and identified on the systems with instructions on lock-out procedures. These instructions/procedures shall be permanently mounted on the systems. Lock-out/tag-out procedures shall include all sources of stored energy, including, but not limited to: electrical, air lines, and hydraulic. Relief valves shall be installed for lock-out/tag-out locations to relieve residual air lines.

2.12. System Identification - Number and nomenclature shall separately identify the systems and its components with no less than two (2) inch numbers and letters. The systems and its component shall be separately identified and labeled. Example: Hot Water Heater 1, Hot Water Storage Tank etc.

2.13. Operating instructions shall include powering on and off the machine and operators’ instructions. All labeling shall be on blue magnetic embossed fabric (flexible) with white core lettering.

2.14. Valve Tags - Furnish and install valve tags on all compressed air valves on components and connection points. Tags shall be engraved with identification (air), black filled identification, numbers, and letters not less than ½ inch high for number designation and not less than ¼ inch for service designation on 19 gauge 1-1/2-inch round brass disc; tags shall be attached with brass hooks or brass chain.

2.15. Contractor bears all responsibility for all new utility connections. The air piping shall be leak tested.

2.16. Connections to VA supplied utilities shall originate within 25’ of the nearest systems header. Electrical utilities shall originate from the nearest electrical panel that shall support the systems. Penetrations in floors, walls and ceilings not utilized shall be filled with existing floor, wall, and ceiling like material.

2.17. All braces, pipes, conduit that will not be utilized shall be removed back to the source that pertains to the systems directly associated within the scope of this SOW.

2.18. The contractor shall not damage equipment frame, door panels, cylinder, cylinder panels, control box on the Government installation. If the contractor causes damages to any Government property, the contractor shall replace or repair the damage at no expense to the Government as the CO directs. If the contractor fails or refuses to make such repair(s) or replacement(s), the contractor shall be liable for the cost, which may be deducted from the contract price.

2.19. The equipment that will be removed shall be protected from damage during installation up to and including removal and replacement where necessary to facilitate installation of the new systems.

2.20. Shutdowns

UTILITIES - Contractor shall provide five (5) calendar days advance notice for any planned utility shutdowns and shall be indicated on the project schedule.

HOT WORK PERMIT - The contractor shall provide seven (7) days advanced notice for any planned hot work shutdowns.

2.21. The TCPF will be open during the project. The contractor will have access to the TCPF seven days a week from 6:00 AM through 6.00 PM. On the weekends there will be a TCPF staff member onsite to allow entrance. The TCPF member will remain with the contractor while onsite.

NOTE: Contractor shall coordinate with COR any work beyond normal business hours so that necessary arrangements may be made for them to be on station.

2.22. Badge Requirements

PIV badging requirements will be addressed by the COR during the post award conference.

2.23. Site Visit

The contractor has the responsibility of visiting the site and examining the Tuscaloosa TCPF installation area. The contractor’s failure to conduct a site visit and become thoroughly familiar with all conditions that may affect the quote will be at the contractor’s risk.

The Tuscaloosa TCPF will accommodate site visits as they are requested. The site visits may be on different dates or all on the same date, depending on if/when requests are made by the contractor. The contractor shall request a scheduled date to visit the Tuscaloosa TCPF and the COR will determine if the requested date is available. Site visit requests shall be made by contacting:

Mr. Allen D. Cristwell Office Phone – (205) 554-2000 Ext. 2366 Email: Allen.Cristwell@va.Gov

2.24. Exemption Certificate

The COR will provide a valid sale and use tax certification of exemption for the State of Alabama to the contractor.

3. General Installation Requirements

3.1. Existing utilities shall be utilized to meet the performance requirements of the technical specifications. Electrical service is required, and the contractor is responsible for providing additional sub-panels as needed. Connection points for all equipment shall be from existing sub-panels. When existing service lines are removed, they shall be removed back to the source. Should additional utilities be required for the systems, these utilities shall be the responsibility of the contractor. Utilities are electric and air lines.

3.2. The contractor shall ensure maximum utilization of existing equipment space to prevent additional air and electrical.

3.3. All exposed utility/ductwork/piping systems, control boxes and motors that are exposed to floor traffic shall be appropriately guarded and protected.

3.4. Installation shall include, but is not limited to:

3.4.1. All mounting holes shall be utilized for anchoring equipment. Secure mounts shall be laid out in advance for review and approval by the COR.

3.4.2. Penetrations of walls, ceilings and floors for the installation or removal of including, but not limited to, electrical conduit, pipes, ductwork, and communication wiring. shall be sealed with an approved fire-retardant material (not foam) and shall match existing materials on both sides of the penetration.

3.4.3. Contractor shall supply new utility connections including, but not limited to: wall/ceiling mounts, junction boxes, raceways, and conduits.

3.4.4. The contractor shall be responsible for all control wiring including disconnects, interconnections, and conduit. Interconnecting consists of all control wiring, interconnecting components, all airlines, and all connections from VA supplied air and electrical utilities.

3.4.5. All electrical boxes and conduit shall be new.

3.4.6. All conduits and air piping shall not be painted. Refer to table below:

3.4.7. The systems installation shall be conducted in accordance with the installation design drawing approved by the COR. A licensed professional Architect and Engineer shall seal the installation design drawing. In the installation design drawings, the contractor shall locate drains, piping, sleeves, inserts, hangers, and equipment out of the way of doors, openings, light outlets and other services and utilities.

3.4.8. Mechanical or grooved fittings on air piping are acceptable.

3.4.9. If drilling through structural sections, the contractor shall notify the COR immediately. The COR shall work with a structural engineer to determine proper location. The COR shall instruct contractor on structural location to continue work.

3.4.10. Install valves and other mechanical and electrical devices for ease of reading, operating, and maintaining.

3.4.11. Maintenance servicing shall not require dismantling of adjacent equipment, electric or pipe work.

3.4.12. The contractor shall provide two (2) valve lists by type on typed plastic-coated cards, sized 8-1/2-inch X 11 inch showing tag number, valve type, valve function and location area of valve for each service or system to the COR.

3.4.13. The systems components shall be protected against physical damage from carts with guardrails supplied by the contractor.

3.4.14. All moving components shall be fully guarded in accordance with OSHA 1910.219. Guard parts shall be rigid and suitably secured and be readily removable without disassembling the guarded unit.

3.5. A minimum clearance of 36 inches between moving parts and fixed objects and 24 inches between non-moving parts and fixed objects is required.

4. Plumbing Requirements

Plumbing

4.1. Grooved or mechanical fittings are not allowed on piping.

4.2. Dielectric Fittings

Provide dielectric couplings or unions between ferrous and non-ferrous pipe. In addition, Provide threaded dielectric unions for pipe sizes 2 inches and under. For 2-1/2 inches and above, provide copper and steel flanges electrically isolated at gasket and by sleeves at bolts. Fittings on cold water and soft water lines shall be rated for 100 psi, 80 degrees F. Fittings on other services shall be rated for the maximum pressure and temperature conditions of the service. Where copper piping is connected to steel piping, provide dielectric connections.

4.3. Plumbing Installation

In accordance with the National Standard Plumbing Code, 2021 Edition.

4.3.1. Pipe saddles shall be installed on the outside of all insulation and PVC coverings.

4.3.2. Escutcheons shall be installed at all floors, wall, and ceiling locations that pipe, conduits, vents, and ductwork penetrate.

4.3.3. Pipe shall be round and straight. Cutting shall be done with proper tools.

Pipe, except for plastic and glass, shall be reamed to full size after cutting.

4.3.4. All pipe runs shall be laid out to avoid interference with other work.

4.3.5. Install valves with stem in horizontal position whenever possible. All valves shall be easily accessible.

4.3.6. Piping shall conform to the following:

Waste, Storm Water Drain and Vent: Drain to main stack as follows:

4.4. Air Piping

4.4.1. Interior to the building and outdoor external air piping shall be copper tube.

4.4.2. All piping shall be installed parallel to walls and column centerlines. Pipe shall be round and straight. Cutting shall be done with proper tools. Except for plastic and glass, pipe shall be reamed to full size after cutting. Copper piping work shall be performed in accordance with best practices requiring accurately cut clean joints and soldering in accordance with the recommended practices for the material and solder employed.

4.4.3. All pipe runs shall be laid out to avoid interference with other work.

4.4.4. Install ball valves in horizontal position. All valves shall be easily accessible.

4.4.5. Pipe saddles shall be on the outside of flow marking only.

4.4.6. Pipe escutcheons shall be used for all pipe penetrations through walls, floors, and ceilings.

4.4.7. Press connect type fittings shall be used on air lines only.

5. Electrical Requirements

Electrical

5.1. Electrical Installation

5.2. Conduits, Fittings, and Electrical Wire

5.2.1. All electrical installations shall conform to requirements of the National Electrical Code (NEC).

5.2.1.1. Install a new power disconnect box for each piece of equipment.

5.2.1.2. All electrical wires shall be copper, heat resistant grade, thermoplastic insulated. Control wiring shall be (stranded) Thermoplastic High Heat Nylon (THHN)/Thermoplastic Heat and Water-Resistant Nylon (THWN) or equal. Intermediate wall conduit is required. Provide conduit trapeze hangers.

5.2.1.3. All power wiring shall have a minimum conduit size of 3/4-inch in diameter. Color coding of all wiring shall be in accordance with established NFPA 70.

5.2.1.4. All low voltage communication wire used for data management systems, liquid supply systems and intercoms shall be installed in minimum 3/4-inch diameter protective conduit. Wire nuts shall not be used for any connections.

5.3. Electrical Wiring Installation

In accordance with NFPA 79 – Electrical Standard for Industrial Machinery 2021 edition:

5.3.1. Wiring shall not be cut, abraded, nor have excessive insulation stripped, and shall be properly and tightly joined at terminals.

5.3.1.1. Wire nuts shall not be used, and solderless connectors shall have insulation grip. Wiring shall have adequate slack to provide strain relief. Wire nuts are only acceptable for electrical installation of motors and terminal boxes.

5.3.1.2. Wiring shall be provided between motors, controllers, timers, pushbuttons, starters, and limit switches installed on or within the equipment and shall be done with materials as applicable, except liquid tight flexible conduit shall be used where required for belt adjustment by moving a motor or for vibration isolation.

5.3.1.3. All wiring shall terminate in connection boxes with provisions for connections beyond the monorail systems; each conductor shall be identified by a different color.

5.4. Electrical Identification Installation

In accordance with NFPA 79 – Electrical Standard for Industrial Machinery 2021 edition:

Install nameplates - center on device, cover plate, or enclosure.

5.4.1. Use power source designations defined in the Technical Specifications. Indicate electrical power loads served using designations from electrical schedules and designations from the appropriate trade furnishing the equipment served.

5.4.2. Lettering shall include name of equipment, the specific unit number, and any reference to ON/OFF or other instructions that are applicable.

5.4.3. All labeling shall be on laminated phenolic nameplates and shall be placed on equipment.

5.4.4. Nameplates shall be laminated phenolic with a blue surface (480 Volts)/Black surface (208 Volts) and white core. Use 1/16-inch thick material for plates up to 2 inch X 4 inch. For larger sizes, use 1/8-inch thick material.

5.4.5. The contractor shall mark all 4-plex outlets and boxes with the electrical panel, circuit, and branch identification.

5.5. Electrical Protection

The contractor shall provide any protective methodology or devices necessary to protect the equipment from:

5.5.1. Damage due to electrical power problems, including brownouts, emergency power interruptions, electrical surges, sags, and electrical storms.

5.5.2. Data loss due to electrical power problems. All equipment electronics shall be protected with a power monitor hook-up point and power monitor.

5.5.3. Uninterrupted Power Supply (UPS) shall be installed for all computer items supplied. (Minimum 2-hour back-up).

5.6. Electrical Receptacles and Outlets

Receptacles shall be Underwriters Laboratories certified.

5.6.1. Mounting screws, mounting strap and terminal screws shall be brass or a copper alloy metal.

5.6.2. Receptacles shall have provisions for back wiring from four (minimum) separate wiring holes and side wiring from four captivity held binding screws.

5.6.3. Ground Fault Interrupter (GFI) four-plex receptacles shall be single phase, 20 ampere, 120 volts, 2-pole, 3-wire, US National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) 5-2OR.

5.6.4. The duplex type receptacles shall have break-off feature for two circuit operation. The ungrounded pole of each receptacle shall be provided with a separate terminal.

5.6.5. The receptacle bodies shall be white in color.

5.6.6. Four-plex receptacles with GFI shall be an integral unit suitable for mounting in a standard outlet box.

5.6.7. GFI shall consist of a differential current transformer, solid state sensing circuitry and a circuit interrupter switch and shall be rated for operation on a 160 Hz, 120-volt, 20 ampere branch circuit. The device shall have nominal sensitivity to ground leakage current of five (5) milliamperes and shall function to interrupt the current supply for any value of ground leakage current above five (5) milliamperes on the load side of the device. The device shall have a minimum nominal tripping time of 1/30th of a second.

5.6.8. Receptacles 20, 30 and 50 ampere, 250 volt: Shall be complete with appropriate cord grip plug.

5.7. Wall Plates

Wall plates for switches and receptacles shall be as specified by the COR. Oversize plates will not be acceptable. Wall Plate color shall be white.

5.8. Standard NEMA design, so that products of different manufacturers must be interchangeable.

5.9. For receptacles or switches mounted adjacent to each other, wall plates shall be common for each group of receptacles or switches.

5.10. The contractor shall provide 4-Plex receptacle at each equipment location for mechanic’s use.

5.11. Marking Pen Labeling

Use for all junction and outlet boxes or portions of junction boxes with power wiring, communication systems, pull and junction boxes, and conduit installed for future use. For all boxes with power wiring, indicate appropriate panel and circuit number(s) where applicable. Label inside covers in finished areas and outside covers in unfinished areas. Labeling shall be completed using permanent, waterproof, quick drying marking pen.

5.12. Label Tapes

Label each conductor at origin and destination points and at all junction boxes where two or more feeder or control circuits are present. Identify with branch circuit or feeder number for power and lighting circuits, and with control conductors, number as indicated on schematic and interconnection diagrams or equipment manufacturer's drawings for control wiring. Using cloth, plastic, split sleeve or tubing type wire and cable label markers.

6. Installation Requirements

6.1. Approval for the contractor to proceed with installation shall be contingent upon COR acceptance of the design submittals. The contractor shall be responsible for the determination of, and compliance with, federal, state, and local code requirements, design data, and other factors necessary to design and install the system.

6.2. The contractor shall verify the location of existing utilities within the design submittals.

6.3. Cables and connections to the TCPF-furnished internet service provider is the responsibility of the contractor.

6.4. The contractor shall be responsible for installation, which consists of assembling, positioning, and mounting of the systems and its components and connections of all cables. The contractor is responsible for furnishing and pulling all interconnecting wiring and cabling, including wiring, and cabling to be pulled through conduit and raceways.

6.5. The contractor shall provide certified field engineers or technicians to conduct all necessary tests during installation. Contractor shall provide copies of the certifications upon the Government’s request.

6.6. The contractor shall inform the CO and COR of any problems as they occur in connection with installation, or issues which will affect optimum performance shall be reported prior to the start of installation. Installation shall not proceed under such circumstances until authorized by the CO.

7. Availability of Parts and Service

The Original Equipment Manufacturer shall guarantee the contractor availability of servicing and replacement parts for a period of ten (10) years to the Government for the laundry equipment being procured under this RFQ and resultant contract.

8. Incorporation of Documents

The following documents are hereby incorporated by reference and made a part of this RFQ and resultant contract.

The equipment and installation supplies shall conform to the following standards:

· Air Moving and Conditioning Association, Inc. (AMCA) Standards, 2009 Edition.

· American National Standards Institute (ANSI), 2021 Edition. Z8.1-2006 Safety Requirements for Commercial Laundry and Dry Cleaning Operations.

· FEMP: Federal Energy Management Program (Energy efficient product rating).

· HVAC Duct Construction Standards-Metal & Flexible.

· National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA), 2021 Edition.

· National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), 2021 Edition. ALL NFPA Standards and codes. National Electrical Code (NEC), 2020 Edition.

· National Standard Plumbing Code, 2021 Edition.

· Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) 29 CFR 1910.

· Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors National Association (SMACNA), 2021 Edition.

· Sheet Metal Contractors National Association Inc. Publication, 2019 Edition.

· Underwriters Laboratories Standards, 2022 Edition.

· City, County, State, Federal, VA and National Environmental, Fire and Safety Regulations/Standards.

(vi) Date(s) and place(s) of delivery and acceptance and FOB point.

Place of Delivery: Tuscaloosa VA Medical Center 3701 Loop Road East Laundry Facility Building # 18 Tuscaloosa, AL 35404

Contract Duration: 270 Days ARO

(vii) List of Deliverables for the items to be acquired.

LIST OF DELIVERABLES

A. The deliverables listed in Section 1; Installation Design Drawing (a) shall be provided 120 days after award.

1. INSTALLATION DESIGN DRAWING

a. The contractor is responsible for visiting the site of installation after award, to survey power and other utility requirements, room dimensions and other physical characteristics necessary for the installation design drawing. The contractor shall provide the CO and the COR an installation design drawing in pdf format to include, but not limited to, all utilities, plumbing, mechanical, electrical, etc., to show the installation requirements for each piece of equipment. The drawing shall be 1/4 inch minimum scale drawing of the TCPF equipment layout.

The drawing shall include structural information consisting of engineering design calculations for the awarded equipment being installed and to the adjacent equipment (to show that equipment will fit into the location or space available), i.e., mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and general contractor.

Note: A licensed professional Architect-Engineer shall seal the installation design drawing.

B. The deliverables listed in Section 2, Manuals, and electronic copies (a-i) shall be provided at time of equipment delivery.

2. EQUIPMENT HARD COPY & ELECTRONIC MANUALS & SOFTWARE THUMB DRIVES

Equipment Manuals

a. The contractor shall provide two (2) operation/service (maintenance) manuals and two (2) storage devices with each piece of equipment to the COR. At a minimum, the manual(s) shall be bound and identical to the manual(s) provided to the manufacturer's designated field service representative as well as comply with all the requirements in paragraphs (a) through (i) of this section. Sections, headings, and section sequence identified in (a) through (i) of the listed deliverables are typical and may vary between manufacturers. Variances in the sections, headings, and section sequence, however, do not relieve the manufacturer of their responsibility in supplying the technical data called for therein.

b. Title Page and Front Matter: The title page shall include the equipment nomenclature, model number, effective date of…