06-01-15

DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS

CONTRACT SPECIFICATIONS FOR:

EHRM Installation of DDPO 2

PROJECT NUMBER: 656-26-702

AT: VA HEALTH CARE CENTER 4801 VETERANS DRIVE,

ST. CLOUD, MN 56303

SECTION 01 00 00

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS TABLE OF CONTENTS

1.35 Project/Phase Occupancy

1.36 Contracting Officer Representative Coordination

SECTION 01 00 00 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

1.1 SAFETY REQUIREMENTS

Refer to section 01 35 26, SAFETY REQUIREMENTS for safety and infection control requirements. Throughout the campus there is existing hazardous material (lead paint, asbestos, etc.); not all areas are shown on the drawings. Contractor shall maintain awareness, have safety plans, PPE and comply with OSHA, EPA and other related regulations when working near assemblies.

In addition to the requirements of the safety section, the contractor shall submit Safety Data Sheets per OSHA, for all products, chemicals, etc. to be used on site within 15 calendar days of contract award. Any changes to the material, products, and chemicals planned for use during the project shall be submitted and approved 15 calendar days prior to bringing the material onsite.

1.2 GENERAL INTENTION

A. Contractor shall completely prepare site for building operations, including demolition and removal of existing structures, and furnish labor and materials and perform work for EHRM DDPO as required by drawings and specifications.

1. The contract duration shall include all work, inspections and punch list corrections. Beneficial occupancy and final acceptance shall be achieved within the contract duration.

2. Normal contract hours are 8 am to 4:30 pm Monday through Friday, excluding Federal Holidays. The contract will require off-hours work for work in VA Occupied areas, utility outages, and other construction impacts as needed based on the contractors’ means and methods. This contract has extensive work for after hours, which will be coordinated days from 4:30PM – 1:00AM, as needed to accomplish the work in occupied spaces.

3. This contract will require extensive field investigations, field coordination, coordination documents/drawings and as built from the general contractor. The construction drawings show an intent with reasonable scope of work shown for assembly-based installations, not the final install locations and unit details.

4. The summary scope of work of this contract is as follows: field investigation/coordination, demo/relocate existing assemblies, install new communication pathway and conductors, repair/replace finishes from new work impacts. The Contractor shall furnish all labor, materials, tools and equipment required to install infrastructure for data drops, normal power outlets, emergency power outlets and government provided equipment (Tracking Boards Digital Display Boards/TVs/Monitors). Contractor to label all circuits (line voltage, low voltage and communication circuits) installed and/or altered.

5. All locations of work are within active occupied areas of the VA operations. The contractor shall coordinate an installation plan to allow VA operations to resume after each shift from the contractor. The contractor shall include temporary finishes if needed to reinstall after each shift which is equal to the existing conditions. Example, the contractor shall remove ACT ceilings and reinstall the ceilings nightly for above ceiling work. The contractor may reuse undamaged ACT grid and tile. COR and contractor shall document existing conditions prior to work beginning and condition prior to final inspection. Should the COR observe new damage during the construction period, the contractor shall replace the material at no additional charge to the contract. Any penetrations in walls, floors and/or ceilings shall be covered at the end of each shift with material equal to the existing material.

6. All finishes shall be color and performance matched to the existing condition. Any product not able to me matched shall replace the assembly break point to break point. Such as the room, hallway, corner to corner etc.

7. The St. Cloud VAMC has no anticipation to move or shift staff to accomplish work within this project.

B. Visits to the site by Bidders may be made only by appointment with the Contracting Officer.

C. Offices of St. Cloud VAMC Projects Section, as Architect-Engineers, will render certain technical services during construction. Such services shall be considered as advisory to the Government and shall not be construed as expressing or implying a contractual act of the Government without affirmations by Contracting Officer or his duly authorized representative.

D. Before placement and installation of work subject to tests by testing laboratory retained by the Contractor. The Contractor shall notify the COR not less than two calendar days in advance of the tests/inspection.

E. All employees of general contractor and subcontractors shall comply with VA security management program and obtain permission of the VA police, be identified by project and employer, and restricted from unauthorized access.

F. Prior to commencing work, the general contractor shall provide proof that the project supervisor assigned to the project is an OSHA 30 certified “competent person” (CP) (29 CFR 1926.20(b)(2). The CP will maintain a presence at the work site whenever the employees of the general contractor or subcontractors are present.

G. Training:

1. The Contractor’s project supervisor is required to attend Green Environmental Management Systems (GEMS) and Safety training provided by VA St. Cloud. Training must be attended prior to being designated as a job supervisor on any VA St. Cloud construction project.

2. All employees of general contractor and subcontractors shall have, at a minimum, the 10-hour OSHA certified Construction Safety course and other relevant competency training, as determined by VA CP with input from the Infection Control Risk Assessment (ICRA) team.

3. Submit training records of all such employees for approval before the start of work.

4. Notice to proceed will be issued not less than 2 weeks after receipt of bonds; time extensions will not be granted because of the need for training.

H. Identification Badge:

All contractor employees working on this project will be required to obtain and wear while on VA property, a VA picture identification badge. The badge will only be issued to those employees who have the appropriate OSHA Construction Safety Cards. All completed badge request forms, proof of OSHA training and any other required certificates shall be submitted electronically 30 calendar days in advance of working on site. Contractors will then be issued a badge free of charge by the VA. Badging process requires 30 - 50 days to complete based on actionable data from the contractor. A separate site visit prior to performing work by each contractor employee shall be expected to obtain a badge. Contractors shall not perform work without a VA issued badge. All ID badges must be returned upon contract completion. There will be a $200 charge for each PIV/Flash ID badge not returned at the end of the contract. There will be a $25 charge for “facility” badges and “contractor” or consultant badges. Reference security procedures for additional information. Payments to invoices will be withheld for badging noncompliance.

Contractor and subcontractor employees that will work on VA property shall submit the following information to the Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR) when requesting a badge:

First, middle and last name (Legal name, as shown on picture ID) Date of Birth (DOB) Social Security Number (SSN) Height Eye Color Hair Color Name of Firm or Company Place of Birth: Town/State VA Contract Number VA Project Name Name of COR I. Project Acceptance (Substantial Completion):

1. The acceptance of a project for substantial completion is to include the following:

a. The completion of all items to meet the criteria of the contract drawings and specifications to the satisfaction of the Contracting Officer (CO). Items for correction may be considered to be punch list items, as determined by the CO, if the COR finds them to be minor in correction. Value for the corrections will be held by the VA, as determined by the CO, until all corrections are completed to the satisfaction of the CO.

b. The VA will not accept a project, or phase of a project as determined by contract documents, as substantially complete until a complete passing test and balance report of the HVAC system has been submitted and accepted as complete and passing by the CO. It is recommended that the HVAC system be completed with sufficient time to make corrections to submit a passing report. A time extension to the contract will not be considered for corrections to the HVAC system that is determined by the CO to be installation or design errors if within the contract.

c. Occupancy and/or use of contractor provided/installed items does not require acceptance by the government. Contractor is to coordinate with the COR and the Contracting Officer when this condition exists.

d. In addition to the above items, the following conditions included in the contract shall be satisfied prior to requesting a final inspection to consider a substantial completion date.

1. All items completed within Division 1.

a. Occupied flushing of the building or similar commissioning activities identified prior to request of the final inspection may be considered punch list items subject to the discretion of the COR and Contracting Officer.

2. All items are completed within Division 2 through 8.

3. All items are completed within Division 9.

a. No more than 1 patch and paint repair within 100 linear feet of wall shall be accepted as a punch list condition per project/phase. Unfinished painting conditions shall not be accepted as punch list items (i.e. cuts, blemishes, flashing etc.).

b. No more than 1 flooring repair per 200 square feet shall be accepted as a punch list condition. Flooring repair is defined as gaps between tiles, grout damage, grout stains, grout gaps, broken tiles/flooring, scratches in tile/grout/flooring, gaps between wall base and flooring, incomplete transitions, poor adhesion, discoloration, etc.

c. No more than 1 ceiling repair per 200 square feet shall be accepted as a punch list condition.

4. All contractor-furnished and/or contractor installed items completed within Division 10 and 11.

5. All items completed within Division 12 through 22.

6. All items completed within Division 23.

a. Occupied flushing of the building or similar commissioning activities identified prior to request of the final inspection may be considered punch list items subject to the discretion of the COR and Contracting Officer.

7. All items are completed within Division 25 through 48.

E. General contractor to have dedicated site superintendent that is assigned to this project only. Contractor to include project management, site supervision and related expenses for the entire period of performance.

1.3 STATEMENT OF BID ITEM(S)

This contract will require extensive field investigations, field coordination, on/off hours work, coordination documents/drawings and as built from the general contractor. The construction drawings show an intent with reasonable scope of work shown for assembly-based installations, not the final install locations and unit details.

The summary scope of work of this contract is as follows: field investigation/coordination, demo/relocate existing assemblies, general construction (framing, rough ins, finishes), install new communication pathway and conductors, repair/replace finishes from new work impacts. Contractor to install Contractor to signal test conductors after to contractor termination of cable. Contractor to label all circuits (line voltage, low voltage and communication circuits) installed and/or altered.

All locations of work are within active occupied areas of the VA operations. The contractor shall coordinate an installation plan to allow VA operations to resume after each shift from the contractor. The contractor shall include temporary finishes if needed to reinstall after each shift which is equal to the existing conditions. Example, the contractor shall remove ACT ceilings and reinstall the ceilings nightly for above ceiling work. The contractor may reuse undamaged ACT grid and tile. COR and contractor shall document existing conditions prior to work beginning and condition prior to final inspection. Should the COR observe new damage during the construction period, the contractor shall replace the material at no additional charge to the contract. Any penetrations in walls, floors and/or ceilings shall be covered at the end of each shift with material equal to the existing material.

All finishes shall be color and performance matched to the existing condition. Any product not able to me matched shall replace the assembly break point to break point. Such as the room, hallway, corner to corner etc. Custom match paint colors at each location to ensure a match.

1.4 SPECIFICATIONS AND DRAWINGS FOR CONTRACTOR

A. AFTER AWARD OF CONTRACT, Contractor is to provide his/her own drawings and specifications as downloaded from WWW.FBO.gov B. The Contractor has the Duty of Coordination. By executing the contract, the contractor agrees the contract package has been reviewed (prior to bid) to ensure that each trade includes all work required to construct functional systems.

C. There is no requirement that the construction documents be completely accurate. Minor clarifications and coordination of details are not changes due to defective specifications.

D. Omissions from the drawings or specifications or the misdescription of details of work which are manifestly necessary to carry out the intent of the drawings and specifications, or which are customarily performed, shall not relieve the contractor from performing such omitted or misdescribed details of the work, but they shall be performed as if fully and correctly set forth and described in the drawings and specifications. The contractor shall furnish and install complete and functional systems.

1.5 CONSTRUCTION SECURITY REQUIREMENTS

A. Security Plan: A. Security Plan:

1. The security plan defines both physical and administrative security procedures that will remain effective for the entire duration of the project.

2. The General Contractor is responsible for assuring that all sub-contractors working on the project and their employees also comply with these regulations.

B. Security Procedures:

1. General Contractor’s employees shall not enter the project site without appropriate badge. They may also be subject to inspection of their personal effects when entering or leaving the project site.

2. All contractor and subcontractor employees working on this project are subject to background investigation. VA has the right to refuse to badge any employee that does not pass the background investigation. It is expected that the contractor will have the employee scheduled for the issuance of a badge well in advance of starting work. Due to the badge process, the employee will not be able come to the VA, receive badge, and conduct work on same day. There will be a $200 fine for badges issued and not returned upon completion of project.

3. Before starting work the General Contractor shall give 15 calendar days’ notice to the COR so that security arrangements can be provided for the employees. This notice is separate from any notices required for utility shutdown described later in this section.

4. For working outside the “regular hours” as defined in the contract, the General Contractor shall give 15 calendar days’ notice to the Contracting Officer and the COR so that arrangements can be made. This notice is separate from any notices required for utility shutdown described later in this section.

5. No photography of VA premises is allowed without written permission of the Contracting Officer.

6. VA reserves the right to close or shut down the project site and order General Contractor’s employees off the premises in the event of a national emergency. The General Contractor may return to the site only with the written approval of the Contracting Officer.

7. The prime contractor shall secure the entire construction operation (interior and exterior, staging, work area(s), etc.) to prevent unauthorized access and to maintain appropriate (1- or 2-hour fire rating) fire separation between construction activities and VA space. It is the contractor’s responsibility to furnish and install temporary walls/ceiling, chain link 8’ fences, doors, gates, hardware for doors and/or gates as needed for their activities. Not all temporary provisions are illustrated on the construction documents. The contractor shall include 64 square feet of sheetrock assembly patching to patch existing walls used as construction barriers to a 1-hour fire barrier rating in each project phase. The contractor shall include 20 linear feet of red in color, fire caulk patching to existing walls used as construction barriers in each project phase. The contractor shall include UL listed fire barrier assemblies for temporary fire barrier protection through construction barriers and other permanent fire barriers.

Prior to installing temporary walls, the contractor and the COR shall inspect the existing conditions to determine if existing penetrations exist in existing fire barriers. The contractor shall ensure all fire barriers around the construction site are compliant prior to commencing with other non-fire barrier related construction activities.

Temporary construction walls/ceilings shall be constructed of noncombustible material (metal framing with gypsum sheathing), per a UL rated 1hr fire rated assembly, sound insulated with mineral wool batts and to a level 2 finish on the public side of the wall/ceiling. If the temporary construction wall/ceiling will remain in place for more than 5 calendar days, it shall be painted to cover the color of the adjacent wall. Wood shall not be used in the temporary wall/ceiling assemblies. Corner guards or similar protective furnishing shall be at the contractor’s discretion. It is the contractor’s responsibility to repair/maintain the temporary assemblies due to wear and tears caused by operations of the VA; contractor shall include costs for upkeep of the temporary barriers. Not all temporary wall/ceiling locations are illustrated on the plans. The contractor shall include material and labor as needed to separate VA occupied space and the construction activity. Temporary walls/ceilings shall be assembled in a manner to control dust per ICRA and remain compliant with below fire-resistant poly duration limitations.

Temporary construction doors (interior and exterior) shall be an UL rated assembly with a minimum rating to be installed into a 1 hr. fire rated wall. Not all construction ingress and egress doors are illustrated on the plans. The contractor shall include material and labor for temporary doors and hardware to separate VA occupied space and the construction site. Repairing existing doors with wood filler due to temporary door hardware is not allowed. If the contractor alters an existing door for use as a temporary construction door, it shall be replaced with a new like and kind door assembly.

Fire resistant poly products per NFPA 241 shall only be used as dust control. It shall be used for up to (1) 8-hour work shift in a single location.

8. Contractor shall comply with VHA St. Cloud influenza policy (VHA Directive 1192.01 and VHA Directive 1013). Contractor shall direct all subcontractors working on site to also comply with VHA St. Cloud influenza policy. To comply with this policy, all contractors must complete a Health Care Personnel Influenza Vaccination Form during the influenza season which is generally from December 1 through March 31; however, it can vary from one season or geographic location to another. For security reasons, these forms are to be submitted directly to the St. Cloud VA Infection Prevention Nurse, who will document and track influenza vaccination status. Starting at the end of December until the end of March, Contractor shall provide monthly a list of all contractors working on site. This list will be provided to the St. Cloud VA Infection Prevention Nurse who can check against their documentation to confirm forms have been received for all contractors working on site during the influenza season. A copy of Directive 1192.01 and Directive 1013 and Health Care Personnel Influenza Vaccination Forms are available upon request.

C. Key Control:

1. Door hardware installed in construction doors is to be self-closing and storage function lock, able to receive a BEST 7 pin core and only operable with a key. The VA will install the construction core and issue keys to the contractor’s personnel. All construction fences are to be locked with a VA lock in series, so VA engineering and police personnel always have emergency access. Construction fences are to be kept always locked to prevent access by patients and VA unauthorized staff. Contractor is to provide means of egress from the site that keeps the site secure from the exterior. Keys to necessary construction areas can be checked out with the approval of the COR. The contractor is to give a minimum of 15 calendar days’ notice for security approval for areas that need to be entered for construction purposes.

2. The General Contractor shall turn over all permanent lock cylinders to the VA locksmith for permanent installation. See Section 08 71 00, DOOR HARDWARE and coordinate.

3. VA construction core keys will be issued to the contractor as deemed necessary by the COR. All keys must be returned when no longer needed or upon completion of the contract. There will be a $25 charge for each key not returned at the end of the contract. Should VA security be compromised because of failure to return a key(s), there will be an additional charge to the contractor of $25 for each door re-cored. There will be a $75 charge for any VA padlocks not returned by the contractor.

D. Document Control:

1. Before starting any work, the General Contractor/Subcontractors shall submit an electronic security memorandum describing the approach to following goals and maintaining confidentiality of “sensitive information”.

2. The General Contractor is responsible for safekeeping of all drawings, project manual and other project information. This information shall be shared only with those with a specific need to accomplish the project.

3. Certain documents, sketches, videos or photographs and drawings may be marked “Law Enforcement Sensitive” or “Sensitive Unclassified”. Secure such information in separate containers and limit access to only those who will need it for the project. Return the information to the Contracting Officer upon request.

4. These security documents shall not be removed or transmitted from the project site without the written approval of Contracting Officer.

5. All paper waste or electronic media such as CD’s and diskettes shall be shredded and destroyed in a manner acceptable to the VA.

6. Notify Contracting Officer and Site Security Officer immediately when there is a loss or compromise of “sensitive information”.

7. All electronic information shall be stored in specified location following VA standards and procedures using Engineering Document Management Software (EDMS).

a. Security, access and maintenance of all project drawings, both scanned and electronic, shall be performed and tracked through the EDMS system.

b. “Sensitive information” including drawings and other documents may be attached to e-mail provided all VA encryption procedures are followed.

E. Motor Vehicle Restrictions

1. Vehicle authorization requests shall be required for any vehicle entering the site and such requests shall be submitted 5 calendar days before the date and time of access. Contractor shall maintain a list of vehicles of all employees (general contractor and subcontractors) working on their site. List shall include employee name, vehicle make, model, color and license plate number.

2. Ten parking permits shall be issued for General Contractor and subcontractor for parking in the east contractor lot. This lot is gravel, with minimum maintenance. No overnight parking of contractor vehicles is allowed in this lot. No equipment and/or materials are allowed in this lot.

1.6 OPERATIONS AND STORAGE AREAS

A. The Contractor shall confine all operations (including storage of materials) on Government premises to areas authorized or approved by the Contracting Officer. The Contractor shall hold and save the Government, its officers and agents, free and harmless from liability of any nature occasioned by the Contractor's performance.

B. Temporary buildings (e.g., storage sheds, shops, offices) and utilities may be erected by the Contractor only with the approval of the Contracting Officer and shall be built with labor and materials furnished by the Contractor without expense to the Government. The temporary buildings and utilities shall remain the property of the Contractor and shall be removed by the Contractor at its expense upon completion of the work. With the written consent of the Contracting Officer, the buildings and utilities may be abandoned and need not be removed.

C. The Contractor shall, under regulations prescribed by the Contracting Officer, use only established roadways, or use temporary roadways constructed by the Contractor when and as authorized by the Contracting Officer. When materials are transported in prosecuting the work, vehicles shall not be loaded beyond the loading capacity recommended by the manufacturer of the vehicle or prescribed by any Federal, State, or local law or regulation. When it is necessary to cross curbs or sidewalks, the Contractor shall protect them from damage. This includes crossing curbs and other features when temporary roads and pedestrian walkways are used. The Contractor shall repair or pay for the repair of any damaged curbs, sidewalks, or roads.

(FAR 52.236-10)

D. Working space and space available for storing materials shall be as shown in the drawings. Occupied construction project – no storage available onsite.

E. Workmen are subject to rules of Health Care System applicable to their conduct.

F. Execute work in such a manner as to interfere as little as possible with work being done by others. Keep roads clear of construction materials, debris, standing construction equipment, and vehicles at all times.

G. Execute work to interfere as little as possible with the normal functioning of the Health Care System as a whole, including operations of utility services, fire protection systems and any existing equipment, and with work being done by others. The Contractor shall notify the COR prior to the use of equipment and tools that transmit vibrations and noises that can be either felt or heard outside the work site (core drilling, chipping hammer, jack hammer etc.). COR approval to use such equipment and tools shall be obtained in advance, not less than 10 calendar days prior to the use of such tools, to allow advanced coordination with health care staff. Contractor to include pricing in the offer for executing this work off hours, before 8am and/or after 4:30 pm (CST) or as indicated in the construction documents. This applies to all VA occupied space and any occupied space adjacent to construction activities where noise above 80 decibel or vibration can be felt or heard.

1. Do not store materials and equipment in other than assigned areas.

2. Contractor shall coordinate and utilize just in time material and equipment delivery system. Long term storage of material is not allowed. Storage of common construction material beyond 5 calendar days is not allowed. Schedule delivery of materials and equipment to construction working areas in quantities sufficient for not more than 5 workdays as the staging/storage areas as indicated on the plans allow. Provide unobstructed access to Health Care System areas required to remain in operation.

3. Contractor shall provide unobstructed access to VA Health Care System area required to remain in operation.

H. Utilities Services: Where necessary to cut existing pipes, electrical wires, conduits, cables, etc., of utility services, or of fire protection systems or communications systems (except telephone), they shall be cut and capped at suitable places where shown; or, in absence of such indication, where directed by the COR. All such actions shall be coordinated with the COR or Utility Company involved.

1. Whenever it is required that a connection fee be paid to a public utility provider for a new permanent service for the construction project, for such items as water, sewer, electricity, gas or steam, payment of such fee shall be the responsibility of the Government and not the Contractor.

J. Phasing:

The Health Care System must maintain its operation 24 hours a day 7 days a week. Therefore, any interruption in service must be scheduled 15 calendar days in advance and coordinated with the COR to ensure that no lapses in operation occur. It is the CONTRACTOR'S responsibility to develop a work plan and schedule detailing, at a minimum, the procedures to be employed, the equipment and materials to be used, the interim life safety measure to be used during the work, and a schedule defining the duration of the work with milestone subtasks.

To ensure such executions, Contractor shall furnish the COR with a schedule of approximate dates on which the Contractor intends to accomplish work in each specific area of site, building or portion thereof. In addition, Contractor shall notify the COR 15 calendar days in advance of the proposed date of starting work in each specific area of site, building or portion thereof. All phasing dates shall be arranged to ensure accomplishment of this work in successive phases as detailed in the Construction Drawings for phasing. Unless noted otherwise, 15 calendar days between each phase is required for VA activations and move relocates. The contractor shall include this coordination time in their schedule.

K. N/A

L. ALL Building(s) and spaces/rooms will be occupied during performance of work.

Contractor shall take all measures and provide all material necessary for protecting existing equipment and property in affected areas of construction against dust and debris, so that equipment and affected areas to be used in the Health Care System’s operations will not be hindered. Contractor shall permit access to Department of Veterans Affairs personnel and patients through other construction areas which serve as routes of access to such affected areas and equipment. These routes, whether access or egress, shall be isolated from the construction area by temporary partitions and have walking surfaces, lighting etc. to facilitate patient and staff access. Coordinate alteration work in areas occupied by Department of Veterans Affairs so that Health Care System operations will continue during the construction period.

M. Construction Fence: Before construction operations begin, Contractor shall provide a chain link construction fence, 2.1m (seven feet) minimum height, around the construction area(s) indicated on the drawings or as required confining all construction activities and staged materials, equipment etc. All fences designed and intended to run parallel to sidewalks and roadways shall be at least 5’ away from the edge/shoulder of sidewalks and/or roadways. Provide vehicle and “man gate”(s) for access with necessary hardware, including hasps and padlocks. The “man gate(s)” shall have panic hardware installed on the gate to allow emergency egress from the construction staging area(s) and construction work zone(s) to the public way. Contractor must provide hardware on gate to provide exit ability of contractor’s staff and not allow access to unauthorized people at the facility. An exterior grade metal door and frame (with appropriate hardware per ingress & egress requirements) professionally and securely installed into the fence assembly can be an alternative to “man gate (s)”. VA engineering staff must have the ability to access this gate at any time. Fasten fence fabric to terminal posts with tension bands and to line posts and top and bottom rails with tie wires spaced at maximum 375mm (15 inches). Bottom of fences shall extend to 25mm (one inch) above grade. Access to the contractors’ staging area and/or work site shall always remain secure. Secure is defined as locked to prevent unauthorized entrance to the construction site or during times of entrance or delivery, a construction representative shall be within 10 yards of the gate, monitoring the gate to prevent unauthorized access. Removal of construction fence shall be coordinated in advance with the COR.

N. When a building or part of a building and/or construction site is turned over to Contractor, Contractor shall accept entire responsibility including upkeep and maintenance therefore:

1. Contractor shall maintain a minimum temperature of 4 degrees C (40 degrees F) at all times, except as otherwise specified.

2. Contractor shall maintain in code compliant operating condition and provide any temporary material and equipment for existing fire protection and alarm equipment until the final systems are operational. During renovation the contractor shall alter the existing and/or install a temporary fire sprinkler system, compliant with NFPA to be used until the final system is operational. In connection with fire alarm equipment, Contractor shall make arrangements for pre-inspection of site with VA’s Fire Protection System Representative whichever will be required to respond to an alarm from Contractor's employee or watchman.

O. Utilities Services: Maintain existing utility services for Health Care System at all times. Not all details will be shown on the construction plan. Contractor shall request any additional information prior to bid if needed; contractor shall field verify electrical, HVAC, water, sewer and life systems in project area to provide material and equipment to maintain existing utilities for construction, life safety and operations of adjacent/impacted patients and/or staff. Provide temporary facilities, labor, materials, equipment, connections, and utilities to ensure uninterrupted services. Where necessary to cut existing water, steam, gases, sewer or air pipes, or conduits, wires, cables, etc. of utility services or of fire protection systems and communications systems (including telephone), they shall be cut and capped at suitable places where shown; or, in absence of such indication, the Contractor shall coordinate in advance with the COR and receive COR approval to proceed prior to any such cuts or caps. The Contractor shall coordinate with the COR and the Utility Company when applicable. Utility pathways no longer used shall be removed back to the common source (main, branch, panel, junction box, etc.).

1. No utility services such as water, gas, steam, sewers or electricity, or fire protection systems and communications systems may be interrupted without 15 business day notice and prior approval of the COR. No “HOT TAPPING” of any utility service other than storm or sanitary utilities is allowed unless under extreme circumstances. If these circumstances are determined appropriate and approved by the Chief Engineer, all work must follow Facilities Management Memorandum 23 “Hot Tapping Procedures”. All services under work shall be isolated and all energy released before work begins. Electrical work shall be accomplished with all affected circuits or equipment de-energized. When an electrical outage cannot be accomplished, work on any energized circuits or equipment shall not commence without a detailed work plan, the Health Care System Director’s prior knowledge and written approval. Refer to specification Sections 26 05 11, REQUIREMENTS FOR ELECTRICAL INSTALLATIONS, 27 05 11 REQUIREMENTS FOR COMMUNICATIONS INSTALLATIONS and 28 05 11, REQUIREMENTS FOR ELECTRONIC SAFETY AND SECURITY INSTALLATIONS for additional requirements.

2. Contractor shall submit a request to interrupt any such services to the COR, in writing, 15 calendar days in advance of proposed interruption. Request shall state reason, date, exact time of, and approximate duration of such interruption. The contractor will identify the detailed work activity plan related, including a contingency plan with this request. The request shall be submitted to the COR via the RFI process.

3. Contractor will be advised (in writing) of approval of request, or of which other date and/or time such interruption will cause least inconvenience to operations of Health Care System. Interruption time approved by Health Care System may occur at other than Contractor's normal working hours.

4. Major interruptions (any utility systems affecting operations of the Health Care System, i.e. power, water, steam, heating, cooling etc. outside of the immediate construction work site) of any system must be requested, in writing, at least 15 calendar days prior to the desired time and shall be performed as directed by the COR.

5. In case of a contract construction emergency, service will be interrupted on approval of the COR. Such approval will be confirmed in writing as soon as practical.

6. Whenever it is required that a connection fee be paid to a public utility provider for new permanent services for the construction project, for such items as water, sewer, electricity, gas or steam, payment of such fee shall be the responsibility of the Government and not the Contractor.

P. Abandoned Lines: All service lines such as wires, cables, conduits, ducts, pipes and the like (including hangers and all supports) shall be removed back to the common source (panels, main lines, branch lines, etc.).

Q. To minimize interference of construction activities with flow of Health Care System traffic, comply with the following:

1. Keep roads, walks and entrances to grounds/parking/occupied areas of buildings clear of construction materials, debris and standing construction equipment and vehicles. Wherever excavation for new utility lines cross existing roads, at least one lane must always be open to traffic with approval.

2. The Contractor shall submit proposed methods and scheduling of required cutting, altering and removal of existing roads, walks and entrances to the COR not less than 15 calendar days in advance of any such work. Plans for such work must be approved in advance by the COR.

R. Coordinate the work for this contract with other construction operations and notify the COR in advance of scheduling of traffic and the use of roadways, as specified in Article, USE OF ROADWAYS.

1.7 ALTERATIONS

A. Survey: Before any work is started, the Contractor shall make a thorough survey with the COR of areas of buildings in which alterations occur and areas which are anticipated routes of access, and furnish a report, signed by both, to the Contracting Officer. This report shall list by rooms and spaces:

1. Existing condition and types of resilient flooring, doors, windows, walls and other surfaces not required to be altered throughout affected areas of buildings.

2. Existence and conditions of items such as plumbing fixtures and accessories, electrical fixtures, equipment, venetian blinds, shades, etc., required by drawings to be either reused or relocated, or both.

3. Shall note any discrepancies between drawings and existing conditions at site.

4. Shall designate areas for working space, materials storage and routes of access to areas within buildings where alterations occur and which have been agreed upon by Contractor and the COR.

B. Any items required by drawings to be either reused or relocated or both, found during this survey to be nonexistent, or in opinion of the COR, to be in such condition that their use is impossible or impractical, shall be furnished and/or replaced by Contractor with new items in accordance with specifications which will be furnished by Government. Provided the contract work is changed by reason of this subparagraph B, the contract will be modified accordingly, under provisions of clause entitled "DIFFERING SITE CONDITIONS" (FAR 52.236-2) and "CHANGES" (FAR 52.243-4 and VAAR 852.236-88).

C. Re-Survey: Thirty days before expected partial or final inspection date, the Contractor and the COR together shall make a thorough re-survey of the areas of buildings involved. They shall furnish a report on conditions then existing, of resilient flooring, doors, windows, walls and other surfaces as compared with conditions of same as noted in first condition survey report:

1. Re-survey report shall also list any damage caused by Contractor to such flooring and other surfaces, despite protection measures; and will form basis for determining extent of repair work required of Contractor to restore damage caused by Contractor's workmen in executing work of this contract.

D. Protection: Provide the following protective measures:

1. Wherever existing roof surfaces are disturbed they shall be protected against water infiltration. In case of leaks, they shall be repaired immediately upon discovery.

2. Temporary protection against damage for portions of existing structures and grounds where work is to be done, materials handled and equipment moved and/or relocated.

3. Protection of interior of existing structures at all times, from damage, dust and weather inclemency. Wherever work is performed, floor surfaces that are to remain in place shall be adequately protected prior to starting work, and this protection shall be maintained intact until all work in the area is completed.

1.8 DISPOSAL AND RETENTION

A. Materials and equipment accrued from work removed and from demolition of buildings or structures, or parts thereof, shall be disposed of as follows:

1. Reserved items which are to remain property of the Government are identified by attached tags or noted on drawings or in specifications as items to be stored. Items that remain property of the Government shall be removed or dislodged from present locations in such a manner as to prevent damage which would be detrimental to re-installation and reuse. Store such items were directed by the COR.

2. Items not reserved shall become property of the Contractor and be removed by Contractor from Health Care System.

3. Items of portable equipment and furnishings located in rooms and spaces in which work is to be done under this contract shall remain the property of the Government. When rooms and spaces are vacated by the Department of Veterans Affairs during the alteration period, such items which are NOT required by drawings and specifications to be either relocated or reused will be removed by the Government in advance of work to avoid interfering with Contractor's operation.

4. PCB Transformers and Capacitors: The Contractor shall be responsible for disposal of the Polychlorinated Biphenyl (PCB) transformers and capacitors. The transformers and capacitors shall be taken out of service and handled in accordance with the procedures of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of Transportation (DOT) as outlined in Code of Federal Regulation (CFR), Titled 40 and 49 respectively. The EPA's Toxic Substance Control Act (TSCA) Compliance Program Policy Nos. 6-PCB-6 and 6-PCB-7 also apply. Upon removal of PCB transformers and capacitors for disposal, the "originator" copy of the Uniform Hazardous Waste Manifest (EPA Form 8700-22), along with the Uniform Hazardous Waste Manifest Continuation Sheet (EPA Form 8700-22A) shall be returned to the Contracting Officer who will annotate the contract file and transmit the Manifest to the Health Care System's Chief.

a. Copies of the following listed CFR titles may be obtained from the Government Printing Office:

40 CFR 261........Identification and Listing of Hazardous Waste

40 CFR 262........Standards Applicable to Generators of Hazardous Waste 40 CFR 263........Standards Applicable to Transporters of Hazardous Waste

40 CFR 761........PCB Manufacturing, Processing, Distribution in Commerce, and use Prohibitions 49 CFR 172........Hazardous Material tables and Hazardous Material Communications Regulations

49 CFR 173........Shippers - General Requirements for Shipments and Packaging 49 CRR 173........Subpart A General

49 CFR 173........Subpart B Preparation of Hazardous Material for Transportation 49 CFR 173........Subpart J Other Regulated Material; Definitions and Preparation TSCA..............Compliance Program Policy Nos. 6-PCB-6 and 6-PCB-7

1.9 PROTECTION OF EXISTING VEGETATION, STRUCTURES, EQUIPMENT, UTILITIES, AND IMPROVEMENTS A. The Contractor shall preserve and protect all surfaces including but not limited to asphalt, sidewalks, curbs, structures, equipment, and vegetation (such as trees, shrubs, and grass) on or adjacent to the work site, which are not to be removed, and which do not unreasonably interfere with the work required under this contract. The Contractor shall only remove trees when specifically authorized to do so and shall avoid damaging vegetation that will remain in place. If any limbs or branches of trees are broken during contract performance, or by the careless operation of equipment, or by workmen, the Contractor shall trim those limbs or branches with a clean cut and paint the cut with a tree-pruning compound. Any grass that is damaged during construction will have the pre-existing grade restored, be sodded and maintained until the sod is firmly rooted as determined by the COR. Sod will be watered by contractor and may not exceed 4 inches while the contractor is responsible for the sod. Any trees/shrubs not identified for demolition shall remain. The contractor shall protect the existing trees/shrubs from damage by enclosing the dripline area with plastic fence. No material, vehicles and/or equipment shall be stored within this protected area. Tree trimming is not allowed as the trees are considered “historic”. Contractors shall make all reasonable efforts to use other methods to not conflict with trees (i.e. shorter/smaller equipment).

B. The Contractor shall protect from damage all existing improvements and utilities at or near the work site and on adjacent property of a third party, the locations of which are made known to or should be known by the Contractor. The Contractor shall repair any damage to those facilities, including those that are the property of a third party, resulting from failure to comply with the requirements of this contract or failure to exercise reasonable care in performing the work. If the Contractor fails or refuses to repair the damage promptly, the Contracting Officer may have the necessary work performed and charge the cost to the Contractor.

(FAR 52.236-9)

C. Refer to Section 01 57 19, TEMPORARY ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROLS, for additional requirements on protecting vegetation, soil and the environment. Refer to Articles, "Alterations", "Restoration", and "Operations and Storage Areas" for additional instructions concerning repair of damage to structures and site improvements. At a minimum, the contractor is to comply with all EPA regulations for protection from storm water pollution that would be caused by construction and implement all required safety to maintain compliance. Also, all wash downs for concrete trucks are to be conducted off site. No containment areas are allowed on site.

D. Refer to FAR clause 52.236-7, "Permits and Responsibilities," which is included in General Conditions. A National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES)and/or Storm Water pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) permit is required for this project. The Contractor is considered an "operator" under the permit and has extensive responsibility for compliance with permit requirements. VA will provide the permit application upon request available at the (appropriate Health Care System) office. The Contractor and affected subcontractors shall furnish all information and certifications that are required to comply with the permit process and permit requirements. Many of the permit requirements will be satisfied by completing construction as shown and specified. Some requirements involve the Contractor's method of operations and operations planning and the Contractor is responsible for employing best management practices. The affected activities are often included, but are not limited to the following:

· Designating areas for equipment maintenance and repair.

· Providing waste receptacles at convenient locations and providing regular collection of wastes.

· Locating equipment wash down areas on site and provide appropriate control of wash-waters; concrete truck wash down is not allowed on site.

· Providing protected storage areas for chemicals, paints, solvents, fertilizers, and other potentially toxic materials; and

· Providing adequately maintained sanitary facilities.

E. Contractor shall maintain grounds in and around their construction site including all staging, storage and parking areas assigned to this contract (referred to as construction area). Contractor shall remove debris promptly within construction areas. Contractor shall mow and weed whip the construction areas and weed whip on the public side of their construction fences.