BNJA_JCI-TYCO-SIMPLEX_636A8-22-001-signed.pdf

DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS

Justification for Brand Name Awards IAW RFO 13.101(b) For

Over Micro-Purchase Threshold but Not Exceeding the Simplified Acquisition Threshold

Acquisition Plan Action ID: 36C263-26-AP-1638

1. Contracting Activity:

Department of Veterans Affairs, VISN 23, Network Contracting Office 23 (NCO 23)

Veterans Health Administration (VHA), Iowa City VA Health Care System (ICVAHCS)

Project #: 636A8-22-001, Renovate 6th Floor Clinical Support

2237 #: 636-26-4-8822-0046

2. Brief Description of Supplies/ Services required and the intended use/Estimated

Amount:

The use of a particular brand name for the items listed below accommodate standardization of these items throughout the facility.

• Johnson Controls - Tyco/Simplex

The existing Simplex addressable fire alarm system will be modified and extended. Existing devices within the project area will be removed and new devices will be provided to meet new code requirements. This consists of the following:

• Circuit Pathway, Survivability, Raceway

• System notification will consist of ADA- and NFPA-compliant audio voice visual, and combination audio/visual devices.

• System initiation will consist of individually addressable analog smoke and heat detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, addressable fire pull stations, and sprinkler system flow switches.

• Additional Fire Alarm System Components

This justification only covers the portion of the acquisition that is brand name within the construction documents of this same acquisition. This project has a need for the use of the fire alarm hardware provided by Tyco Simplex. This system includes the hardware, installation, and programing of all fire alarm systems from JCI-TYCO/Simplex. This system includes the labor to integrate new fire alarm system with the existing fire alarm system in Building 1.

The approximate value of the Johnson Controls - Tyco Simplex is $18,000.

3. Unique characteristics that limit availability to only one source, with the reason no other supplies or services can be used:

This is a brand name justification in support of FAR 11.105, Items Peculiar to One

Manufacturer.

The equipment purchased and provided by Tyco Simplex is currently used throughout the entire ICVAHCS facility. New components must be able to tie into an existing system, including the use of software. At this time, there are no competing vendors whose products are fully compatible with the existing system . The technicians and engineers at Tyco Simplex are also familiar with the ICVAHCS and can reliably provide parts and support from experience working at the Iowa City station.

Simplex fire alarm systems, including their panels, devices, and communication protocols (like IDNet and MAPNET II), are largely proprietary. This means that major operational parts and new components that can integrate with existing systems are only available from Johnson Controls (formerly Tyco/SimplexGrinnell) or their authorized dealers. The primary justification for using the specific brand name when expanding or maintaining an existing system is to ensure seamless compatibility. Mixing different manufacturers' equipment with existing Simplex panels can lead to incompatibility. Other manufacturers' systems may not be capable of integrating with the installed fire alarm panels and monitoring software (e.g., True Site Work). The integrity and reliability of a life safety system depend on all components working in harmony. Using non-approved parts could compromise the system's ability to detect and signal fires effectively, potentially violating safety codes like NFPA 72.

Maintaining consistency across equipment allows for interchangeable parts and consistent maintenance procedures, which lowers long-term service costs and simplifies training for maintenance personnel. In large facilities (e.g., hospitals, government buildings), a single, integrated monitoring system is essential for efficient operation. Incompatible systems would require additional computers and manpower to monitor separately, which is often not feasible. Johnson Controls maintains exclusive rights and trademarks for the equipment and provides factory-direct access to products and services, ensuring proper support and warranty coverage that might be voided by using third-party hardware. The use of listed and approved components is necessary to meet local and national safety codes, and using the manufacturer's specified hardware ensures this compliance

Any other devices and equipment that are not of the existing manufacturer may not provide correct interface and operability with the existing fire protection system. The fire protection system is critical for safeguarding patients, visitors, staff, and the facility. Modifications of the existing without the correct OEM components and service can compromise the integrity of the entire system. Factory trained and authorized service must be located and supported by OEM within a limited travel time to provide emergency service support.

4. Description of market research conducted and results or statement why it was not conducted:

Market research was previously conducted prior to selecting this manufacturer as facility standard. Currently, there are no competing vendors whose products are fully compatible with ICVAHCS existing fire alarm system. If competing fire alarm system is found, that meets facility requirements and maintains UL listing of entire fire alarm system, then it will be considered acceptable. None to date is known, or shown, to be available.

5. Contracting Officer's Certification:

Purchase is approved in accordance with RFO 13.101(b). I certify that the foregoing justification is accurate and complete to the best of my knowledge and belief.

CALVIN L. COURTNEY

Contract Specialist Network Contracting Office 23

JENNIFER JOHNSON

Contracting Officer Network Contracting Office 23