PWS_SNR_Wood_Pole_Inspection.docx

PERFORMANCE-BASED WORK STATEMENT

for

WOOD UTILITY POLE INSPECTION AND TREATMENT SERVICES,

TRANSMISSION AND DISTRIBUTION LINES

WITHIN THE SIERRA NEVADA REGION

1. BACKGROUND

The Western Area Power Administration (Western), Rocky Mountain Region (RMR) markets and delivers cost-based hydroelectric power and related services within its service territory encompassing the States of Arizona, Colorado, Nebraska, New Mexico, Utah, Montana and Wyoming. Western is one of the four power marketing administrations within the U.S. Department of Energy, whose role it is to market and transmit electricity from multi-use Federal water projects.

RMR is one of four regions of Western responsible for the safe and reliable delivery of electrical energy to our power customers.

The overall objective of the RMR’s wood pole inspection and treatment is to inspect, treat or reject transmission line wood poles and wood antenna poles (within substations).

1. BACKGROUND

The Western Area Power Administration (Western), Sierra Nevada Region (SNR) markets and delivers cost-based hydroelectric power and related services within the state of California. Western is one of four power marketing administrations within the U.S. Department of Energy, whose role is to market and transmit electricity from multi-use Federal water projects. SNR is one of Western’s four regions responsible for the safe and reliable delivery of electrical energy to its power customers.

The SNR requires the services of a contractor to perform effective and efficient wood pole inspection and treatment services in order to ensure the safe and reliable operation of Western’s power system.

The overall objective of the SNR’s integrated wood pole inspection and treatment program is to identify, treat or reject transmission and distribution line wood poles.

2. SCOPE OF SERVICES

Contractor shall inspect, treat, or reject all wood poles in accordance with the contract terms, including this Performance-Based Work Statement (PWS).

Contractor shall perform the required services for all wood pole structures of transmission lines identified in this PWS, including Exhibits. Some locations may require that the COR or other authorized government employee escort the Contractor employee(s). The Contractor shall contact the COR at least one week in advance to make arrangements for inspecting poles in these areas.

Services under this contract include above- and below-ground inspection of wood poles; furnishing and applying below-ground line treatment, internal decay treatment, and preventive fumigant treatment; and tagging and preparing inspection reports on the wood poles on approximately 980 wood poles.

Payment will be made at the. The transmission lines will be energized during the performance of work under this Contract.

This PWS addresses the following general categories of wood pole inspection and treatment services required. The Contractor is responsible to perform the following:

1. Above-ground line inspection of all wood poles.

2. Non-destructive evaluation at ground line for all poles passing the above-ground line inspection.

3. Inspect all poles that pass the above ground line inspection, to a depth of 24 inches below the ground line.

4. Reject and mark poles that do not pass the above or below ground line inspections.

5. Furnish and apply ground line treatment to poles that pass the below ground line inspection.

6. Furnish and apply treatment to internal decay, where the need is disclosed by above and below ground line inspections.

7. Inspect stubbed poles.

8. Backfill all excavations.

9. Tag poles and prepare inspection and treatment reports. The treatment reports shall be submitted in both hard copy and electronic data.

The Contractor is solely responsible for the following: furnish all labor, supervision, travel, materials, equipment, and transportation required to safely and efficiently provide these services under and around energized high voltage transmission and distribution lines ranging in voltages from 4.16 kV to 230 kV. Services will be performed in the state of California and counties listed on Exhibit A. All work shall be performed in accordance with all applicable Federal, State, and/or local laws, rules, ordinances and regulations (“laws and regulations”), and approved principles of modern Arboriculture.

The Contractor shall perform the services identified in this PWS with no interruption, disruption, or interference to the operation of the overall power system. The Contractor shall ensure that all its employees, and those of its subcontractor(s) if any, have the appropriate training, qualifications, and competency required to perform the requirements of this contract. The Contractor’s management of an effective safety program and an effective quality control program are essential requirements. Successful management of, and adherence to, all environmental and landowner/land manager constraints and the establishment of effective, professional landowner/land manager relationships are equally important.

2.1. Prosecution of the Work

Contractor shall commence services within 30 calendar days after date of contract award, and shall complete all work within 24 months.

Prior to the commencement of services in the field, a post-award meeting will be held at a location designated by the COR. The Contractor’s project manager and field superintendent, and a representative of any major subcontractor(s), shall attend

2.2. Contractor Furnished Equipment, Tools and Materials

The Contractor is solely responsible for all maintenance, upkeep, mobilization and operating expenses for its equipment fleet, and shall ensure that all required certifications and equipment related training are current and in accordance with all applicable laws and regulations. Equipment operator and ground personnel requirements shall be in accordance with all applicable laws and regulations, and all applicable sections of this PWS. The Contractor shall furnish and utilize a sufficient range of equipment and tools required to effectively and efficiently meet the contract requirements. All equipment and tools shall be in good operating condition and maintained at all times to ensure maximum job site safety and avoid any unnecessary work stoppage or delays.

The Contractor is responsible for identifying and providing personal protective equipment (PPE) for its employees, and for enforcing the use of said PPE in accordance with OSHA, and all other applicable laws and regulations.

The Contractor shall provide the type and grade of materials specified in this PWS. Substitute materials shall not be used without COR’s written approval. Contractor’s proposal to substitute materials shall clearly state the reasons for the substitution, including the technical capabilities of the product(s) being proposed.

2.3. Contractor’s Liability

The Contractor shall be liable for all damages to irrigation and public water sources, grazing land, crops, trees, fences, and any other public or private property, caused by the Contractor’s or any of its subcontractors’ operations under this contract.

Contractor is responsible to promptly notify property owners of any damage caused by the Contractor. The Contractor, within 30 calendar days after knowledge of, or notice from, a landowner of damages caused by the Contractor’s operations, shall notify the COR in writing as to the Contractor’s disposition of each such claim.

2.4. Government-Furnished Drawings and Maps

Following contract award, Western will furnish any necessary drawings for the Contractor’s use in completing the requirements of the contract.

2.5. Government Personnel

The Contracting Officer (CO) is the individual executing this Contract on behalf of the Government and is responsible for the overall administration of the Contract. He/she is the only person authorized to make any changes in the prices, terms or any other conditions of the Contract, or to issue a stop work order if required.

The Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR) is responsible for monitoring the Contractor’s performance, coordinating work schedules, and providing technical instructions or guidance necessary to ensure contract execution. The COR has no authority to alter the Contract’s terms and conditions. The CO, COR, or any other Government official has the authority to verbally stop work if an imminent danger situation arises.

2.6. Contractor Submittals

Except as otherwise described for specific submittals, Western requires 30 calendar days for review of drawings or data submitted by the Contractor for approval; this review time will apply to each separate submittal or resubmittal, whether drawings or data are approved, not approved, or returned for revision. If Western exceeds 30 days for reviewing any submittal or resubmittal, the excess time will be added to time allowed for completion of the work affected by such excess time; except, if the review of two or more separate submittals or resubmittals is late and results in concurrent days of excess time, such days will be counted only once in computing an extension of completion date. The number of calendar days required for review of drawings or data submitted or resubmitted for approval will include the date drawings or data are received by Western and will extend through date of return mailing to the Contractor.

Drawings and data shall be submitted to the COR at the below address, with electronic copy to the CO.

Western Area Power Administration ATTN: Brian Adams 1545 Beltline Road Redding CA 96003 [Insert address of COR]

2.6.1. Safety & Health Plan.

Reference Section 4.5. Contractor shall submit its Safety & Health Plan to Western’s CO and COR within 7 calendar days after contract award. Western’s approval of the plan is required prior to the commencement of services.

2.6.2. Quality Control Plan.

Reference Section 10. Contractor shall submit a Quality Control Plan (QCP) to Western’s CO and COR within 30 calendar days after contract award.

2.6.3. Spill Prevention, Notification and Cleanup Plan.

Reference Section 3.12. Contractor shall submit a plan to the CO and COR for review and comment within 14 days of contract award. The COR’s approval of the plan is required prior to commencement of services. Review of the plan is for the purpose of determining compliance with the PWS only and shall not relieve the Contractor of the responsibility for compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.

2.6.4. List of Employees.

Reference Section 7. Contractor shall submit a list of employees available for work on the contract, including training records and certifications, to the CO and COR no later than 7 calendar days after contract award, and shall update the list as needed. For each non-U.S. Citizen, Contractor must submit a completed Foreign National Data Card.

2.6.5. Work Schedule.

Work Schedule shall show in detail the Contractor’s program of operations and shall provide for orderly performance of the work. The Work Schedule shall show sequence of operations, dates for commencing and completing the work for each portion of the transmission line segments, and classification and number of employees and size of crews to be used for the inspection and treatment of wood poles. Work Schedule shall be submitted prior to commencing work, but no later than 20 calendar days after contract award. Contractor at all times shall keep the COR informed of work schedule changes. The Contractor shall report the scheduled work for the week and any schedule changes to the COR by 8:00 a.m. Pacific Time every Monday, via phone, fax or email.

2.6.6. Pesticide Use Plan.

Reference Section 3.2. Contractor shall submit the plan to the CO and COR for review and comment 14 calendar days prior to the date of intended pesticide application. Western’s approval of the plan is required prior to any such application. Review of the plan is for the purpose of determining compliance with the PWS only, and shall not relieve the Contractor of the responsibility for compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.

2.7. Definitions

In addition to the terms and abbreviations covered in the contract, the terms and definitions listed below apply:

"Western" as used herein means Western Area Power Administration or its agents.

"COR" as used herein means the person appointed in writing as the Contracting Officer's Representative.

"Approved" or "approval" as used herein means approved by the COR, except where another specific authority is designated.

"Material" or "materials" as used herein denotes items furnished by the Contractor, including machinery, equipment, components, products, or any other item incorporated in the work.

Where "provide," "install," "furnish," "repair," or words of similar import are used, it shall be understood that reference to the Contractor is intended unless clearly indicated otherwise.

3. ENVIRONMENTAL REQUIREMENTS

The Contractor shall comply with all applicable environmental laws and regulations. The subsections below specify additional requirements.

3.1. Landscape Preservation

The Contractor shall, as much as practicable, preserve the existing landscape to include vegetation, structures, equipment, utilities, and improvements. Except where pole inspection and treatment is required, all trees, native shrubbery, and vegetation shall be preserved and shall be protected from damage by the Contractor's field operations and equipment. Movement of crews and equipment within the Rights-Of-Way (ROW) and over routes provided for access to the work shall be performed in a manner to prevent damage to grazing land, crops, and property.

The Contractor shall not leave “borrow” holes around the poles, where “borrow material” was excavated to fill in the excavations around the poles. The area around the structures shall be smoothed and left in the same condition as existed before the below ground inspections were started.

3.2. Pesticide

The term “pesticide” includes herbicides, insecticides, rodenticides and fungicides. Pesticides shall only be used in accordance with their labeling.

Environmental Protection Agency Registration: Use EPA registered pesticides.

Pesticide Use Plan: The plan shall include: 1) a description of the pesticide to be used, 2) where it is to be applied, 3) the application rate, 4) a copy of the label, and 5) a copy of required applicator certifications.

3.3. Reseeding or Replanting

Special reseeding and replanting is not required, but Contractor shall leave all areas in a condition that will facilitate natural revegetation, provide for proper drainage, and prevent erosion. Destruction, scarring, damage, or defacing of the landscape resulting from the Contractor's operations shall be repaired as directed by the COR at no additional cost to the Government.

3.4. Roads

Construction of temporary roads is prohibited. Existing roads shall be used to access the work. Sites that cannot be accessed by existing roads may require access by foot or other means.

3.5. Noxious Weed Control

The Contractor shall: 1) comply with all applicable noxious weed control laws and regulations, 2) provide a "clean vehicle policy" while entering and leaving construction areas to prevent transport of noxious weed plants and/or seed, and 3) transport only construction vehicles that are free of mud and vegetation debris to staging areas and the project ROWs.

3.6. Prevention of Water Pollution

The Contractor shall ensure that surface and ground water is protected from pollution caused by field operation activities. The Contractor shall comply with all applicable water pollution regulations and requirements. The Contractor shall not refuel any vehicle within 300 feet of a perennial stream or river channel. The Contractor shall be responsible for the application of erosion control measures such as weed-free wattles and silt fencing, dependent on site condition, landowner request, and in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.

Stream Crossings. The crossing of any stream or other waterway shall be conducted in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations. Crossing of some waterways may be prohibited by landowners, Federal or State agencies or require permits. The Contractor is responsible to notify the COR of locations where crossings are authorized.

3.7. Prevention of Air Pollution

Contractor shall ensure that field activities and the operation of equipment are undertaken to reduce the emission of air pollutants. Contractor shall submit a copy of any permits required from Federal, State, or local agencies to the COR 14 calendar days prior to the start of work. The Contractor’s and subcontractor’s machinery shall maintain compliance with California Air Resources Board equipment regulations at all times. Contractors and sub-contractors may utilize rented equipment to meet these requirements, but must keep a copy of the rental agreement on the jobsite at all times.

3.8. Preservation of Cultural and Paleontological Resources

The Contractor shall not remove, damage, or alter cultural artifacts or paleontological resources (e.g., fossils). Cultural artifacts may be of scientific or cultural importance and include, but are not limited to: bones, pottery, glass, projectile points (arrowheads), other stone or metal tools, historic buildings, and features. Paleontological resources may be of scientific importance and include: mineralized animals and plants, or trace fossils such as footprints. Both cultural and paleontological resources are protected by Federal regulations during Federal projects.

3.8.1. Known Cultural or Paleontological Sites.

Following contract award, Western will provide maps showing sensitive areas located on or immediately adjacent to the transmission line ROW and/or facility. These areas shall be considered avoidance areas. Prior to any work activity, the avoidance areas shall be marked or otherwise identified in a manner approved by the COR. Contractor shall instruct employees, subcontractors, and others that vehicular or equipment access to these areas is prohibited. If access is absolutely necessary, Contractor shall first obtain written approval from the COR. For some project work, Western may furnish an archaeological or paleontological monitor at or near cultural or paleontological site locations. The Contractor shall work with the monitor to identify avoidance areas.

3.8.2. Unknown Cultural or Paleontological sites.

On rare occasions cultural or paleontological sites may be discovered during work activities. If evidence of a cultural or paleontological site is discovered, Contractor shall immediately notify the CO and COR and give the location and nature of the findings. Contractor shall immediately stop all activities within a 200-foot radius of the discovery and shall not proceed with work within that radius until directed to do so by the COR. The Contractor shall protect the area and shall not remove, handle, alter, or damage artifacts or fossils uncovered during field operations.

3.9. Conservation of Natural Resources.

Federal law prohibits the “take” of endangered, threatened, proposed or candidate wildlife or plants, and destruction or adverse modification of designated Critical Habitat. Federal law also prohibits the “take” of birds protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, and the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act. “Take” means to pursue, hunt, shoot, wound, kill, trap, capture or collect a protected animal or any part thereof, or attempt to do any of those things without a permit from U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The Contractor shall take precautions to avoid harming any other wildlife species. The Contractor shall not disturb nests of any species of bird.

3.9.1. Known Occurrence of Protected Species or Habitat.

Following contract award and when applicable, the COR will provide the Contractor with drawings or maps showing sensitive areas located on, or immediately adjacent to, the transmission line ROW and/or facility. These areas shall be considered avoidance areas. Prior to any work activity, the avoidance areas shall be identified by the Contractor in a manner approved by the COR. If access is absolutely necessary, the Contractor shall first obtain written permission from the COR, noting that a Western and/or other Government agency biologist may be required to accompany personnel and equipment. Avoidance area markings, if used, shall be maintained through the duration of the work. Western will remove the markings following completion of the work.

3.9.2. Unknown Occurrence of Protected Species or Habitat.

If evidence of a protected species is found in the project area, the Contractor shall immediately notify the CO and COR and provide the location and nature of the findings. The Contractor shall stop all activity within 200 yards of the protected species or habitat and not proceed until directed to do so by the COR. If evidence of a protected species is found in the project area, the Contractor shall immediately notify the COR and provide the location and nature of the findings. The Contractor shall stop all activity within 200 yards of the protected species or habitat and not proceed until directed to do so by the COR.

3.10. Contractor Generated Waste

General: Contractor shall dispose of or recycle waste material in accordance with applicable laws and regulations. Remove all waste material from the work site. No waste shall be left on Western property, ROW, or easement. Burning or burying of waste material is prohibited.

Hazardous, Universal, and Non-Hazardous Wastes: Manage hazardous, universal, and non-hazardous wastes in accordance with all applicable laws and regulations.

Waste Material Quantity Report: Contractor shall submit quantities of total project waste material disposal as listed below to the COR prior to submittal of final invoice.

· Unregulated Wastes (i.e., trash): Volume in cubic yards or weight in pounds.

· Hazardous or Universal Wastes: Weight in pounds.

3.11. Contractor’s Liability for Regulated Material Incidents.

The Contractor is solely liable for all expenses related to spills, mishandling, or incidents of regulated material attributable to its in/actions or the in/actions of its subcontractor(s). This includes all response, investigation, cleanup, disposal, permitting, reporting, and requirements from the appropriate environmental regulation agency/ies.

3.12. Pollution Spill Prevention, Notification, and Cleanup.

The Contractor shall develop measures to prevent spills of pollutants, and respond appropriately if a spill occurs. A pollutant includes any hazardous or non-hazardous substance that when spilled, will contaminate soil, surface water, or ground water. This includes any solvent, fuel, oil, paint, pesticide, engine coolants, and similar substances.

3.12.1. Spill Prevention, Notification and Cleanup Plan.

The Plan shall include the following:

A. Spill Prevention measures. Describe the work practices or precautions that will be used at the job site to prevent spills. These may include engineered or manufactured techniques such as installation of berms around fuel and oil tanks; storage of fuels, paints, and other substances in spill proof containers; and management techniques such as requiring workers to handle material in certain ways.

B. Notification. Most States and the Environmental Protection Agency require by regulation, that anyone who spills certain types of pollutants in certain quantities notify them of the spill within a specific time period. Some of these agencies require written follow-up reports and cleanup reports. Include in the Plan, the types of spills for which notification would be made, the agencies notified, the information the agency requires during the notification, the procedures for notifying the COR, and the telephone numbers for notification.

C. Employee Awareness Training. Describe employee awareness training procedures that will be implemented to ensure personnel are knowledgeable about the contents of the Plan and the need for notification.

D. Commitment of Manpower, Equipment and Material. Identify the arrangements made to respond to spills, including the commitment of manpower, equipment and material.

4. SAFETY

The Contractor shall ensure that all applicable laws and regulations are followed in terms of providing a safe working environment.

4.1. Conflicts in Requirements

If there is a conflict between the requirements of this PWS and applicable safety, health, or industrial laws and regulations or codes, the more stringent requirements shall prevail.

4.2. Compliance with Codes and Standards

Contractor shall comply with the latest effective OSHA Standards 29 CFR 1910 and other applicable laws and regulations. All OSHA standards shall apply, whether referenced or not.

4.3. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

The Contractor is responsible for identifying and providing personal protective equipment (PPE) for its employees, and for enforcing the use of said PPE in accordance with OSHA, and all other applicable laws and regulations.

4.4. Equipment

Equipment shall be designed, manufactured, maintained, and operated as required by OSHA 1926 and OSHA 1910 and the requirements of this section. Equipment shall be used only for the manufacturer's intended purpose. Contractor shall adhere to all manufacturers’ safety restrictions, warnings, and advisements.

4.4.1. Riding on Equipment.

Riding on equipment is prohibited unless a safe place to ride is provided. A safe place to ride is defined as a permanently affixed seat with passenger restraint device (this does not apply to ATVs). Getting on or off equipment while in motion is prohibited.

4.4.2. Brakes.

Brake checks shall be conducted daily on all equipment being used. The COR may require the Contractor to carry out a braking performance test on all onsite equipment.

4.4.3. Rollover Protective Structures and Seat Belts.

Agricultural and industrial tractors shall be equipped with the ROPS and seat belts, regardless of date of manufacture. Seat belts shall be worn when operating equipment that is required to be equipped with seat belts.

4.5. Contractor’s Safety and Health Program

The Contractor shall prepare and maintain an up-to-date Safety and Health Plan that complies with both Federal and State OSHA. The Contractor shall update and modify the plan as needed. The Field Superintendent(s) and Crew Foremen are responsible for ensuring that all work is performed in accordance with the plan.

The Contractor shall not begin work under this contract until its current Safety and Health Plan has been reviewed and is on file with the CO and COR. Any modifications required will be made prior to commencement of services. Approval of the plan, including amendments and supplements thereto, is for the purpose of determining compliance with the contract terms only, and shall not relieve the Contractor of the responsibility for the safety and health of persons and property.

The plan shall address the following items at minimum:

4.5.1. Identify precautions to protect the safety and health of employees and members of the public, and to prevent damage to public and private property.

4.5.2. Tailgate sessions conducted with all on-site workers at least weekly.

4.5.3. The leadership and employee responsibilities for carrying out the safety and health program.

4.5.4. The worksite communications plan.

4.5.5. Provision for first aid, medical care of injured employees, CPR and emergency response telephone numbers as required by OSHA.

4.5.6. Provision for training employees in the recognition and avoidance of unsafe conditions.

4.5.7. Fire protection procedures and facilities, including requirements in OSHA 1926, Subpart F, “Fire Protection and Prevention.”

4.5.8. Health and sanitation facilities.

4.5.9. Procedures for specific sequences of work to ensure adequate analysis of hazards and provision of protective measures (e.g., proper use and handling of treatment chemicals).

4.5.10. Provisions for the use and furnishing of PPE.

4.5.11. Company policy and procedures that address enforcing safety and health regulations.

4.5.12. Copy of the current Certificate of Compliance with Industrial Compensation Insurance statutes.

4.5.13. An Industrial Hygiene program that provides occupational health and environmental controls as required by OSHA.

4.5.14. A comprehensive daily inspection program for inspecting tools, equipment, and facilities. The inspection program shall document observed hazards and the corrective actions taken.

4.6. Failure to Comply

The Contractor’s failure to implement, monitor, and enforce its safety program and the requirements of its Safety and Health Plan and this PWS may result in the removal of the job superintendent, or may result in suspension of all or part of the work, or both. Western's failure to order discontinuance of the Contractor's operations shall not relieve the Contractor of responsibility for the safety and health of personnel and property.

4.7. Accident Records and Reporting

The Contractor shall maintain and furnish accurate records and reports to Western in a form and in the manner prescribed by the COR. The CO and COR shall receive verbal notification immediately and written reports are required within 8 hours of all job-related deaths, occupational diseases, traumatic injuries to employees or the public, and property damage caused by an accident as follows:

4.7.1. Job Related Injury/Illness.

Job-related injuries/illnesses to Contractor or subcontractor employees shall be reported to the CO and COR within 8 hours. Injuries/illnesses shall be posted to the OSHA 300 Log and OSHA Form 301 or as appropriate, and shall be available for review by the CO or COR upon request.

4.7.2. Public Injury.

Injuries to the public arising during Contractor’s performance under this contract shall be reported to the CO and COR within 8 hours of the incident.

4.7.3. Equipment and Motor Vehicle Accidents.

Worksite equipment and motor vehicle accidents, regardless of extent of injury or cost, shall be reported to the CO and COR.

4.7.4. Property Damage.

Property damage or loss in excess of $1,000 resulting from any accident shall be reported to the CO and COR immediately. Damage or loss of any kind to Government or public property, regardless of cost, shall be reported to the CO and COR immediately.

4.8. Accident Investigation

When requested by the CO or COR, the Contractor shall participate in investigation of any accidents or incidents, including “near-miss” incidents.

4.9. Worksite Communications

The Contractor shall have at least one working device (e.g., cellular or satellite phone) at each job site location at all times capable of communicating with the Government and emergency response units. If reception is not available at the work location, the nearest area of reception shall be identified.

5. WORKSITE FIRE SAFETY REQUIREMENTS

5.1. Fire Conditions

The CO, COR or other Government official may require the Contractor to cease operations at any time due to fire danger conditions. The Contractor shall incorporate all worksite fire safety requirements when necessary and any such costs shall be included in the Contractor’s bid..

5.2. Engines Equipped with Spark Arrestors

When working within National Forest boundaries, all internal and external combustion engines at the worksite shall be equipped with U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Forest Service approved spark arrestors on the exhaust. The arrestors must meet the requirements established by the SAE Standard J335 or USDA Forest Service Specification 5100-1. The Code of Federal Regulations, 36 CFR 261.52 and orders written by the USDA Forest Service line officers explain the requirements. The spark arrestors must be properly installed and maintained.

5.3. Other Fire Requirements

All equipment, including pickups, service vehicles, machines and equipment, shall be equipped with a shovel, water pump, and fire extinguisher, as required. No welding will occur on-site without prior approval of the COR. The Contractor shall follow all applicable fire regulations and restrictions issued by Federal and State agencies.

6. CONTRACTOR EMPLOYEE REQUIREMENTS

Employees shall be physically able and qualified to perform their assigned duties. Employees shall not work while their ability or alertness is impaired because of fatigue, illness, medications, drugs or alcohol, or any other reason that may expose them or others to injury. The Contractor shall provide the CO and COR with the names of all personnel performing work on this contract, their training and certifications held, and level of competency prior to performing work on the contract. No unidentified, unauthorized, or unqualified personnel are permitted on the work site premises.

The Contractor shall furnish an appropriate level of general management oversight, supervision, and administrative office service as is required to professionally and efficiently support all field personnel performing services under this contract. All written documentation, field reports, submittals, invoices, etc. shall be complete in required content and submitted in a timely manner.

The Contractor shall have a competent Field Superintendent or Crew Foreman on the work site at all times contract work is being performed by the Contractor or any of its subcontractor. The Field Superintendent or Crew Foreman shall be designated by the Contractor as an on-site representative authorized to act on the Contractor’s behalf. The Contractor’s on-site representative shall be familiar with the Contractor’s work and fire management practices and Western’s requirements. The field superintendent or foreman shall be available to the COR to exchange real time information or receive technical instructions regarding work under the contract. The on-site representative must be able to fluently speak and understand English, both orally and in writing, and be able to fluently communicate with all on-site workers. The on-site representative shall provide a phone number to Western where he/she can be contacted 24 hours per day, 7 days a week.

The Contractor shall ensure that each employee entering the worksite has the appropriate knowledge, training and experience, as well as the certifications, skills, and competency necessary to safely perform their assigned tasks. The Contractor shall be responsible for training its employees in the proper techniques to be used during application of the pole preservative chemicals, and safety procedures to be followed when handling them, for the employee’s safety as well as ensuring general public safety.

6.1. Field Superintendent/Crew Foreman

The field superintendent/crew foreman shall be able to demonstrate previous experience and competency in their assigned duties, and demonstrate a working knowledge of such. The field superintendent/crew foreman shall have strong working knowledge of applicable OSHA safety standards. One of the field superintendent's/crew foreman’s primary responsibilities shall be to provide continuous oversight and supervision of all onsite work activities. The field superintendent/crew foreman shall maintain contact with local Western representatives as directed by the COR. The field superintendent/crew foreman shall also maintain a working relationship with project related land managers and landowners and those who represent various Federal, State, local government and private interests.

6.2. Contractor’s Inspectors

The Contractor’s inspectors shall have the experience and competency commensurate with the requirements in this PWS. The Government has the right to require replacement of an inspector that does not demonstrate experience and competency in transmission line wood pole inspections.

6.3. Equipment Operators

Contractor employees operating motor vehicles and other equipment shall be licensed in accordance with applicable laws and regulations, and shall be able to produce applicable current license and experience documentation upon request commensurate with the equipment they are operating. Equipment operators shall at all times use the equipment in accordance with manufacturer’s guidelines.

6.4. Pesticide/Preservative Applicators

The Contractor’s pesticide/preservative applicator shall hold a valid Qualified Applicator Certificate or a Qualified Applicator License for the State within which the work is being performed. All herbicide treatments shall be in full compliance with applicable laws and regulations. The pesticide/preservative applicator shall complete and file all required reports and any other incidental requirements, with a copy to the CO and COR. To assist in work scheduling and orientation, the COR will require 7 calendar days prior notification before the start of any herbicide application.

6.5. Subcontractors

All terms of this contract shall apply to the subcontract. The subcontractor must be knowledgeable of and work under the Contractor’s Safety Plan and comply with all prescribed rules and requirements. The Contractor shall provide information to the CO and COR detailing the qualifications, duties, schedules and number of the subcontractor employees proposed to work under this contract.

It is the Contractor’s responsibility to maintain close surveillance over all personnel, including its subcontractors, employed to perform work under this contract. The Contractor’s Quality Control Plan shall address the management of subcontractor resources when applicable.

6.6. Contacts

Contacts with Federal and State agencies shall be coordinated through the COR and contacts with private landowners will be coordinated through the Contractor. Western will provide the Contractor with a list of landowners within the project area. The Contractor will be required to coordinate access and notification with individual landowners, except those areas requiring escort by a government employee shall be coordinated at least 1 week in advance with the COR.

7. ACCESSING AND PROTECTING WORK SITES

It is the Contractor’s responsibility to investigate the condition of available public and private roads and clearances, restrictions, bridge-load limits, railroads crossings, bond requirements, and other limitations that may affect transportation and ingress and egress at the job sites. Unavailability of transportation facilities or limitations thereon shall not become a basis for claims for damages or extension of completion time. The contractor is responsible for the repair of all roads, fences, and structures damaged as a result of Contractor’s work performed under this contract.

The Contractor shall cease activities and leave private property if requested to do so by a landowner. The Contractor shall immediately notify the COR of such request and the situation will be resolved by Western personnel.

7.1. Rights-of-Way (ROWs)

Western’s ROWs for access to the work vary, and will be provided for each area after award. The Contractor shall confine its work activities to within the existing ROW limits on each transmission line segment. Western will furnish the ROW for the transmission line and the ROW for access thereto over routes established by Western. The Contractor may not be able to gain access to every structure site or travel continuously along the transmission line.

7.2. Access Easements

Access roads from existing public roads to the transmission line and some off-ROW accesses along the transmission line exist. These off-ROW access routes are to provide access to the transmission line structure sites not accessible by traveling the transmission line.

7.3. Work on ROWs or Access Roads

Excavation, dozing, or blading is not allowed unless authorized in writing by the COR. Unauthorized excavation, dozing, or blading shall immediately be repaired by the Contractor. If the Contractor fails to make timely repairs, Western has the option to have the damage repaired by others and charge the Contractor for such costs.

7.4. Existing Roads

Existing roads are available for use, subject to applicable restrictions. The Contractor is required to meet all conditions imposed upon the use of existing roads by those having jurisdiction, including seasonal and other limitations or restrictions, the payment of excess size and weight fees, and the posting of bonds conditioned upon repair of road damage caused by the Contractor. The Contractor shall repair all water control features (e.g., water bars, low water crossings, outsourcing) to pre-work conditions.

7.5. Existing Fences

Fences on ROWs shall be maintained appropriately and left in the same condition as found. The COR may, from time to time, authorize the Contractor to temporarily remove fences until work is completed. All gates shall be left open if found open, or re-locked/shut if found locked or shut.

7.6. Railroads, Highways, and Utility Lines

The Contractor shall make necessary provisions to avoid interference with the operation or maintenance of railroads, highways, and overhead utility lines, including transmission, telegraph, and telephone lines, in a manner satisfactory to the owners or operators thereof and to Western. If required, the Contractor shall furnish liability insurance, indemnity and other bonds, and secure any required permits.

7.7. Electric Power and Water

The Contractor shall make arrangements and provide all electric power and water for its purposes to perform under this contract.

8. INSPECTION AND TREATMENT PRACTICES

8.1. General

See Section 2, Scope of Services. Poles found to be in good condition and meeting the circumference requirements shall be given treatment. No treatment shall be applied to rejected poles. Replacement of rejected poles is not covered by this Contract and will be accomplished by others. No testing or treatment shall be performed on poles that have an original treatment tag from the pole manufacturer dated within the past 10 years. No climbing of the poles or use of an aerial lift is required.

The Contractor may reject a pole that passes the requirements of this section, if in its expert opinion, conditions of the pole warrant rejection. Rejection shall be noted on the report as “Recommended Rejection,” and the reason shall be stated in the comment column. The pole shall also be marked as specified in Section 8.7 below.

8.2. Above Ground Inspection

"Above ground line inspection of poles" shall include the cost of visually inspecting and reporting the condition of the poles, from ground line to pole top, for all wood poles of the identified transmission lines listed in Exhibit A; and also include the marking of poles that are determined to be rejected. Contractor shall mark poles as specified in Section 8.7.

8.2.1. Visual Inspection

That portion of each pole above ground line shall first be visually inspected from the ground for lightning damage, surface rot, vandalism, or other types of damage. This inspection shall include a visual examination of the structure crossarm, X-brace, and hardware. All visual observation of damage, such as broken structural members, broken insulators, worn or rusting hardware components, cracked crossarms, etc., shall be documented and reported as specified herein.

8.2.2. Pole Damage

Poles shall be considered unserviceable and shall be rejected, subject to the COR’s approval, when one or more of the following conditions is found:

A. Severe structural damage by lightning or by mechanical causes.

B. Excessive checking, cracking, or splitting.

C. Excessive insect, bird, or animal damage.

D. Excessive external decay or shell rot (exceeding 50 percent of the pole’s circumference).

E. Excessive internal decay or internal insect damage.

8.2.3. Internal Decay Inspection

A. Sounding Poles: If not rejected for conditions observed in the visual inspection, each pole shall be checked for internal decay by striking the pole squarely and firmly with a 1- or 2-pound hammer all around the pole, from ground line to as high as can be reached, while listening to the sound. In judging the condition of the pole from the hammer soundings, consideration and allowances shall be made for such things as checks, shakes, loose slivers, guys, load carried, wood density, and moisture content, which may affect or alter resonance.

B. Boring Poles: If, from the soundings or other evidence, internal rot or insect damage is suspected, but not obvious, the pole shall be bored and evaluated as described in Section 8.4, to confirm or deny the suspicions and to determine the extent of the damage. All holes bored for evaluation purposes shall be plugged with approved tight-fitting, cylindrical plastic plugs. Poles determined to contain internal decay and that pass all tests stated in Section 8.4, shall be treated as specified in Section 8.9.

8.3. Below Ground Inspection

"Below ground line inspection of poles" shall include the cost of excavating, inspecting, evaluating, and reporting the below ground line condition of the pole, backfilling, and marking the pole if it is rejected during inspection. No below ground inspection shall be performed on poles that were through-bored in the groundline area prior to original treatment at the plant, or that are 10 years old or younger.

8.3.1. Excavation

Each pole passing the above ground line inspection shall be excavated and inspected below the ground line. Where rock has been placed around the pole, the rock shall be removed and stockpiled for replacement. Where old kraft paper wrap from previous external treatment exists, the wrap shall be carefully removed so as not to damage the wood. The existing wrap may be disposed around the pole by placing it around the pole circumference at least 24 inches below the ground surface, in order to provide room to perform other required inspection and treatment work. If the pole wrap is not disposed of in this manner, it must be removed from the site and disposed of properly in accordance with applicable laws and regulations. Dirt shall be removed from exposed surfaces of the pole, using extreme care not to damage the wood or disturb or cut the ground wire or ground rod.

8.3.2. Examination of Pole

Surface of the exposed pole shall be gently probed with a blunt tool to determine if the wood is sound and firm, or whether external decay is present as evidenced by soft, spongy wood. Soft, spongy wood shall be further examined by feel and smell to determine if it is brittle and crumbly, or if its softness is due to being wet. If surface decay is present, as determined by the probing and visual examinations, its extent shall be determined by removing all decayed wood by scraping and chipping, being careful not to remove firm or sound wood. An axe or hatchet shall not be used for this purpose.

8.3.3. Sounding and Boring Poles

Each pole at and to 18 inches below the ground line shall be sounded for possible internal decay. Three radial borings, 13/16-inch diameter, 120° apart, shall be made around the pole in a spiral, with one of the borings beginning at least 18 inches below ground line at a downward angle as shown on Drawing #41 9103 in Exhibit C. Cuttings from these borings shall be carefully examined for evidence of internal rot. On previously treated poles, borings shall be made into two of the three previously bored holes, completely removing the treated wood plug. The third boring shall be made into solid wood to aid determination of internal decay. Holes bored in the poles shall be treated and plugged as specified in Section 8.9.

8.4. Evaluating Pole Condition

The decision to treat or replace a pole shall depend upon the remaining strength or serviceability of the pole. Allowable reduced circumference of a pole shall be the measure of serviceability. Exhibit B, Table 1 shows pole circumference safety factors and the relationship between reduced circumference and reduced safety factors. Tables 2, 3, and 4 show the reductions in measured pole circumferences to compensate for external pockets, hollow heart, and enclosed pockets, respectively. The reduced circumference may be an actual measurement or a measurement adjusted to compensate for loss of sound wood due to external pockets, hollow heart, and enclosed pockets.

8.4.1. Decay

Pole safety factors resulting from an actual reduction in sound wood circumference due to external decay shall be determined directly from Exhibit 3, Table 1. Factors for other categories of decay as shown in Exhibit 3, Tables 2, 3, and 4 shall be applied to Table 1 to determine the overall adjusted, reduced circumference, and corresponding pole safety factor. If the "reduced circumference" indicates a pole safety factor less than specified at the bottom of Table 1, the pole shall be reported as needing replacement. Poles meeting or exceeding the specified safety factors shall be treated as specified under Section 8.9. Decay shall be evaluated, classified, and reported as follows:

A. External Decay

External decay is defined as decay extending around the pole so as to cover a shallow area on the pole circumference in excess of 6 inches long. When evaluating the pole condition, general shell rot shall not be considered as external decay. After cutting away all decayed wood, a measurement shall be taken of the circumference above or below the decayed section to determine the original circumference. A measurement shall then be taken around the pole where the decay was removed to determine the reduction in circumference. The original and reduced circumference shall then be checked with Exhibit 3, Table 1.

B. External Pocket

If the external decay is limited to a portion of the pole circumference not exceeding 6 inches in width and 5 inches in depth, it shall be classified an "external pocket." Decayed wood shall be removed, measurements taken of the depth and width of the pocket, and reference made to Exhibit 3, Table 2 to determine the corresponding circumference reduction factor. After the circumference reduction factor is determined, measure the pole for the original circumference and check the original and the adjusted reduced circumference with Exhibit 3, Table 1. For more than one external decay pocket, figure each pocket separately and add factors to get the total reduction.

C. Hollow Heart

When hollow heart is found,…