FA282325Q3015 Window Blinds Shades Replace and Repair QA.pdf

After reviewing the Statement of Work and participating in the site visit, we respectfully request clarification on the following items:

1. Product Substitution – Crank Gear Mechanism Section 2.2 specifies the installation of 39 non-motorized blinds controlled via a clutch/chain system. We request clarification on whether an alternate product configuration may be proposed. Specifically, we recommend substituting the specified chain-and-clutch system with a crank gear mechanism. This change would reduce the number of required units from 39 to 24, while providing a more durable and safe operating system.

Our concern is that the requested large shades with a chain-and-clutch system are outside of nearly all manufacturers’ specifications. While such units could be fabricated, they would be subject to significant warranty limitations and higher risk of failure due to clutch and chain components not designed for oversized applications.

In contrast, a crank gear mechanism is purpose-built for large, heavy-duty shades and offers:

• Performance & Durability: Gearing amplifies force, making it significantly easier to lift heavy shades with minimal effort, ensuring smoother, more consistent performance over time.

• Longevity: Designed for frequent, heavy use, gear mechanisms have greater weight capacity and longer service life compared to clutch systems.

• Safety: Crank systems are cordless, eliminating the safety hazards of chain loops and ensuring compliance with child safety standards.

• Aesthetics: Provides a clean, minimalist appearance with no exposed chain.

• Ease of Use: Crank handles offer accessible operation, particularly for tall windows or areas with limited reach.

We respectfully request confirmation if the Government will consider acceptance of this alternate system under the current solicitation.

Government accepts alternate system recommendation.

2. Demolition – Electrical Disconnects Within Section 2.1 (Demolition/Removal), the SOW requires removal of all existing mechanical shades, including drums, mounts, electronic controls, and associated hardware. During the site walk, it was determined that the existing units are AC-powered.

Disconnecting and terminating these electrical connections safely will require a licensed electrician to perform the work in accordance with code.

Please confirm whether:

• The Government prefers that base or building personnel familiar with existing electrical plans perform this work, or

• The contractor should source the qualified electrical technicians as part of the project scope.

Clarification will help us align with the Government’s safety requirements and avoid hazards during demolition.

The contractor must source a qualified electrician as part of the scope.

3. Work Hours – Weekend Access The SOW (Section 3) specifies normal duty hours of Monday–Friday, 0730–1700. Since the installation requires closing stairwell access, we request clarification if weekend work may be authorized in order to minimize disruption to facility operations. We believe this adjustment would allow the project to be completed more efficiently and with less intrusion to building occupants.

No weekend access will be provided for this requirement. One stairwell will be shut-down at a time to ensure life-safety requirements are met during POP.