Attachment 3 - Questions and Answers.pdf

RAF Mildenhall – Cargo Storage Racking System Questions

1. Do you require a single run or back-to-back runs? Single run was agreed but good to get formal clarification.

Clarifying what you mean by a single run. We only need the system to be one pallet position deep.

2. What orientation do you store pallets? 1200 or 1000mm facing outwards?

We normally have the pallets oriented at their wideset side. 463L pallet dimensions are 88" X 108" or W 2235 mm x L 2743 mm. We would need each pallet bay to be around 2500mm wide.

3. Do you require a bottom beam level or is the bottom pallet stored on the floor?

A bottom beam level would work. Basically built in dunnage for the bottom so we don’t have to worry about that. We really just need support for the pallets.

4. Do you require infill panels for the beam levels? If so wood or steel infills?

Metal infills would be ideal for safety. However, since 463L pallets will provide the foundation the panels do not need to hold more than a few hundred pounds.

5. Do you require a anti collapse rear mesh to avoid items falling behind racking?

We do not require them, but that is an option to look at. Most the items being stored will be large.

6. Do you require column guards?

Column guards are another option that we can look at. Not a requirement, but maybe a safety measure and to help prolong the integrity of the system. The guards will also make each bay to be larger than normal. This may affect the number of positions we can achieve between the bay doors.

7. What is the maximum weight per beam level required? FYI Each beam level will store 2 pallets?

Ideally, we would like each pallet position to be able to hold 8,000 pounds. The reason for this being so high is due to how heavy chains and device pallets can be. Shoring kits can also become quite heavy and restricting the units capabilities could cause issues in the future.

8. Will the racking need to be bolted to the floor?

This will depend on your design, however due to the weight baring requirements we anticipate that the racking would be bolted to the floor. The necessary CES work request have been submitted for this approval.

9. Is there access to power on site i.e. to charge power tools / plug in extension cord for hammer drill?

The warehouse does have power outlets to charge power tools, however as far as possible we would prefer that cordless tools be used. These are less likely to pose a tripping hazard than having extension cords over the floor. The warehouse will be fully operational while this racking is being installed.

10. What are the working hours? Is it 7.30 am to 4.30 pm BST?

Personnel are here from 06:00 to 23:00 seven days per week. Escort arrangements can be made if required. Early in the morning is preferred to avoid congestion at the gate.

11. Will the government provide Security clearance and access pass at the time of installation? If yes, will it be daily or weekly passes?

If the vendor does not already have the required base pass, then SFS can issue a weekly pass to be escorted on to base, however the vendor would need to be meet a member of the 727 AMS at the visitor’s center each day to be escorted to B599 and off the installation at the end of the day. No unescorted passes can be provided for this requirement

12. On arrival of materials at site will the USAF provide storage?

Yes, we are fortunate that we do have the space to provide storage. This would need to be coordinated in advance. The vendor needs to offload these materials in case of any damage occurring. Our government forklifts cannot be utilized to offload any materials.

13. Time of order installation and processing expected for 2024 or 2025?

As soon as possible, however we are aware that fabrication times for metal components can have a 12–16-week lead time, therefore realistically we appreciate that the work probably won’t happen until

14. What is the preferred Lead time for fabrication and installation?

As mentioned above having dealt with many acquisitions we know that this will take several weeks for fabrication. This racking is a mission priority therefore a short timeline is preferred and would be considered as a cost off-set against low bid if contracting regulations allow.

15. Confirm if the rack is definitely single-sided and not double-sided and if requirement to access from one side or both sides?

Single sided. Only need access from one side.

16. The Placement of pallets will be directly on the floor, or they need a bottom beam to level?

Same as question 3. A bottom beam level would work. Basically built in dunnage for the bottom so we don’t have to worry about that. We really just need support for the pallets.

17. Requirement of column guards and an anti-collapse mesh at the rear to prevent items from falling behind the racking?

Refer to questions above.

18. Do you require RAMS -Risk Assessments? – such as fencing, lighting, and covering over the area.

Yes, both RAMs and Method Statement will be required. These are basic project requirements. Our unit Safety Officer will review to ensure they comply. Safety of our and the vendors personnel is a critical requirement

19. What is the Strength for the shelfs - The maximum weight per beam level?

Each pallet position should be able to hold 8000 lbs.

20. The requirements for Infill panels required for the beam levels. Do you need wood or steel?

Refer to questions above.

21. Any electrical work requirements – if yes, is approval needed and what are the requirements?

Currently no plans for any electrical systems.

22. Do you need Waste storage and removal also?

Yes, this is already mentioned in the SOW in para 4.5. All waste such as packing materials will need to be removed from site and disposed of in compliance with environmental directives. No government skips will be provided.