ARRA Roof Amend 0001 Questions and Answers10-27-2009.pdf

RFP GS-08P-09-JA-C-0062 RECOVERY Roof Mounted Grid Tied PV System, Buildings 20, 56, 810

Questions and Answers (Answers in RED)

1. Is there lead based paint?

Testing for lead based paint has not been conducted for this project. Contractor shall comply with OSHA and with environmental procedures specified for “Construction, Excavation, & Hazardous Waste Management” located in the specifications and also the Addendum to the Dig Permit included in this amendment .

2. For photovoltaic work what are the work classifications per the Davis Bacon?

Contractors are responsible for establishing their work classifications.

Contractors should visit the Dept of Labor web site, www.dol.gov, for further information.

3. Can proposals be hand carried/delivered?

Yes, see RFP Page 60 of 66, Section 00800, Paragraph 8. Hand delivered to Bldg 41, second floor, ambassador’s desk.

4. If there is a sunny/cloudy year with a photovoltaic are there penalties?

The PV arrays are required to meet the Contractor’s proposed production based upon a PVWATTS expectation for sun’s energy. A correction to production will be made for sunny and cloudy and snow to address this impact. Systems that are underperforming will be required to correct this deficiency.

5. Does the contractor receiving the award prepare Xcel Rebate Paperwork and submit for the rebate?

See Specifications Section 2, Paragraph 6, Utility Interconnection Agreement.

6. Commission of the array, is that required by a third party?

No. See Specification Section 2 changes in this amendment which clarifies the requirements to Paragraph 10.3 Final Inspection and Tests.

7. Does there need to be an independent party for the electrical inspection?

See Specification Section 2 changes in this amendment which clarifies the requirements to Paragraph 10.3 Final Inspection and Tests.

8. Regarding performance monitoring by GSA and by contractor’s web based monitoring system. Will there be firewall issues?

GSA expects that the provided meter to allow for two taps to be made for output.

One tap will go to the GSA advanced monitoring system that is behind GSA’s firewall and the other tap is for the Contractor to link to their system that will provide a publicly accessible web-based monitoring system. The Contractor will also be tapping into each inverter to obtain other performance data for the web-based monitoring system. The link is the Contractor responsibility as GSA cannot provide an internet link or GSA phone line for this service. See also additional information provided by this amendment to Specification Section 2, Paragraph 8.4 PV Monitoring.

9. The Section 3 specifications do not allow torching or heat welding of the membranes; this may be in conflict with obtaining a 20 yr warranty?

See Specification Section 3 changes in this amendment, this requirement has been modified.

10. Is there a minimum thickness on the dense deck?

See Specification Section 3, Paragraph 1.3.1 Reference, and the RM for their roofing system design which shall indicate required thickness for their protection board.

11. Will the roof parapet heights accommodate the RF50 insulation thickness?

Building 20 has a non-structural parapet/edge flashing and it is expected this will be redesigned by the contractor to accommodate the new roof. Building 50 has edge flashing and it is expected this will be redesigned by the contractor to accommodate the new roof. See Specification Section 3 changes in this amendment for details.

12. Is there a form/place in the proposal to estimate salvage vs. new installation of insulation?

No. Any contemplated recycling should be included in your overall price.

Contractor assumes the risk of complying with the performance specifications.

13. What if the rooftop is unable to accommodate the system? Is there a fall back plan?

The preliminary structural analysis provided in the documents indicates capacities that would allow designs to accommodate the performance objectives of this project. Contractors are required to prepare prudent designs utilizing this information.

14. Are there guidelines/LEED direction for recycled content?

GSA encourages recycled content in product selection per specifications. There are no selection criteria to favor this activity.

15. On Building 810, are attachments to the corrugated metal roof allowed, since attachments and penetrations to the valleys is not allowed?

Yes attachments to the corrugated metal roof and concrete substructure are expected and they are required to be water proofed per specification.

16. Explain the difference between minimum energy production per the contract and contractors proposed energy production.

Contractors are required to produce the proposed energy production and this proposed energy production must at least be equal to or greater than the minimum specified.

17. Is the project part of the Xcel Solar Rewards programs?

GSA is considering proposing the sale of this project’s Renewable Energy Credits in Xcel Energy’s Large Solar Rewards Program. This is why the project must comply with the requirements of this program. See Specification Section 2, Paragraph 6, Utility Interconnection Agreement.

18. Is there an estimated award date for the contract?

Contractors shall refer to Standard Form 1442/Solicitation/Offer/Award Paragraph 13d. Offers providing less than 60 calendar days for government acceptance after the date offers are due will not be considered and will be rejected. Therefore GSA anticipates an award within this period.

19. Is there a minimum number of days from Notice of Award to Notice to Proceed.

The contractor shall commence with their design activities following Notice of Award. Notice to Proceed is associated with the construction/installation portion of this contract which is dependent upon the awardee’s work schedule.

20. Building 810. The metal roof is attached to purlins that appear to be 4' on center. I can't locate the purlins on the drawings. Can you provide me with a detail on the purlins that shows their dimensions and how they are attached to the concrete? Additionally, can you tell me the wind loading requirements they were designed to meet?

GSA does not have drawings on the corrugated metal attachment details. All Contractors shall make field verifications during the design process to make structurally prudent decisions.

21. How will GSA evaluate a bidder whose submitted design, based on the site visit and review of the provided data, does not meet the minimum production requirements stated in the RFP?

Proposals not adhering to the requirements of the RFP will be deemed non-responsive and therefore will not be eligible for award.

22. Will GSA award the entire contract to one bidder or is GSA considering splitting the award among more than one bidder? Along those same lines, may a bidder indicate that portions of its bid are not available as stand alone, but only in combination with other parts of the bid? For example, if a bidder provides the required breakdown for modules, but is not interested in supplying modules without the installation of the modules; will the bid be compliant if the bidder indicate that modules will only be supplied if the bidder is the installer?

GSA will award this project to one Contractor who will comply with all performance requirements of this solicitation. Contractor shall price all CLINS or will be deemed non-responsive.

23. Will GSA consider a bid that does not propose on each distinct piece? For example, will GSA consider a bid that proposes solar arrays on only two of the three roofs?

No, see answer #22 above.

24. If, as of the date of submission, bidder does not have a firm turnkey solution for one of the roof systems, may they propose a conceptual solution for that specific roof?

Per the proposal requirements a ‘concept design and information’ is required to be submitted for each individual roof. All detailed solutions will be determined during the design process.

25. Can you clarify the proposal submission requirements regarding the number of originals and copies? SF 1442 13a indicates 1 original and 7 copies, while page 61 of the solicitation states 1 original and 4 copies of the technical proposal, and 1 original and 1 copy of the price proposal.

Change Page 61 to read Part One-technical proposals (one original and seven copies of the proposal).

26. The NAICS Code is for manufacturers of PV equipment. Is this RFP limited to companies who manufacture modules being the Prime?

At time of award, the prime contractor must list the NAICS Code 334413 in the Central Contractor Registration (CCR). GSA is not dictating the type of contractor.

27. Listing of “Proposals Shall Include the Following:” on page 60 of 66 is missing items E and F. Are there instructions which have been lost?

There are no items E and F. This was a typographical error.

28. Please clarify the number of copies required in each envelop of the proposal submittal as there are conflicting instructions.

See answer #25 above.

29. On page 61 of 66 a sentence reads: “Factor 1 is slightly more important than Factor 2, Factor 2 is equal in importance to Factor 3, and when combined are approximately equal in importance to Price.” Is the combination referred to 1, 2 and 3 or just 2 and 3?

All three factors combined are approximately equal in importance to price.

30. Also on page 61 of 66 one sentence reads: “These pages will be assessed starting from front to back regardless of any included Table of Content instructions or other directions.” Another reads: “Additionally, Cover letters, references, Tables of Content or dividers DO NOT count toward the six (6) page limitation.” Please confirm that the Table of Content does not count as one of the six pages.

Confirmed; as long as it does not include specific information concerning the evaluation factors involved.

31. PV Monitoring – A web-based public monitoring system is described. Will the Contractor be expected to provide a cell modem or similar for connection to the internet or can one expect there will be a router connected to the internet with appropriate firewall allowances for this purpose?

See Specification Section 2 changes in this amendment Paragraph 8.4.

Contractor is expected to provide a cell modem or similar for connection to the internet.

32. PV Monitoring – Parameters are listed for monitoring and display including “Show status of all equipment.” Equipment status monitoring is available for individual solar modules only with the use of micro inverters. String-level monitoring of solar modules is available with “smart combiner boxes”.

Is this level of monitoring and display required?

Status of all equipment is intended to mean all inverters. String level monitoring is not required.

33. Commissioning requires string-level measurements of voltage, current and irradiance “to confirm proper performance”. In actuality, to confirm proper performance, cell temperature should be measured as well. Will this be required?

No, not for this level of commissioning.

34. With respect to the use of any traditional monocrystalline and/or polycrystalline PV modules, may the PV modules be manufactured outside of the U.S. so long as they meet all of the other requirements specified by the GSA in the RFP?

35. With respect to the PV portion of the project, by cost, what percent of the PV hardware must be manufactured in the U.S.?

36. In what electronic format should the conceptual drawings be submitted?

For evaluation purposes only, electronic format is not allowed. Concept and one-line drawings are to be submitted in hard copy only.

37. What percentage of the award criteria is based upon the submitted turnkey project price?

See answer to #29 above.

38. Besides project price, what are the other award criteria and what are their relative weightings?

See answer #29 above.

39. With respect to a Joint Venture being certified by the SBA, What are the requirements of being certified by the SBA for a Joint Venture agreement?

See Page 61 of 66, contact appropriate SBA official for Joint Venture guidance.

40. Paragraph 2.6.3 - R-50 Insulation Requirement – A minimum R-50, roughly 8.5” of ISO insulation may not be achievable on Building 56 unless the existing edge height can be raised to accommodate the thickness of the new insulation and cover board. The same may be true of Building 20.

Will the contractor have permission to raise the edge heights if required to meet the insulation R-Value requirements?

See answer #11 above.

41. To make the roof assembly compliant with UL 790 Class A fire resistance requirements, a ½” (minimum) layer of gypsum board should be installed directly above the steel roof decks and below the insulation. Will the Government place a higher value, for purposes of award determination, on a roof assembly that meets UL Class A requirements?

No higher value will be given. A Class A rating is required. See Specification Section 3 changes in this amendment.

42. R-50 Insulation Requirement – ISO insulation is known to lose up to 20% of its initial R-value over time. Will the Government place a higher value, for purposes of award determination, on insulation material which will maintain an R-50 value over the warranty period for the new roof?

No higher value will be given. All roofing replacement designs will provide for a minimum installed insulation value of R-50.

43. Paragraph 6.2 – Roofing Manufacturer Warranty – The specification calls for a minimum 20-year NDL warranty from the Roofing Manufacturer. Will the Government place a higher value, for purposes of award determination, on a single-source warranty which covers both the new roofing and the installed PV for the same 20-year period?

No higher value will be given.

44. Paragraph 3.1.1 Bond breaker - If the bond-breaker (rosin paper) is not required by the manufacturer for warranty purposes, can this specification requirement be waived? The NRCA does not require or recommend the use of rosin paper over steel decks. Both Buildings 20 and 56 are wholly comprised of 22 gauge steel decks in the areas to be re-roofed, according to the documents provided.

The use of the rosin paper is based upon determinations of the roofing manufacturer’s proposed roofing system. Some type of bond-breaker is required to prevent bonding of the material to the roof deck.

45. Should the cost of the annual roofing inspection services include the specified, twice-annual inspections for the full 20-year warranty period?

A five year, twice annual inspection will be required. See Specification Section 3 revisions in this amendment.

46. Paragraph 3.3 appears to state that the penthouse metal parapet cap (it does not state whether this is for Building 20 or Building 56) is unsuitable and should be replaced. However, the project drawings state that all penthouse areas are NIC (not in contract). Will the Government clarify the intent here? The requirement, as described, will not make the penthouse roof eligible for warranty unless the entire roof system at the penthouse is replaced. Please state whether this applies to Building 20, 56 or both.

The reference to the penthouse flashing was in error. See Specification Section 3 revisions in this amendment.

47. Paragraph 3.4 appears to state that ALL building perimeter edge metal detailing (metal coping cap and metal gravel stops) is to be removed and replaced. It does not state what it is to be replaced with. Is the contractor to re-use the existing perimeter sheet metal flashings (if possible) or is all new sheet metal desired? If new sheet metal, please state the criteria, as costs can vary widely depending on the type, thickness, color and profile of the sheet metal and the attachment methods. Please refer to question 1 above, the answer to which may determine whether a coping cap or gravel stop detail can be used.

The requirement for the perimeter edge metal flashing has been revised. See Specification Section 3 revisions in this amendment.

48. Paragraph 2.6.9 - SRI. Will the Government, for purposes of award determination, place a higher value on a membrane which includes a 10-year warranty for maintaining an SRI value of 78?

No higher value will be given. The SRI of the product must meet the reference specification standards by ASTM and CRRC-1.

49. Paragraph 2.6.5 - The specified Harmer cast aluminum retrofit roof drain inserts appear to be furnished by a UK based company, called Alumasc. http://www.alumasc-exteriors.co.uk/drainage/totaldrainageoffer.aspx Will this meet the stated http://www.alumasc-exteriors.co.uk/drainage/totaldrainageoffer.aspx http://www.alumasc-exteriors.co.uk/drainage/totaldrainageoffer.aspx requirements of the Buy America Act? If not, can the Government indicate which US made products would be an approved equal?

Since this project is not a retrofit the specified Harmer product is not required.

See Specification Section 3 revisions in this amendment.

50. Paragraph 2.6.4 states that “torch or heat welded roof membrane applications are prohibited”. Please note that heat-welding of membrane lap seams is required by most US-based manufacturers of SBS, TPO or PVC membranes for 20-year warranty applications and is recommended by the NRCA for field membrane laps and for flashings. Welding can be accomplished without open flames by utilizing hot-air welding equipment.

Will the use of hot-air welding equipment be permitted?

This prohibition has been revised see Specification Section 3 revisions in this amendment.

51. There is no mention in the specification regarding hail-damage warranty coverage for either the roof membrane or the photo-voltaics. Hail represents a clear danger to both roof membranes and to solar panels, as events in the recent past have shown. Will the Government place a higher value, for purposes of award determination, on roofing and solar panel solutions that provide (and clearly specify) hail-damage warranty coverage as part of the overall roof warranty?

No higher value will be provided. Appropriate hail damage protection shall be provided with the use of a protection cover-board in accordance with the RM roofing system design.

52. What is to be the basis for award determination; lowest cost, best value or some other basis? Please clarify.

This is a best value procurement. See page 60 of 66, Section 00800, Paragraph 8.

53. Regarding environmental procedures and Dig Permit, can the CABI (Certified Asbestos Building Inspector) be a contractor’s employee.

Yes, however the CABI must be properly qualified and approved. See Specification Section Dig Permit revisions in this amendment.

CHANGES TO: REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL, SPECIFICATION,

DRAWINGS AND DIG PERMIT

RFP

Section 00800 SPECIAL CONTRACT REQUIREMENTS, Subsection 8, Proposal Submission/Evaluation Page 63 of 66, C. FACTOR 3 – ADDITIONAL PRIMARY EVALUATION ISSUES.

Second Sentence: Change “ …under Section 3 of the Specifications” to “…under Section 2 of the Specifications.”

Project Specifications

Section 1, General Requirements Page 4 of 6 to 5 of 6

Delete Paragraphs: Electronic Project Management, Submittal Processing, and Clarifications/Requests for Information/Change Orders.

Replace with the following:

ELECTRONIC PROJECT MANAGEMENT, ePM

0.0 PURPOSE

GSA will require the Contractor to utilize an Enterprise electronic Project Management (e- PM) system on this project. GSA’s goal is to implement this state-of-the art technology to reduce administrative and overhead costs, eliminate redundancies, and institute a collaboration tool to ensure better accountability among all project team members. This technology will provide up-to-date information, encourage disciplined methods for monitoring progress, ensure better communication regarding changes, provide improved documentation, and enable PBS executives to have real-time access to status of projects.

1.0 DEFINITION

e-PM is defined as an internet-based information and project communication system that allows the entire project team to collaborate in a centralized and secured repository. All project-specific correspondence, workflow processes, and documentation will be stored and routed within the ePM system.

2.0 PROJECT DOCUMENTATION

The Contractor is required to timely and accurately post, review, respond, and collaborate with other team members using the following features and/or workflow processes within the ePM system:

Project Team Directory – Contractor shall provide an updated directory of contact information for all companies, subcontractors and project team members who are engaged on this project.

Schedules – Contractor shall post, review, and/or respond to CPM schedule updates within the ePM system.

Meeting Minutes – Contractor shall enter meeting agendas, records and minutes in the system for all applicable meetings as designated by the GSA PM.

Project Correspondence – Contractor shall manage and maintain all incoming and outgoing correspondence and associated logs for all correspondence related to the project.

Budget and Cost Management – Contractor to provide estimates and work breakdown structure (WBS) to provide GSA with accurate budget/cost analysis.

Contract Management – Contractor to provide administration of all contract tasks related to the project.

Pay Applications Requests (Invoices) – The Contractor shall create invoices for review by GSA. Once the invoices are agreed to by GSA then the invoices should be submitted to GSA per the instructions given by the Contracting Officer.

Progress Photos – Contractor shall upload all progress photos into the system.

Permits & Approvals – Contractor shall upload and maintain current copies of all permits and agency approvals that relate to the project.

Design Drawings/Design Packages – Contractor shall submit design drawings and design packages into the system.

Design Review Comments – Contractor shall post and/or respond to design comments related to his/her role in the project team

Daily/Progress Reports – The Contractor identified in e-PM shall maintain construction progress reports, daily reports/logs, and documentation of inspections.

Inspection Reports – Maintain inspection reports on materials and/or workmanship to assure compliance with all construction requirements.

Safety/Injury Reports – Maintain reports on construction contractors' compliance with current safety regulations and standards.

Punchlists – Maintain list(s) of observed defects and omissions.

Request For Information (RFI) – The system shall manage the RFI process and all Request for Information shall be entered and responded to by the Contractor within the e-PM system.

Issue Tracking – Contractor to log and respond to issues that are related and affect other stakeholders within the project team.

Submittals – The system shall manage the submittals and the Contractor is responsible for uploading submittal documentation and using the system to track the submittal process.

Change Management – Cost Events and Change Orders will be managed by the e- PM system and the Contractor shall be responsible for reporting potential changes and logging Requests for Change Orders in the system. The Contractor shall also upload and manage all documentation supporting Requested Change Orders.

Shop Drawings – The Contractor shall submit all shop drawings in the system for review by GSA (and the CM where applicable).

As-built Drawings and Specifications – The Contractor shall use the system to record all approved specifications as well as all as-built construction documents.

GSA reserves the right to require the Contractor to upload other documentation not mentioned above that is needed to support the project.

3.0 EQUIPMENT AND TRAINING

The e-PM system is based on the Proliance software that was developed by Meridian Systems. Users will be provided a username and password after they have completed the HSPD-12 process. The Contractor shall log into the e-PM system to enter the Project Documentation listed in section 2.0. All correspondence should be communicated through the e-PM system.

GSA will hold several training sessions to familiarize team members with the system, and all Contractor staff are expected to attend one of these sessions or otherwise receive proper training on the system’s use. Furthermore, all Contractor team members who are actively participating on the project must have access to the proper computer equipment and software to access and utilize the e-PM system and be trained in the proper usage of said equipment and software. All workstations require a high-bandwidth Internet connection.

4.0 PERSONNEL REQUIREMENTS

The Contractor shall be required to have an adequate number of people who can complete the HSPD-12 background check process to have rights to log into the e-PM system.

5.0 DATA OWNERSHIP

GSA shall retain ownership of all data entered into the system and shall administrate and distribute all information contained therein.

6.0 REFERENCES

PBS SECURITY ORDER 3490.1 (March 8, 2002)

Section 2, Design Build Guidance Criteria Roof Mounted Utility- Interactive Photovoltaic System

2.3 Technical Requirements and Reference Materials

Paragraph 2.3.1 Add this paragraph and reference:

“The following guideline is added and shall be complied with in the design of the roof mounted arrays: Fire Safety Guideline for Photovoltaic System Installation.” This guideline is attached at the end of this amendment, 8 pages.

8.4 PV Monitoring, Paragraph 8.4.1

Add the following at the end of the paragraph.

“The public PV monitoring website shall be one site displaying the three separate arrays production information with a summary of total renewable energy produced as well as the information noted in Specification Section 2, Paragraph 8.4.2. Provide information regarding avoided greenhouse gas production for the total site production. ”

Paragraph 8.4.5

Add the following at the end of the paragraph.

“Background: In order to gather data from the meters we have incorporate the meters into our system. This is done by developing a graphic for each meter and by having the meter data dump into our reports.”

Paragraph 8.4.6

Add the following at the end of the first sentence.

“The Denver Federal Center has an existing advanced metering system. This system runs on the GSA Ethernet local area network. GSA will assign an IP address for each meter. The contractor will have to install the meters and then connect them to the GSA LAN. This must be done in accordance with code. After the meters are installed and connected the contractor will need to subcontract with Siemens Building Technology to develop the graphics and add the meters to the reports.”

Paragraph 10.3 Final Inspections and Tests

Add to the end of the first paragraph the following:

“ The NEC inspection shall be conducted by an independent third party electrical inspector familiar with PV systems. Provide a resume and qualifications of the proposed third party inspector for review and approval prior to conducting the NEC inspections and the inspections cited in the Fire Safety Guideline for Photovoltaic System Installation.

The commissioning tests may be performed by the contractors electricians.”

Section 3 Statement of Work Design Build Guidance Criteria Cool Roof Systems

Paragraph 2.6.4 Replace this paragraph with:

“Heat welded applied roof membrane applications are allowed, however appropriate fire protection practices must be followed. Torch welding is not allowed.”

Paragraph 2.6.5 Replace this paragraph with:

“Replace all existing roof drains with a GSA approved drain with the following characteristics: cast metal strainer attached to the assembly independent of the clamping ring.”

Add New “Paragraph 2.6.10 : Roof system shall be compliant with UL 790 Class A.”

Paragraph 3.3 Metal Counter Flashing:

Replace this paragraph with the following:

“All metal counter flashings shall have a factory applied pre-finish, color to match existing flashing (eg; Kynar 500 PVDF or approved equal). Install a new 2-piece type metal counter flashing at roof transition locations.”

Paragraph 3.4 Special Roof Perimeter Termination Detailing:

Replace this paragraph with the following:

“Special roof perimeter termination detailing: The current roofing termination occurring at the building perimeter shall be removed and replaced to accommodate the revised R- 50 insulation thickness. An RM detailed roof edge termination and fascia detailing shall be provided. The flashing shall have a factory applied pre-finish, color to match existing from manufacturer’s list of available colors. Profile shall match the existing and be 24 ga.”

Paragraph 6.6 Annual Roofing Inspection Service Contract.

Add at the end of this paragraph:

“The annual roofing inspection service contract shall last for five years from final acceptance.”

Project Drawings

Drawing E902, Building 20 Electrical

Add the following:

“Note 4: The location of the dumpster may be relocated by GSA to another location adjacent and below the roof being replaced to improve access.

Note 5: A proposed roof mounted condenser will need to be accommodated in the roof PV design. Reserve a 4 ft x 4 ft area with a 3 ft clear path of travel around equipment located central to the main roof section. The clear path of travel could also serve as part of the fire access pathway required by “Fire Safety Guideline for Photovoltaic System Installation”.

Drawing E904, Building 810 Electrical

Add the following:

“Note 2: If the inverter and switchgear is ground mounted install a chain link security fence around this equipment.”

Addendum to Dig Permit

GENERAL

If CABI observes suspect material that requires laboratory testing costs and the cost for this effort will be compensated by GSA as a pass through. If a positive test results in extra hazardous waste disposal costs this will be compensated by GSA in accordance with the FAR Differing Sight Conditions Clause.

As part of this contract, the Contractor must abide by the dig permit and comply with all requirements.. The dig permit requires a Certified Asbestos Building Inspector (CABI) as outlined by the Colorado Regulation 8 of the CDPHE Air Quality Control Commission (AQCC) Regulations and Section 5 of the CDPHE Solid Waste Regulations. This CABI shall be provided by the contractor, must have a minimum of 6 months experience on a asbestos soil project and must be approved by GSA’s Denver Federal Center (DFC) Environmental Program Manager. The approved CABI can be an employee of the company doing the Photovoltaic work but must have the ability/authorization to talk directly with GSA personnel as needed during the project. The project is required to follow GSA's QAPP and the appropriate SOPs.

All profiles and manifests for disposal of waste materials generated during the project must be reviewed and signed by the DFC Environmental Program Manager. Unless prior approval is granted, all soil removed (by excavation or drilling) from the ground and not reused as backfill must be removed from the DFC and disposed at an appropriate landfill. The contractor is responsible for collecting any samples for waste characterization. Prior to waste sample collection, the contractor shall coordinate the sampling of the waste with the DFC Environmental Program Manager prior to sample collection to ensure the sample is deemed appropriate and complete. At a minimum, the soil analysis is for asbestos and PCBs for the soils excavated and not reused/backfilled. SOPs 5, 6, 15 and 26A and B are required to be complied with. Copies are included as part of the amendment.

Sampling of building materials can be done on a component basis (e.g., lead and heavy metal paint has been used at this facility in the past and can, if not sampled correctly, require the material to be disposed of as hazardous waste).

To date, no component sampling of lead-based paint and associated wood material has failed for TCLP lead and therefore been classified as hazardous waste.

Though the roofs have been sampled for asbestos, it is possible that due to potential multiple layers and repair that the roofs may contain asbestos. Under AQCC regulations, an Asbestos Containing Material (ACM) is defined as containing greater than or equal to 1% asbestos. However, since this is a RCRA Consent Order facility, a non-detect level of asbestos is required. therefore, it is imperative that waste management on any roofing project comply with a zero tolerance requirement that removed materials must be placed in waste containers, that must be covered at all times. Stray pieces of roofing material on the ground around the project must be prevented.

Dig Permit Attachments:

SOP NO. 5: Standard Operating Procedure for Investigation Derived Waste Management

SOP no. 6: Standard Operating Procedure for Sample Handling

SOP NO 15: Standard Operating Procedure for Data Management

SOP NO 26A: Standard Operating Procedure for Asbestos Excavation Procedures for Utility Construction

SOP NO 26B: Asbestos Excavation Procedures for Post Hole Drilling/Digging

FIRE SAFETY GUIDELINE

FOR

PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM INSTALLATIONS

Office of Energy and Environment (PMAB) 1 of 8 Fire Protection & Life Safety Program October 09, 2009

PURPOSE

The intent of this guideline is to provide information necessary to ensure safety at GSA Federal buildings equipped with photovoltaic systems.

SCOPE

This guideline is applicable to all photovoltaic systems, regardless of size, for GSA Federal buildings.

DEFINITIONS

Array: Any number of photovoltaic modules connected together to provide a single electrical output.

Inverter: Devices that convert DC electricity (single or multiphase), either for stand alone systems (not connected to the grid) or for utility-interactive systems, from solar power to the AC electricity for use in the building’s electrical system or the grid, or both.

Photovoltaic (PV) System: The total components and subsystems that, in combination, convert solar energy into electric energy suitable for connection to a utilization load.

BACKGROUND

The installation of PV systems presents concerns for safety (energized equipment, trip hazards, etc.) and fire fighting operations (restricting venting locations, limiting walking surfaces on roof structures, etc.). This guideline addresses these issues while embracing the environmental advantages of this technology.

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

A. GSA Project Manager

• Prior to the PV system installation, the GSA Project Manager shall coordinate a meeting with the Contractor, GSA Property Manager, GSA Fire Protection Engineer, GSA Safety Specialist, and local fire official to ensure the proposed PV system design and layout is acceptable to all parties.

• Prior to the acceptance of the PV system, the GSA Project Manager shall confirm that the PV system has been tested. All testing shall be witnessed and documented by a qualified independent third party test entity.

PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM INSTALLATIONS

Office of Energy and Environment (PMAB) 2 of 8

B. Third Party Test Entity

• The third party test entity shall have an advanced understanding of the installation, operation, and maintenance of the PV system installed. Third party test entities shall be licensed (certified) where required by applicable codes and standards.

• At completion of witnessing the PV system testing, the third party test entity shall provide to the GSA Project Manager documentation verifying that the PV system is in compliance with the design and specifications and all applicable codes and standards.

REQUIREMENTS

The installation of PV systems at GSA Federal buildings shall comply with the requirements in the International Building Code and National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 70, National Electrical Code, and the following requirements:

A. MARKING. PV systems shall be marked in accordance with NFPA 70, Article 690, and the following:

1) Direct Current (DC) Circuits. All interior and exterior DC conduits, raceways, enclosures, cable assemblies, and junction boxes associated with the PV system shall be marked to alert individuals that DC power is present. The marking shall be placed every ten (10) feet or fraction thereof, at turns and above and below penetrations, and on all DC combiner and junction boxes.

a) Content. The marking shall contain the text “CAUTION: PV CIRCUIT

ENERGIZED” in capital letters a minimum of 3/8 inches in height with white letters on a red background. The materials used for marking shall be reflective and weather resistant in accordance with UL 969 that is suitable for the environment.

2) Stairway access to roofs. Signage is required on all stairway doors providing access to the roof where PV systems are installed. Each stairway door providing access to the roof shall have a sign affixed to the interior side of the stairway door.

a) Content. The signage shall contain the text “CAUTION PHOTOVOLTAIC

SYSTEM INSTALLED ON ROOF”. The sign shall consist of letters having a principal stroke of not less than ¾ inch wide and be at least six (6) inches high on a contrasting background.

PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM INSTALLATIONS

3) Pathways. The PV system shall be designed such that designated pathways are provided on the roof. The pathways shall meet the following requirements:

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B. Fire Department Access, Pathways, and Smoke Ventilation. Access and spacing requirements shall be maintained and provided in order to ensure the following is provided on roofs with PV systems:

1) Access. There shall be a minimum six (6) foot wide clear perimeter around the edges of the roof.

Exception: If either axis of the building is 250 feet or less, there shall be a minimum four (4) feet wide clear perimeter around the edges of the roof.

2) Ground Ladder Access. In low-rise buildings, ground ladder roof access shall correspond with roof pathways and shall not be located over an opening (i.e., windows or doors). Ground ladder access points shall be located at strong points of the building construction and not in conflict with overhead obstructions (i.e., tree limbs, wires or signs).

a) The pathway shall be located over structural roof members.

b) The center line axis pathways shall be provided in both axes of the roof.

The center line axis pathways shall be located on structural members or located on the next closest structural member nearest to the center lines of the roof.

c) Each pathway shall be a straight line and not less than four (4) feet in clear width to skylights and/or ventilation hatches.

d) Each pathway shall be a straight line and not less than four (4) feet in clear width to each roof standpipe outlet.

e) Each pathway shall provide not less than four (4) feet clear width around each roof access hatch with at least one pathway not having less than a four (4) feet clear width to the parapet or roof edge.

4) Smoke Ventilation. The PV system shall be designed such that smoke ventilation opportunity areas are provided on the roof and meet the following requirements:

a) Each array shall be no greater than 150 x 150 feet in distance in either axis.

b) Ventilation options between array sections shall meet one of the following:

(1) a pathway eight (8) feet or greater in width;

(2) a pathway four (4) feet or greater in width that borders on existing roof skylights or ventilation hatches; or

(3) a pathway four (4) feet or greater in width bordering 4’ x 8’ “venting cutouts” every 20 feet on alternating sides of the pathway.

PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM INSTALLATIONS

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C. Location of DC Conductors. Exposed conduit, wiring systems, and raceways for PV circuits shall be located as close as possible to the ridge or hip or valley on the roof to reduce trip hazards and maximize ventilation opportunities.

Conduit runs between sub-arrays and conduit runs to DC combiner boxes shall be designed in a manner that minimizes total amount of conduit on the roof. The DC combiner boxes shall be located such that conduit runs are minimized in the pathways between arrays.

To limit the hazard of cutting live conduit in fire department venting operations, DC wiring shall be run in metallic conduit or raceways when located within enclosed spaces in a building and shall be run, to the maximum extent possible, along the bottom load-bearing members.

D. Ground mounted PV arrays. Ground mounted PV arrays shall also comply with the above applicable requirements. Setback requirements do not apply to ground-mounted, free standing PV arrays, however, a clear brush area of ten

(10) feet on all sides is required for ground mounted PV arrays.

PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM INSTALLATIONS

PV Array Example Large Commercial Building (Axis > 250 ft)

8 ft Walkways

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Large Commercial Building (Axis > 250 ft)

4 ft Walkways 8 ft x 4 ft Venting Opportunities Every 20 ft Along Walkway

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Small Commercial Building (Axis < 250 ft) 8 ft Walkways

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Small Commercial Building (Axis < 250 ft)

4 ft Walkways 8 ft x 4 ft Venting Opportunities Every 20 ft Along Walkway

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SOP NO. 5

Standard Operating Procedure For

INVESTIGATION DERIVED WASTE MANAGEMENT

Denver Federal Center Site-wide RCRA Facility Investigation

Prepared for:

General Services Administration

Rocky Mountain Region Denver, Colorado

Prepared by:

URS Greiner Woodward Clyde

Denver, Colorado

November 2000

Revision 1

SOP NUMBER 5 INVESTIGATION DERIVED WASTE MANAGEMENT

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Section 1 Purpose and Scope .................................................................................................................5-1 Section 2 Personnel Qualifications........................................................................................................ 5-1 Section 3 Materials and Equipment ....................................................................................................... 5-1 Section 4 Procedures .............................................................................................................................. 5-2

4.1 Non-liquid IDW ............................................................................................. 5-3

4.1.1 Soil IDW............................................................................................ 5-3

4.1.2 Excavated Soil from Trenches .......................................................... 5-4

4.1.3 Construction Debris and Landfill Material....................................... 5-4

4.1.4 PPE and Disposable Investigation Equipment ................................. 5-5

4.2 Liquid IDW .................................................................................................... 5-5

Section 5 Documentation............................................................................................................. 5-6

Attachment A Waste Inventory Tracking Form Attachment B Investigation Derived Waste Management Plan, Denver Federal Center

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1.0 PURPOSE AND SCOPE

This Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) provides technical guidance and methods that will be used for the handling, management, and disposal of investigation derived waste (IDW) encountered or generated during environmental activities at the Denver Federal Center (DFC).

This SOP serves as a supplement to the investigation area-specific work plans and field sampling plans (FSPs), and is intended to be used with other activity-specific SOPs. IDW management personnel are also referred to Final Report, Investigation Derived Waste Management Plan for the Denver Federal Center (WCFS, August 1999) included as Attachment B of this SOP. This SOP replaces SOP No. WM-10, Field Handling of Residual Samples.

2.0 PERSONNEL QUALIFICATIONS

Personnel overseeing the handling and disposal of IDW will have IDW management knowledge and experience, or will work under the direct field supervision of knowledgeable and experienced personnel. Personnel will perform this work in accordance with the project-specific health and safety plan (HSP).

3.0 MATERIALS AND EQUIPMENT

The following materials and equipment may be needed for IDW management:

• Personal protective equipment (PPE) as outlined in the HSP

• Decontamination equipment and supplies (e.g., wash/rinse tubs, brushes, alconox, plastic sheeting, paper towels, sponges, baby wipes, garden-type water sprayers, large plastic bags (minimum 0.85 mil), potable water, distilled water and/or deionized water)

• Department of Transportation (DOT)-rated 55-gallon drums or other approved containers for containing soil cuttings, decontamination water, and formation water

• Drum/bung wrench and drum funnel

• Heavy equipment forklift or vehicle with drum grappler

• Laboratory-supplied sample containers

• Photoionization detector (PID) or flame ionization detector (FID)

• Wood pallets

• Non-porous (e.g., stainless steel) shovels

• Hazardous Waste Labels

• Soil roll-off bins with liners and covers (if warranted)

• Polyethylene tank (if warranted)

• Waterproof and permanent marking pens

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4.0 PROCEDURES

RCRA Facility Investigation (RFI) field activities may generate IDW that poses a risk to human health and the environment. It is anticipated that both non-liquid and liquid IDW will be generated or encountered during RFI field activities.

Non-liquid IDW may include:

• Drill cuttings from soil borings

• Sludges (from soil borings in the saturated zone and from development water)

• Excavated soil from trenches

• Construction debris (e.g., concrete and asphalt)

• Buried landfill materials (e.g., burned wood, desks, and metal objects)

• PPE

• Disposable investigation equipment (i.e., bailers, twine, discarded sample bottles, preservative containers, paper towels, aluminum foil)

• Empty drums

Liquid IDW may include:

• Well development water

• Purge water (from monitor wells)

• Well abandonment water

• Decontamination water

Before initiating any field activity that will generate IDW, field personnel must determine if the activity is located within the area potentially containing F-listed waste. A portion of the site groundwater has been impacted by a release of F-listed waste solvent from an underground storage tank (UST) that was previously located at Building 52. Saturated soil and water IDW generated from investigation activities conducted within the defined solvent plume area also potentially contain F-listed waste. Therefore, the saturated soil and water IDW generated from this area will be segregated from other IDW and characterized and disposed of separately (see Section 4.3 of Attachment B). Figure 1-1 in Attachment B illustrates the area potentially containing F-listed waste.

4.1 NON-LIQUID IDW

4.1.1 Soil IDW

• Soil cuttings generated during drilling and soil sampling will be placed into DOT-rated

55-gallon drums, or appropriately sized containers at the point of generation.

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• Mixing of the cuttings from several borings or sampling locations is permissible in order to fill the drums. The splitting of cuttings from one boring into several drums should be avoided.

• When drums are full, or daily activities are completed, the drum lids and rings will be fastened.

Full drums will be transported to the designated IDW accumulation area (located west of Building 47) (see Section 4.0 of Attachment B) on a regular basis to avoid accumulation of drums at investigation sites for extended periods of time. Alternative temporary IDW accumulation areas can be used as specified in the investigation-specific work plan.

• If large volumes of soil IDW will be generated, soil IDW will be transferred from the drums into roll-off bins (lined and covered) located within the designated IDW accumulation area using the procedure described in Section 4.1 of Attachment B.

• Sampling, characterization, and disposal procedures for soil IDW placed in roll-off bins is described in Attachment B, Sections 4.1.3 and 5.0.

• If only a small volume of soil IDW will be generated, DOT-rated 55-gallon drums can be used for the temporary storage of soil IDW pending analysis. Drums will be stored on pallets at the designated IDW accumulation area. Drums from individual sites will be segregated from each other as much as possible. The drums will be sealed and labeled with permanent markings (using paint pens or drum labels) with the following information:

1. Source: the boring(s), well, or site identification number

2. Matrix (e.g., soil, water)

3. Sample interval (e.g., 0–20 ft or well screen depth) (multiple drums of development or purge water will be numbered consecutively as they are filled)

4. Fill date

5. Drum identification number

6. Contractor

7. The DFC point of contact with phone number

8. "Contents Pending Analysis"

Soil IDW in drums will be characterized and disposed of based on the characterization of associated investigation sample results (if collected and analyzed) as described in Sections 3.0 and 5.0 of Attachment B.

If no associated investigation sample results exist, a composite soil sample will be collected from the soil IDW drums by collecting a drive or hand auger sample from each of the drums associated with a specific field activity. The sample material from all of the drums will be composited into a single sample that will be used to characterized and dispose of the soil IDW as described in Sections 3.0 and 5.0 of Attachment B.

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4.1.2 Excavated Soil from Trenches

Most trenching operations will generate substantial volumes of excavated soil.

Large volumes of excavated soil IDW will be placed directly into roll-off bins (lined and covered) at the excavation site. This procedure will minimize concerns resulting from stock piling the soil IDW, such as wind dispersion and contamination of the ground surface.

• Sampling, characterization, and disposal procedures for soil IDW placed in roll-off bins is described in Attachment B, Sections 3.0, 4.1.3 and 5.0.

• Small volumes of excavated soil can be placed in drums at the excavation site. Drums will be labeled and stored as described in Section 4.1.1.

• Soil IDW in drums will be sampled (if warranted), characterized, and disposed of as described in…