RFP - Att 11 - SOW - Att 11 - PG 18 10 - Bldg 73 Reno - MN.pdf

Electrical

PG-18-10

August 1, 2025 designmanual

PG 18-10 – ELECTRICAL DESIGN MANUAL August 1, 2025

Table of Contents i

TABLE OF CONTENTS

CHAPTER 1: GENERAL REQUIREMENTS ...................................................................................... 1-1

1.1 PURPOSE ................................................................................................................. 1-5

1.2 RESPONSIBILITY ....................................................................................................... 1-6

1.3 AUTHORITY HAVING JURISDICTION ......................................................................... 1-6

1.4 COORDINATION ....................................................................................................... 1-6

1.5 VA DESIGN CRITERIA ................................................................................................ 1-7

1.5.1 MASTER SPECIFICATIONS (PG-18-1) ........................................................................ 1-7

1.5.2 DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION PROCEDURES (PG-18-3, Topics 1 - 18) ..................... 1-8

1.5.3 NATIONAL CAD STANDARD, VHA APPLICATION GUIDE &

STANDARD DETAILS (PG-18-4) ................................................................................. 1-8

1.5.4 EQUIPMENT GUIDE LIST (PG-18-5) .......................................................................... 1-8

1.5.5 DESIGN MANUALS (PG-18-10) ................................................................................. 1-8

1.5.6 DESIGN GUIDES (PG-18-12) ..................................................................................... 1-9

1.5.7 DESIGN SUBMISSION INSTRUCTIONS (PG-18-15) .................................................... 1-9

1.5.8 DESIGN REVIEW CHECKLISTS ................................................................................. 1-10

1.5.9 DESIGN ALERTS ...................................................................................................... 1-10

1.5.10 STANDARDS ALERTS .............................................................................................. 1-10

1.5.11 PHYSICAL SECURITY AND RESILIENCY DESIGN MANUAL ........................................ 1-11

1.5.12 COST ESTIMATING MANUAL ................................................................................. 1-11

1.5.13 SUSTAINABLE DESIGN MANUAL ............................................................................ 1-11

1.5.14 SEISMIC DESIGN REQUIREMENTS (H-18-8) ............................................................ 1-12

1.5.15 FIRE PROTECTION DESIGN MANUAL...................................................................... 1-12

1.5.16 VA HOSPITAL BUILDING SYSTEM ........................................................................... 1-12

1.5.17 COMPUTER AIDED FACILITIES MANAGEMENT REQUIREMENTS (CAFM) ............... 1-12

1.6 VA BIM STANDARD ................................................................................................ 1-13

1.7 APPLICABLE CODES AND STANDARDS ................................................................... 1-13

1.7.1 GENERAL................................................................................................................ 1-13

1.7.2 LOCAL CODES AND CONDITIONS ........................................................................... 1-14

1.7.3 LOCAL UTILITY ....................................................................................................... 1-14

1.8 DESIGN REQUIREMENTS ........................................................................................ 1-14

1.9 CRITERIA UNIQUE TO VA ....................................................................................... 1-15

1.9.1 DRAWINGS ............................................................................................................ 1-15

1.9.2 SEQUENCE OF ELECTRICAL DRAWINGS ................................................................. 1-16

1.9.3 ABBREVIATIONS AND SYMBOLS ............................................................................ 1-17

1.9.4 PROPRIETARY ITEMS.............................................................................................. 1-17

1.10 CALCULATIONS ...................................................................................................... 1-17

Table of Contents ii

1.10.1 GENERAL................................................................................................................ 1-17

1.10.2 FAULT CURRENT CALCULATIONS ........................................................................... 1-18

1.10.3 PROTECTIVE DEVICE COORDINATION CALCULATIONS .......................................... 1-18

1.10.4 ARC FLASH CALCULATIONS .................................................................................... 1-19

1.10.5 LOAD CALCULATIONS ............................................................................................ 1-20

1.10.6 GENERATOR SIZING CALCULATIONS ...................................................................... 1-20

1.10.7 VOLTAGE DROP CALCULATIONS ............................................................................ 1-20

1.10.8 HARMONIC DISTORTION CALCULATIONS .............................................................. 1-20

1.10.9 LIGHTNING PROTECTION CALCULATIONS .............................................................. 1-21

1.11 SEISMIC BRACING .................................................................................................. 1-21

1.11.1 REFERENCES .......................................................................................................... 1-21

1.11.2 DRAWINGS ............................................................................................................ 1-21

1.11.3 EQUIPMENT BRACING ........................................................................................... 1-21

1.12 TRANSPORT SYSTEMS ............................................................................................ 1-21

1.13 FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS ............................................................................................ 1-21

1.14 RENOVATION TO EXISTING SITES AND BUILDINGS ................................................ 1-21

1.14.1 DRAWINGS ............................................................................................................ 1-21

1.14.2 MODIFICATION VERSUS REPLACEMENT ................................................................ 1-22

1.14.3 AGE AND PHYSICAL CONDITION ............................................................................ 1-22

1.14.4 PARTS AVAILABILITY .............................................................................................. 1-22

1.14.5 CONDUIT AND BOXES ............................................................................................ 1-22

1.14.6 CONDUCTORS ........................................................................................................ 1-23

1.14.7 WIRING DEVICES .................................................................................................... 1-23

1.14.8 LIGHTING FIXTURES ............................................................................................... 1-23

1.14.9 PANELBOARDS ....................................................................................................... 1-23

1.14.10 GOVERNMENT RETAINED EQUIPMENT ................................................................. 1-24

1.14.11 CONTINUITY OF SERVICE ....................................................................................... 1-24

1.14.12 COMPATIBILITY ...................................................................................................... 1-24

CHAPTER 2: RACEWAYS, WIRING, AND EQUIPMENT ................................................................. 2-1

2.1 RACEWAYS............................................................................................................... 2-3

2.1.1 CONCEALED AND EXPOSED ..................................................................................... 2-3

2.1.2 UNDERGROUND DUCTS AND CONDUITS ................................................................. 2-3

2.1.3 SPARE CONDUITS..................................................................................................... 2-3

2.1.4 UNDERFLOOR DUCT SYSTEMS ................................................................................. 2-3

2.1.5 IMAGING ROOMS .................................................................................................... 2-4

2.1.6 POKE-THRUS/POWER POLES ................................................................................... 2-5

2.1.7 ETHYLENE OXIDE STERILIZATION AREA ................................................................... 2-5

2.2 GROUNDING ............................................................................................................ 2-5

Table of Contents iii

2.2.1 GROUNDING ELECTRODES....................................................................................... 2-5

2.2.2 EQUIPMENT GROUNDING CONDUCTORS................................................................ 2-5

2.2.3 METAL CURTAIN WALL GROUNDING ...................................................................... 2-5

2.3 LIGHTNING PROTECTION SYSTEM ........................................................................... 2-6

2.4 MOTOR DISCONNECT SWITCHES ............................................................................. 2-6

CHAPTER 3: RECEPTACLE AND POWER REQUIREMENTS ............................................................ 3-1

3.1 GENERAL.................................................................................................................. 3-3

3.2 ESSENTIAL ELECTRICAL SYSTEM CIRCUITS ............................................................... 3-3

3.3 RECEPTACLE CIRCUITS ............................................................................................. 3-3

3.4 SPECIFIC APPLICATIONS ........................................................................................... 3-3

3.4.1 GROUND-FAULT CIRCUIT INTERRUPTER (GFCI) RECEPTACLES ................................. 3-3

3.4.2 SURGICAL/OPERATING ROOMS ............................................................................... 3-3

3.4.3 ICU-CCU FOOT-WALL RECEPTACLES ........................................................................ 3-4

3.4.4 EXTERIOR ELECTRICAL RECEPTACLES ....................................................................... 3-4

3.4.5 WAITING, LOUNGE AND LOBBY AREAS .................................................................... 3-5

3.4.6 ANIMAL SURGERY ROOMS (RESEARCH) .................................................................. 3-5

3.4.7 SELF-ILLUMINATED EMERGENCY RECEPTACLES ...................................................... 3-5

3.4.8 CORRIDORS.............................................................................................................. 3-5

3.4.9 KITCHENS ................................................................................................................. 3-5

3.4.10 OFFICES AND ADMINISTRATIVE AREAS ................................................................... 3-6

3.4.11 LABORATORIES AND RESEARCH FACILITIES ............................................................. 3-6

3.4.12 PHYSICAL MEDICINE AND REHABILITATION SERVICE .............................................. 3-6

3.4.13 PSYCHIATRIC PATIENT ROOMS ................................................................................ 3-6

3.4.14 STAIRWELLS ............................................................................................................. 3-6

3.4.15 INTERSTITIAL SPACES ............................................................................................... 3-7

3.4.16 TV/CCTV POWER RECEPTACLES ............................................................................... 3-7

3.4.17 ELECTRICAL CLOSETS ............................................................................................... 3-7

3.4.18 MOTORIZED TREADMILLS ........................................................................................ 3-7

CHAPTER 4: ESSENTIAL AND STANDBY ELECTRICAL POWER SYSTEMS ....................................... 4-1

4.1 GENERAL.................................................................................................................. 4-3

4.2 MIXED ESSENTIAL AND STANDBY ELECTRICAL POWER SYSTEMS ............................ 4-3

4.3 COMMISSIONING .................................................................................................... 4-3

4.4 EQUIPMENT AND RATINGS...................................................................................... 4-3

4.4.1 GENERATORS ........................................................................................................... 4-3

4.4.2 AUTOMATIC TRANSFER SWITCHES (ATS) ................................................................. 4-4

4.4.3 CONTROL NETWORK ............................................................................................... 4-4

4.4.4 DIESEL FUEL STORAGE ............................................................................................. 4-4

4.4.5 LOCATION ................................................................................................................ 4-4

Table of Contents iv

4.5 EXISTING FACILITIES ................................................................................................ 4-5

4.6 ESSENTIAL ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS FOR HOSPITALS ................................................... 4-5

4.6.1 ENFORCING CODES .................................................................................................. 4-5

4.6.1.1 Life Safety Branch .................................................................................................... 4-5

4.6.1.2 Critical Branch ......................................................................................................... 4-6

4.6.1.3 Equipment Branch Delayed-Automatic Connection ................................................ 4-8

4.6.2 (RESERVED) ............................................................................................................ 4-10

4.6.3 ALTERNATE SOURCE OF POWER ............................................................................ 4-10

4.7 ESSENTIAL ELECTRICAL SYSTEM FOR NURSING HOMES AND

LIMITED CARE FACILITIES ....................................................................................... 4-11

4.7.1 LIFE SAFETY BRANCH ............................................................................................. 4-11

4.7.2 CRITICAL BRANCH .................................................................................................. 4-11

4.7.3 ALTERNATE SOURCE OF POWER ............................................................................ 4-11

4.8 ESSENTIAL ELECTRICAL SYSTEM FOR OTHER HEALTHCARE FACILITIES .................. 4-11

4.8.1 ALTERNATE SOURCE OF POWER ............................................................................ 4-12

4.9 ESSENTIAL ELECTRICAL SYSTEM FOR OTHER FACILITIES ........................................ 4-12

4.9.1 BOILER PLANT AND ENERGY CENTER .................................................................... 4-12

4.9.2 FIRE STATION ......................................................................................................... 4-12

4.10 STANDBY ELECTRICAL SYSTEM .............................................................................. 4-12

4.10.1 REQUIREMENTS ..................................................................................................... 4-12

4.10.2 SOURCE OF POWER ............................................................................................... 4-13

CHAPTER 5: ELECTRICAL POWER DISTRIBUTION ........................................................................ 5-1

5.1 UTILITY SERVICE ....................................................................................................... 5-3

5.2 PRIMARY DISTRIBUTION .......................................................................................... 5-3

5.2.1 GENERAL.................................................................................................................. 5-3

5.2.2 PRIMARY SWITCHGEAR ........................................................................................... 5-3

5.2.3 PRIMARY CABLING ................................................................................................... 5-4

5.2.4 SUBSTATION PRIMARY-VOLTAGE DISCONNECTING MEANS ................................... 5-4

5.3 SECONDARY DISTRIBUTION ..................................................................................... 5-4

5.3.1 GENERAL.................................................................................................................. 5-4

5.3.2 MEDIUM-TO-LOW VOLTAGE TRANSFORMERS ........................................................ 5-4

5.3.3 LOW VOLTAGE TRANSFORMERS ............................................................................. 5-4

5.3.4 SWITCHGEAR, SWITCHBOARDS, AND MOTOR CONTROL CENTERS ......................... 5-5

5.3.5 BRANCH-CIRCUIT PANELBOARDS ............................................................................ 5-5

5.3.6 TYPE 2 SURGE-PROTECTIVE DEVICES (TYPE 2 SPD) .................................................. 5-5

5.3.7 LOADS FED FROM UNINTERRUPTIBLE POWER SUPPLY (UPS) .................................. 5-5

5.4 POWER MONITORING AND METERING ................................................................... 5-5

5.4.1 GENERAL.................................................................................................................. 5-5

Table of Contents v

5.4.2 ENERGY CENTERS .................................................................................................... 5-6

5.4.3 EXISTING FACILITIES ................................................................................................ 5-6

5.5 ELECTRICAL ROOMS AND CLOSETS .......................................................................... 5-6

5.5.1 GENERAL.................................................................................................................. 5-6

5.5.2 SPACE FOR FUTURE EQUIPMENT............................................................................. 5-7

5.6 ELECTRICAL FACILITIES FOR SURGICAL/OPERATING ROOMS ................................... 5-7

5.7 ELECTRICAL FACILITIES FOR ELEVATORS .................................................................. 5-7

CHAPTER 6: SPECIAL MEDICAL AND ALARM SYSTEMS ............................................................... 6-1

6.1 GENERAL.................................................................................................................. 6-3

6.2 PATIENT BED SERVICE WALL SYSTEMS .................................................................... 6-3

6.3 PATIENT BED SERVICE WALLS (PBSW) ..................................................................... 6-3

6.4 PBSW INSTALLATION ............................................................................................... 6-3

6.5 PBSW APPLICATION ................................................................................................. 6-3

6.6 MEDICAL GAS, VACUUM, AND AIR ALARM SYSTEMS .............................................. 6-4

General Requirements 1-1

CHAPTER 1: GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

1.1 PURPOSE ..................................................................................................................1-5

1.2 RESPONSIBILITY ........................................................................................................ 1-6

1.3 AUTHORITY HAVING JURISDICTION .......................................................................... 1-6

1.4 COORDINATION ........................................................................................................ 1-6

1.5 VA DESIGN CRITERIA ................................................................................................. 1-7

1.5.1 MASTER SPECIFICATIONS (PG-18-1) ......................................................................... 1-7

1.5.2 DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION PROCEDURES (PG-18-3, TOPICS 1 - 18) ..................... 1-8

1.5.3 NATIONAL CAD STANDARD, VHA APPLICATION GUIDE &

STANDARD DETAILS (PG-18-4) .................................................................................. 1-8

1.5.4 EQUIPMENT GUIDE LIST (PG-18-5) ........................................................................... 1-8

1.5.5 DESIGN MANUALS (PG-18-10) .................................................................................. 1-8

1.5.6 DESIGN GUIDES (PG-18-12) ...................................................................................... 1-9

1.5.7 DESIGN SUBMISSION INSTRUCTIONS (PG-18-15) ..................................................... 1-9

1.5.8 DESIGN REVIEW CHECKLISTS .................................................................................. 1-10

1.5.9 DESIGN ALERTS ....................................................................................................... 1-10

1.5.10 STANDARDS ALERTS ............................................................................................... 1-10

1.5.11 PHYSICAL SECURITY AND RESILIENCY DESIGN MANUAL ......................................... 1-11

1.5.12 COST ESTIMATING MANUAL .................................................................................. 1-11

1.5.13 SUSTAINABLE DESIGN MANUAL ............................................................................. 1-11

1.5.14 SEISMIC DESIGN REQUIREMENTS (H-18-8) ............................................................. 1-12

1.5.15 FIRE PROTECTION DESIGN MANUAL ...................................................................... 1-12

1.5.16 VA HOSPITAL BUILDING SYSTEM ............................................................................ 1-12

1.5.17 COMPUTER AIDED FACILITIES MANAGEMENT REQUIREMENTS (CAFM) ................ 1-12

1.6 VA BIM STANDARD ................................................................................................. 1-13

1.7 APPLICABLE CODES AND STANDARDS .................................................................... 1-13

1.7.1 GENERAL ................................................................................................................ 1-13

1.7.2 LOCAL CODES AND CONDITIONS ............................................................................ 1-14

1.7.3 LOCAL UTILITY ........................................................................................................ 1-14

1.8 DESIGN REQUIREMENTS ......................................................................................... 1-14

1.9 CRITERIA UNIQUE TO VA ........................................................................................ 1-15

General Requirements 1-2

1.9.1 DRAWINGS ............................................................................................................. 1-15

1.9.2 SEQUENCE OF ELECTRICAL DRAWINGS .................................................................. 1-16

1.9.3 ABBREVIATIONS AND SYMBOLS ............................................................................. 1-17

1.9.4 PROPRIETARY ITEMS .............................................................................................. 1-17

1.10 CALCULATIONS ....................................................................................................... 1-17

1.10.1 GENERAL ................................................................................................................ 1-17

1.10.2 FAULT CURRENT CALCULATIONS ............................................................................ 1-18

1.10.3 PROTECTIVE DEVICE COORDINATION CALCULATIONS ........................................... 1-18

1.10.4 ARC FLASH CALCULATIONS ..................................................................................... 1-19

1.10.5 LOAD CALCULATIONS ............................................................................................. 1-20

1.10.6 GENERATOR SIZING CALCULATIONS ....................................................................... 1-20

1.10.7 VOLTAGE DROP CALCULATIONS ............................................................................. 1-20

1.10.8 HARMONIC DISTORTION CALCULATIONS ............................................................... 1-20

1.10.9 LIGHTNING PROTECTION CALCULATIONS............................................................... 1-21

1.11 SEISMIC BRACING ................................................................................................... 1-21

1.11.1 REFERENCES ........................................................................................................... 1-21

1.11.2 DRAWINGS ............................................................................................................. 1-21

1.11.3 EQUIPMENT BRACING ............................................................................................ 1-21

1.12 TRANSPORT SYSTEMS ............................................................................................. 1-21

1.13 FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS ............................................................................................. 1-21

1.14 RENOVATION TO EXISTING SITES AND BUILDINGS ................................................. 1-21

1.14.1 DRAWINGS ............................................................................................................. 1-21

1.14.2 MODIFICATION VERSUS REPLACEMENT ................................................................. 1-22

1.14.3 AGE AND PHYSICAL CONDITION ............................................................................. 1-22

1.14.4 PARTS AVAILABILITY ............................................................................................... 1-22

1.14.5 CONDUIT AND BOXES ............................................................................................. 1-22

1.14.6 CONDUCTORS ......................................................................................................... 1-23

1.14.7 WIRING DEVICES .................................................................................................... 1-23

1.14.8 LIGHTING FIXTURES ................................................................................................ 1-23

1.14.9 PANELBOARDS ........................................................................................................ 1-23

1.14.10 GOVERNMENT RETAINED EQUIPMENT .................................................................. 1-24

General Requirements 1-3

1.14.11 CONTINUITY OF SERVICE ........................................................................................ 1-24

1.14.12 COMPATIBILITY ....................................................................................................... 1-24

General Requirements 1-5

1.1 PURPOSE

This manual is intended as a guide for electrical engineers and designers (hereafter referred as the A/E) for the planning and design of the electrical power distribution and related systems (hereinafter referred to as systems) at Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) facilities which are designed and constructed with VA construction budget, as well as owned, operated and maintained by VA.

VA requires the A/E to read, understand, and use this manual in the planning and design of the systems in VA owned construction projects – major, minor and non-recurring-maintenance (NRM). VA-required planning and design work of different types of project delivery methods -such as design/bid/build or design/build etc. - shall comply with this design manual.

The Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) shall be the final authority to evaluate and adjudicate the interpretations or definitions of any requirements in this design manual in accordance with 38 USC 312A. In case where the A/E’s interpretations or definitions of any requirements in this design manual are different than the AHJ or his/her designee, the AHJ’s decision on the interpretations or definitions of any requirements in this design manual shall be final.

To provide the latitude needed to incorporate new technologies and concepts, or to accommodate adverse existing construction conditions, technical deviations from the stipulations of this manual may be made. Deviation request(s) may be made only if a safe, reliable, and energy-efficient design shall result. Such deviation request(s) must be approved by VA’s Contracting Officer (CO) and Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ). The A/E, Contracting Officer Representative (COR), and Chief Engineer of Facility Management Services (FMS) shall submit deviation request(s) in writing to the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ). VA’s Project Manager (PM) and Veterans Health Administration (VHA) may require specific web-based procedure for this deviation request action; therefore, the A/E, COR, and Chief Engineer of FMS shall confirm specific procedure to submit deviation request(s) with CO, and VHA Healthcare Engineering Office (19HEFP).

At the minimum, request for deviation(s) shall contain the following elements:

· Narrative detailing reasons for the deviations

· Narrative detailing the design and technical information relating to the deviations

· Statement affirming that deviations shall comply with all public laws, federal regulations, executive orders, and latest applicable codes

· Design drawings of the deviations (if applicable)

· Engineering calculations (if applicable)

· Estimate of cost impact caused by the deviations

· Estimate of schedule impact caused by the deviations

General Requirements 1-6

· Supporting documents such as existing site survey photographs, drawings and documents (if applicable)

Deviation request(s) shall be considered approved only after the requester has received the written approval with signature from CO and AHJ.

1.2 RESPONSIBILITY

The A/E shall provide all necessary professional services to perform planning and design of the systems for the project. The A/E shall be responsible and liable for the professional design in accordance with the contract, safe and practical engineering practices, applicable VA design criteria, VA project-specific requirements (if any), and latest applicable codes. The A/E shall be responsible and liable for the content of the construction contract document.

1.3 AUTHORITY HAVING JURISDICTION

In accordance with Title 38 USC 312A, the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) for planning, design, and construction (PDC) of facilities for the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), including determining architectural and engineering requirements and ensuring compliance of the Department with applicable laws relating to the construction program of the Department, is the Executive Director (ED) of the Office of Construction and Facilities Management (CFM). This authority includes the delegation of authority to the Administrations for their projects. The VA/VHA project manager, project engineer, or COR must obtain AHJ identification, contact information and the process and procedures for compliance reviews, evaluations, and adjudications no later than initiation of the contract.

1.4 COORDINATION

(a) The A/E shall coordinate planning and design work with all disciplines such as architectural, structural, civil, site utility & site work, telecommunications / data, HVAC, plumbing, medical air, fire protection / alarm system, and LEED/Sustainable designs, as applicable.

The A/E shall carefully focus on concealed and underground construction areas, and site utility coordination. The A/E shall coordinate and provide electrical design for all electrically operated equipment shown on other disciplines’ drawings. For example, the A/E shall provide adjustable frequency drives for motors as required on the mechanical drawings;

provide branch circuit power to terminal units, terminal unit fans, smoke dampers, control panels and other auxiliaries; and provide branch circuit power to medical gas alarm panels.

(b) Utility Coordination:

(1) For projects requiring new electrical service, the A/E shall coordinate requirements with the local utility service company. The Contractor’s scope of work, as it relates to the service, shall be detailed in the Construction Documents. The A/E shall forward copies of all correspondence and minutes of meetings with the utility company's representatives to CO, PM and COR regarding negotiations for new services or making changes to the existing services.

General Requirements 1-7

(2) For renovations of and/or additions to existing buildings, the A/E shall investigate and confirm the existing electrical service/distribution system. The A/E shall determine whether existing electrical power capacity is available to accommodate new loads. If applicable, the A/E shall inform the electric utility company of the new service requirements and additional loads.

(3) The A/E shall show on civil utility drawings, for coordination purposes, all -major site electrical power distribution components, such as medium voltage and low voltage electrical power feeders, ductbanks, and manholes.

(c) Pre-Design Site Survey: For renovation projects, the A/E shall perform the following tasks:

(1) Electrical Load Monitoring: Investigate the existing electrical service/distribution system and determine whether existing electrical power capacity is available to accommodate the new loads. Determining of existing loads shall be as required by the NFPA 70 - National Electrical Code (NEC).

(2) Existing Electrical Installation: Investigate and record all existing field electrical installations such as existing underground ductbanks, manholes, concealed conduit runs, conduit types/sizes, cable types/sizes, panelboard types/sizes, electrical equipment locations, etc., which potentially impact the new design and installation.

1.5 VA DESIGN CRITERIA

The A/E shall use and comply with latest pertinent VA standards posted on the VA’s Office of Construction and Facilities Management Technical Information Library (TIL). Some of the major standards are:

1.5.1 MASTER SPECIFICATIONS (PG-18-1)

Located in Technical Information Library at https://vatilms.va.gov/vatilms/reports/PG-18- 1%20Master%20Construction%20Specifications

Purpose

To provide a detailed description of the quality, standards, products, and execution of work ensuring that products and installation of systems shall meet design in terms of safety, performance, quality, and cost.

The Specifications accomplish this by:

· Providing specific narrative descriptions of required equipment, salient elements, and system construction

· Listing applicable standards and codes and references

· Requiring individual submittal of equipment and systems for review and approval prior to contractor purchase

· Defining specific installation methods to be used

General Requirements 1-8

1.5.2 DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION PROCEDURES (PG-18-3, Topics 1 - 18)

Located in Technical Information Library at https://vatilms.va.gov/vatilms/reports/PG-18- 3%20Design%20and%20Construction%20Procedures.

Purpose

To establish minimum consistent design/construction practices for construction projects at VA facilities. There are 18 topics in the PG-18-3. Topic 8 – Electrical Rooms and Closets - focuses specifically on the electrical rooms and closets requirements.

The Procedures accomplish this by:

· Referencing applicable codes and policies

· Describing standard drawing formats

· Describing electrical rooms and closets sizes and layouts requirements

· Describing physical security and resiliency strategies

· Including miscellaneous design details

1.5.3 NATIONAL CAD STANDARD, VHA APPLICATION GUIDE & STANDARD DETAILS (PG-18-

4)

Located in Technical Information Library at https://vatilms.va.gov/vatilms/reports/PG-18- 4%20Standard%20Details.

Purpose

To provide VA-specific design abbreviations and symbols, utility and sheet template files, and standard construction details. This PG-18-4 is organized by discipline, and used in the design and developing of construction documents for VA projects.

1.5.4 EQUIPMENT GUIDE LIST (PG-18-5)

Located in Technical Information Library at https://vatilms.va.gov/vatilms/reports/PG-18- 5%20Equipment%20Guide%20Lists.

Purpose

To provide information for planning and developing requirements for contractor purchased and installed equipment.

1.5.5 DESIGN MANUALS (PG-18-10)

Located in Technical Information Library at https://vatilms.va.gov/vatilms/reports/PG-18- 10%20Design%20Manuals.

Purpose

To convey the general and specific VA design philosophy for medical and support facilities.

The Manuals accomplish this by:

General Requirements 1-9

· Explaining specific design methodologies

· Listing acceptable system types

· Setting the overall energy consumption target

· Codifying certain code interpretations

· Listing values for design parameters

· Referencing certain sections of the Master Specification and Standard Details

· Containing examples of certain design elements

Note: The A/E shall submit to CO, PM and COR a list of Design Manuals, with each Design Manual’s TIL posted date, on the date of design contract award. This action confirms and affirms to VA that the design shall comply with the requirements stated in each submitted Design Manual with TIL posted date.

1.5.6 DESIGN GUIDES (PG-18-12)

Located in Technical Information Library at https://vatilms.va.gov/vatilms/reports/PG-18- 12%20Design%20Guides.

Purpose

To provide specific layout templates and medical equipment lists for all types of spaces/uses, and specific design parameters for all designed systems such as structural, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical system.

The Design Guides accomplish this by:

· Publishing design narrative

· Including functional diagrams and layout plates

· Listing standards

1.5.7 DESIGN SUBMISSION INSTRUCTIONS (PG-18-15)

Located in Technical Information Library at https://vatilms.va.gov/vatilms/reports/PG-18- 15%20Minimum%20Requirements%20for%20A/E%20Submissions.

Purpose

To provide a staged listing of tasks in various design categories, and to ensure thorough and timely completion of the final design package and bid documents.

The Instructions accomplish this by:

· Progressively listing tasks as Schematic, Design Development, and Construction Documents stages

· Requiring task completion and submission for each stage according to a Critical Path Method (CPM) calendar

General Requirements 1-10

· Implementation of a QA/QC process to ensure a quality design product

· Requiring life-cycle analysis of alternatives in order to optimize the design/cost tradeoff

· Listing and detailing all the drawings, calculations, and specifications required for a complete design package

· Indicating the final distribution of bid documents

1.5.8 DESIGN REVIEW CHECKLISTS

Located in Technical Information Library at https://vatilms.va.gov/vatilms/reports/Miscellaneous%20Scopes%20of%20Service%20and%20 Checklists.

Purpose

To provide the VA Peer Reviewer, CO, PM and COR with a minimum list of critical items, which must be included in each A/E submission.

The Checklist accomplishes this by:

· Referring to all applicable VA design tools which apply to the specific project

· Detailing certain Life Safety and coordination requirements

1.5.9 DESIGN ALERTS

Located in Technical Information Library at https://vatilms.va.gov/vatilms/reports/Alerts.

Purpose

To provide emerging design issues, causes of the issues, impacts to the design, and solutions to mitigate the issues.

The Design Alerts accomplish this by:

· Publishing periodic alert memos

· Summarizing design solutions

1.5.10 STANDARDS ALERTS

Located in Technical Information Library at https://vatilms.va.gov/vatilms/reports/Alerts.

Purpose

To identify innovative and broad ranging Standards and Design processes and procedures that have a major impact on the VA's goal of delivering world-class facilities

The Standards Alerts accomplish this by:

· Publishing alerts with focus on specific procedure and innovation.

General Requirements 1-11

1.5.11 PHYSICAL SECURITY AND RESILIENCY DESIGN MANUAL

Located in Technical Information Library at https://vatilms.va.gov/vatilms/reports/PG-18- 10%20Design%20Manuals

Purpose

To establish physical security and resiliency standards for facilities that VA requires to continue operation during a natural or man-made extreme event.

VA Physical Security and Resiliency Design Manual (PSRDM) has classified different facility criticality designations based on each facility’s function. The A/E shall confirm the criticality designation of each facility in the scope of the design with CO and COR before proceeding with the planning or design work.

The Manual accomplishes this by:

· Setting objectives for physical security and resiliency

· Providing strategies for use in design and construction to provide protection to VA facilities

· Providing cost-effective design criteria

1.5.12 COST ESTIMATING MANUAL

Located on Cost Estimating page on CFM website at https://www.cfm.va.gov/cost/index.asp.

Purpose

To convey the general and specific VA cost estimating philosophy for medical facilities.

The Manual accomplishes this by:

· Explaining specific estimating methodologies

· Presenting examples of certain design elements

1.5.13 SUSTAINABLE DESIGN MANUAL

Located in Technical Information Library at https://www.cfm.va.gov/til/sustain.asp.

Purpose

To identify sustainability goals outlined in the Federal Mandates, and maps each goal to the appropriate LEED strategy for implementation. Possible methods to achieve the goals, budget considerations, case studies, and checklists are also included.

The Manual accomplishes this by:

· Prescribing the use of integrated design practices

· Providing strategies for optimization of energy performance

· Providing strategies for protection and conservation of water resources

General Requirements 1-12

· Providing strategies for enhancement of indoor environmental quality

· Providing strategies for reduction of environmental impact of materials

1.5.14 SEISMIC DESIGN REQUIREMENTS (H-18-8)

Located in Technical Information Library at https://www.cfm.va.gov/til/seismic.asp.

Purpose

To establish seismic requirements to ensure that all new and existing VA hospital facilities in seismic areas are designed to remain operational after an earthquake.

1.5.15 FIRE PROTECTION DESIGN MANUAL

Located in Technical Information Library at https://vatilms.va.gov/vatilms/reports/PG-18- 10%20Design%20Manuals

Purpose

To provide fire protection design criteria, including fire alarm requirements.

1.5.16 VA HOSPITAL BUILDING SYSTEM

The VA Hospital Building System (VAHBS) is a methodology based on a modular concept for planning, designing, and constructing hospitals.

The methodology has been used nationwide with success in capital and operating cost containment, shortened delivery schedules, and improved space utilization flexibility. All new and replacement VA hospital buildings should use the VAHBS system. Also consider using this system for major additions to existing hospitals where future adaptability is an important factor.

The A/E will find that systems schematic/design development efforts will occur much earlier in the overall planning/design process, due to the modular concept. Equipment selection and main distribution sizing should be evaluated as soon as the size and number of modules is determined.

Refer to VHA Program Guide PG-18-3, Design and Construction Procedures, Topic 3, VA Hospital Building System for further guidance.

1.5.17 COMPUTER AIDED FACILITIES MANAGEMENT REQUIREMENTS (CAFM)

VA intends to implement Computer Aided Facility Management (CAFM) systems in all new and replacement hospital construction, and in all existing hospitals, as feasible. The CAFM concept requires that all pertinent data regarding a facility be contained in a master digital database, accessible by facilities personnel at their workstations for use in operations, energy/cost management, and maintenance, and for planning modifications in facility infrastructure due to space utilization changes.

General Requirements 1-13

1.6 VA BIM STANDARD

Located in Technical Information Library at https://vatilms.va.gov/vatilms/reports/PG-18- 13%20Topic%20Specific%20Standards%20and%20Criteria.

Purpose

To establish the use of BIM for new facilities to ensure value in quality, timeliness, cost, and to maximize building performance during operations.

1.7 APPLICABLE CODES AND STANDARDS

1.7.1 GENERAL

The A/E shall use and comply with latest pertinent Codes, Standards and Executive Orders for the design as required in the PG-18-3, Topic 1 - Codes, Standards and Executive Orders, as well as latest pertinent Codes and Standards shown below:

(a) American National Standards Institute (ANSI)

(b) American Society for Testing Materials (ASTM)

(c) Illuminating Engineering Society of North America (IESNA)

(d) Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE)

(e) International Organization for Standardization (ISO), Standards for Protocols and Interfaces that include Open System Interconnections (OSI)

(f) The Joint Commission (formerly known as the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations – JCAHO), Environment of Care Guidelines and Standards

(g) National Fire Protection Association (NFPA): the A/E shall pay particular attention to the following publications:

· NFPA 20 - Standard for the Installation of Stationary Pumps for Fire Protection

· NFPA 70 - National Electrical Code (NEC)

· NFPA 70B - Recommended Practice for Electrical Equipment Maintenance

· NFPA 70E - Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace

· NFPA 72 - National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code

· NFPA 77 - Recommended Practice on Static Electricity

· NFPA 99 - Health Care Facilities Code

· NFPA 101 - Life Safety Code

· NFPA 110 - Standard for Emergency and Standby Power Systems

· NFPA 111 - Standard on Stored Electrical Energy Emergency and Standby Power Systems

· NFPA 780 - Standard for the Installation of Lightning Protection Systems

General Requirements 1-14

(h) National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA)

(i) Underwriters' Laboratories, Inc. (UL)

1.7.2 LOCAL CODES AND CONDITIONS

(a) The A/E shall bring to the attention of CO, PM and COR, in writing, local and regional climatic and geographic conditions, and provisions of local building codes that are significantly different from the codes and standards listed above. The A/E shall provide CO, PM and COR, in writing, with specific information on how the proposed design will reflect these conditions and codes. The A/E shall focus on local codes, code amendments, and/or conditions related to coastal, hurricane-prone, arctic, or seismically-active regions, or other climatic or regional conditions that warrant additional measures to protect the integrity of systems.

(b) Some VA facilities may maintain their own electrical design requirement documents to address the facilities’ specific and unique electrical needs. Therefore, The A/E shall communicate and confirm with the Chief Engineer of Facility Management Services (FMS) to ensure whether this is the case. If this is the case, the A/E shall inform the CO and AHJ of the existence of the local facility’s document. The A/E shall submit in writing to the CO and AHJ - for review and approval - a list of local facility’s requirements that are not addressed in this design manual, or requirements that contradict to the requirements of this design manual. The A/E shall incorporate the local facility’s requirements into the design, only after receiving written approval from CO and AHJ.

1.7.3 LOCAL UTILITY

The A/E shall follow the rules and regulations of the local electric power utility company, known herewith as utility company, where applicable. The A/E shall investigate potential rebates or incentives offered by the utility company for the installation and use of energy saving equipment.

1.8 DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

(a) All conductors, transformer windings, and bussing in electrical power distribution system components shall be copper.

(b) Motors rated 1/2 HP and higher shall be 3-phase. Design and specifications shall be based upon 200V (volt) motors for 208V systems and 460V motors for 480V systems.

(c) Provide detailed schedules for switchgear, switchboards, distribution panelboards, branch-circuit panelboards, and motor control centers on the drawings. At a minimum, the schedules shall indicate equipment ratings, enclosure type, load descriptions, interrupting ratings, breaker/starter sizes, and connected and demand loads in kVA by phase. The A/E shall determine probable equipment sizes from several manufacturers. The A/E shall consider largest dimensions, and heaviest weights among all qualified manufacturers to ensure that working clearance requirements, space for future installations, and structural

General Requirements 1-15 requirements are satisfied. The A/E shall ascertain that the electrical rooms are sufficiently sized to accommodate all electrical equipment.

(d) Specifications and CAD Standard Details:

The A/E shall include applicable specifications as part of the construction document. The A/E shall include applicable details in the construction document. The A/E shall follow the guidance below:

· VA Master Specifications (PG-18-1 Division 26) have been developed for typical electrical work. The A/E shall edit the appropriate sections to meet the project scope of work and specific project requirements, and latest applicable codes, at the time of project design.

· The A/E shall carefully coordinate specifications with the drawings so that all work required by the drawings is included in the specifications. Specification content that does not apply to the project shall be deleted.

· The A/E shall develop specifications for any system or equipment not addressed by the VA Master Specifications. The A/E shall submit such specification to CO, COR and AHJ for review and approval to use in the project. Only after receiving written approval from CO and AHJ, the A/E can proceed to include such specifications into the project design.

· VA Master Electrical CAD Standard Details (PG-18-4 Division 26) have been developed for typical electrical work. The A/E shall edit appropriate standard detail(s) to be consistent with the project’s specifications, specific project requirements, and in compliance with latest applicable codes, at the time of project design.

1.9 CRITERIA UNIQUE TO VA

1.9.1 DRAWINGS

(a)…