S02 - 556-23-104 Addendum correcting select specification text rev20DEC24.docx

556-23-104 Addendum correcting select specification text (rev20DEC24) 20DEC24: Replaced the safety and IC specs.

01 00 00 General Requirements

1.3 Statement of Bid Deduct Items(s)

· Disregard all three paragraphs describing Deduct Alternates.

· Disregard reference to deduct alternates in the drawings.

1.5 Construction Security Requirements

· B.1. Delete text beginning at “not enter” and ending at “may also”.

Contractor staff identification will be addressed directly with the assigned VA Engineer.

· B.2. Disregard the paragraph.

The process associated with mobilization and commencement of work is prescribed at 013216.15 Project Schedules, 013323 Shop Drawings, Product Data, and Samples, and 014500 Contractor Quality Control.

· C. Guards.

Disregard this subject. The Contractor is not required to provide security guards.

· E. Document Control For clarity, disregard Items 1, and 3 through 7.

· F. Motor Vehicle Restrictions.

Disregard this subject. Parking and loading/unloading zone will be addressed directly with the assigned VA Engineer.

1.6 Operations and Storage Areas

· H and N.1 through 6 Utilities Services: Replace current text with “All utilities must be maintained in service at all times. Contractor must coordinate planned interruptions in advance with the VA COR as described at 01 32 16.15,1.7,A.c.”

Also see 1.9 Protection of Existing Vegetation, Structures, Equipment, Utilities, and Improvements later in this specification.

01 32 16.15 Project Schedules with Long Lead Items, and also Scope of Work

1.2 and 1.3 Contractor’s representative and Scheduling Consultant

· 1.3.B. Remove text beginning at “bid acceptance” and ending before “Notice to Proceed”. Remove text following “Notice to Proceed” to the end of the sentence.

· 1.3.B. and elsewhere throughout the specifications: Replace “10 business days” with “14 calendar days” in order to harmonize it with the rest of the document’s use of calendar days as a unit of measure.

Result:

B. Prior to engaging a Scheduling Consultant, the Contractor shall submit a qualification proposal to the Contracting Officer and COR within 14 calendar days of Notice to Proceed (NTP). The qualification proposal shall include:

Scope of Work: Add the above corrected content to the SOW to ensure contractors see these requirements.

01 33 23 Appendix 1, Master Submittal List Remove the entire Appendix 1 Master Submittal List at PDF pages 57 through 62. The contractor is required to generate a complete comprehensive list of submittals prescribed throughout the specifications as described at 01 33 23,1.3, Submittal Register A through E.

01 33 23 Shop Drawings, Product Data, and Samples 1.1.D. Description Remove the text of this paragraph and insert “This specification supplements and works with several other specifications and clauses”.

01 32 26 Safety Requirements Remove the specification at PDF pages 71 through 118.

Insert and apply the attached 01 32 26 Safety Requirements and 01 35 33 Infection Control Requirements specifications.

01 42 16 Definitions, Abbreviations, and Acronyms Delete this specification.

01 45 29 Testing Laboratory Services

· 3.8 Concrete “…quality to satisfaction of COR…” should read “quality meeting the prescribed standards of the contract documents.

3.8.A.1 though 5. Reference to “batch plant” activities does not apply to this project because it does not include, or warrant inclusion of, a contractor-provided batch plant on site. Excellent RMC sources are available near this site. Contractor will collect and submit all RMC provider-developed quality documentation, beginning at mix design and continuing through delivery of the last load of concrete.

3.8.B. through “As always”, the contractor-provided testing laboratory will observe delivery and installation of RMC, collect samples, and test those samples in their laboratory.

· 3.9 Reinforcement VA COR must be provided with copies of all documents listed, as well as product tags, photos documenting the markings representing material specs, and verifiable documentation regarding the origin of all steel. Do not allow purchase or delivery of steel products of countries other than the United States of America.

· 3.10 Required Form Correct VAAR 826.701(c) to VAAR 836.701(c)

31 20 00 Earthwork General statement: This specification makes regular reference to materials and conditions being acceptable, inspected, or approved by the COR, or as directed by the COR. Where such statements occur, replace “COR” with “the General Contractor’s licensed professional civil engineer”.

· 1.2.H and I:

Disregard erroneous content. Excavation and determination of material suitability is prescribed throughout this specification, NOT by the VA COR, but by the contractor’s testing service.

Cross-reference with 01 45 29,3.1 Testing Laboratory Services, Earthwork beginning at PDF page 167.

This is a firm fixed price design-bid-build contract, not design-build. Tracking of material quantities in and or out for the purpose of cost reconciliation is not part of this contract.

· 1.2.R Contaminated Soils:

Remove text beginning at “…COR” and ending with “…the Government’s…” and replace with “Contractor’s”.

· 1.5 Measurement and Payment for Excavation Disregard entire paragraph. This is a firm fixed price design-bid-build contract, not design-build. Tracking of material quantities in and or out for the purpose of cost reconciliation is not part of this contract.

· 3.2.A Shoring:

Replace “…considered acceptable by the COR,” with “…in compliance with the Occupational Safety and Health Act and the General Contractor’s excavation competent person”.

· 3.2.A.2: Disregard this statement as uninterpretable.

· 3.2.A.4: Replace “as directed by COR,” with “as prescribed by the contractor’s licensed professional civil engineer,” and replace “COR” at the end of this paragraph with “the contractor’s licensed professional civil engineer”.

· 3.2.B.

Delete all content following “Excavation Drainage:” and replace with “As specified at 31 23 19 Dewatering

· 3.3.E. Filling and Backfill.

Delete the first sentence following “Opening and Drainage of Excavation and Borrow Pits:”

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01 35 26 Construction Safety 19DEC24 (post-CO comments).docx Standard Specification for all projects at Lovell FHCC (rev 19DEC24)

SECTION 01 35 26

Safety REQUIREMENTS

1.1 APPLICABLE PUBLICATIONS:

A. This Specification is edited from the VHA model specification for construction safety requirements developed by the VHA Center for Occupational Safety and Health, which included infection control. Infection Control has been properly segregated to become Specification 01 35 33 Infection Control Requirements, using nomenclature and formatting propagated by Construction Specifications Institute (CSI). Both templates were then edited to optimally communicate the requirements of all projects at the facility. These living documents are revised from time to time. Contractors are encouraged to communicate to the COR any recommendations for improvement. Both specifications are required to be included in all construction contracts by VHA Directive 7715 Safety and Health During Construction, which is available at: https://www.va.gov/vhapublications/ViewPublication.asp?pub_ID=5380

B. While this document and those cited within it use terms inferring that it only applies to construction contracts and activities, it is imperative that all other vendors engaged by VA, such as Architect-Engineer, Commissioning Agent, surveying, inspecting, testing, and other consulting and supporting firms (employers) comply with cited law, regulation, and policies governing planned work. Examples include selection and use of personal protective equipment, ladders, AHA’s and APP’s, confined spaces, permit preparation and management, control of hazardous energy, fall protection, dust containment and control, and other regulated activities. Situationally, full compliance with all requirements of a construction contractor will apply to consulting firms and their sub-consultants when planned activities are regulated under the General Industry Standard the same as, or similar to the Construction Industry Standard.

C. Federal Law. The Public Buildings Amendments of 1988, 40 U.S.C. 3312 (formerly section 21 of the Public Buildings Act of 1959, 40 U.S.C. 619), require that each building constructed or altered by any federal agency shall, to the maximum extent feasible, be in compliance with nationally recognized model building codes, and with other applicable nationally recognized codes.

D. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR): https://www.acquisition.gov/ as cited throughout this document.

E. VA Acquisition Regulations (VAAR): https://www.va.gov/oal/library/vaar/ as cited throughout this document.

Note: Compliance with this specification requires use of the VA Contractor Production Report and 826.7001(c) requiring use of VA Form 10101, available in fillable PDF form at https://www.va.gov/vaforms/va/pdf/VA10101.pdf

F. National Standards. The latest edition of the nationally recognized standards herein, in effect at the time of contract award, shall be used during design and construction.

G. The publications listed below form part of this Article to extent referenced. Publications are referenced in text by basic designations only. Always use the latest editions of all publications.

H. American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP; formerly ASSE):

A10.1 Pre-Project & Pre-Task Safety and Health Planning

A10.6 Safety & Health Program Requirements for Demolition Operations

A10.8 Safety Requirements for Scaffolding

A10.33 Safety and Health Program Requirements for Multi-Employer Projects

A10.34 Protection of the Public on or Adjacent to Construction Sites

A10.38 Basic Elements of an Employer’s Program to Provide a Safe & Healthful Work Environment

Z117.1 Safety Requirements for Confined Spaces

Z244.1 Control of Energy Sources (Lockout/Tagout) for Construction & Demolition Operations

Z359 Fall Protection Code

Z490.1 Criteria for Accepted Practices in Safety, Health and Environmental Training

Note: Always review the ASSP A10.0 Guidance Document for Construction and demolition Operations Compendium of Standards and apply those related to the planned work.

I. American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM):

E84-2013 Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials

J. The Facilities Guidelines Institute (FGI):

Guidelines for the Design and Construction of Hospitals, or

Guidelines for the Design and Construction of Outpatient Clinics (as applicable)

K. International Code Council:

International Fire Code, Chapter 33 Fire Safety During Construction and Demolition

L. National Fire Protection Association (NFPA):

NFPA 1 Fire Code

NFPA 10 Standard for Portable Fire Extinguishers

NFPA 13 Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems

NFPA 25 Standard for the Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance of Water-Based Fire Protection Systems

NFPA 30 Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code

NFPA 51B Standard for Fire Prevention During Welding, Cutting and Other Hot Work

NFPA 70 National Electric Code

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 99 Health Care Facilities Code

NFPA 101 Life Safety Code

NFPA 241 Standard for Safeguarding Construction, Alteration, and Demolition Operations

Note: Always review the most current and complete list of NFPA Codes and Standards, and apply those related to the planned work

M. The Joint Commission (TJC)

TJC Manual Comprehensive Accreditation and Certification Manual

N. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE)

Engineering Manual No. 385-1-1 Safety and Health Requirements (USACE EM 385-1-1), and related resources.

O. U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission

10 CFR 20 Standards for Protection Against Radiation

P. U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA):

29 CFR 1904 Reporting and Recording Injuries & Illnesses

29 CFR 1910 Safety and Health Regulations for General Industry

29 CFR 1926 Safety and Health Regulations for Construction Industry

29 CFR 1960 ` Basic Program Elements for Federal Employee OS&H Programs

CPL 2-00.124 Multi-Employer Citation Policy

1.2 DEFINITIONS:

A. Critical Lift. A lift with the hoisted load exceeding 75% of the crane’s maximum capacity; lifts made out of the view of the operator (blind picks); lifts involving two or more cranes; personnel being hoisted; and special hazards such as lifts over occupied facilities, loads lifted close to power-lines, and lifts in high winds or where other adverse environmental conditions exist; and any lift which the crane operator believes is critical.

B. General Contractor, also referred to as Prime Contractor here, is the contractor with whom VA has a contract for this work. Situationally includes professional consulting firms noted at 1.1.B.

C. OSHA “Competent Person” (CP). One who is capable of identifying existing and predictable hazards in the surroundings and working conditions which are unsanitary, hazardous, or dangerous to employees, and who has the authorization to take prompt corrective measures to eliminate them (see 29 CFR 1926.32(f)).

D. Qualified Person. One who, by possession of a recognized degree, certificate, or professional standing, or who by extensive knowledge, training and experience, has successfully demonstrated his ability to solve or resolve problems relating to the subject matter, the work, or the project.

E. High Visibility Accident. Any mishap which may generate publicity or high visibility.

F. Accident/Incident Criticality Categories:

No impact – near miss incidents that should be investigated but are not required to be reported to VA;

Minor incident/impact – incidents that require first aid or result in minor equipment damage (less than $5000). These incidents must be investigated but are not required to be reported to VA;

Moderate incident/impact – Any work-related injury or illness that results in:

1. Days away from work (any time lost after day of injury/illness onset);

2. Restricted work;

3. Transfer to another job;

4. Medical treatment beyond first aid;

5. Loss of consciousness;

6. A significant injury or illness diagnosed by a physician or other licensed health care professional, even if it did not result in (1) through (5) above or,

7. Any incident that leads to major equipment damage (greater than $5000 but less than $20,000).

Major incident/impact – Any mishap that leads to fatalities, hospitalizations, amputations, and losses of an eye as a result of contractors’ activities. Or any incident which leads to property damage ($20,000 or greater) and/or may generate publicity or high visibility. These incidents must be investigated and are required to be reported to the VA as soon as practical, but not later than 2 hours after the incident.

NOTE: The following types of incidents must be investigated, and are required to be reported to VA as soon as practical, but not later than two hours after occurrence:

1. Any Minor, Moderate, or Major incident/impact, as defined above.

2. Medical Treatment. Treatment administered by a physician or by registered professional personnel under the standing orders of a physician. Medical treatment does not include first aid treatment even through provided by a physician, other medical practitioners, or first responders.

1.3 REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS:

A. Read and comply with Specification 01 41 00 Regulatory Requirements which is also part of this contract.

B. Where specification numbers are included here by reference, but not included in the bid package, prepare and transmit a Request for Information (RFI) to the Contracting Officer, and ask for clarification of the requirement in the context of where it was found. Note that it is expectable that VA responses, especially for Division 2 and higher, will be based on the resources maintained in the VA Technical Information Library propagated by the VA Office of Construction and Facilities Management (http://www.cfm.va.gov/til/), so access the repository and find the resources associated with the subject, review them, and then cite the specific content in your RFI.

C. In addition to the detailed requirements included in the provisions of this contract, comply with 29 CFR 1910, and with 29 CFR 1926, and also comply with ASSP A10.34, and all applicable [federal, state, and local] laws, ordinances, criteria, rules, and regulations. Submit matters of interpretation of standards for resolution before starting work. Where the requirements of this specification, applicable laws, criteria, ordinances, regulations, and referenced documents vary, the most stringent requirements govern except with specific approval and acceptance by the Facility Safety Officer and Contracting Officer’s Representative.

1.4 ACCIDENT PREVENTION PLAN (APP):

A. The APP (aka Construction Safety & Health Plan) shall interface with the Contractor's overall safety and health program. Include any portions of the Contractor's overall safety and health program referenced in the applicable APP element and ensure it is site and project specific.

B. The Government considers the Prime Contractor to be the "controlling authority" for worksite safety and health of each subcontractor(s). Contractors are responsible for informing their subcontractors of the safety provisions under the terms of the contract, and the penalties for noncompliance, and for coordinating the work to prevent one craft from interfering with or creating hazardous working conditions for other crafts, and inspecting subcontractor operations to ensure that accident prevention responsibilities are being carried out.

C. VA shall not be responsible for contractor failure to comply with this specification. Failure of any contractor at any tier to comply with any part of this specification, including the Site and Project-Specific APP, shall be responded to as any other compliance violation under the contract between VA and the contractor. Additionally, individuals and even subcontractor firms may be summarily removed from and even barred from VA property for violations, or failure to immediately remedy violations observed or reported by VA safety, engineering, and or contracting personnel. Failure to cooperate in this may result in engaging the VA Police.

D. The APP shall be prepared as follows:

1. Written in English by a Qualified Person who is employed by the Prime Contractor, articulating the specific work and hazards pertaining to the contract (model language can be found in ASSP A10.33 Safety and Health Program Requirements for Multi-Employer Projects). Other excellent resources include USACE EM385-1-1 and associated forms and other documents freely available online, such as:

EM385-1-1 Safety and Health Requirements: https://www.publications.usace.army.mil/Portals/76/Publications/EngineerManuals/EM_385-1-1.pdf

Appendix A - Minimum Basic Outline for Accident Prevention Plans: https://www.usace.army.mil/Portals/2/docs/Safety/EM385-1-1%20APP%20AFINAL.pdf

Accident Prevention Plan Checklist: https://www.usace.army.mil/Portals/2/docs/Safety/EM%20385-1-1,%202014%20Sections/Checklists/CESO%20Checklist%20A-02%20Accident%20Prevention%20Plan.pdf

Safety and Occupational Health Deficiency Tracking Log: https://www.swg.usace.army.mil/Portals/26/docs/Safety/Deficiency_Tracking_Log.pdf

a. This submission shall only address safety and health planning for this specific project. Do not submit generic templates or plans, they will be rejected and delay mobilization for cause.

b. Specifically articulating the safety requirements found within these VA contract safety specifications of this project means that submission of a company safety manual (or similar) is not project-specific.

c. Address both the Prime Contractors and the subcontractors work operations.

d. State measures to be taken to control hazards associated with materials, services, or equipment provided by suppliers.

e. Where work conditions change, prepare and submit an addendum addressing what was not in the initial APP – in advance of performing any work associated with the addendum.

2. Address all the elements/sub-elements in order as follows:

a. SIGNATURE SHEET. Title, signature, and phone number of the following:

1) Plan preparer (Qualified Person such as corporate safety staff person or contracted Certified Safety Professional with construction safety experience);

2) Plan approver (company/corporate officers authorized to obligate the company);

3) Plan concurrence (e.g., Chief of Operations, Corporate Chief of Safety, Corporate Industrial Hygienist, project manager or superintendent, project safety professional). Provide concurrence of other applicable corporate and project personnel (Contractor).

b. BACKGROUND INFORMATION. List the following:

1) Contractor;

2) Contract number;

3) Project name;

4) Brief project description, description of work to be performed, and location; phases of work anticipated (these will require an AHA).

c. STATEMENT OF SAFETY AND HEALTH POLICY. Provide a copy of current corporate/company Safety and Health Policy Statement, detailing commitment to providing a safe and healthful workplace for all employees. The Contractor’s written safety program goals, objectives, and accident experience goals for this contract shall be provided.

d. RESPONSIBILITIES AND LINES OF AUTHORITY. Provide the following:

1) A statement of the employer’s ultimate responsibility for the implementation of his Safety and Occupational Health (SOH) program;

2) Identification and accountability of personnel responsible for safety at both corporate and project level. Contracts specifically requiring safety or industrial hygiene personnel shall include a copy of their resumes.

3) The names of Competent and/or Qualified Person(s), and proof of competency/qualification to meet specific OSHA Competent/Qualified Person(s) requirements must be attached.;

4) Requirements that no work shall be performed unless a designated competent person employed by the General Contractor is present on the job site;

5) Requirements for pre-task Activity Hazard Analysis (AHAs);

6) Lines of authority;

7) Policies and procedures regarding noncompliance with safety requirements (to include disciplinary actions for violation of safety requirements) should be identified;

e. SUBCONTRACTORS AND SUPPLIERS. If applicable, provide procedures for coordinating SOH activities with other employers on the job site:

1) Identification of subcontractors and suppliers (revise if and when changes are approved).

2) Safety responsibilities of subcontractors and suppliers.

f. TRAINING.

1) OSHA 30-hour training is required for all workers on site.

2) Site-specific SOH orientation training at the time of initial hire or assignment to the project for every employee before working on the project site is required.

3) Mandatory training and certifications that are applicable to this project (e.g., explosive actuated tools, crane operator, rigger, crane signal person, fall protection, electrical lockout/NFPA 70E, machine/equipment lockout, confined space, excavation, etc.) and any requirements for periodic retraining/ recertification are required.

4) Procedures for ongoing safety and health training for supervisors and employees shall be established to address changes in site hazards/conditions.

4) Additional documented training is elaborated throughout this specification, as well as applicable federal, state, and local codes and laws, and industry standards applicable to the work.

g. SAFETY AND HEALTH INSPECTIONS.

1) Specific assignment of responsibilities for a minimum daily job site safety and health inspection during periods of work activity: Who will conduct (e.g., “Site Safety and Health CP”), proof of inspector’s training/qualifications, when inspections will be conducted, procedures for documentation, deficiency tracking system, and follow-up procedures.

2) Any external inspections/certifications that may be required (e.g., staff or contracted CSP or CSHT).

3) Immediately provide original and complete inspection reports each and every day with the submission of VA Form 10101 Contractor Production Report (852.236-79).

h. ACCIDENT/INCIDENT INVESTIGATION & REPORTING. The Contractor shall conduct mishap investigations of all Moderate and Major as well as all High Visibility Incidents. The APP shall include accident/incident investigation procedure and identify person(s) responsible to provide the following to the Facility Safety Manager and Contracting Officer’s Representative:

1) Exposure data (man-hours worked);

2) Accident investigation reports;

3) Project site injury and illness logs.

Note: Listing safety data on meeting agenda’s does not replace the above-required reporting

i. PLANS (PROGRAMS, PROCEDURES) REQUIRED. Based on a risk assessment of contracted activities, and on mandatory OSHA compliance programs, the Contractor shall address all applicable occupational, patient, and public safety risks in their site and project--specific accident prevention plans. These Plans shall include, but are not limited to, procedures for addressing the project-specific risks associates with the following:

1) Emergency response;

2) Contingency for severe weather;

3) Fire Prevention;

4) Medical Support;

5) Posting of emergency telephone numbers;

6) Prevention of alcohol and drug abuse;

7) Site sanitation (housekeeping, drinking water, toilets);

8) Night operations and lighting;

9) Hazard communication program;

10) Welding/Cutting “Hot” work;

11) Electrical Safe Work Practices (Electrical LOTO/NFPA 70E);

12) General Electrical Safety;

13) Hazardous energy control (Machine LOTO);

14) Site-Specific Fall Protection & Prevention;

15) Excavation/trenching;

16) Asbestos abatement;

17) Lead abatement;

18) Crane Critical lift;

19) Respiratory protection;

20) Health hazard control program;

21) Radiation Safety Program;

22) Abrasive blasting;

23) Heat/Cold Stress Monitoring;

24) Crystalline Silica Monitoring (Assessment);

25) Demolition plan (to include engineering survey);

26) Formwork and shoring erection and removal;

27) Pre-Cast Concrete;

28) Public (Mandatory compliance with ANSI/ASSE A10.34-2012).

E. Submit the Site and Project-Specific APP to the VA Facility Safety Manager and Contracting Officer’s Representative for review for compliance with contract requirements no more than 14 calendar days after Notice to Proceed.

F. Once accepted by the VA Facility Safety Manager and Contracting Officer’s Representative, the APP and attachments are expected to be enforced by the contractor as though it were part of the construction contract – because managing an effective safety and health program is in the contract – and OSHA law, as the sole responsibility of the employer. Failure to properly manage their safety and health policies and plans will be referred to the Contracting Officer for action under the contract. Alternatively, OSHA can be notified directly, or VA Police, VA/Navy Safety and Health staff, VA Engineering staff, and FHCC senior leadership have the authority to require offending individuals and subcontractors departure from the property until the issue is rectified.

G. Once work begins, changes to the accepted Site and Project-Specific APP shall only be made with the knowledge and concurrence of the VA Facility Safety Manager and Contracting Officer’s Representative.

H. Should any severe hazard exposure (i.e. imminent danger) become evident, all personnel are empowered to immediately act, including stopping work activity in the area, securing the area, and participating in the development of a plan to remove the exposure and control the hazard. Notify the Contracting Officer within 24 hours of discovery. Eliminate/remove the hazard. In the interim, take all necessary action to restore and maintain safe working conditions in order to safeguard on-site personnel, visitors, the public, and the environment.

1.5 ACTIVITY HAZARD ANALYSES (AHA):

A. AHAs are also known as Job Hazard Analyses, Job Safety Analyses, and Activity Safety Analyses. Before beginning each work activity involving a type of work presenting hazards not experienced in previous project activities, or location of repeated work has changed, or where a new work crew or subcontractor is to perform the work, the Contractor(s) performing that work activity shall prepare an AHA (Example electronic AHA forms can be found on the US Army Corps of Engineers web site).

B. AHAs shall define the activities being performed, list the work sequences, list all specific anticipated hazards, site conditions, equipment, materials, and the control measures to be implemented to eliminate or reduce each hazard to an acceptable level of risk.

C. Work shall not begin until the AHA for the work activity has been accepted by the Facility Safety Manager and Contracting Officer’s Representative, and discussed with all engaged in the activity, including the Contractor, subcontractor(s), and Government on-site representatives at preparatory and or initial control phase meetings.

1. The names of the Competent/Qualified Person(s) required for a particular activity (i.e. Excavations, scaffolding, fall protection, or other activities as specified by OSHA and/or other State and Local agencies, shall be identified and included in the AHA. Certification of their competency/qualification shall be submitted to the Facility Safety Manager and Contracting Officer’s Representative for acceptance prior to the start of that work activity.

2. The AHA shall be reviewed and modified as necessary to address changing site conditions, operations, or change of competent/ qualified person(s).

a. If more than one Competent/Qualified Person is used on the AHA activity, a list of names shall be submitted as an attachment to the AHA. Those listed must be Competent/Qualified for the type of work involved in the AHA and familiar with current site safety issues.

b. If a new Competent/Qualified Person (not on the original list) is added, the list shall be updated (an administrative action not requiring an updated AHA). The new person shall acknowledge in writing that he or she has reviewed the AHA and is familiar with current site safety issues.

3. Submit AHAs to the VA Facility Safety Manager and Contracting Officer’s Representative for review for compliance with contract requirements for review at least 14 calendar days prior to the start of each phase. Subsequent AHAs as shall be formatted as amendments to the APP. The analysis should be used during daily inspections to ensure the implementation and effectiveness of the activity's safety and health controls.

4. The AHA list will be reviewed periodically (at least monthly) at the Contractor supervisory safety meeting and updated as necessary when procedures, scheduling, or hazards change.

5. Develop the activity hazard analyses using the project schedule as the basis for the activities performed. All activities listed on the project schedule will require an AHA. The AHAs will be developed by the contractor, supplier, or subcontractor, and provided to the prime contractor for review and approval, and then submitted to the VA Facility Safety Manager and Contracting Officer’s Representative.

1.6 PRE-CONSTRUCTION CONFERENCE:

A. Preconstruction Conference, a pre-activity meeting shall be held to communicate requirements, project-specific concerns, and the project plan of execution. The Contracting Officer’s Representative, and or the Specifications, may also call for Pre-Construction Conferences for planned portions of the work requiring collaborative planning to avoid quality and safety issues. The Prime Contractor and affected subcontractor project leads are required to attend and actively participate.

B. Contractor representatives who have a responsibility or significant role in implementation of the accident prevention program, as required by 29 CFR 1926.20(b)(1), on the project shall attend the preconstruction conference to gain a mutual understanding of its implementation. This includes the project superintendent, subcontractor superintendents, and any other assigned safety and health professionals.

C. Discuss the details of the submitted APP to include incorporated plans, programs, procedures and a listing of anticipated AHAs that will be developed and implemented during the performance of the contract. This list of proposed AHAs will be reviewed at the conference and an agreement will be reached between the Contractor and the Contracting Officer's Representative as to which phases will require an analysis. In addition, establish a schedule for the preparation, submittal, review, and acceptance of AHAs to preclude project delays.

D. Deficiencies in the submitted APP will be brought to the attention of the Contractor within 14 days of submittal, and the Contractor shall revise the plan to correct deficiencies and re-submit it for acceptance. Do not begin work until there is an accepted APP.

1.7 “SITE SAFETY AND HEALTH OFFICER” (SSHO) and “COMPETENT PERSON” (CP):

A. This contract involves: (a) work of a long duration or hazardous nature, or (b) performance within a Government facility, that on the advice of VA construction safety representatives involves hazardous operations which might endanger the safety of the public, patients, and/or Government personnel or property, therefore the SSHO, and Superintendent and/or Quality Control Manager, must be separate persons. For multiple shift operations, a SSHO must be on site throughout each shift. In no case shall subcontractor personnel be allowed to access and work on any VA site without their general contractor’s SSHO also being on site.

Following Award, and depending on the qualifications and demonstrated competency of GC site management, VA may be open to allowing the general contractor superintendent to act as the SSHO - conditional on retaining the right for the COR, CSO, or CO to summarily and immediately revoke the privilege as a result of observed performance deficiencies. While this is not guaranteed, in no case shall VA accept assignment of site management personnel to multiple projects concurrently.

B. The Prime or General Contractor shall designate a minimum of one SSHO at each project site that will be identified as the SSHO to administer the Contractor's safety program and government-accepted Accident Prevention Plan. Each subcontractor shall designate a minimum of one CP in compliance with 29 CFR 1926.20 (b)(2) that will be identified as a CP to administer their individual safety programs.

C. Further, all specialized Competent Persons for the work crews shall be supplied by the respective contractor as required by 29 CFR 1926 (i.e. Asbestos, Electrical, Cranes, & Derricks, Demolition, Fall Protection, Fire Safety/Life Safety, Ladder, Rigging, Scaffolds, and Trenches/Excavations).

D. These Competent Persons may be permitted by VA to perform collateral duties as the subcontractor’s superintendent and/or work crew lead persons, as well as fill more than one specialized CP role (i.e. Asbestos, Electrical, Cranes, & Derricks, Demolition, Fall Protection, Fire Safety/Life Safety, Ladder, Rigging, Scaffolds, and Trenches/Excavations). However, the SSHO has be a separate qualified individual from the Prime Contractor’s Superintendent and/or Quality Control Manager with duties only as the SSHO.

E. The SSHO or an equally-qualified Designated Representative/alternate will maintain a presence on the site during construction operations in accordance with FAR Clause 52.236-6: Superintendence by the Contractor. CPs will maintain presence during their construction activities in accordance with above mentioned clause. A listing of the designated SSHO and all known CPs shall be submitted prior to the start of work, and prior to the Kick-Off meeting, as part of the APP with the training documentation and/or AHA as listed in Section 1.8 below.

F. The repeated presence of uncontrolled hazards during a contractor’s work operations will result in the designated CP as being deemed incompetent and result in the required removal of the employee in accordance with FAR Clause 52.236-5: Material and Workmanship and other Clauses and Contract requirements.

1.8 TRAINING:

A. All designated SSHO’s, supervisory personnel, Qualified Persons, and Competent Persons shall have completed the OSHA 30-hour Construction Safety course within the past 5 years.

B. The designated Prime Contractor SSHO must meet the requirements of all applicable OSHA standards and be capable (through training, experience, and qualifications) of ensuring that the requirements of 29 CFR 1926.16 and other appropriate Federal, State and local requirements are met for the project. As a minimum the SSHO must have completed the OSHA 30-hour Construction Safety class and have five (5) years of construction industry safety experience or three (3) years if he/she possesses a current Certified Safety Professional (CSP) or certified Construction Safety and Health Technician (CSHT) certification (in good standing) or have a safety and health degree from a regionally-accredited university or college.

C. In addition to the OSHA 30-Hour Construction Safety Course, all CPs with high hazard work operations such as operations involving asbestos, electrical, cranes, demolition, work at heights/fall protection, fire safety/life safety, ladder, rigging, scaffolds, and trenches/excavations shall have a specialized formal course in the hazard recognition & control associated with those high hazard work operations. Documented “repeat” deficiencies in the execution of safety requirements will require retaking the requisite formal course.

D. All other construction workers shall have completed the OSHA 30-hour Construction Safety Outreach course and any necessary safety training to be able to identify hazards within their work environment.

E. Contractor employees visiting the site for administrative purposes shall have completed at least the 10-hour Construction Safety Outreach course, and any necessary site-specific safety hazard awareness training.

F. Submit an employee roster along with legible copies of all training cards and certificates to the Contracting Officer’s Representative prior to allowing any worker to enter the site.

G. Submit training records associated with the above requirements to the VA Facility Safety Manager and Contracting Officer’s Representative for review for compliance with contract requirements at least 14 calendar days prior to the date of the preconstruction conference for acceptance.

H. Prior to any employee of the contractor or subcontractors beginning work, they shall undergo a safety briefing provided by the SSHO or his/her designated representative. As a minimum, this briefing shall include information on the site-specific hazards, construction limits, VA safety guidelines, means of egress, fire extinguisher locations (and types where applicable), break areas, work hours, locations of restrooms, use of VA equipment, emergency procedures, accident reporting, etc. Documentation shall be provided each day to the COR that all individuals have undergone contractor’s safety briefing. Include all documentation with transmission of required VA Form 10101 Contractor Production Report (VAAR 853.236-79; 826.7001(c)) available in fillable PDF form at https://www.va.gov/vaforms/va/pdf/VA10101.pdf

I. Ongoing safety training will be accomplished in the form of a (minimum) weekly documented safety meeting. Submit records of these meetings to the COR as part of the requirements for daily reporting without fail.

1.9 INSPECTIONS:

A. The SSHO shall conduct frequent and regular safety inspections (daily) of the site and each of the subcontractors CPs shall conduct frequent and regular safety inspections (daily) of their work operations as required by 29 CFR 1926.20(b)(2). Each week, the SSHO shall conduct a formal documented inspection of the entire construction areas with the subcontractors’ “Trade Safety and Health CPs” present in their work areas. Coordinate with, and report findings and corrective actions weekly to Facility Safety Manager and Contracting Officer’s Representative.

B. The Prime Contractor shall retain the services of an independent Certified Safety Professional (CSP) with specialized knowledge in construction safety or a certified Construction Safety and Health Technician (CSHT), who shall randomly conduct a monthly site safety inspection. The CSP or CSHT shall provide their certificate number on the required report for verification as necessary.

1. Results of the inspection will be documented with tracking of the identified hazards to abatement.

2. The VA Facility Safety Manager and Contracting Officer’s Representative shall be notified directly by the CSP or CSHT at least 24 hours prior to start of the inspection, and invited to accompany the inspection.

3. Identified hazards and controls will be discussed to enable mutual understanding, ensure abatement, and prevent future (re)occurrence.

4. A report of the inspection findings with status of abatement shall be provided to the VA Facility Safety Manager and Contracting Officer’s Representative within two business days of the on-site inspection.

1.10 MISHAPS, OSHA 300 LOGS, AND MAN-HOURS:

A. The prime contractor shall establish and maintain a Near-Miss and Mishap reporting, recordkeeping, and analysis system to track and analyze all injuries and illnesses, high visibility incidents, and accidental property damage (both government and contractor) and Near-Misses that occur on site. Notify and provide an initial report to the VA Facility Safety Manager and Contracting Officer’s Representative as soon as practical, but no more than two hours after any accident meeting the definition of a Minor, Moderate, or Major Mishap, High Visibility Incidents, or any weight handling and hoisting equipment mishap. No Impact/Near-Miss and Minor Mishaps shall be reported within 24 hours or as soon as practical. Within the notification include contractor name; contract title; type of contract; name of activity, installation or location where accident occurred; date and time of accident; names of personnel injured; extent of property damage, if any; extent of injury, if known, and brief description of accident (to include type of construction equipment used, PPE used, etc.). Preserve the conditions and evidence on the accident site until the VA Facility Safety Manager and Contracting Officer’s Representative determine whether a government investigation will be conducted.

B. Conduct a mishap investigation for Mishaps including mishaps resulting in at least $20,000 in damages without injury, to establish the root cause(s) of the mishap. The Mishap investigation shall include images, 5 whys, the injured person’s firsthand account, any witness accounts, methods of procedures, related AHA to the task, and corrective action plan signed by the president, vice president, or appropriate corporate-level leadership identified in the company’s org chart for the project. Additionally, complete a Contractor Work-Related Injury or Illness Investigation Report or equivalent and provide the report to the VA Facility Safety Manager and Contracting Officer’s Representative within two business days of the accident.

C. A summation of all man-hours worked by the contractor and associated subcontractors for each month will be reported to the Facility Safety Manager and Contracting Officer’s Representative within the first two days of each month.

D. A summation of all Minor, Moderate, and Major incidents experienced on site by the contractor and associated subcontractors for each month will be provided to the VA Facility Safety Manager and Contracting Officer’s Representative within the first two days of each month. The contractor and associated subcontractors’ OSHA 300 logs shall be submitted to the VA Facility Safety Manager and Contracting Officer’s Representative prior to the preconstruction meeting, and then prior to any new subcontractor mobilizing on site.

1.11 PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE):

A. PPE is governed in all areas by the nature of the work the employee is performing. For example, specific PPE required for performing work on electrical equipment is identified in NFPA 70E, Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace.

B. Mandatory PPE includes:

1. Hard Hats – Required where worker becomes exposed to a potential overhead falling object hazard, bodily impact to objects in low-head clearance walkways or work areas, or as otherwise required in accordance with OSHA regulations.

2. Safety glasses - Appropriate safety glasses meeting the ANSI Z.87.1 standard must be worn by each person within any work area.

3. Appropriate Safety Shoes –meeting the requirements of ASTM F2413-11 shall be worn by each person on site regardless of craft or administrative position. Under no circumstances shall contractor personnel wear open-toed, or athletic shoes while in a work area.

4. Hearing protection - Use personal hearing protection at all times in designated noise hazard areas, or when performing noise-hazardous tasks. Hint: If people must raise their voices above normal tone to communicate (be heard), the environment requires hearing protection.

5. Any other protective device or tool necessary to prevent harm, as determined by the employer in development of their complete, compliant, and proactive AHA’s, or in response to changes in the work environment not contemplated by their AHA.

1.12 PRE-CONSTRUCTION RISK ASSESSMENT

A. Control of all construction-associated hazards that affect VA medical facilities, their occupants, services and mission-essential functions and capabilities is critical in all medical center facilities. VHA Pre-Construction Risk Assessments (PCRAs) for construction, renovation and maintenance projects are included with this contract solicitation with required mitigations of identified hazards. VHA-PCRAs will be re-validated and updated as needed based on but not limited to changes from original designs, affected individuals, areas/locations, scope, contractor means and methods, safety requirements, phasing, contractor competencies and capabilities.

B. Infection Prevention and Control is critical in all medical center facilities. Interior construction activities causing disturbance of existing dust, or creating new dust, must be conducted within ventilation-controlled areas that minimize the flow of airborne particles into patient areas. A detailed analysis of potential risks for infectious disease transmission affecting the care, treatment or services of patients or residents has been conducted. VHA Infection Control Risk Assessments (ICRAs) are included with this contract solicitation with required mitigation actions/activities. VHA-ICRAs will be re-validated and updated as needed based on changes in original designs, affected individuals, area(s) or location(s), scope, contractor means and methods, infection prevention and control requirements, differing site conditions, phasing, contractor competencies and capabilities, and infectious disease outbreaks.

C. For work occurring at a VA medical facility, coordinate with the facility Safety Manager/Officer, as several aspects of this section directly relate to infection control risk assessments required in or adjacent to construction affecting occupied buildings accredited by The Joint Commission.

D. Products and Materials:

1. Sheet Plastic: Fire retardant polyethylene, 6-mil thickness meeting local fire codes

2. Barrier Doors: Self Closing (smoke or fire rating as required for the location)

3. Dust proof drywall (smoke or fire rating as required for the location)

4. High Efficiency Particulate Air-Equipped filtration machine rated at 95% capture of 0.3 microns including pollen, mold spores and dust particles. HEPA filters should have ASHRAE 85 or other prefilter to extend the useful life of the HEPA. Provide both primary and secondary filtrations units. Maintenance of equipment and replacement of the HEPA filters and other filters will be in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions.

5. Exhaust Hoses: Heavy duty, flexible steel reinforced; Ventilation Blower Hose

6. Adhesive Walk-off Mats: Provide minimum size mats of 24 inches x 36 inches

7. Disinfectant: EPA-registered, Hospital-approved disinfectant or equivalent product

8. Portable Ceiling Access Module

1.13 DUST CONTROL

A. Contractor shall verify that dust will not be introduced into any medical center building through intake vents or building openings. HEPA filtration on intake vents is required where dust may be introduced.

B. Dust created from disturbance of soil such as from vehicle movement will be wetted with use of a water truck as necessary.

C. All cutting, drilling, grinding, sanding, or disturbance of materials shall be accomplished with tools equipped with either local exhaust ventilation (i.e. vacuum systems) or wet suppression controls.

1.14 INFECTION CONTROL

E. Do not refer to this subject as “Infectious Control”.

F. Review and comply with the requirements enumerated throughout Specification 01 35 33 INFECTION CONTROL REQUIREMENTS which is also part of this contract.

G. Infection Control is critical in all medical center facilities. Interior construction activities causing disturbance of existing dust, or creating new dust, must be conducted within ventilation-controlled areas which prevent the flow of airborne particles outside of the construction area. Exterior construction activities causing disturbance of soil or other dust-creating activities must also be controlled to prevent fugitive dust from entering facility air intakes, doors, or windows. Sealing off doors and windows cannot be the proposed solution.

H. An Infection Control Risk Assessment (ICRA) shall be prepared by the COR and safety team. The ICRA procedure and form used by this facility is based on the template found on the American Society for Healthcare Engineering (ASHE) website. It is an industry standard process and form which healthcare designers and constructors must become familiar with and make use of.

I. Infection Control Permits, where required, will be issued by the Contracting Officer’s Representative in collaboration with…