S02 Atch A.6 SOW Attachment E - 78 pages.pdf

design

AUGUST 1, 2014

Rev. September 1, 2026

Architectural Design Manual

Office of Construction & Facilities Management

ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN MANUAL

August 1, 2014

Rev September 1, 2026

Architectural Design Manual August 1, 2014

TABLE OF CONTENTS i

TABLE OF CONTENTS

CHAPTER 1: OVERVIEW

1.1 INTRODUCTION 1-1

1.2 PURPOSE 1-2

1.3 HOSPITAL BUILDING SYSTEM (VAHBS) 1-3

1.4 BUILDING INFORMATION MODELING (BIM) 1-3

1.5 SUSTAINABLE DESIGN 1-3

1.5.1 OPTIMIZE ENERGY PERFORMANCE 1-3

1.5.2 PROTECT AND CONSERVE WATER 1-4

1.5.3 ENHANCE INDOOR ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY 1-4

1.5.4 REDUCE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT OF MATERIALS 1-5

1.5.5 PRIORITY TO RENOVATION OF EXISTING FACILITIES 1-5

1.6 ACCESSIBILITY 1-5

1.7 PHYSICAL SECURITY 1-5

1.7.1 OVERVIEW 1-5

1.7.2 CONSIDERATIONS 1-6

1.8 SEISMIC AND OTHER NATURAL HAZARDS 1-6

1.9 PATIENT CENTRIC DESIGN 1-7

1.10 COMMISSIONING 1-7

CHAPTER 2: GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

2.1 RESPONSIBILITY 2-1

2.2 AUTHORITY HAVING JURISDICTION 2-1

2.3 COORDINATION 2-1

2.3.1 DESIGN QUALITY CONTROL 2-1

2.3.2 EXISTING CONDITIONS 2-1

2.4 VA DESIGN CRITERIA 2-1

2.4.1 MASTER CONSTRUCTION SPECIFICATIONS (PG-18-1) 2-1

2.4.2 DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION PROCEDURES (PG-18-3) 2-2

2.4.3 NATIONAL CAD STANDARD, VHA APPLICATION GUIDE & STANDARD

DETAILS (PG-18-4) 2-2

2.4.4 EQUIPMENT GUIDE LIST (PG-18-5) 2-2

2.4.5 SEISMIC DESIGN HANDBOOK (H-18-8) 2-2

2.4.6 TIL - SPACE AND FACILITY PLANNING (PG-18-9) 2-3

2.4.7 DESIGN MANUALS (PG-18-10) 2-3

2.4.8 DESIGN GUIDES, GRAPHICAL, BY FUNCTION (PG-18-12) 2-3

2.4.9 BARRIER FREE DESIGN STANDARD AND SAFE PATIENT HANDLING AND

MOBILITY CRITERIA (PG-18-13) 2-4

2.4.10 ROOM FINISHES, DOOR, AND HARDWARE SCHEDULES (PG-18-14) 2-4

2.4.11 MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS FOR A/E SUBMISSIONS (PG-18-15) 2-4

2.4.12 ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE 2-5

2.4.13 VA CULTURAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT 2-5

2.4.15 TIL – DESIGN ALERTS 2-5

2.4.16 TIL – STANDARDS ALERTS 2-6

2.4.17 TIL – SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS-PHYSICAL SECURITY 2-6

2.4.18 TIL – COST ESTIMATING MANUAL 2-6

2.4.19 TIL – HIGH-PERFORMANCE SUSTAINABLE DESIGN 2-6

2.4.20 TIL –FIRE PROTECTION DESIGN MANUAL (PG-18-10) 2-7

TABLE OF CONTENTS ii

2.5. VA HOSPITAL BUILDING SYSTEM 2-7

2.5.1 COMPUTER AIDED FACILITIES MANAGEMENT REQUIREMENTS (CAFM) 2-7

2.6 THERMAL DESIGN CRITERIA 2-8

2.6.1 ENERGY CONSERVATION 2-8

2.6.2 DOE INTERIM FINAL RULE 2-8

2.6.3 ASHRAE STANDARDS 2-9

2.6.4 VA POLICY: ENERGY AND WWATER MANAGEMENT PROGRAM 2-10

2.6.5 MEASUREMENTS AND VERIFICATION 2-10

2.7 APPLICABLE CODES AND STANDARDS 2-10

2.7.1 GENERAL 2-10

2.7.2 LOCAL CODES AND CONDITIONS 2-12

2.8 ABBREVIATIONS 2-12

CHAPTER 3: ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN PARAMETERS AND CRITERIA

3.1 TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS 3-1

3.1.1 PURPOSE 3-1

3.1.2 DESIGN PRINCIPLES 3-1

3.1.3 CHANGES DURING DESIGN 3-2

3.1.4 COORDINATION OF DOCUMENTS 3-2

3.1.5 CONSTRUCTION TERMINOLOGY 3-2

3.1.6 NAMES OF SPACES 3-2

3.2 SCHEDULED PROGRESS REVIEWS 3-2

3.3 DRAWINGS 3-3

3.3.1 COMPUTER AIDED DESIGN AND DRAFTING (CADD) 3-3

3.3.2 ROOM FINISHES, DOORS AND HARDWARE 3-3

3.3.3 FIRE-PROTECTION AND EQUIPMENT DRAWING SYMBOLS 3-3

3.3.4 REFLECTED CEILING PLANS 3-3

3.3.5 PRESENTATION OF DESIGN 3-3

3.3.6 COLOR RENDERINGS 3-4

3.3.7 COMPARISON OF EXTERIOR MATERIALS 3-4

3.4 GENERAL ARCHITECTURAL REQUIREMENTS 3-4

3.4.1 FLOOR-TO-FLOOR HEIGHTS 3-4

3.4.2 MAIN PUBLIC ENTRANCE LOBBY 3-8

3.4.3 NEW CONSTRUCTION ADJOINING EXISTING BUILDING 3-10

3.4.4 ANALYSIS OF RESTRICTED FLOOR-T0-FLOOR-HEIGHTS 3-10

3.5 SEISMIC DESIGN 3-10

3.6 VA HOSPITAL BUILDING SYSTEM (VAHBS) 3-10

3.6.1 PG-18-3 VA POLICY ON THE USE OF INTERSTITIAL-SPACE SYSTEM 3-10

3.6.2 VA STANDARDS FOR CONSTRUCTION, HOSPITAL BUILDING SYSTEM

DEVELOPMENT STUDY 3-10

3.6.3 VA FIRE PROTECTION MANUAL PG 18-10 3-10

3.7 EQUIPMEMT, CASEWORK, AND PLUMBING FIXTURES 3-10

3.8 FIRE RATED AND SMOKE-BARRIER PARTITIONS 3-11

3.9 FLOOR DRAINS 3-11

3.10 SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS 3-11

3.10.1 BARIATRIC AND SPECIAL NEEDS ACCOMMODATION 3-11

3.10.2 DESIGN PARAMETERS CLC BASED 3-12

3.10.3 DESIGN PARAMETERS SCI BASED 3-12

3.10.4 DESIGN PARAMETERS PRC BASED 3-12

3.11 ENERGY CENTER 3-12

TABLE OF CONTENTS iii

3.12 HVAC EQUIPMENT SPACES 3-13

3.13 ELECTRICAL ROOMS, CLOSETS AND VAULTS 3-13

3.13.1 ELECTRICAL SWITCHGEAR AND SERVICE ENTRY ROOMS 3-13

3.12.2 CEILINGS 3-13

3.12.3 TRANSFORMER VAULTS 3-13

3.14 MINIMUM SPACE REQUIREMENTS 3-13

3.15 EMERGENCY COMMAND CENTER 3-14

3.16 OFFICE OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY 3-14

3.17 ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT ROOMS 3-15

3.17.1 MAIN SERVICE ROOM 3-15

3.17.2 ELECTRIC CLOSET REQUIREMENTS 3-15

3.18 ELEVATOR PLANNING 3-16

3.18.1 HYDRAULIC ELEVATOR MACHINE ROOM 3-16

3.19 PNEUMATIC TUBE SYSTEMS 3-17

CHAPTER 4: TECHNICAL METHODS AND MEANS

4.1 TECHNICAL METHODS AND MEANS 4-1

4.1.1 PURPOSE 4-1

4.2 SITEWORK, FOUNDATIONS, BASEMENTS, SLABS 4-1

4.2.1 BUILDING PERIMETER FOUNDATION DRAINAGE 4-1

4.2.2 MEMBRANE WATERPROOFING AT INTERIOR FLOOR DRAINS 4-1

4.2.3 KITCHEN MEMBRANE INSULATION 4-1

4.3 PIPE BASEMENTS 4-2

4.4 FLOOR SLAB DEPRESSIONS 4-2

4.5 BUILDING ENVELOPE 4-2

4.5.1 ENERGY CONSERVATION 4-2

4.5.2 GOVERNING REGULATIONS 4-2

4.5.3 ARCHITECTURAL REQUIREMENTS 4-2

4.6 EXTERIOR ENTRANCES AND PLATFORMS 4-2

4.6.1 AMBULANCE ENTRANCES 4-2

4.6.2 OTHER PATIENT ENTRANCES 4-3

4.6.3 MORGUE ENTRANCES/EXITS 4-4

4.6.4 LOADING DOCKS 4-4

4.6.5 OVERHEAD CLEARANCE FOR TRUCKS AND BUSES 4-4

4.6.6 MAINTENANCE-SHOP ENTRANCE PLATFORMS 4-5

4.6.7 ENTRANCE AND EXIT ACCESSIBILITY 4-5

4.7 EXIT AND EGRESS DOOR LOCKS 4-5

4.7.1 BUILDING ACCESS AND EGRESS DOORS (EXTERIOR) 4-5

4.7.2 ELECTROMAGNETIC LOCKING SYSTEM 4-5

4.8 STAIRWAY DOORS 4-6

4.8.1 EXTERIOR EXIT DOORS AT STAIRWAYS 4-5

4.8.2 INTERIOR STAIRWAY DOORS 4-5

4.8.3 ALARMS, BELLS, AND COMMUNICATORS ON DOORS 4-5

4.9 AUTOMATIC DOORS 4-6

4.9.1 GENERAL 4-6

4.9.2 TYPES AND LOCATIONS 4-7

4.10 EXTERIOR WINDOWS 4-8

4.10.1 HISTORIC BUILDINGS 4-8

4.10.2 ENERGY CONSERVATION 4-8

4.10.3 INTEGRAL VENETIAN BLINDS 4-8

TABLE OF CONTENTS iv

4.10.4 SILL HEIGHT 4-9

4.10.5 OPERABLE WINDOWS 4-9

4.10.6 SAFETY GLAZING 4-9

4.11 SCREENS - WINDOW, DETENTION, SECURITY AND VENTILATION 4-10

4.11.1 INSECT SCREENS 4-10

4.11.2 DETENTION SCREENS 4-10

4.11.3 SECURITY SCREENS 4-10

4.11.4 VENTILATION SYSTEM SCREENS 4-10

4.12 LOUVERS 4-10

4.13 PARAPET WALLS, ROOF STRUCTURES, AND WALKWAYS 4-10

4.13.1 PARAPET WALLS 4-10

4.13.2 ROOF STRUCTURES 4-10

4.13.3 ROOF WALKWAYS 4-10

4.13.4 ATTIC WALKWAYS 4-11

4.13.5 ROOFTOP GUARDRAILS 4-11

4.14 LOW-SLOPE ROOF SYSTEMS 4-11

4.14.1 GENERAL 4-11

4.14.2 FLAT ROOF POLICY 4-11

4.14.3 DESIGN LAYOUT OF LOW-SLOPE ROOFS 4-11

4-14.4 ROOFING SELECTION 4-11

4.15 ANCHORAGE OF INSULATION 4-12

4.16 BALLAST 4-12

4.17 BASE FLASHING AND PENETRATIONS 4-12

4.18 SCUPPERS 4-12

4.19 PROVISION FOR FUTURE VERTICAL EXPANSION 4-12

4.20 EXTERIOR INSULATION FINISH SYSTEM 4-12

4.21 STRUCTURAL STEEL ANGLE GUARDS 4-13

4.22 BUILDING INTERIOR 4-13

4.22.1 DOORS 4-13

4.22.2 GENERAL 4-13

4.22.3 CORRIDOR-TO-CORRIDOR DOORS 4-13

4.22.4 FIRE-PARTITION AND SMOKE-BARRIER DOORS 4-13

4-23 SHADES, BLINDS, DRAPERIES, AND CURTAINS 4-13

4.23.1 LIGHTPROOF SHADES 4-13

4.23.2 OPAQUE SHADES 4-13

4.23.3 WINDOW HEADS 4-14

4.24 PARTITIONS 4-14

4.24.1 METAL STUD PARTITIONS 4-14

4.24.2 STRUCTURAL DESIGN 4-14

4.24.3 GYPSUM BOARD 4-14

4.24.4 RADIATION PROTECTION 4-14

4.24.5 HEIGHT OF GYPSUM BOARD 4-14

4.24.6 SECURITY PARTITIONS 4-15

4.25 VA GUIDE TO ROOM FINISHES 4-15

4.26 HANDRAILS, WALL GUARDS, AND CORNER GUARDS 4-15

4.26.1 RIGID ADHESIVE-APPLIED ACRYLIC/VINYL CORNER GUARDS 4-16

4.26.2 STRUCTURAL STEEL CORNER GUARDS 4-16

4.27 CEILINGS 4-16

4.27.1 CUBICLE CURTAIN TRACKS 4-16

4.27.2 MINIMUM CEILING HEIGHTS 4-16

4.27.3 EFFECTS OF VA HOSPITAL BUILDING SYSTEM 4-18

TABLE OF CONTENTS v

4.28 TOILET PARTITIONS, SCREENS AND WALL PROTECTION 4-18

4.28.1 TOILET ROOM PARTITIONS 4-18

4.28.2 VISUAL SCREENING 4-18

4.28.3 WALL PROTECTION AT PLUMBING FIXTURES 4-18

4.29 WATER COOLERS 4-19

4-30 SHOWERS 4-19

4-30.1 SHOWER ENCLOSURES 4-19

4.30.2 SHOWER FLOORS 4-19

4.30.3 SHOWER ACCESSIBILITY 4-19

4.31 ROOM NUMBERING 4-19

4.31.1 ADDITIONS TO EXISTING BUILDINGS 4-19

4.32 SIGNS, PLAQUES AND EMBLEMS 4-19

4.32.1 GENERAL 4-19

4.32.2 SAFETY SIGN 4-19

4.32.3 CONSTRUCTION SIGN 4-20

4.32.4 DEDICATION PLAQUE 4-20

4.32.5 VA EMBLEM 4-20

4.33 ATRIUMS, MALLS AND LARGE SPACES 4-20

4.33.1 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR ATRIUMS, MALLS AND LARGE SPACES 4-20

4.33.2 ANIMAL RESEARCH FACILITY (ARF) / VETERINARY MEDICAL UNIT (VMU) 4-20

4.34 AUDIOLOGY SOUND SUITES 4-21

4.35 COMPUTER ROOMS (CENTRAL) 4-21

4.36 ELECTROMAGNETIC SHIELDING 4-21

4.36.1 GENERAL 4-21

4.36.2 AVOIDANCE OF EMI SOURCES 4-21

4.36.3 SIGNAL STRENGTH TEST 4-21

4.37 INTENSIVE CARE UNIT (ICU) 4-22

4.38 ISOLATION ROOMS 4-22

4.38.1 FUNCTION 4-22

4.38.2 NEGATIVE PRESSURE ISOLATION PATIENT ROOMS 4-22

4.38.3 PATIENT CARE UNITS ISOLATION ROOM (NURSING UNITS) 4-23

4.38.4 PATIENT CARE ISOLATION ROOM DESIGN 4-23

4.38.5 ISOLATION ROOMS IN AMBULATORY CARE 4-24

4.38.6 ISOLATION AUTOPSY ROOM IN MORGUE 4-24

4.38.7 PATIENT PROTECTIVE ENVIRONMENT ROOM (PEI) 4-24

4.38.8 PROTECTIVE PATIENT ROOM DESIGN 4-24

4.38.9 SECLUSION ROOMS MENTAL HEALTH AND BEHAVIORAL (PSYCHIATRIC)

PATIENT UNITS 4-25

4.39 MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING (MRI) 4-25

4.39.1 DESCRIPTION 4-25

4.39.2 MRI SUITE DESIGN 4-25

4-40 PHARMACY 4-26

4-40.1 PHARMACY DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS 4-26

4-40.2 PHARMACY SECURITY 4-26

4.41 MENTAL HEALTH FACILITIES 4-26

4.41.1 GENERAL 4-26

4.41.2 FINISHES AND DOORS MENTAL HEALTH FACILITIES 4-27

4.41.3 BARRIER DOORS AND STAIRWAY DOORS 4-27

4.41.4 WINDOWS MENTAL HEALTH FACILITIES 4-27

4.41.5 CUBICLE CURTAIN TRACKS MENTAL HEALTH FACILITIES 4-27

4.41.6 PATIENT TOILETS AND BATHROOMS MENTAL HEALTH FACILITIES 4-27

4.42 RADIATION THERAPY 4-28

TABLE OF CONTENTS vi

4.42.1 GENERAL 4-28

4.42.2 SHIELDING POLICY 4-28

4.42.3 SPECIFICATION OF PROTECTIVE SHIELDING 4-28

4.42.4 CERTIFICATION 4-28

4.42.5 DESIGN 4-28

4.43 RADIOLOGY (DIAGNOSTIC X-RAY) 4-29

4.43.1 GENERAL 4-29

4.43.2 EQUIPMENT ACQUISITION AND INSTALLATION FOR X-RAY ROOMS 4-29

4.43.3 SHELLED-IN OPTION 4-29

4.43.4 DESIGN 4-29

4.43.5 X-RAY CONTROL ROOMS 4-30

4.44 REFRIGERATORS AND FREEZERS (BUILT-IN) 4-30

4.44.1 REFRIGERATORS AND FREEZERS IN KITCHEN AREAS 4-30

4.44.2 MORTUARY REFRIGERATORS 4-31

GLOSSARY OF ACRONYMS

GLOSSARY OF ACRONYMS G-1

Chapter 1: OVERVIEW 1-1

CHAPTER 1: OVERVIEW

1.1 INTRODUCTION

Health care facilities encompass a wide range of types, from small and relatively simple medical clinics to large, complex, and costly, teaching and research hospitals. Large hospital medical centers may include various subsidiary health care facilities that are often co-located on a single campus. The old expression, "You never get a second chance to make a good first impression" applies to health care facilities. VA medical facilities convey a message to patients, visitors, volunteers, vendors, and staff that the mission is to help veterans by providing health care in all its forms, as well as for medical research.

The foundation of our mission in designing facilities for our nation’s veterans is based on the VA Core Values:

● Compassion: We will design facilities that treat all veterans and their families with the utmost dignity and compassion. These facilities will provide services in a caring manner, with a sympathetic consciousness of others’ distress together with a desire to alleviate it, and understanding that Veterans have earned our nation’s gratitude and respect. Their health care needs to drive our actions.

● Excellence: Each VA facility shall strive to perform at the highest level of professional competence and take pride in our accomplishments.

● Professionalism: Our success depends on maintaining a highly-skilled, diverse, and compassionate workforce. We foster a culture that values equal opportunity, innovation, and accountability.

● Integrity: We recognize the importance of accurate information. We practice open, truthful, and timely communication with veterans, employees, and external stakeholders. By carefully listening and responding to their concerns, we seek continuous improvement in our programs and services.

● Accountability: We will perform in a manner at all times that makes us accountable, responsible and answerable to veterans and their families, our leaders and other employees as well as external stakeholders.

● Stewardship: The architect must ensure in the design responsible stewardship of the human, financial, natural and cultural resources as well as data and information entrusted to them in meeting the goals and mission of the VA. Each facility planned and designed must improve these performance measures through the use of innovative technologies, evidence-based medical practices, and sound business principles.

● Design Intent: The facility’s design communicates a visual impression about the organization and the medical care being provided there. These visual clues start at the approach to the facility, the drop-off area, the parking facilities, and the street signage. The message should convey a sense of welcoming, caring, comfort, and compassion, and commitment to patient well-being and safety, where stress is relieved, refuge is provided, respect is reciprocated, competence is symbolized, way-finding is facilitated, accommodating all who utilize the facility. Likewise, these

Chapter 1: OVERVIEW 1-2 attributes also influence employee service attitudes and behaviors. Finishes, signage, and artwork must be carefully selected, well-coordinated, and integrated. Security can be balanced with some features apparent to patients/visitors, while conveying a message of safety. Thoughtful design can help ensure the proper first impression is created and sustained.

● The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) owns, leases, and operates a nationwide system of healthcare facilities dedicated to serving veterans of U.S. Military Services.

VA’s infrastructure encompasses billions of dollars of total value and the average age of its buildings is approaching 60 years.

● The Architectural Design Manual (ADM) is the starting point for all design professionals engaged to work on any building design for VA. This Manual not only identifies VA’s design philosophy and recent technological enhancements but also helps the designer to locate specific information for any building type or technical requirement.

1.2 PURPOSE

The purpose of this manual is to serve as the master reference document for architectural planning and design of Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) facilities. Architectural requirements and criteria in this manual are expected to be followed in planning of VA facilities.

Architect/Engineer (henceforth referred to as the A/E) engaged in the design and renovation of the VA facilities are required to follow this manual. VA facilities are defined as:

● New Hospitals

● Replacement Hospitals

● Ambulatory Care Centers – Hospital Based

● Clinical Additions

● Energy Centers

● Outpatient Clinics

● Animal Research Facilities

● Laboratory Buildings

It is expected that architectural components, elements and facilities designed with the use of this manual will meet their primary objective of providing a safe and functional healing environment for patients, staff and visitors. The Architectural design shall meet all VA Space Planning Criteria, VA Design Guide and Design Manual requirements, applicable codes, technical requirements, as well as being well coordinated with other trades and disciplines.

Deviations can be made from the requirements of this manual to accommodate new concepts, methods of construction and design enhancements. Such deviations shall be approved by the VA. Deviations not permitted from those requirements included Federal Regulations, Public Laws, Executive Orders, and other applicable codes and standards.

Throughout this manual, the statement is made: to obtain approval from the VA Authorities.

The VA Authority is defined as the VA Project Manager or the local VA Medical Center’s Chief Engineer.

Chapter 1: OVERVIEW 1-3

1.3 HOSPITAL BUILDING SYSTEM (VAHBS)

VA policy on the design of new hospital buildings is to provide for their continuing adaptability to changing conditions and programs throughout their structural life.

The VAHBS concept described in VA Office of Construction Research Study Report (Red Book), Project No. 99-R047 (U.S. Government Printing Office Stock No. 051-000-00 112-5), provides such adaptability. All new and replacement VA hospital buildings shall use the VAHBS system.

1.4 BUILDING INFORMATION MODELING (BIM)

Refer to TIL – PG-18-13 BIM Manual

1.5 SUSTAINABLE DESIGN

The principal sustainability regulation for design and construction of new VA facilities is the White House Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) Guiding Principles for Sustainable Federal Buildings And Associated Instructions (December 2020) [The Guiding Principles].

The use of the Guiding Principles by federal agencies on construction projects with a floor area greater than 25,000 sq. ft. is required by the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Overhaul Part 36.002(d)(1).

The Guiding Principles set Mandatory and Optional Criteria in the categories of Integrated Design, Energy Performance, Water Conservation, Indoor Environmental Quality, Environmental Impact of Materials, and Building Resilience.

Additionally, in accordance with 10 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) 433, Subpart B, and 10 CFR 435, Subpart B, as authorized by 42 United States Code (USC) 6834(a)(3)(D)(i), VA construction and renovation projects for facilities (that are not to be leased) that are for Public Buildings or for Non-Public Buildings that are anticipated to cost at least $2.5 Million (in 2007 dollars, adjusted for inflation) are required to reduce their On-Site Combustion of fossil fuels.

These regulations are referred to as the Clean Energy Rule. Note: As of May 2025, the DOE issued a stay order delaying compliance of this Rule to May 1, 2026.

The VA guidance provides instructions on executing these regulations and all related sustainability regulations in the VA Office of Construction and Facilities Management High- Performance Sustainable Design Manual (HPSDM). VA Directive 0056 – VA Sustainable Buildings Program (August 31, 2021) also provides requirements for sustainable construction of VA facilities.

Refer to TIL – Sustainable Design

Chapter 1: OVERVIEW 1-4

1.5.1 OPTIMIZE ENERGY PERFORMANCE

● In accordance with Sec. 553 of the National Energy Conservation Policy Act (NECPA), as authorized in 42 USC 8259b, and codified in 10 CFR 436, Subpart C, all VA construction and renovation projects are required to procure energy efficient products.

● The programs for energy efficient products, as defined in the FAR Overhaul Part 23.101, are the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Energy Star® Program and the DOE Federal Energy Management Program (FEMP) Designation Program. Other energy efficiency requirements are delineated in the VA CFM High-Performance Sustainable Design Manual.

● In accordance with 10 CFR 433.100(a)(5)(i), as authorized by 42 USC 6834(a), all VA facilities that entered design for construction on or after April 7, 2023 (except for Low- Rise Residential Buildings) are required to achieve the energy efficiency requirements of the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) 90.1-2019 – Energy Standard for Buildings Except Low-Rise Residential Buildings.

● If deemed to be Life Cycle Cost (LCC) effective, in accordance with 10 CFR 433.100(a)(5)(ii), all applicable VA facilities are required to achieve energy consumption levels that are at least 30% below the levels of an ASHRAE Baseline Building under the Performance Method of ASHRAE 90.1-2019, which is described in Appendix G of this Standard

● Measurement and Verification: In accordance with Section 103 of the Energy Policy Act (EPAct) of 2005, as codified in 42 USC 8253(e), the DOE is required to establish guidelines for utilities metering, to include advanced metering, that can provide at least hourly measurements of utilities consumption, at Federal Buildings.

1.5.2 PROTECT AND CONSERVE WATER

● Indoor Water: In accordance with 42 USC 6834(a)(3)(D)(vii), water conservation technologies must be utilized in all VA construction and renovation projects to the extent that they are LCC effective.

● In accordance with the VA CFM Plumbing Design Manual, all indoor water consuming equipment must be WaterSense® Labeled (unless disallowed due to infection control reasons)

● Outdoor Water: Use water efficient landscape and irrigation strategies, including water reuse and recycling. Employ design and construction strategies that reduce storm water runoff and polluted site water runoff.

1.5.3 ENHANCE INDOOR ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY

● Ventilation and Thermal Comfort: Meet the current ASHRAE Standards, Thermal Environmental Conditions for Human Occupancy, including continuous humidity control within established ranges per climate zone, and ASHRAE Standard 62.1, Ventilation for Acceptable Indoor Air Quality.

Chapter 1: OVERVIEW 1-5

● Moisture Control: Establish and implement a moisture control strategy pursuant to ASHRAE Standards 55-2004 and 62-2004 for controlling moisture flows and condensation to prevent building damage and mold contamination.

● Day-lighting: Achieve a minimum daylight factor of 2 percent (excluding all direct sunlight penetration) in 75 percent of all space occupied for critical visual tasks.

Provide automatic dimming controls or accessible manual lighting controls, and appropriate glare control.

1.5.4 REDUCE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT OF MATERIALS

● Recycled Content: For EPA-designated products, use products meeting or exceeding EPA's recycled content recommendations. For other products, use materials with recycled content such that the sum of post-consumer recycled content plus one-half of the pre-consumer content constitutes at least 10% (based on cost) of the total value of the materials in the project.

● Bio-based Content: For USDA-designated products use materials meeting or exceeding USDA's bio-based content recommendations. For other products, use bio-based products made from rapidly renewable resources and certified sustainable wood products.

● Construction Waste: During a project's planning stage, identify local recycling and salvage operations that could process site related waste.

● Ozone Depleting Compounds: Eliminate the use of ozone depleting compounds during and after construction where alternative environmentally preferable products are available, consistent with Title VI of the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990 or equivalent overall air quality benefits that take into account life cycle impacts.

1.5.5 PRIORITY TO RENOVATION OF EXISTING FACILITIES.

● If not inconsistent with mission needs, priority should be given to the renovation of existing buildings and other facilities over new construction. Renovation saves energy and physical resources and is often more cost-effective than new construction.

● Where historic buildings or building complexes are present, special efforts should be made to rehabilitate and reuse them in accordance with the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, as amended, provided doing so achieves VA's mission requirements.

1.6 ACCESSIBILITY

Refer to the TIL - PG-18-13 Barrier Free Design Standards

Chapter 1: OVERVIEW 1-6

1.7 PHYSICAL SECURITY

1.7.1 OVERVIEW

VA facilities that are owned, leased, or managed; to be constructed or modernized; or to be purchased shall have countermeasures designed into the facility’s infrastructure to abate potential threats.

1.7.2 CONSIDERATIONS

● Providing for secure design that meets all facility requirements is often a challenge.

With limited resources, it is not always feasible to provide for the most secure facility, architecturally expressive design, or energy efficient building envelope. From the planning and concept stages through the development of construction documents, it is important that all project or design stakeholders work cooperatively to ensure a balanced design. Successful designs must consider all competing design objectives and make the best selections.

● Care should be taken to implement physical security measures that allow Fire Protection forces access to sites, buildings and building occupants with adequate means of emergency egress.

● Consideration should be given to integrating various stand-alone security systems, integrating systems across remote locations, and integrating security systems with other systems such as communications, and fire and emergency management.

Refer to the TIL – PG-18-10 Physical Security Design Manual

1.8 SEISMIC AND OTHER NATURAL HAZARDS

Consideration should be given to seismic and blast resistant design as they share some common analytical methodologies and a performance based design philosophy that accepts varying levels of damage in response to varying levels of dynamic excitation. Both design approaches recognize that it is cost prohibitive to provide comprehensive protection against all conceivable events and an appropriate level of protection that lessens the risk of mass casualties can be provided at a reasonable cost. Both seismic design and blast resistant design approaches benefit from a risk assessment that evaluates the functionality, criticality, occupancy, site conditions and design features of a building. Weather related (hurricane and tornado) protection requires blast resistant design. Blast resistant façade systems require the glass to satisfy the debris hazard conditions in response to the specified blast loading, while the mullions and anchors are required to resist the collected forces within the specified deflection and ductility limits. In addition to resisting the specified blast loads, the criteria often require the designer to consider the damages resulting from a more extreme blast loading. The criterion requires a balanced design, for which the mullions must develop the capacity of the selected glass within allowable deformation limits and the anchors must develop the capacity of the selected mullions.

● Window Fenestration: The total fenestration openings are not limited; however, a maximum of 40 percent per structural bay is a preferred design goal. In renovation of older buildings, and in new construction in ensembles of older buildings, the impacts

Chapter 1: OVERVIEW 1-7 of fenestration design on historic buildings and views must be considered and addressed in planning.

● Window Frames: The frame system should develop the full capacity of the chosen glazing up to 750 breaks per 1000, and provide the required level of protection without failure. This can be shown through design calculations or approved testing methods.

● Anchorage: The anchorage should remain attached to the walls of the facility during an explosive event without failure. Capacity of the anchorage system can be shown through design calculations or approved tests that demonstrate that failure of the proposed anchorage will not occur and that the required performance level specified is provided.

Refer to the TIL – H-18-8 Seismic Design Handbook

1.9 PATIENT CENTRIC DESIGN

The VA provides a full spectrum of medical, surgical and rehabilitative care of our country’s veterans. The VA has embraced the principles, spirit and intent of Evidence Based Design (EBD) together with the Planetree model of care which creates a healing environment for all their facilities. VA Medical Centers around the country have realized these principles can assist in identifying standards and solutions to veteran-centered care approaches to health care.

Veteran-Centered Design is a core guiding principle approach to design as it focuses specifically on supporting the veteran. It is the patient that is the central focus of the design. It means designing for the experience of what the Veteran is going through to support positive outcomes. The VA philosophy supports the body, mind and spirit of the veteran and his/her family and friends.

Care that is truly patient-centered that considers patients’ cultural traditions, their personal preferences and values, their family situations, and their lifestyle, is to be the mainstay of VA facilities. It makes the patient and their loved ones an integral part of the care team who collaborate with health care professionals in making clinical decisions. Patient-centered care puts responsibility for important aspects of self-care and monitoring in patients’ hands — along with the tools and support they need to carry out that responsibility. Patient-centered care ensures that transitions between providers, departments, and health care settings are respectful, coordinated, and efficient. When care is patient centered, unneeded and unwanted services are reduced.

1.10 COMMISSIONING

The CFM Whole Building Commissioning PM (May 1, 2013, Minor Revisions November 1, 2023) requires that any construction or renovation project at a VA facility that will exceed a total cost of $5M is required to commission, as defined by Sec. 432 of the Energy Independence and Security Act (EISA), and codified in 42 USC 8253(f)(1)(A), all building systems impacted by the construction or renovation project.

Chapter 1: OVERVIEW 1-8

Commissioning must verify that building systems are designed, installed, and operate to meet energy, water, indoor environmental quality requirements established in the Guiding Principles.

Refer to the TIL –Commissioning Process Manuals

Chapter 2: GENERAL REQUIREMENTS 2-1

Chapter 2: GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

2.1 RESPONSIBILITY

The A/E shall provide all necessary professional services to perform planning and design of the systems for the project. The A/E is responsible and liable for the professional design in accordance with the contract, good engineering practices, VA standards, VA project-specific requirements if any, and applicable codes.

2.2 AUTHORITY HAVING JURISDICTION

Unless otherwise directed by VA, the Authority Having Jurisdiction is the VISN Safety Officer.

2.3 COORDINATION

2.3.1 DESIGN QUALITY CONTROL:

The Architect-Engineer shall coordinate planning and design work with the architectural, structural, civil, plumbing, mechanical, fire protection, and LEED/Sustainable designs as applicable.

The A/E shall implement and maintain a quality-control program assuring that all services, designs, drawings, and specifications required by the contract are performed and provided in a manner that meets professional architectural and engineering quality standards adopted and utilized by the Department of Veterans Affairs.

The design documents shall be systematically and thoroughly reviewed for compliance with VA’s project requirements and applicable codes, commitments made in EIA documents, and agreements entered into under environmental and historic preservation regulations. VA approved deviations in the design documents shall be documented. The A/E shall furnish to the VA and sub-consultants copies of all instructions, manuals, and other documents pertaining to design requirements to insure a completely coordinated design. The A/E shall be held responsible for ensuring that all sub-consultants comply with the design requirements. Likewise, all Sub-consultants shall be held responsible for ensuring that their portion of the project is in compliance with the design requirements.

2.3.2 EXISTING CONDITIONS:

For renovations of and/or additions to existing buildings, the A/E shall investigate the building to determine if sufficient structural, mechanical, plumbing, site utilities and electrical capacity is available to accommodate the new renovations of and/or additions. Special attention should be directed towards structural loads, medical gas, HVAC and electrical systems. If applicable, the A/E shall inform the VA Project Manager if additional structural, mechanical, plumbing and electrical capacity required.

2.4 VA DESIGN REQUIREMENTS AND STANDARDS:

The following are requirements and standards of VA’s Office of Construction and Facilities Management Technical Information Library (TIL):

Chapter 2: GENERAL REQUIREMENTS 2-2

2.4.1 MASTER CONSTRUCTION SPECIFICATIONS (PG-18-1)

Located in Technical Information Library: Master Construction Specifications

Purpose:

Defines a standardized method for the A/E to assure that the contractor provides equipment and systems that meet the design intent in terms of 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

2.4.2 DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION PROCEDURES (PG-18-3)

Located in Technical Information Library: Design and Construction Procedures

Purpose:

Establishes minimum consistent design/construction practices The Procedures section accomplishes this by:

● Referencing applicable codes and policies

● Describing standard drawing formats

● Listing security strategies

● Including miscellaneous design details

2.4.3 NATIONAL CAD STANDARD, VHA APPLICATION GUIDE & STANDARD DETAILS

(PG-18-4)

Located in Technical Information Library:

BIM and CAD Standards Standard Details

Purpose:

The VHA Application Guide adopts the NIBS National CAD Standard, establishes VA-specific drafting standards for the preparation of design and construction documents provides utility and sheet template files and standard construction details organized by discipline, for use in design and construction documents for VA projects.

2.4.4 EQUIPMENT GUIDE LIST (PG-18-5)

Located in Technical Information Library: Equipment Guide List

Purpose:

Provides information for planning and developing requirements for all equipment and furnishings to be provided in all VA rooms/spaces.

https://vatilms.va.gov/vatilms/reports/PG-18-1 https://vatilms.va.gov/vatilms/reports/PG-18-3 https://vatilms.va.gov/vatilms/reports/PG-18-13 https://dvagov-my.sharepoint.com/personal/mark_vanderlyn_va_gov/Documents/Documents/SA029/FINAL Edits/Standard Details https://vatilms.va.gov/vatilms/reports/PG-18-5

Chapter 2: GENERAL REQUIREMENTS 2-3

2.4.5 SEISMIC DESIGN HANDBOOK (H-18-8)

Located in Technical Information Library: Seismic Design Handbook

Purpose:

Provides the A/E with specific requirements and design parameters for seismic design and addresses the following topics of concern:

● New Critical and Essential Facilities

● New Ancillary Facilities

● Existing Facilities, both for evaluation and rehabilitation including alternative seismic approaches.

● Spectral Response Acceleration

● Special Provisions for Structures in Seismic Categories C, D, E and F

● Limitations on Steel Structures and Reinforced Concrete Structures

● Drift Limitations, including Modifications of IBC requirements for new Critical and

Essential facilities in high seismic design categories.

2.4.6 TIL - SPACE AND FACILITY PLANNING (PG-18-9)

Located in Technical Information Library: Space Planning Criteria

Purpose:

Provides a listing of all rooms and spaces and the net square foot area of each for all departments/services within VA medical facilities.

Space planning criteria PG 18-9 also provides definitions of key terminology, operating rationale and basis of criteria, and the program data required to justify and define the space criteria.

2.4.7 DESIGN MANUALS (PG-18-10)

Located in Technical Information Library: Design Manuals

Purpose:

To convey the general and specific VA design philosophy for the HVAC, Electrical, Plumbing, Fire Protection, and other systems for VA medical and support facilities, the Manuals accomplish this purpose by:

● 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 VA a list of Design Manuals along with the TIL posted dates that were in effect on date of contract award.

https://vatilms.va.gov/vatilms/reports/H-18-8 https://vatilms.va.gov/vatilms/reports/PG-18-9 https://vatilms.va.gov/vatilms/reports/PG-18-10

Chapter 2: GENERAL REQUIREMENTS 2-4

2.4.8 DESIGN GUIDES, GRAPHICAL, BY FUNCTION (PG-18-12)

Located in Technical Information Library: Design Guides

Purpose:

Provides the A/E with specific layout templates and medical equipment lists for all types of spaces/uses, and specific design parameters for structural, electrical and mechanical service. The Design Guides accomplish this by:

● Design Guides are documents which contain descriptive and graphical concepts of specialized areas of medical services provided by the VA. The Design They are instrumental in describing and graphically annotating components and relationships to one another specific to the area of specialization. Additionally they contain:

o Design narratives o Functional diagrams and room guide plates o Identifies baseline room finishes and engineering design requirements o Updated on a three to five year cycle.

● The User of the Design Guides should be aware that major updates and revisions to the VA Design Guides is a work in progress that is continually changing based on advances in medical technology and changing medical practices. Updates and revisions are incremental and where major updated occur design alerts are issued and remain effective until such time as the Guide is updated; completed Guides are posted on the Technical Information Library (TIL) and noted as current. Information in the Design Guides may be dated and it is recommended that they be used with moderate caution to assure that current standards of the health care industry are addressed in meeting VA's needs.

● Design Guides are intended to help speed the design process, control cost, avoid errors and omissions, and get value for dollars spent. Design guides are developed in partnership with the using service and are benchmarked with similar private sector guides. They are to be applied flexibly, not as rigid standards.

2.4.9 BARRIER FREE DESIGN STANDARD AND SAFE PATIENT HANDLING AND

MOBILITY CRITERIA (PG-18-13)

Located in Technical Information Library:

Barrier Free Design Standard Safe Patient Handling and Mobility Criteria

Purpose:

Provides the A/E with VA standards that exceed minimums of the Architectural Barriers Act (ABA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) for health care projects. These standards relate to specific Veteran population needs.

2.4.10 ROOM FINISHES, DOOR, AND HARDWARE SCHEDULES (PG-18-14)

Located in Technical Information Library: Room Finishes, Door, and Hardware Schedule

Purpose:

This document provides guidelines for VA Facility Interior finishes, doors, and hardware for new or renovated facilities constructed within the Department of Veterans Affairs. The https://vatilms.va.gov/vatilms/reports/PG-18-12 https://vatilms.va.gov/vatilms/reports/PG-18-13 https://vatilms.va.gov/vatilms/reports/PG-18-13 https://vatilms.va.gov/vatilms/reports/PG-18-14

Chapter 2: GENERAL REQUIREMENTS 2-5 essential criteria for selection of products/materials is based on their appropriateness for function and space, sustainability, life cycle costs, durability, and ease of maintenance.

2.4.11 MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS FOR A/E SUBMISSIONS (PG-18-15)

Located in Technical Information Library: Minimum Requirements for A/E Submissions

Purpose:

To provide a staged listing of tasks in various design categories as a way to define the A/E scope in order to assure thorough and timely completion of the final design package and bid documents

The Instructions accomplishes this purpose 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

● Implementation of a QA/QC process to assure 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

2.4.12 ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE

Located on CFM Website: Environmental Program Office

2.4.13 VA CULTURAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT

Located on CFM Website:

https://department.va.gov/construction-and-facilities-management/historic-preservation/

Purpose:

Describes the procedures DVA uses to meet Federal preservation requirements for all program and construction activities that may affect cultural resources, including historic buildings, landscapes and districts, archaeological sites, Indian tribal spiritual sites and burial places, historical documents and artifacts, and the cultural and historic values of neighborhoods and communities, all of which may be affected by VA construction projects..

2.4.14 DESIGN REVIEW CHECKLISTS AND INSPECTION MANUALS AND REPORTS

Located in Technical Information Library:

Design Review Checklists Inspection Manuals and Reports

Purpose:

Provides the VA Peer Reviewer with a minimum list of critical items, which must be included in each A/E submission https://vatilms.va.gov/vatilms/reports/PG-18-15 https://department.va.gov/construction-and-facilities-management/environmental-program-office/ https://department.va.gov/construction-and-facilities-management/historic-preservation/ https://vatilms.va.gov/vatilms/reports/Miscellaneous/Design Review Checklists https://vatilms.va.gov/vatilms/reports/Miscellaneous/Inspection Manuals and Reports

Chapter 2: GENERAL REQUIREMENTS 2-6

The Checklists and Manuals accomplishes this by referring to all applicable VA design tools, included but are not necessarily limited to the listed checklists, which apply to the specific project

● Site and Landscape

● Architecture

● Structural

● Heating, Ventilating, and Air Conditioning (HVAC)

● Plumbing / Fire Protection / Sanitary

● Steam Distribution

● Steam Generation

● Electrical

● Incineration

● Telecommunication

● Boiler Safety Devices – Inspection Manual

2.4.15 TIL - DESIGN ALERTS

Located in Technical Information Library: Design Alerts

Purpose:

Communicates current design issues and solutions by:

● Publishing periodic alert memos

● Summarizing design solutions

2.4.16 TIL STANDARDS ALERTS

Located in Technical Information Library: Standards Alerts

Purpose:

Communicates recent changes to standards that have not yet been published.

2.4.17 TIL - SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS-PHYSICAL SECURITY

Located in Technical Information Library: Physical Security and Resiliency Design Manual

Purpose:

Design Manual for VA Facilities Mission Critical Facilities & Life Safety Protected Facilities sets physical security standards for facilities required to continue operation during a natural or man-made extreme event and for facilities that are required to protect the life safety of patients and staff in an emergency.

The Manuals accomplish this by:

● Setting objectives for physical security

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

● Providing cost effective design criteria https://vatilms.va.gov/vatilms/reports/Alerts/Design Alerts https://vatilms.va.gov/vatilms/reports/Alerts/Standards Alerts http://www.cfm.va.gov/til/spclRqmts.asp

Chapter 2: GENERAL REQUIREMENTS 2-7

2.4.18 COST ESTIMATING MANUAL

Located in Technical Information Library: Cost Estimating Manual

Purpose:

To convey the general and specific VA cost estimating philosophy for medical facilities The Manual accomplishes this by:

● Explaining specific estimating methodologies

● Containing examples of certain design elements

2.4.19 TIL – HIGH-PERFORMANCE SUSTAINABLE DESIGN

Located in Technical Information Library:

Sustainable Design

Purpose:

The High-Performance Sustainable Design Manual (HPSDM) provides guidance for all VA construction and renovation projects to comply with all energy efficiency and related sustainability regulations, particularly the White House CEQ Guiding Principles (2020).

The HPSDM organizes these requirements for all new VA construction projects, Major Construction Projects, Minor Construction Projects, Non-Recurring Maintenance Projects, VA Leases, and VA Existing Facilities.

The HPSDM lists all Guiding Principles Criteria that facilities are required to be followed in order for a building to become certified in the Guiding Principles. These criteria are for Integrated Design Principles, Energy Efficiency, Water Conservation, Indoor Environmental Quality, Environmental Impact of Materials, and Building Resilience.

It also provides specific guidance to complete all Guiding Principles Criteria for facilities to become certified in the Guiding Principles for New Construction projects and existing facilities, both that have previously been recently certified, and those that have not been recently certified.

The HPSDM also provides guidance for buildings to become certified under the Guiding Principles using an alternative method by becoming certified in a Third-Party Building Certification System, such as the United States Green Building Council (USGBC) Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) program, or the Green Building Initiative (GBI) Green Globes program.

2.4.20 TIL - FIRE PROTECTION DESIGN MANUAL PG-18-10

Located in Technical Information Library: Fire Protection Design Manual

Purpose:

This document provides fire protection design criteria for all VA facilities including fire alarm requirements.

2.5. VA HOSPITAL BUILDING SYSTEM

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

https://vatilms.va.gov/vatilms/reports/Cost Estimating https://vatilms.va.gov/vatilms/reports/Sustainable Design https://vatilms.va.gov/vatilms/reports/Fire and Safety

Chapter 2: GENERAL REQUIREMENTS 2-8

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. The VAHBS system should also be considered for use on major additions to existing hospitals where future adaptability is an important factor.

Refer to VHA Program Guide PG-18-3, Design and Construction Procedures, Topic 3, VA Hospital Building System for further guidance. The complete reference for the VAHBS is contained in the 1976 Development Study (called the Redbook) and the 2006 Supplement.

2.5.1 COMPUTER AIDED FACILITIES MANAGEMENT REQUIREMENTS (CAFM)

VA is implementing Computer Aided Facility Management (CAFM) systems in all new and replacement hospital construction, including 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.

2.6 THERMAL DESIGN CRITERIA

2.6.1 ENERGY CONSERVATION

The need to conserve energy is mandated by the Federal Government through Executive Order and by laws enacted by Congress. In addition, Federal agencies are required to meet government‑wide sustainability, energy, and water‑efficiency goals. In the following paragraphs, references and details of the current requirements are listed, and compliance with VA energy conservation and water management standards is defined. Facilities designed shall comply with:

● VA Directive 0055, VA Energy and Water Management Program

● Energy Policy Act of 2005

● Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007

● Executive Order 14057, Catalyzing Clean Energy Industries and Jobs Through

Federal Sustainability

● Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) 2020 Guiding Principles for Sustainable

Federal Buildings

● Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) 52.223‑23, Sustainable Products and Services

● 41 CFR 102‑74, Facility Management — Energy Conservation

● 10 CFR Part 433, Energy Efficiency Standards for New Federal Commercial and

Multi‑Family High‑Rise Residential Buildings

● 10 CFR Part 434, Energy Code for New Federal Commercial and Multi‑Family

High‑Rise Buildings (legacy applicability)

● 10 CFR Part 436, Federal Energy Management and Planning Programs

● EPA ENERGY STAR Program requirements for benchmarking and product procurement

2.6.2 DOE CLEAN ENERGY RULE

In the Federal Register (Volume 89, No. 81) dated May 1, 2024, the Department of Energy (DOE) issued the “Clean Energy for New Federal Buildings and Major Renovations of

Chapter 2: GENERAL REQUIREMENTS 2-9

Federal Buildings” Final Rule, replacing all prior interim and final rules under EPAct 2005 and EISA 2007. Provisions of the Final Rule are as follows:

● Fossil-fuel use reduction schedule – New federal buildings and major renovations with design inception on or after May 1, 2025, must reduce on-site fossil-fuel energy consumption by at least 90%; starting in fiscal year 2030, 100% elimination of on-site fossil fuels is required

● Performance standards – Energy consumption must exceed the ASHRAE 90.1/IECC baseline by life-cycle cost-effective measures under 10 CFR Part 433 (commercial/high-rise) and 10 CFR Part 435 (low-rise residential)

● Maximum fossil fuel allowance – A prescriptive limit on fossil-fuel energy use is specified in 10 CFR Part 433 Subpart B for applicable building types starting May 1,

● Agency petitions – Federal agencies may petition DOE for modified compliance parameters in cases where standard requirements are technically impracticable

● Effective dates – The rule is effective July 15, 2024, with compliance required for projects with design initiation on or after May 1, 2025; DOE issued a one-year delay extending compliance deadlines to May 1, 2026

2.6.3 ASHRAE STANDARDS

2.6.3.1 ASHRAE STANDARD 90.1

● ANSI/ASHRAE/IESNA Standard 90.1 – 2019: ASHRAE Standard 90.1‑2019 is the current standard incorporated by reference into DOE’s final rule for federal building energy efficiency requirements. The provisions of this standard shall be used as the baseline for computing energy savings. DOE incorporates Standard 90.1‑2019 into 10 CFR Part 433, and the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (EPACT), Section 109, designates this standard for federal building energy performance requirements.

● ASHRAE/IESNA/USGBC Standard 189.1 – 2009: Standard for the Design of High Performance Green Buildings except Low-Rise Residential Buildings.

● ASHRAE/IESNA/ASHE Standard 180 – 2008: Ventilation of Health Care Facilities

● ANSI/ASHRAE Standard…