S02 General Design Comments.pdf

General Design Comments

West Roxbury VAMC Revised 03/10/21

Comments may not apply to all projects. A/E must ensure all comments that pertain to the specific project are incorporated in design. A/E must verify if model numbers, manufacturers, etc. are still valid.

General Comments:

Ensure that specifications and drawings do not contradict each other.

The primary intent for new construction, modifications, additions, renovations, etc. to the exterior is to match adjacent existing construction. New buildings/renovated exterior of buildings should utilize similar architectural details. Matching brick color and bond pattern, similar window sill and lintel, similar louver pattern, color, sill and lintel, similar wall details (pilasters, jogs, etc.), similar door lintels, etc. Basically, should look like it was constructed as part of the original campus and just received a major exterior restoration.

A/E shall create a separate document for a master list of all specified particular brand(s) or manufacturer(s) and proprietary items throughout the design documents. If we require a specific item then we need to make sure it is spelled out in the specifications/drawings (i.e.

TRANE for DDC controls).

A/E shall create an excel spreadsheet sortable by furnishings and equipment and VA or GC responsibilities. (i.e. Contractor furnished & Contractor installed; VA furnished & Contractor installed; VA furnished & VA installed, etc.) Spreadsheet shall be sortable by room # and name. Should include floor number, room location #, room name, product name, quantity, C-C, VA-C or VA-VA, a description, comments, etc. This should coincide with furniture & equipment plans.

General Energy Comments:

Energy Star - Ensure Department of Energy, Energy Star labeled equipment has been specified where appropriate. Provide list showing this.

Incentives and Rebates, Energy, A/E - Provide checklist that shows all equipment has been checked against the local utilities rebate programs and qualifies for utility rebate.

Building Envelope - Ensure the Building Envelope meets the requirements of ASHRAE 90.1-

2007. Provide list showing this.

HVAC System and Equipment - Ensure HV AC system and equipment meet the requirements of

ASHRAE 90.1-2007. Provide list showing this.

Building Service Water Heating - Ensure the building service water heating equipment and design meet the requirements of ASHRAE 90.1-2007. Provide list showing this.

Lighting - Ensure Interior and Exterior lighting and lighting design meets the requirements of

ASHRAE90.1-2007. Provide list showing this.

Electrical - Ensure building and site electrical designs meet the requirements of ASHRAE 90.1-2007.

Provide list showing this.

Incentives and Rebates, Energy, Contractor - Include language in the specifications/drawings that the contractor shall coordinate with the local utilities for all applicable incentives and rebates.

ASHRAE 90.1-2007 design requirements are to be met and shown in design analysis NEMA Premium efficiencies shall be in accordance with Nation Grid rebate program.

Mechanical equipment needs to meet the Mass Save and NGrid prescriptive rebate requirements. Contractor to submit completed application with equipment submittal. VA to receive rebate as utility bill credit.

General Drawing Comments:

Key Plans - On each drawing with a floor plan or partial floor plan, provide a key plan that shows where the floor plan is located in the building.

Title Sheet – Provide campus site plan layout and identify where project is located on campus.

General Specifications Comments:

Remove all references to “Section 00 72 00, GENERAL CONDITIONS”.

Remove all references to FAR clauses.

Remove all “spec writer’ notes and slashes for options.

Limit samples required.

Contractor shall be responsible for all testing; the contractor shall retain a third party independent testing agency for all testing required. Remove references that VA will retain testing services.

Remove references to spec sections that do not apply and are not located in the specification.

These references must be removed in both the Part I reference section and the body of each specification section.

Ensure that if a specification section is listed in the Table of Contents, then that section is included in the specifications. If not needed, then remove from Table of Contents.

Ensure that if a specification section is in the specifications, then it is listed in the Table of Contents.

Do not include a Table of Contents at the beginning of each specification section.

Remove “Extended Guarantee Period Services” from all specification sections General- Replace the word “Article” with “Part” or “Section” or some other appropriate word. Exception: The word “Article” is reference to codes (e.g. Electrical, Building, NFPA, etc.) shall remain.

If the specification section has “Extended” or “Special” warranties then that part of the specification section needs to be revised by adding paragraphs similar to the following.

NOTE: Paragraph A to be revised per applicable product and manufacturer warranty.

Paragraph B to remain as written.

A. Manufacturer’s warranty period for exterior sealing against leaks, adhesion, and cohesive failure shall be two (2) years. SAMPLE LANGUAGE B. General Warranty: Manufacturer’s warranty specified in this section shall not deprive Government of other rights Government may have under other provisions of Contract Documents and shall be in addition to, and run concurrent with, other warranties made by Contractor under requirements of Contract Documents.

General – Replace MIL Spec References with current industry standard references, if applicable.

General – Remove service contracts from specification sections. Discuss with VA prior to removal.

Division 01 – General Requirements:

Replace 01 33 23 Shop Drawings, Product Data, Samples found on the VA’s Office of

Construction & Facilities Management’s website with the one provided under separate cover.

Major difference is that we now require electronic submittals of shop drawings and product data.

Include requirement for O&M manuals to include a recommended Lock Out-Tagout procedure for equipment requiring isolation of potential energy sources. Add this under the specific specifications as needed.

Include 01 99 99 Project Closeout Specification section; provided under separate cover. It needs to be edited for each project.

Modify the specifications (01 00 00) as follows:

Add the following subparagraph to section 1.9.A - “4. The Contractor is prohibited from using VA dumpsters. The Contractor shall furnish and pay for all dumpsters required to legally remove construction debris from the VA Medical Center.” The contractor shall request placement of a dumpster onto VA property through a written request to the VA COR identifying on a site plan approximate proposed location of dumpster(s). Dumpster shall not impact roadways, parking lots, ramps, entrances/exits, access to exterior equipment, hydrants, Siamese fire pipe connections/PIV, underground utilities, manholes, etc.”

Section 1.6.F after the first sentence add the following sentence - “Work shall be accomplished during normal work hours, Monday through Friday, 7:00am to 4:30pm (unless approved by the VA) excluding Federal holidays, as to cause the least interferences possible with the normal activities of the facility and the surrounding areas.

AE shall review all work that is to occur in construction phase as it relates to buildings, adjacent spaces/buildings, occupied areas, etc. and discuss with VA Project Engineer & other services, the concerns of disrupting adjacent areas with noise, vibrations, etc. and the possibility of clearly identifying specific work to be conducted off-hours and performed other than normal hours. (I.e. demolition, drilling, etc.)

Section 1.25.B change “four copies each” to “three copies each”. Change “Maintenance and operating manuals and one compact disc (four hard copies and one electronic copy each)” to “Maintenance and operating manuals and compact disc (one hard copy and two electronic copies each)”

Section 1.5.P Fire Hazard Prevention and Safety Inspections: Add the following at the end of the paragraph “The Contractor shall submit on a weekly basis to the Contracting

Officer's Representative (COR) completed Interim Life Safety Measures (ILSM) Forms;

See Attachment _.” Provide Forms as an attachment.

Section 1.8.A Infection Prevention Measures: add the following at the end of the paragraph ‘The Contractor shall submit on a weekly basis to the Contracting Officer's Representative (COR) completed Infection Control Risk Assessment (ICRA) Forms; See Attachment _.” Provide Forms as an attachment.

Section 1.2 - Replace references to “bids” with “offers” and bidder(s) with “offeror(s).

Modify Section 1.3 Specifications and Drawings For Contractor as follows:

A. Contractor shall bear the cost of providing, as necessary, complete sets of specifications and drawings to the Contractor and his/her subcontractors by downloading electronic versions furnished by the Contracting Office.

Add the following paragraphs A, B, C, D, and E to 1.4.B Security Procedures. Provide

PIV form as an attachment.

A. In accordance with VA Directive 0735 Personal Identity Verification of Federal

Employees and Contractors, all contractors on VA premises are require to obtain proper identification cards. The following information describes the criteria for each type of identification card:

1. PIV CARD is required for all unsupervised, full time, logical and/or physical access for more than 6 months OR more than 180 aggregate days in one year period. In this description unsupervised is to mean unescorted by VA personnel into areas off public corridors that would require the possession of a key or being granted access control privileges to enter through a secured door. Time onsite is determined by the Period of Performance of the contract/task order and is to include all prime and sub-contractor personnel (to include sub-subcontractors) regardless of the actual personal time on site. The issuance of a PIV Card requires two forms of acceptable identification, a favorable SAC adjudication and an initiated National Agency Check with Written Inquiries (NACI).

2. Non-PIV CARD is required for all unsupervised, full time, logical and/or physical access for less than 6 months OR less than 180 aggregate days in one year period. In this description unsupervised is to mean unescorted by VA personnel into areas off public corridors that would require the possession of a key or being granted access control privileges to enter through a secured door.

Time onsite is determined by the Period of Performance of the contract/task order and is to include all prime and sub-contractor personnel (to include sub-subcontractors) regardless of the actual personal time on site. The issuance of a PIV Card requires two forms of acceptable identification and a favorable SAC adjudication.

3.Flash Badge is required for common access ONLY for less than 6 months or less than 180 aggregate days in one year period. Time onsite is determined by the Period of Performance of the contract/task order and is to include all prime and sub-contractor personnel (to include sub-subcontractors) regardless of the actual personal time on site. The issuance of a Flash Badge requires one form of acceptable identification.

B. Contractors are required to submit a list of personnel to be mobilized for the work associated with the contract/task order scope of work to be completed under this specification to the CO and COR. The list is to include current status of SAC background investigation, i.e. – SAC + NACI, date completed; SAC, date completed;

None.

C. Determination of the level of identification required will be determined by the COR based on the contract/task order scope of work and level of access required.

D. Contractors are to contact the COR regarding credentialing requirements.

E. COR will facilitate contractor submission of information through the CO, PIV

Sponsor and PIV Office at the Medical Center to obtain proper credentials for each contractor personnel to be on campus to complete the contract/task order scope of work to be completed under this specification.

Revise 1.4.F Motor Vehicle Restrictions the Contractor Parking section as follows:

Include language to have general contractors, their employees, subcontractors, vendors, manufacturer representatives, etc. park in the designated contractor parking lot near Building 2.

Add the following paragraph section to 01 00 00 General Requirements (needs to be numbered). 1.XX ATTACHED FORMS These attached forms need to be referenced as requirements for the Contractor. The Contractor shall fill out the attached forms following this paragraph and submit them.

Request for Information (RFI) Daily Construction Log - Sample Submittal Log - Sample (this needs to be edited by A/E per project) Infection Control Risk Assessment (ICRA) daily inspection forms Interim Life Safety Measures (ILSM) daily inspection forms Green Environmental Management System (GEMS) daily inspection forms Patient Safety Pre-Construction Risk Assessment Valve Chart - Mechanical Valve Chart - Plumbing Electric Panel Schedule Coordination Drawing Checklist Hot Work Permit Contractor other than normal hours Request Material Approval Submittal Forms PIV form request Partial-Road Closure Form

Add the following paragraph section to 01 00 00 (needs to be numbered):

1.XX COORDINATION

Coordinate work and products meeting the requirements associated with all applicable specification sections and plans to produce a system complete, functional and ready for the purpose intended.

A. Pre-worksite Re-visit Requirements … Before starting work in a particular area, visit the worksite and carefully examine the areas to verify complexity, existing conditions and difficulties that will affect work including all work done under various specification sections and the VA. Commencement of work shall be construed as acceptance of the existing conditions and difficulties. No change to the contract price or schedule shall be allowed for work caused by unfamiliarity with the site conditions that are visible or readily construed by an experienced observer.

B. Coordinate the location of all work, equipment and components with all trades and equipment installers to prevent interferences and maintain proper use and access to all items and spaces. Refer to the “Coordination Drawing Checklist” for further details. General Contractor is responsible for coordinating all equipment and components being installed with the placement location and dimension requirements.

Prior to job execution each trade shall submit “complete” coordinated shop drawings indicating all equipment and material layouts with locations from walls/columns, bottom/top elevations, vibration isolators, supports, dimensions, utility requirements and equipment submittal numbers. Each trade shall maintain a set of working drawings to document as-built information as the work progresses and submit to the Project Engineer monthly for review.

C. New work shall be installed and connected to existing work neatly and carefully.

All work shall be coordinated with other trades to avoid conflicts and to obtain a neat competent installation that will afford maximum accessibility for easy and proper operation, maintenance, service and headroom. All work shall be installed in a manner that permits easy accessibility and proper removal of system components requiring periodic service. Disturbed or damaged work shall be replaced or repaired to new conditions. Any items determined to be in non-compliance shall be corrected by the Contractor at no additional expense to the Government.

D. The drawings show or describe the general arrangement of equipment, articles, assemblies, appurtenances but do not show all required fittings, drains, air vents, supports and may not identify all required accessories, components, fittings, and offsets that are necessary to properly complete the installation for the purpose intended. The contract drawings are diagrammatic only intended to show general layout of conduit, ductwork, piping, equipment, terminals, specialties and not intended to show all required offsets, details, accessories and equipment to be connected. Provide all necessary fittings, offsets and pipe runs based on field measurements and reviewed coordination drawings. Coordinate with other trades for space available and relative location of equipment and accessories to be connected at all locations. The Contractor shall alter locations of items where necessary to avoid interference and clearance difficulties. Locations of components and equipment shall be adjusted to accommodate the work with interferences anticipated and encountered.

The Contractor shall determine the exact routing and location of systems prior to fabrication and installation. Accurate field measurements and coordination drawings shall be prepared to establish the locations and characteristics of the various systems (new and existing to remain). It is the intent of the drawings/specifications that the Contractor provides all materials, labor and coordination necessary to complete the work described or implied by the contract documents at no additional cost/time to the Government. The Contractor shall propose with submitted coordination drawings other dimensions with similar characteristics where necessary to avoid interferences and clearance difficulties. Should the contract documents not agree with themselves the greater quantity of superior work and materials shall be performed.

E. Coordinate all mechanical (eg, HVAC), electrical, plumbing (MEP) utility service, fire protection sprinkler system shutdowns and space access three (3) weeks in advance with the Project Engineer. Due to facility scheduling and access difficulties, some shutdowns and the performance of certain work will need to be performed during off-hours by the Contractor. Arrange phases and perform work to insure utility services for other buildings and areas at all times as required.

F. Before placement and installation of work subject to tests the Contractor shall coordinate and notify the Resident Engineer in sufficient time to enable testing personnel to be present at the site in time for proper testing and field inspection. Such prior notice shall be not less than two (2) weeks unless otherwise designated by the Resident Engineer.

Add the following paragraph section to 01 00 00 (needs to be numbered):

1.XX GREEN ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM (GEMS)

Comply with the requirements of VAMC’s Green Environmental Management

System (GEMS) team. Submit completed GEMS forms on a weekly basis to the Contracting Officer’s Technical Representative (COTR). See attachments.

Add the following paragraph section to 01 00 00 (needs to be numbered):

1.XX CONSTRUCTION COMMENCEMENT - Contractor shall proceed with construction only after Veterans Affairs’ acceptance of all required submittals and coordination drawings.

Revise 1.31 Photographic Documentation section in 01 00 00 as follows:

A. During the construction period through completion, provide electronic photographic documentation of construction progress and at selected milestones, as per these specifications and as requested by the Resident Engineer. The electronic photos shall be presented weekly to the Resident Engineer on a compact disk or DVD. Photos shall have dates superimposed on them.

Electronic documents shall be in jpeg format or compatible.

B. Photographic documentation elements:

1. Before construction, the building pad, adjacent streets, roadways, parkways, driveways, curbs, sidewalks, landscaping, adjacent utilities and adjacent structures surrounding the building pad and site shall be documented. Overlapping photographic techniques shall be used to insure maximum coverage. If site work or pad preparation is extensive, this documentation may be required immediately before construction and at several pre-determined intervals before building work commences.

2. Construction progress for all trades shall be tracked at pre-determined intervals, but not less than once every thirty (30) calendar days (“Progressions”) or as required by the Resident Engineer. Progression documentation shall track both the exterior and interior construction of the building. Exterior Progressions shall track 360 degrees around the site and each building. Interior Progressions shall track interior improvements beginning when stud work commences and continuing until Project completion.

3. As-built condition of pre-slab utilities and site utilities shall be documented prior to pouring slabs, placing concrete and/or backfilling. This process shall include all underground and in-slab utilities within the building(s) envelope(s) and utility runs in the immediate vicinity of the building(s) envelope(s). This may also include utilities enclosed in slab-on-deck in multi-story buildings.

Overlapping photographic techniques shall be used to insure maximum coverage.

4. As-built conditions of mechanical, electrical, plumbing and all other systems shall be documented post-inspection and pre-insulation, sheet rock or dry wall installation. This process shall include all finished systems located in the walls and ceilings of all buildings at the Project. Overlapping photographic techniques shall be used to insure maximum coverage.

5. As-built conditions of exterior skin and elevations shall be documented with an increased concentration of digital photographs as directed by the Resident Engineer in order to capture pre-determined focal points, such as waterproofing, window flashing, radiused steel work, architectural or Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems (EIFS) detailing. Overlapping photographic techniques shall be used to insure maximum coverage.

6. As-built finished conditions of the interior of each building including floors, ceilings and walls shall be documented at certificate of occupancy or equivalent, or just prior to occupancy, or both, as directed by the Resident Engineer.

Overlapping photographic techniques shall be used to insure maximum coverage.

7. Miscellaneous events as requested by the Resident Engineer.

8. Weekly Site Progressions - Photographic documentation capturing the project at different stages of construction. These progressions shall capture underground utilities, excavation, grading, backfill, landscaping and road construction throughout the duration of the project.

9. Regular interior progressions of all walls of the entire project to begin at time of substantial framed or as directed by the Resident Engineer through to completion.

10. Detailed Exact-Built of all Slabs for all project slab pours just prior to placing concrete or as directed by the Resident Engineer.

11. Detailed Interior exact built overlapping photos of the entire building to include documentation of all mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems in every wall and ceiling, to be conducted after rough-ins are complete, just prior to insulation and or drywall, or as directed by Resident Engineer.

12. Finished detailed Interior exact built overlapping photos of all walls, ceilings, and floors to be scheduled by Resident Engineer prior to occupancy.

13. Images must show distinctly, at as large a scale as possible, all parts of work embraced in the picture.

Division 02 – Existing Conditions:

Modify the all the abatement (asbestos, lead, PCB, etc.) specifications as follows:

o Remove all references to VA securing areas; this is the responsibility of the contractor.

o Remove all references to VA providing air monitoring services; this is the responsibility of the contractor hiring an independent Industrial Hygienist to perform these services o Abatement firm and air sampling firm shall be different companies.

o Include language that general contractor shall notify COR and VA Environmental

Specialist and/or Manager prior to start of work and upon completion of abatement and prior to shipment of material.

o Abatement firm/General contractor shall provide all information listed below and as-built floor plans highlighting delineation of abated area. This shall be a marked-up PDF floor plan delineating exact locations and quantities in each location of material removal.

Provide all information to COR and VA Environmental Specialist and/or Manager within 35 calendar days of abatement completion.

Ensure project areas have been tested for asbestos, lead and pcb’s and that contract documents reflect action required to be taken.

CONFINED SPACE ENTRY:

a) All confined space entry shall comply with 29 CFR 1926, Subpart AA except for specifically referenced operations in 29 CFR 1926 such as excavations/trenches [1926.651(g)].

b) A site-specific Confined Space Entry Plan (including permitting process) shall be developed and submitted to the VA Project Engineer (COR) and/or Facility Safety Specialist.

c) Contractor shall be responsible for complying with confined space entry permits and procedures when entering confined spaces (e.g. manholes).

d) The contractor shall work with VA Project Engineer (COR) and VA Safety regarding confined space permits requirements. This shall include, but not be limited to, readings taken during entry, emergency extraction plan, PPE, etc.

e) Any confined space entries in which there is asbestos locates within the space, the contractor is responsible to provide the following prior to entry:

o Certification of 16 hour asbestos O & M training on all personnel entering the space.

o All personnel must wear appropriate PPE.

o All PPE used for entry is to be considered as asbestos contaminated material and disposed of properly within state and federal regulations.

Division 7 – Thermal & Moisture Protection:

General comment of existing roofs; this must be verified by the A/E during design. Existing roof at West Roxbury may be under warranty, therefore, any work performed on the roof must ensure that the warranty remains in effect and is not violated.

Roofing warranty to be 15 to 20 years; discuss with Project Engineer/COR during design.

Division 8 – Doors & Windows:

Door Hardware, Lock Cores - VHA BHS West Roxbury division uses:

o Hardware – Corbin Russwin. See below for part numbers levers.jpg strike.jpg o Core – Kaba Peaks 6-pin large format interchangeable core cores.jpg Door Hardware – Door Closers. West Roxbury uses Norton 1603BC Tri-Style Aluminum

Storefront Closer. Aluminum Finish 689 where applicable.

Door Hardware, Keys - Contractor not required to provide keys.

Doors, Edge Guard - The chipped door edge is a general problem and was included in the

SOARS report for long term care. A stainless steel edge for the door is required for any general use doors, especially in patient buildings. It may require the outer edge of the door to be routed for the guard.

Doors, Card Access Hardware - All doors to be replaced shall have card access hardware infrastructure (conduit, boxes, electric strike cutouts for frames, etc.) in addition to key access hardware.

Cabinet Drawer and Door Locks - Ensure specs and drawings adequately identify cabinet drawers and doors to receive locks.

Division 9 Finishes:

Finish/Color Schedule - Design shall conform to VISN 1 Finish/Color Palette working VISN

1 Interior Designer; A/E shall contact and propose finish/color boards to VISN 1 Interior Designer for approval. The A/E’s interior designer shall provide finish recommendations to the VA Interior Designer for approval; as with other portion of design, this is a reiterative process.

Interior Signage – Manufacturer: Innerface Sign Systems, Inc., 5849 Peachtree Road, Atlanta, GA 30341, 770-921-5566. Color: 7 BLUE; Typeface: Futura Medium (U/lc).

Local Representative: Scott Thorp, 508-367-3243. Factory Representative: Megan Dolan, 1-800-445-4796

Signage - All renovated spaces/new construction shall include VA interior/exterior design space signs identifying what the space is used for and room number per VA Signage Design Guide.

Provide Finish Schedule on drawings Acoustical Ceiling Tiles - In general, USG 2120, 2’x2’ tiles with revealed edge are the buildings’ standard.

Mental Health Bumper and Handrail - Endura Rail with continuous security bracket (BR-

530S) manufactured by Pawley Corp.

Resilient Treads - Infection Control and Environmental Management Service (EMS) do not like the hammered finish due to cleaning issues; they request the raised dots or squares.

Safety requests the tread step nosings to be glow in the dark.

Division 22 – Plumbing:

Flexible fire suppression drops are not permitted.

New water coolers are to be equipped with filters.

Antiscald device at any plumbing fixture (Shower and Sink).

Division 23 – Heating, Ventilating & Air Conditioning (includes Energy Comments) HVAC controls - HVAC work shall tie into the existing building management system

(TRANE). The general contractor shall bear the cost of employing the services of TRANE (contact Michael Summers, email MSOMMERS@TRANE.COM, work (978) 737-3823 / cell (617) 438-4326, 181 Ballardvale Street, Suite 201, Wilmington, MA, 01887.

DDC system is a proprietary TRANE Ensemble or most current facility BAS software. The proprietary requirement needs to be noted on the drawings or in the specs. Controls shall be integrated to the existing TRANE Ensemble Building Automation System (BAS). Provide DDC controls, custom programming, color graphics (and graphics layered over floor plans) and interface to the All controls furnished must seamlessly integrate with the existing TRANE BAS. All programming and controls associated with both the new and existing control systems shall provide a fully integrated control system that includes color graphics, alarming, web access and full control of DDC components through the facility’s existing system.

o A/E shall confirm if there is adequate space in the TRANE panel(s). If not, a new panel shall be furnished & installed. AE to discuss with TRANE and Engineering on how we want to get between the floors with the cabling (e.g., is there already one riser path for all DDC cabling in this building?; Do we want to start one?). Identify how many ports will be needed for environmental controls and design to add those & future expansion capability for other equipment as we spec out the needed network switches. Drawings and specifications shall have contractor provide adequate quantity of data/telephone drops to panels.

o Provide occupancy controls through the TRANE Building Automation System (BAS) for nighttime, weekend and holiday temperature set back and fan setback. Include requirement for AHU mixing box temp control to ensure the mixing box chamber does not overheat or go into freeze protection when the unit is commanded off during night/weekend/holiday setback. Normal lights shall be controlled via the BAS night/weekend/holiday setback schedule. Provide 20% option for peak load shaving during normal business hours. BAS contractor to provide interface to VA electrical sub-metering to initiate load reduction as building nears peak electrical load. Initiation of peak shave will notify VA through existing BAS system interface.

o At completion of Phased work, or completion of project, TRANE shall have Account Executive, Technical representative & Service representative perform a walkthrough with VA Project Engineer, HVAC Shop, M&O Maintenance Boiler Plant Operators, etc. to review all systems, components, devices, controls, panels, etc. installed & instruct & display all working set points. This shall be in addition to training & instructions already described in specifications. This shall be coordinated & scheduled to occur prior to turning over the space to the VA.

BAS Controls – When upgrading any unit, include to upgrade all controls.

Provide the following table in drawings for controls - include section for graphics.

Under HVAC Demo include note stating removal of all points that will be removed / re-used.

Coordinate Controls meeting with TRANE with Engineering to review Controls specification and include their specification into project files.

Building Service Water Heating - Ensure the building service water heating equipment and design meet the requirements of ASHRAE 90.1-2007. Provide list showing this.

Glycol for chilled water systems is prohibited by the VA Mechanical Design guide. See guide for other suitable freeze protection measures.

If chiller is used - a) provide the flowing control options with Building Automation System

(BAS) alarm and acknowledgement: Loss of flow protection; flow sensor; temperature leaving and entering sensor; compressor current sensing; power supply monitor to protect against phase loss, phase reversal, phase imbalance, low voltage, and improper phase sequence. b) specify manufacturer provided microprocessor-based chiller controls that will seamlessly integrate to the existing TRANE Building Management system. Controls will allow remote start/stop, remote adjustment of water flow and water temperature. c) specify that compressor sound attenuation blanket be manufacturer provided and factory installed. d) Unit needs to be temperature corrected for high ambient temperatures (roof top). e) ensure documents include sound/noise attenuation. At a minimum provide (sound blankets) for the compressors on the air-cooled chiller. These should be factory installed and provided.

Existing manual control valves on perimeter heat convectors are to be replaced with ddc valves integrated with the air conditioning/ventilation system. Model: H815 safe fail release;

confirm with VA.

If air handlers are used, ensure they are equipped with air economizers in accordance with VA Mechanical Design guide (paragraph 2.6) and ASHRAE 90.1-2007.

Utilize 2-way control valves instead of 3-way where appropriate. This is preferred to 3 way control and chilled water constantly pumping. It’s understood that there are minimum flow requirements for new air-cooled chillers.

VA Mechanical design manual requires:

Supply Air Fan

(a) General: Select statically and dynamically balanced centrifugal fans in the configuration and design suited for the specific applications. Select the fan type and construction to deliver design air volume at the estimated static pressure without exceeding the required noise and vibration criteria. Limit fan speed to 1,600 RPM. Use of plug/plenum centrifugal fans is not permitted.

(b) Selection Criteria: Select the supply air fan and motor for the calculated air volume and static pressure, adjusted for altitude, temperature, fan inlet/discharge conditions (system effect) as specified in AMCA 201-02. Fan selection shall be made within the stable range of operation at an optimum static efficiency. The fan motor BHP [KW] at the operating point on the fan curves shall be increased by 10% to cover the drive losses and field conditions. The fan motor shall be selected within the rated nameplate capacity and without relying upon NEMA Standard Service Factor. Wherever the variable frequency drive is specified, the fan motor selection shall be compatible with variable frequency drive motor controller duty. Additional information for energy efficient motors is given in the VA Technical Information Library (TIL).

Return Air Fan When room air is returned to the air-handling unit, provide a dedicated return or relief air fan for each air handling unit to facilitate the room-by-room air balance. The fan system shall incorporate the use of an airside economizer cycle, as specified in Chapter 2 of the design manual. Provide an electronic interlock between the: Supply and return/relief air fans Supply and exhaust air fans associated with the air-handling unit Exhaust Fan(s) Provide general and special exhaust fans as required, electronically interlocked with the AHU supply air fan. A single AHU may be interlocked with multiple exhaust fans serving multiple applications such as fume hood exhaust, “wet exhaust,” and general exhaust systems.

Ensure in the specifications that thermostats shall be able to show set point temperatures and room temperatures.

Ensure blowdown tank discharge is not tied into the steam condensate return system;

discharge should go to sanitary waste drain.

Division 26 - Electrical (includes energy comments) Electrical Panels and Busses - Only copper shall be used. Aluminum is not acceptable.

Ensure specifications and drawings reflect this.

Electrical panels are to be fully rated. Panels need to be labeled with the appropriate branch

(normal, emergency, LS or equipment), voltage, and amperage, “fed from” with conductor sizes. Labels are phenolic plastic and designates as follows: Normal are black with white letters and emergency are red with white letters. Coordinate during design with VA COR, M&O Foreman and VA Electricians for panel labeling.

Lighting - a) Provide program start electronic ballasts that can provide 20% dimming to lower peak demand. Use nights and weekend scheduling of lighting through the energy management system to ensure normal lights are off on weekends, nights and holiday. b) In general, VA criteria CRI>85 and color=4200 for indoor fluorescent. c) Follow watts/sf in accordance with ASHRAE 90.1-2007.

Cummins Diesel Generators- The proposed vendor is the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) for all emergency diesel generators at the West Roxbury campus (currently 6 Cummins Diesel Generators).

This equipment has specialized control systems and operating procedures. A single maintenance contract is used to repair and maintain these units, another equipment manufacturer would require additional funds for service contracts and training on VA personnel.

RUSS Electric ATS The proposed vendor is the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) for all automatic transfer switch equipment at the West Roxbury campus (currently 32 Russ electric ATS’). These switches and their control system possess proprietary control systems, proprietary software and a unique interface that is used to test, measure electrical load, troubleshoot the switch and operate the switch.

All electricians and HVAC mechanics are trained to operate and troubleshoot the ATS from this interface. Another manufacture and model would have a different interface and different operating procedures. As a critical part of the emergency electrical system, a different ATS with different operating procedures, troubleshooting procedures and parts would adversely affect direct patient care.

Division 27 - Communications Nurse Call System - Nurse Call system is a proprietary item; ensure system specified meets

VA current and future requirements. Vendor is:

Rauland-Borg Corporation, Responder Models Marc Bronstein, Vice President, HCC Division, Signet Electronic Systems, Inc.

phone: 781-871-5888, x1123 marc.bronstein@signetgroup.net

Departure Alert System - current system is Wander Guard by Stanley Health Care Systems, however, the system is going to be upgraded, and final manufacturer has not yet been selected.

Wireless Access - Below is West Roxbury’s Wireless Access Point Locations document; the A/E shall confirm with the VA IT Group that this document is still valid. The AE shall add construction notes that have language that the contractor shall coordinate with VA COR and VA IT for the removal of the Wireless Access Point equipment at a minimum 10 business days prior to contractor removing ceiling system. The contractor shall submit a written request to VA COR with floor plan identifying quantity & location of WiFi Access Points requesting to be removed. Provide requested date to be removed by. The AE shall review the document to see what equipment is affected in design.

318_R4_West_Roxb ury_MA_VA_WiFi_Final_AP_Locations.pdf

General - The A/E shall consider the entire computer / telephone needs exactly the same as would the electrical needs. This includes jacks/outlets, cables, punch downs as both ends, testing, etc. Wireless antennas may be part of the project. Ensure adequate patch panels and racks are provided as part of the contract.

Building Management System Communications - Ensure design has data drops brought into the service room & terminated to the TRANE PXCM panels for equipment being installed.

Have a certified/licensed electrician install EMT Conduit (with pull string) from the TRANE PXCM panels to the Tel/Data closets (new core/sleeve installed & fire stopped). Use existing Tel/Data riser(s) in building. Schedule the cabling, once the cabling is done Contractor to notify VA so engineering to let networks know so they can connect it to the switch and assign the IP address.

Telephone/Data – Ensure drawings and specifications contain the following information.

The A/E shall verify with VA IT that information provided below is still current and if not then provide current information.

o Phone and Data work shall tie into the existing Phone and Data closets with available space. Phone and Data space in closets shall be verified during design site investigation to clearly identify on construction drawings available closet to make tie-in.

o The general contractor shall install new jack and quad data receptacles per VA specifications. Install Cat 6A cabling where allowable. In some buildings, the contractor will be required to bring over & install voice connections from telephone closets to data closets for new telecommunications if not already in data closets; AE to review during design. AE shall coordinate with Project Engineer on requirements (i.e. 100 pair, 200 pair, etc.) The general contractor shall bear the cost of employing the services of E2 Telecom for final connections and testing. E2 Telecom contact is Richard Erlandson.

e2telecom@comcast.net (508) 294-5585 o Communications Wiring (Telephone/Data) -o Provide communication wiring as required for the devices being installed as manufactured by Berk–Tek LANmark 2000.

o Telephone/Data wiring shall be Category 6A Plenum rated voice/data quality 4 pair

23 AWG unshielded twisted pair (UTP) cables.

o Each 4 pair conductor shall be color coded … Jack A – Yellow; Jack B – Blue; Jack

C – White, Jack D – Green.

o Unless otherwise specified, install wiring and connect from each faceplate jack (4 jacks for each outlet box) to the communication closet patch panel or telephone termination field for a complete operating system. Provide plenum rated Category 6A voice/data quality 4 pair 23 AWG solid copper unshielded twisted pair (UTP) cables (Berk-Tek LANmark), faceplates, jacks and patch panels. Each 4 pair conductor shall be color coded … Jack A – Yellow; Jack B – Blue; Jack C – White, Jack D – Green. Provide blank covers for unused locations.

o Furnish and pull wire in all communication conduits/sleeves. Cabling shall be installed in conduit in wall spaces to corridors. Route cables to the appropriate telecommunications closet to that section of the building in either the corridor raceway system or supported using a facility approved method. Seal all penetrations through fire rated barriers.

o New fiber pulls to be 50 micron not 62.5. A/E shall confirm with VA IT during design.

o Labeling Standard – Building Room-Jack# (ex: the first jack in building 1, room 2B100 would be 12B100-1) o Communication Devices (Telephone/Data) -o The 4–port single gang faceplates ivory in color manufactured by Ortronics Model

TracJack shall be used at each designated location. Provide blank covers for unused locations.

o Voice/Data 4–port termination plug manufactured by Ortronics Model Clarity Category 6A TracJack T568A/B workstation modules using matching color-coded voice/data icons … Jack A – Yellow; Jack B – Blue; Jack C – White, Jack D – Green.

o Patch panels manufactured by Ortronics Model Clarity Category 6 supporting T568A/B wiring schemes with 8–port groupings using matching color-coded voice/data icons … Jack A – Yellow; Jack B – Blue; Jack C – White, Jack D – Green.

Patch panel quantity/capacity/size shall be suitable for the system being installed and compatible with the facility communication racks … CPI Chatsworth Products – 73 inch length, 15 inch depth, 95 inch height with horizontal tray.

o Wire Management – Horizontal should be installed between each patch panel (Legrand P/N: OR-

808045590) Vertical should be installed between each rack (Chatsworth P/N: 13912-703)

Division 28 – Electronic Safety & Security Fire Alarm - Fire alarm system work shall be performed by facility fire alarm vendor. The existing fire alarm system is EST-3 as assembled and bench tested by the manufacturer of record Signet Electronics Systems, Inc., Norwell, MA, 781-871-5888 ext 1243, Contact:

Nicole McColgan; who may at their discretion and under their direction sub-contract selected work. Installation of the system shall be by the manufacturer or manufacturer’s authorized installer. General contractor shall bear all costs for fire alarm work. All personnel that will be pulling wire, installing devices and making terminations will be Signet EST Certified personnel per contract documents.

Card Access Control System - The entire Medical Center Complex (all three divisions) is on a Hirsch Electronics card access system. The system provides security to the complex and is connected directly to monitors in the Police headquarters at all three divisions. The nodes of the system are in controlled spaces throughout the facility. Access to the spaces is strictly controlled to assure the security of this system and the other critical Information Systems in these spaces.

The system as whole is an essential part of assuring Safety and Security of patients and staff at the Medical Center. Accordingly, as we look toward adding small new pieces to the system it is essential that we safeguard our investment and the systems overall integrity.

The system as installed is a Hirsh Electronics system. Hirsch Electronics is the sole manufacture of the large complex system that we presently have installed for our card access security system. Signet Electronics Systems is the certified installer. Several components of this request are not Hirsch Electronics, but at the same time they must interface with our existing Hirsch Electronics system. Attached is a cut sheet on the security system that the VA has on all 3 campuses. Electronic Security work shall tie into the existing Hirsh Electronics system. The general contractor shall bear the cost of employing the services of Red Hawk.

Hirsch-Velocity-FAST

FACTS.doc Hirsch-Velocity--data

-sheet.pdf

Signet Electronics Systems, Inc.

Norwell, MA, 781-871-5888 Contact: Nicole McColgan 781-871-5888 ext 1243

Division 32 – Exterior Improvements Windows – Anodize profile bronze, 0.7mils. Energy efficient monumental double hung windows with internal blinds.

Landscape – all planting materials required for landscaping including but not limited to Grass seed, fertilizer, lime, peat and sod shall be the same as used by VA Grounds. Contact VA Grounds Supervisor Jimmy Murad prior to submitting material submittal for information.

The general contractor shall bear the cost to provide same materials as VA Grounds.

Division 33 – Utilities Marking of Hydrants: it is the understanding of VHA BHS Engineering that per NFPA 24

Annex D ‘Recommended Practice for Marking of Hydrants’, D.4 & D.5.1.2 red hydrants with green caps is correct. Confirm with West Roxbury Fire Department.