VA257-17-B-1455-00006001.docx

RFI Questions – Install Fire Alarm System, Bonham VAMC, Texas Solicitation VA257-17-B-1455 Project 549A4-13-1302

Question 1: Fiber Network

Question 2: FACP and Printer Location

Question 3: Dallas VA Compatibility

Question 4: Section 2.4

Question 5: Section 2.4 B.3

Question 6: Section 2.7

Question 7: Section 3.1 L

Question 8: Residence Units

Question 9: Cabling and Conduit

Question 10: Wiring Method

Q10: Section 28 05 13: C. Wiring Method: #1 & #3 are contradictory. #2 is required for any cable riser not in 2 hour rated rooms. See below for referenced.

A. Cables and raceways used for fire alarm circuits, and equipment control wiring associated with the fire alarm system, may not contain any other wire or cable.

B. Fire-Rated Cables: Use of 2-hour, fire-rated fire alarm cables, NFPA 70, Types MI and CI, is not permitted.

C. Signaling Line Circuits: Power-limited fire alarm cables may be installed in the same cable or raceway as signaling line circuits.

Question 11: Identification

Q11: A. Identify system components, wiring, and cabling complying with TIA/EIA – 606-A.

B. Install a permanent wire marker on each wire at each termination. Does this include Devices.

A11: Provide address labels on all devices.

Question 12: Existing Network Cabling

Q12: 1.2 SCOPE: The existing Network Cabling is Wire (Per Maint.) not Fiber, spec states Fiber see section below.

3. The communication circuits between building fire alarm control panels shall be optical fiber and configured as Class X in accordance with NFPA 72. Isolation shall be provided so that no more than one building can be lost due to a circuit fault. There is an existing fiber network between the buildings. This can be re-used if possible.

A12: The existing cabling is not fiber, provide all new fiber between buildings.

Question 13: Phase 2, Bldg 29

Q13: Phase 2, Building 29. The new fire alarm network fiber backbone will be installed in this phase. Is a New Fiber Network Cabling to be priced?

A13: Yes.

Question 14: IDC

Question 15: Project Duration

Q15: Project Phases are approximately 90 days per phase. (This is not realistic). What is correct per building duration?

A15: Per-building scheduling may be modified as needed, as long as the 24 months or 730 schedule duration is completed.

Question 16: Project Duration

Question 17: Panel Location

Question 18: Guaranty Period Services

Question 19: Work Hours

Question 20: Dust Control

Q20: What areas would be required for possible use of Dust Buggies or other means to control dust?

A20: See VA Infection Control procedures found in the contract specifications.

Question 21: Zones

Question 22: Door Holders

Question 23: Dual Action

Question 24: Mechanical Contractor

Question 25: Supervisory Switches

Question 26: Switches

Question 27: Communicator

Question 28: Design Manual

The VA Fire Protection Design Manual (10NA8) Section 1.3 calls out that the Public Buildings Amendment Act (PL 100-68) requires all federal agencies to follow the latest editions of nationally recognized fire and life safety codes. It goes on to say that the VA has adopted the NFPA and IBC. The drawings indicate manual pull stations throughout all buildings, even ones that are fully sprinklered. IBC 907.2 only requires a manual system in fully sprinklered buildings that are listed as “I” type occupancies. These are buildings 1, 24 & 29.

Q28: A: The latest versions of NFPA and IBC are the 2018 editions. Are these to be used in the design of the system?

B: Although not required by all referenced codes, does the customer still want manual pull stations throughout all non-“I” type occupancy buildings? There will be at least one manual pull station installed in each building.

C: Are there any Class I, Div 2 “Explosion Proof” areas?

A28: A. 2015 IBC, 2015 IFC, 2016 NFPA 72, NFPA 70.

B. Provide manual pull stations in accordance with the VA Fire Protection Design Manual C. No.

Question 29: Drawings Supplied drawings are marked “Issued For Construction.” However, these drawings do not meet required fire code in several areas. A few examples are as follows:

a. Entry vestibules, which are paths of egress, have no visual coverage.

b. Many exam rooms have no visual coverage.

c. For full manual pull station coverage, Bldg 29 is missing pull stations at exit doors.

Question 30: Asbestos

Specifications indicate abatement of Asbestos.

Q30: A. Will there be abatement of lead paint and mold as well?

B. What is necessary procedure should installing contractor encounter these, or other, HAZMAT materials?

Question 31: Confined Spaces

After site walk, it is apparent that installing contractor will need to enter manhole areas and confined spaces.

Q31: A. Who will be responsible for identifying and obtaining permits to entire these areas?

B. Will a list of permit required confined spaces be posted before bid date?

C. Will any PPE equipment be provided by the facility or is presently in place?

A31: A. Jody Holmes – VA Safety.

B. The VA will provide permit required confined space as needed (it is the contractor’s responsibility to assess prior to the start of work in each area).

C. Contractor to provide all required PPE as needed.

Question 32: Phasing Schedule

General Section 01 00 00, Section 1.7, Paragraph H identifies a phasing schedule. Section 28 31 00, Section 3.4, Paragraph A calls for a 30-day burn-in period with 14 days without a malfunction.

Q32: A. Will the 30-day burn-in period be required to be included in the periods called out in the phasing schedule?

B. Will this also be considered as final acceptance for the phase?

Question 33: Final Testing

Final testing of the fire alarm system is called out in 28 31 00, Section 3.4.

Q33: A. How many testing agencies will require acceptance testing?

B. How many acceptance tests will the installing contractor be expected to perform?

C. Once a phase is tested and accepted, what tests be required of an accepted phase when testing future phases?

Question 34: Manufacturer

The specifications do not call for a specific fire alarm system manufacturer. However, Section 28 31 00-2, 1.1, G states that the system must be compatible with the Notifier NFS2-3030 that was installed in the VAMC in Dallas, TX.

Question 35: Paint

On the issue of patch and paint and demo, it was said to assume the facility has no materials or samples.

Question 36: Timeline/Phase

On the timeline/phase the dates do not match allocated contract time.

Q36: A. Will it be acceptable to add or modify the timeline and or phase?

B. Will any accessibility issues in a phase under construction be valid grounds for a delay and extension of loss time?

C. If a delay on a phase is present can another phase be started?

Question 37: Texas Licenses/Registrations

Question 38: Two Contractors

Question 39: Existing Conduit

Question 40: Smoke Dampers

Question 41: Building Automation Interface

Question 42: Electrical Service Panels

Q42: Will Electrical service panels be specified where dedicated power/breakers for the new systems panels and remote power supplies and amplifiers will be available?

A42: Contractor shall provide new circuits for the FACP panel(s), new remote power supplies and new amplifiers where needed. Connect to existing life safety panels in areas where a generator is installed. In buildings where no emergency power is required connect to nearest 120v panel. The circuit breaker serving these devices shall be red.

Question 43: Plenum Rated Cable

Q43: Section 28 05 13 paragraph 3.2 B. 1 mentions installing plenum rated cable in environmental air spaces, is the system to be 100% conduit or is plenum cable allowed?

A43: All fire alarm cabling shall be installed in red conduit.

Question 44: Phasing

is accurate?

A44: 24 month (730 days).

Question 45: Tunnel System

Q45: Will details of the tunnel system, inground vaults and raceway between buildings be made available?

A45: Yes [Hardcopy drawings including these details may or may not be available in Bldg. 9 Drawings library.]

Question 46: Dust Carts

Question 47: Conduit

Q47: SECTION 28 05 13 & 28 05 13-11 Section 3.2 & Section 2.1 states all cabling to be in conduit, meeting stated only exposed areas would be in conduit. What is correct?

A47: All newly installed fire alarm cabling shall be in red conduit.

Question 48: Wiring Method

Q48: Section 28 05 13: C. Wiring Method: #1 & #3 Are contradictory. #2 is required for any cable riser not in 2 Hour rated Rooms. See below for reference. Reference - 1. Cables and raceways used for fire alarm circuits, and equipment control wiring associated with the fire alarm system, may not contain any other wire or cable. 2. Fire-Rated Cables: Use of 2-hour, fire-rated fire alarm cables, NFPA 70, Types MI and CI, is not permitted. 3. Signaling Line Circuits: Power-limited fire alarm cables may be installed in the same cable or raceway as signaling line circuits. What is the correct guidance on this matter?

A48: Power and fire alarm shall be in it’s own raceway and not in the same raceway as signaling line circuits.

Question 49: Component Identification

Q49: Contract states in 3.7 IDENTIFICATION A. Identify system components, wiring, and cabling complying with TIA/EIA- 606-A. B. Install a permanent wire marker on each wire at each termination. Does this include devices?

A49: Yes notification address labels shall be on each device.

Question 50: Network Cabling

Q50: Contract states in 1.2 SCOPE: The existing Network Cabling is Wire (Per Maint.) not Fiber, spec states Fiber see Section 3. Reference below. Reference - 3. The communication circuits between building fire alarm control panels shall be optical fiber and configured as Class X in accordance with NFPA 72. Isolation shall be provided so that no more than one building can be lost due to a circuit fault. There is an existing fiber network between the buildings. This can be re-used if possible. What is the correct requirement on this matter?

A50: No, the existing cabling is not fiber, contractor will provide fiber between the buildings.

Question 51: Fiber Backbone

Q51: Phase 2. Building 29. The new fire alarm network fiber backbone will be installed in this phase. Is a new fiber network cabling network to be priced?

A51: Yes.

Question 52: IDC

Q52: Spec states that initiating device circuits (IDC) shall be wired Class B in accordance NFPA72. The Code requires Class A. Is it Class A or Class B?

A52: VA Fire Protection Design Manual Section 7.2.F requires all fire alarm circuits to be Class B.

Question 53: Project Phases

Project phases are approximately 90 Days per phase. This is not realistic based on experience at Bonham.

Q53: A. Can each project phase be changed to 120 days per building?

B. Can the overall project completion duration be adjusted based on 120 days per project phase to 2-1/2 years?

Question 54: Alternate Locations

Q54: We already know that current panel, power expander, and amplifier locations are full. Can the AE provide alternate locations for each of these items in response to these RFIs?

A54: Contractor can work with the VA on alternate locations if the current location is full.

Question 55: Guarantee Services Responsibility

Q55: The specs say “1.6 GUARANTY PERIOD SERVICES A. Complete inspection, testing, maintenance and repair service for the fire alarm system shall be provided by a factory trained authorized representative of the manufacturer of the major equipment for a period of 5 years from the date of acceptance of the entire installation by the Contracting Officer.” Is this to be the installing company or other vendor?

A55: Installing vendor.

Question 56: Working Hours

Q56: What areas if any will be required to be done other than during normal daytime hours?

A56: The contractor will be required to coordinate all work outside of normal working hours with the COR. We do not anticipate any scheduled work to be performed outside of normal working hours.

Question 57: Dust Control

Q57: In what areas will Dust Buggies or other means to control dust be required?

A57: All patient care areas as defined in the VA Infection Control procedures.

Question 58: Required Zone Locations

system.” Will the VA supply the documents to show the required zones for the new systems?

A58: The FACP’s shall be connected to a single network.

Question 59: Door Holders

Q59: In 28 31 00 – 11 it states that “The door holder power shall be arranged so that momentary or sustained loss of main operating power shall not cause the release of any door.” The door holders do not need replacement only the modules controlling them. Are the door holders or the modules controlling them or both items to be replaced?

A59: Only fire alarm modules.

Question 60: Dual Action Stations

Q60: Manual Fire Alarm Stations: Stations shall be of single action pull down type with suitable operating instructions provided on front in raised or depressed letters, and clearly labeled "FIRE."

Current Code requirements are Dual Action. Should we base bid on dual action?

A60: Provide double action manual fire alarm stations.

Question 61: Responsible Contractor

The contract documents say “Interlocking with fans shall be provided in accordance with NFPA 90A and as specified hereinafter under Part 3.2, "TYPICAL OPERATION".”

Q61: Is the fire alarm installer to be responsible for the Mechanical Contractor as needed?

A61: Yes.

Question 62: Valve Supervisory Switches

Q62: Regarding valve supervisory switches, the entire installed assembly shall be tamper-proof and arranged to cause a switch operation if the housing cover is removed or if the device is removed from its mounting. The existing valve supervisory switches do not have tampers. Are the valve supervisory switches required to be replaced?

A62: Provide new valve tamper and water flow switches.

Question 63: Water flow Switches

Q63: Regarding sprinkler tampers or waterflow switches, are they to be reused or are new switches to be included and installed?

A63: Provide new valve tamper and water flow switches.

Question 64: Communicator

Q64: The existing communicator only provides Alarm, Trouble and Supervisory for the Main Panel. Is this format to be for the new system or complete system description of the Alarms, Troubles or Supervisory conditions to be sent to a Central Station?

A64: A complete description of the alarm, trouble or supervisory conditions will be sent to the central station.

Question 65: “Connected” to Dallas System

Q65: Please refer to Paragraph B. of Amendment 2 for the project. We are not clear on the meaning of the paragraph. We understand that the Government expects us to use the Notifier NFS2-3030 networked system as the basis of design at the Bonham VA, but is the Government expecting the new Bonham VA Notifier NFS2-3030 networked system to be "connected" to the Dallas VA campus system?

A65: No, the Bonham system will not be connected to Dallas. [Note: The new system must have the ability to communicate with the Dallas campus.]

Question 66: Metal/Plastic Plate

Q66: In instances where current devices are removed from the walls, is it acceptable to place a metal/plastic plate over the "hole" left by the removed item? It will be impossible to exactly match existing wall paper or wall paint to cover holes created by removed devices and cost prohibitive and a waste of Government money to re-wall paper or re-paint an entire hallway.

A66: See Question 36.

Question 67: New Conduit

Q67: We assume that all new wiring/cabling that will be installed must be installed in new conduit (in other words existing fire alarm conduit cannot be reused and indeed must be removed) and that no new wiring/cabling will be "air suspended" via J-hooks, raceways, or other devices. Is this correct?

A67: *NOTE:* No - wiring can be installed in existing conduit where applicable. All wiring shall be

Question 68: “Red” Conduit

Q68: Various references were made during the pre-bid site walk to the need for "red" conduit to house newly installed fire alarm wiring/cabling. We assume that new red conduit will be required for all newly installed fire alarm wiring/cabling. Is this correct? If not, please provide clear guidance on where red conduit is required.

A68: Yes, all new conduit shall be red. In instances where existing conduit is used, it must meet code requirements for marking/identification of fire alarm conduit.

Question 69: Manual Pull Stations

Q69: Are all currently existing manual pull stations remaining in place? If not, which ones stay, and which ones need to be removed?

A69: The existing system shall be kept up and running until the new system is installed.

All new devices shall be installed for the new system.

Question 70: VA Responsibility

Q70: We want to verify that the VA will be responsible for running required fiber optic lines between each of the building and terminating them within the appropriate building panel. Is this correct?

A70: No, the contractor will run the fiber and terminate in the building panel.

Question 71: Ceiling Mounting

Q71: Is it permissible for all Items V and SV be ceiling mounted instead of wall mounted? This will greatly reduce the need to address excessive and unnecessary replacement of wall paper and repainting of walls to get exact architectural matches without re-wall papering or repainting entire hallways.

A71: Ceiling mounted initiating and notification appliances preferred.

Question 72: Remote Text Switches

Q72: The Cover Sheet note requires smoke detectors with remote text switches for all air handling units/roof top units above 2000 CFM. However, the drawings don't specify which air handling units/roof top units are above 2000 CFM. Please provide clarification on which air handling units, roof top units are above 2000 CFM so that we can price this requirement appropriately.

A72: Contractor shall field verify locations of existing equipment.

Question 73: Device Locations

Q73: Sheets FA1.0 to FA 32.0 show many device locations such as SD, V, M, T, etc.

Are the device locations shown on these pages the currently existing device locations or the propose locations for new devices?

A73: Proposed new device locations.

Question 74: ICRA Requirements

Q74: We understand that infection control ICRA requirements will be on a building by building basis. Are there any buildings where the anticipated ICRA levels will be 3 or 4 for this project?

A74: ICRA exposures (not by building) however; this will be determined by the contractors work schedule. Levels are determined by area of work complexity and possible staff and patient. [Per Kevin Jordan (Dallas COR), no Level III or IV ICRAs were implemented on the Dallas fire alarm project. Level 3’s and 4’s should not be anticipated on this project. But some sort of encapsulation would be required in hallways and other areas. This must be approved by the COR prior to each phase of work.]

Question 75: Paint and Wall Paper

Q75: General comment - It will be impossible to exactly match existing wall paper or wall paint to cover holes created by removed devices and cost prohibitive and a waste of Government money to re wall paper or re paint an entire hallway. What reasonable compromise can be reached on this matter to ensure a high quality and aesthetically pleasing final product without wasting Government money to re wall paper or re paint an entire hallway if something happens to the wall paper or paint?

A75: See Question 35.

Question 76: Duct Detection

Q76: The specifications and drawings reference providing duct detection for units above 2000cfm, mechanical drawings or schedules are not included within the solicitation documents. The drawings reference detection on AHU units, are we to use these drawings to use as the sole count or will there be mechanical drawings issued?

A76: Contractor to field verify.

Question 77: Detector Locations on Drawings

Q77: Are detectors locations for smoke and fire smoke dampers included on the drawings or will there be a mechanical drawing set showing these locations be issued?

Question 78: Sprinkler Locations

Q78: The drawings show sprinkler device locations for monitoring, is it assumed that all sprinkler devices are functioning properly and do not require repair as part of this solicitation?

A78: Provide new valve tamper and water flow switches.

Question 79: Tunnel Drawings

Q79: During the pre-bid conference it was mentioned that tunnel drawings would be provided for the fiber installation routing, will these drawings be provided?

A79. Yes.

Question 80: Reusing Conduit and Demo

Q80: During the walk through and in the solicitation it was stated that the new system will be 100% installed per phase before any demolition can occur. Confirm that no existing conduit can be reused with the new system. Example, existing pull stations throughout the complex are located in the correct area, with some of these walls being plaster/wood veneer. Is it acceptable to reuse locations such as this and coordinate removal on the same day as system testing? Same example for sprinkler monitoring, these devices may not allow for dual monitoring by two systems and will have to be switched over during testing.

Question 81: Reusing Fiber

Q81: Specification 283100, section 1.2.C.3 references existing fiber, walkthrough stated no fiber available on the existing fire alarm system. Please confirm if fiber is available to reuse and if so what type and quantity is available to reuse.

A81: The existing system is not fiber, none is available for reuse.

Question 82: Building 11 Monitor

Q82: The existing system has a workstation monitor located in building 11, is a new workstation required for building 11? If so what functions is it required to have? Is this the only location that a workstation will be required or should a second station be located in building 1 where the second mass notification microphone is located?

A82: Provide all new equipment.

Question 83: Printers

Q83: Clarify is a printer is required every FACP or if one system printer for the entire facility is adequate.

A83: Provide one printer at the main FACP.

Question 84: Non-Patient Sleeping Rooms

Q84: Is there a list available of non-patient sleeping rooms/areas? Not all of the rooms are labeled on the drawings. These rooms would require smoke detection.

A84: Contractor shall field verify existing conditions.

Question 85: Quick Response Sprinkler Heads

Q85: Confirm campus has quick response sprinkler heads installed, specifically in the healthcare/ambulatory care facilities to comply with NFPA 101 18.3.6 requirements for corridor separation.

A85: Not in the scope of this project. [Contractor to field verify existing conditions and include in new design work.]

Question 86: Quantity of Smoke Detection

Q86: Confirm intent is not to provide smoke detection throughout the facilities but only in those areas that do not meet the criteria of NFPA 101 18.3.6 and as specifically called out in the solicitation.

A86: Provide smoke detection in accordance with the VA Fire Protection Design Manual.

Question 87: Design Requirement for New System

Question 88: Annunciator

Q88: Building 29 calls for reusing graphic annunciator and relocating to nurses station, is it allowable to substitute an LCD annunciator? This would provide detailed location information and allow for future remodels without having to replace a graphic.

A88: Contractor to provide all new equipment.

Question 89: Building Occupancy Type

Question 90: Mass Notification Salient Characteristics

Q90: Provide guidance on mass notification requirement. Specification and VA design manual do not provide information on what is required. Drawings show separate mass notification power supplies. Is it the intent to match the Dallas location and provide amber strobes to activate during mass notification situations separate from the standard clear fire strobes?

A90: Section 283100, 1.1.G states “The new fire alarm system at the Bonham VA campus shall be compatible with the existing fire alarm network at the Dallas VA campus for remote monitoring functions. Dallas Campus has a Notifier NFS2-3030 networked system which is the basis of design.”

Amendment A00002 erroneously changed the wording “compatible” to “mirror,” however, the new system shall have the following:

· Salient characteristics that mirror NFS2-3030 and

· Functionality for future communications with the Dallas VAMC.

Question 91: Demo and Phasing

Q91: Solicitation states that work on the next phase cannot start until all demo is completed on the current phase. This will slow progress from phase to phase. Will it be acceptable to continue with the rough-in of the next phase and not test/commission until the previous phase demo is complete?

A91: Yes.

Question 92: Demo

Q92: Provide additional information on demo of existing system, is it the intent to remove all conduit 100% regardless of location (in side walls, etc.) or to remove were accessible only?

and/or reused.

Question 93: Nurse Stations

Q93: Provide locations of 24 hour and non 24 hour nurse stations to comply with smoke detector requirement in VA design manual.

A93: Contractor shall field verify existing conditions and include in the design.

Question 94: Wall Covering

Q94: In the area's that have vinyl wall covering, when we open the wall up to put in new boxes and conduit. Will we be able to just sheetrock tape and bed the area and paint to match wall covering. Then when the old equipment is demoed repair that area and replace wall covering as far ether direction as it takes to blend new and old vinyl together. Rather than patching wall covering twice.

A94: See Question 35

Question 95: Tunneling

Question 96: Tax Exempt

Question 97: Badging

Q97: Will the Government provide comprehensive written badging requirements for the project if badging is required?

A97: The VA requires all workers to have their company picture ID/Badge on their person at all times.

Question 98: Parking and Laydown Area Q98: Where will the designated parking/ laydown area be for workers accessing the construction site and for Construction necessities?

A98: The COR will designate parking/laydown areas for each phase of work.

Question 99: Management Software

many VA locations.

A99: This may be used as an electronic communication process at the CO/COR’s discretion, however, emailed, mailed, and in-person hard copy submittals are the preferred method of delivery.

Question 100: Fire Sprinkler Disruption

additional security measures are anticipated.

Question 101: Alarm Servicer

Question 102: Point of Contact

Q102: What is the name and contact information of the person or persons that will need to

Question 103: Servicer

Q103: Will the same servicer be used for this contract?

A103: Not applicable.

Question 104: Asbestos

Q104: Has the work area been checked for asbestos?

A104: The VA has documents of all HOT areas and this will be given to the contractor. [The VA has Facilities Asbestos Survey, Reports and Management Plan hard copy books that can be made available to the contractor.]

Question 105: Asbestos

Q105: What is the Governments’ policy if asbestos products are encountered during construction?

A105: VA will do the asbestos removal.

Question 106: Infection Control

Question 107: Infection Control Rating

Question 108: Minor Repair Cost Calculations

Q108: It will be difficult to quantify the minor repairs on walls and ceilings, especially if the finishes are more than just painted Gyp like wall papers and paneling, how does the VA recommend the GC to capture those repairs? An Allowance?

A108: See Question 35

Question 109: Access to Work Areas

contractor may be required to work around - this can be identified during a schedule review in addition to weekly project meetings.

Question 110: Superintendent

in compliance with the above requirements.

Question 111: Sign in Sheet

Q111: May we please have a copy of sign in sheet please?

A111: Yes, the sign-in sheet was attached to Amendment A00004.

Question 112: Licenses/Registrations

Q112: On page 6 of the solicitation, it states that contractor shall possess State of Texas Licenses/Registrations… Is it the General Contractor that must possess these licenses or can the subs have these licenses?

A112: See Questions 37 and 38.

Question 113: Finish Schedules

contractor.

Question 114: Blank Covers vs Paint and Patch

Q114: Would the VA consider leaving existing fire conduit/boxes in place and providing a blank covers on boxes in effort to reduce paint and patch?

A114: Yes [See Question 35]

Question 115: Wall Covering Manufacturer

Q115: Please provide manufacturer and color for existing vinyl wall covering to be patched.

A115: See Question 113

Question 116: Sign-In Sheet

Question 117: Design Bid Build

Q117: Is this a design/build project? There is no “Design After Award” specification. Is Prime Contractor to provide complete design documents for civil, architectural, mechanical, electrical and fire alarm? How many design submissions would be required? VA review period for design?

A117: The contractor will be required to submit 35%, 65%, 95%, and 100% documents for approval. Typically, the VA has a two week review period prior to scheduling the next submittal meeting.

Question 118: Conduit/Ductbank

Question 119: Duct Detectors

Q119: Please provide locations of existing duct detectors.

A119: Contractor shall field verify locations of existing equipment.

Question 120: Site Fiber Design

This will be submitted to the COR for approval and inclusion in the final design.

Question 121: Lead Paint/Asbestos

Q121: Is contractor required to remove lead paint or asbestos?

A121: No. The VA will handle the asbestos and lead paint.

Question 122: Edwards System

Q122: REASON REQUESTED SPECIFICATIONS CALL FOR NOTIFIER NFS2-3030

FIRE ALARM SYSTEM. Is this the only system that will be considered? Addendum 02 released Nov 28th 2017 states the new system shall mirror the existing fire alarm system at the Dallas VA for remote monitoring functions which serves as the basis of design. From this wording, I deem that as long as the new proposed system can perform and or exceed the Dallas VA system it will be acceptable. The system we propose is the Edwards System Technology EST3 with FIREWORKS server. Currently this system is installed at Texas Christian University serving 100 buildings across campus (and growing). Features of this system include: Outside notification via High Power Speaker Arrays; Inside notification; Text, phone and email alerts to all faculty, staff and students enrolled. Request clarification if the Edwards system is an acceptable System to suit the needs of the VA in Bonham.

A122: See Question 90.

Question 123: Phasing

documents.

Question 124: Fire System Inspection Reports

Question 125: Work Area Access

Q125: Access to Work Areas - Are there any foreseen areas that would be challenging with respect to gaining access or transporting materials into the space during normal Hospital operational hours?

A125: The COR will coordinate access to all areas that are deemed sensitive on the campus.

Question 126: Portable Vestibules for Infection Control

Q126: Infection Control and Use of Portable Vestibules - For above ceiling work, does the contractor have to provide portable vestibules to work above ceilings?

A126: The VA does not anticipate the issuance of any Government Furnished Equipment (GFE) for this project.

Question 127: Warranty

Question 128: On-Site Trailers

Question 129: Secure Storage

Q129: On-Site Secure Storage of Materials - Will the Contractor have a place to store materials on site within the existing facility? If so, where?

A129: The COR will designate the location of the on-site storage areas.

Question 130: Laydown Area

Q130: Contractor Laydown Area - Will the Contractor have a laydown area(s)? If so, where?

A130: Yes, the COR will designate the location of the parking/laydown areas.

Question 131: Tax Exemption

Question 132: Tax Exemption

Q132: Tax exemption - If the project is sales tax exempt can the VA provide a sales tax exemption certificate?

A132: See Question 131.

Question 133: Asbestos

Q133: Is there any known asbestos containing materials in any areas where work is to be performed (deck to deck)?

A133: VA will provide the report with HOT areas identified. [With known HOT areas]

Question 134: Asbestos Report

Q134: Please provide asbestos report reflecting the areas where work is to occur.

A134: VA will provide report with Hot areas identified. [With known HOT areas]

Question 135: Leaded Paint

Question 136: Lead Report

Question 137: Asbestos

Q137: Who is responsible for asbestos abatement in the event asbestos is found?

A137: The VA.

Question 138: Restroom Availability

Q138: Temporary Toilets – Because much of this work is performed inside multiple buildings, will the Contractor be able to utilize restrooms within the VA to avoid inefficiencies of going in and out of each building?

A138: Yes.

Question 139: Impact of Other Contracts

Q139: Are there any other on-going construction projects being performed at the same time that could impact this project’s schedule and cause delays?

A139: The COR will ensure seamless integration of work with any other projects at that time.

Question 140: Delays

Question 141: Work Hours

Q141: What are the implications to work hours due to construction with respect to the functioning areas surrounding the areas where most of the work will occur (i.e.

demolition, cutting, hammer-drilling, carpentry work, etc.)?

A141: The contractor and the COR will communicate and schedule all work to ensure continuity of facility operations.

Question 142: Work Hours

Q142: Is there any work expected to be performed afterhours or weekends or is all work to be calculated on normal working hours?

A142: See Question 141.

Question 143: Elevator

A143: Yes, included in the scope of work.

Question 144: Elevator

interconnection with the elevator controls for this project.

A144: The VA currently uses Heartland Elevators to service and repair elevators on our campus.

Mike Brown is the POC.

Question 145: Smoke Dampers

A145: No.

Question 146: Smoke Dampers

A146: No.

Question 147: Fire Dampers

A147: No.

Question 148: Fire Dampers

Q148: Fire Dampers – Are any NEW fire dampers required to be installed on this project?

A148: No.

Question 149: Fire/Smoke Dampers

Q149: Combination Fire/Smoke Dampers – Are any existing combination fire/smoke dampers required to be removed or replaced on this project?

A149: No.

Question 150: Fire/Smoke Dampers

Q150: Combination Fire/Smoke Dampers – Are any NEW combination fire/smoke dampers required to be installed on this project?

A150: No.

Question 151: Ceiling Locations

Question 152: Conduit Raceway

Q152: Existing conditions – In areas where accessibility issues exist (i.e. hard ceiling areas for one), can the existing conduit raceway be reused to avoid cutting into ceilings?

Question 153: Painting

Q153: Painting of conduit and raceway - If existing…