A21_-_Questions_and_Answers_2.pdf

1. Will the activities in the locks be classified as confined space entry and, if so, is the contractor responsible to provide dedicated confined space rescue service coverage in accordance with OSHA response guidelines?

Answer: The lock chamber is a confined space if it is de-watered. If water levels are kept at an operational level and do not differ from when we are locking a vessel through, then it is not a confined space. Note that de-watering and creating the ‘confined space’ will require additional safety precautions and plans to be developed for Government acceptance prior to de-watering work commencing.

2. May the waters from a dewatering process be discharged to the river?

Answer: Water may be allowed to drain back into the river. No sediments shall be shall be discharged in the river.

3. Is the scope to include removal of vegetation and sediments from the lock gates?

Answer: Yes remove all of vegetation and sediments from the lock gates. Scope references “including the lock chamber itself. In addition all trees or debris on the lock walls and gates shall be removed.”

4. Is the 60 day period of performance for working days or calendar days? What allowances will be made for stand-down during inclement weather conditions?

Answer: The period of performance (POP) is 60 calendar days. We understand weather is a factor and allowances in the timeline for weather delays can be worked out with the Contracting Officer and

Contracting Officer’s Representative as necessary.

5. Will the pile of concrete debris in the middle of the #1 lock esplanade be removed before work begins on that lock?

Answer: We anticipate the pile of concrete debris in the middle of the #1 lock esplanade being removed in the next few weeks.

6. Is there electrical service available for use at each lock? If so, what is the available voltage and circuit amperage?

Answer: The Contractor is responsible to provide his own electrical power.

7. Considering the fact that all river activities must cease by February 1st, what is the latest expected award date? Earliest?

Answer: The award is expected to be made by 30 September 2017.

8. Based on the resolution of these and probably other vendor questions, may we respectfully request an extension of the due date to 8/25/17 to allow for the typical 30 day period to compile the bid response?

Answer: The due date is 9/13 at 4PM EST. This is not a sealed bid, it is a request for quote.

9. Also, the link http://www.usace.army.mil/CESO/Pages/EM385-1-1.aspx referenced in SOW Section

1.7 Safety returns a 404 Error, File or Page Not Found. Please provide the correct link.

http://www.usace.army.mil/CESO/Pages/EM385-1-1.aspx

Answer: The EM385-1-1 can be downloaded from:

http://www.publications.usace.army.mil/Portals/76/Publications/EngineerManuals/EM_385-1-1.pdf

10. Can I work from the Lock gates to remove sediments or reach debris? Can I hang a scaffold from the gate or chamber ladders?

Answer: No work allowed to be performed from the Lock gates. No equipment or appurtenances can be attached to the Lock Gates, ladders, rails, and/or Lock chamber concrete.

11. Can I remove the fence to access the site?

Answer: The Contractor shall have access through existing fence gates. The Contractor may remove a portion of the existing fence; however, the portion of the fence removed shall be replaced to the existing condition or better. Government notice is required prior to any fence removal. The site perimeter must be kept secure with a temporary fence (chain-link or otherwise, not orange mesh) to maintain public safety.

12. Can I pump the sediments into the river?

Answer: Sediment removed as a result of this contract are not be allowed back in the river.

http://www.publications.usace.army.mil/Portals/76/Publications/EngineerManuals/EM_385-1-1.pdf