Z2DZ--Replace Switchgear Bldg 18 Construction (VA-26-00001395) 558-20-156|

RFI Reference (Optional) Response 1. In regards to drawing HA-01 the Project title on the drawing is Building 1 Halls and Walls.  I do see it has in red on the top left for Reference Only.      This is for reference but as this project includes demolition of Vending room, the walls right outside that would be lead containing if it is a yellow glazed block. 2. On Drawing G-003 Under Life Safety General Notes, Note A indicates referencing drawing GI002 which is not included with the contract documents. G-002 This is assuming GI002 is a typo and that it was suppose to be G-002 in which G-002 does speak on ICRA and life safety. 3. Drawing A-101 please clarify the building numbers on the drawings.  Some Reference Bldg 1 some reference Bldg 18. Drawing FX101 References the switchgear Rm as Building One.   Building 1 is the hospital itself. Building 18 is the switchgear room. These two rooms are connected but separated by a wall. For this project, we will be taking down that wall and incorporate the vending room (in Building 1) as part of the switchgear room (building 18). 4. Is Building One and Building 18 the same building?   See question # 3 for explanation. Is there a video surveillance/access control component to this project   No video surveillance is part of the project. Are you accepting approved equals on this project   No equipment is being sole sourced. Approved equals are acceptable. 1. Will all the work for this project take place during normal work hours? All work should take place during normal work hours. Section 01000 subsection 1.25 and Section 010000 subsection 1.6.2 Work that may need be outside of working hours will need to be coordinated with the COR. This is usually not an issue unless the GC wants to complete this project all at night. Outages will be done outside of working hours but coordination will still need to be completed. 2. Does the Superintendent have to be an employee of GC? 010000 sub 1.30.B / 014500.10 sub1.5.1.2 / 014500.10 sub 1.6.1 No, but all qualification must be met as seen in the specs. This superintendent will still be viewed as an extension of the GC by default an employee of the GC. This superintendent will be dedicated only to this project and no others. 3. Can Superintendent or SSHO have more than one duty? Section 013526 subsection 1.7/ Section 014500.10 subsection 1.5.1.2 Superintendent and SSHO are two different individuals with two different roles. We will usually allow QCM/superintendent to the the same person given qualifications are met for both. 1)     Please clarify if a superintendent can be a dual hat to cover the requirements of SSHO? section 013526 sub 1.7 See Specification section 013526 sub 1.7 2)     If no to the question above, will the SSHO need to be full-time for this project? section 013526 sub 1.7 See Specification section 013526 sub 1.7 3)     Please clarify if a superintendent can be a dual hat to cover the requirements of QA/QC? section 014500.10 sub 1.5.1 See Specification section 014500.10 sub 1.5.1 4)     If no to the question above, will the QA/QC need to be full time for this project? section 014500.10 sub 1.5.1 See Specification section 014500.10 sub 1.5.1 5)     Can a superintendent be a triple hat to cover the requirements of SSHO and QA/QC? section 014500.10 sub 1.5.1 and section 013526 sub 1.7 See Specification section 013526 sub 1.7 and See Specification section 014500.10 sub 1.5.1 6)     Please confirm if tax should be included in our proposal?   Proposals should cover your cost to perform the terms and conditions given in the solicitation 7)     Please provide the latest wage determination for this project s county.   Wage determination is included in the posting. 8)     Page 51 of 68 Section 4.15 Please check off the appropriate box for VAAR clause 852.219-75.   The contractor may check "general construction" and include with their bid submission. 1. Staging Area: Could you please confirm the designated location for the contractor s staging area?   VA to confirm. 2. Construction Area: What is the defined boundary of the construction area for this project?   See drawing Sheets A-101, MH101, PP101, ED101 and EP101. 3. Switchgear Room Configuration: Will the new switchgear room be a single consolidated space incorporating the existing vending room and the current switchgear room?   Refer to drawing Sheet A-101. There is a new pair-door in the existing wall between the current switchgear room (Bldg 18) and the new expanded switchgear room (BG000, Bldg 1). 4. Equipment Placement: Will the new switchgear be installed in the vending room, or will the transformers be placed there while the switchgear remains in the existing switchgear room?   Refer to drawing Sheets E-001 to E-603. 5. Space Allocation: Alternatively, will all new equipment (transformers and switchgear) be installed within the existing switchgear room, with modifications made to ensure adequate ventilation and spacing?   Refer to the construction documents. . Will VAMC Facility Electrical Engineering provide a similar or compatible functional Specification against Siemens-Allie?   It is not required to be siemens equipment but rather any equipment that is equal to equipment within the spec and drawings. Does the SDVOSB Prime have to be a General Contractor?   This is a Total Service-Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) Set-Aside under NAICS code 236220. Contractor qualification determination will be made in accordance with Federal Acquisition Regulations Does the General Construction phase on pages 50-68 apply to the General Contractor designation as the Prime contractor on this project?   All pages of the contract would apply to the awarded party (Prime). Is Siemens SENTRON or GEAFOL OEM being upgraded? Is equipment being bid on this project as a Vendor/Subcontractor?   It is not required to be siemens equipment but rather any equipment that is equal to equipment within the spec and drawings. Do the VAMC Switchgear and Transformer Upgrades have similar OEM (Siemens) specifications in the Bid, or can another vendor's OEM equipment be bid?   It is not required to be siemens equipment but rather any equipment that is equal to equipment within the spec and drawings. Is the Electrical contractor to replace the existing substation B18-SWGR-Main A/B and transformers B18-XF-T6 and B18-XF only?   Refer to Sheet E-601 for the extent of the demolition. In addition to other work, all distribution equipment including the medium voltage compartments B18-MVS-S6 and S7 and downstream items are to be replaced. Is it the intention to have the awarded firm provide the newer version of the existing products now under the SENTRON or GEAFOL product lines? If so, why weren't the specifications and model numbers of the newer Siemens Equipment included in the bid?   The equipment is not sole sourced. Approved equivalents are allowed to be used. Are we to provide a new tie breaker that can properly transfer power without manual load transfer? Has the Siemens Account Representative provided a make and Siemens Product and item number?   Tie breaker is to be kirk-keyed with the main breakers of the transformer secondaries, and manually controlled. Are we to relocate the distribution circuits to the new switchgear or the former canteen/break room?   Distribution circuits are to be relocated from the existing switchgear to the new switchgear upon energizing, phased in a sequence which is coordinated with the VA so as to be least disruptive and minimize downtime. Provide a concrete foundation to house the new switchgear in the canteen/break room?   Refer to Drawing 3 GROUND FLOOR NEW WORK PLAN and New Keynote 3 on Sheet A-101 and Detail 7 CONCRETE EQUIPMENT BASE on Sheet A-601. Is modifying the existing OIT and HAC closet a General Contractor's responsibility?   General contractor should be working with their subcontractors. Modify the existing location to house the new equipment correctly.   Refer to the construction documents. Are the new SWGR-Main A/B to be replaced with a warranty under the FAR?   Yes, warranty will be required. Specification 261219 PAD-MOUNTED, LIQUID-FILLED, MEDIUM-VOLTAGE TRANSFORMERS I don t see any pad mounted transformers for this project.  Please clarify the intent of this spec.   The transformer(s) is part of the lineup of the new switchgear, between the medium voltage section and the distribution section, but is not technically pad mounted. Will the CO agree to modify page 8 (b) Submission of bids of the Soliciation document SF1442 to accept electronically transmitted bid submissions via email and digitally signed documents where originals can be provided at the COs request?   Bids must be received in accordance with the posted solicitation. This is not being amended at this time. The bid is due 08/7/2025 at 2:00 PM EDT.   Bids are due in accordance with the posted solicitation on sam.gov. There has not been a modification to the bid due date information. There are no addendums to the most recent bid documents.   All addenda/amendments are posted on sam.gov There is a site walk on 07/29/25 at 2:00 PM.   The site walk took place on 7/23/25 and the sign in sheet is posted with this amendment. The site walk isn't mandatory.   REF 52.236-27, included with the solicitation. Is there anything else we should know about bidding on this project before moving forward?    Available information is publically accessible to all potential bidders on sam.gov Remaining questions to be answered: Drawing MH101, Could you provide the approximate physical distance from the Cooling units in the Switchgear Room to the condensing units on the roof. 4. What are the NAIC codes for Electrical Distribution Equipment Upgrade of the Siemens infrastructure? . Do we have to provide new switchgear replacing B18-SWGR-Main A/B and related transformers T6 and T7 in Building 1 BG-000? 2. Are we to provide new Substations and distribution switchgear? Has Siemens SENTRON or GEAFOL provided VAMC Engineering with new SWGR-Main Product numbers and warranty services with commissioning? 8. Is it assumed that just some of the Siemens SWGR-Main A/B is being replaced with new Transformers for T6 and T7? Questions Regarding Transformer Specifications Common Types:   - Dry-type transformers: Often used indoors for hospitals due to safety and ventilation.   - Liquid-filled transformers: Suitable for outdoor installations.   - Medium-voltage (MV) transformers: Typically 2.4kV to 35kV.   - Pad-mounted or Substation Transformers: Depending on layout. Popular Siemens Models:   - Type 550-EE 5974: Likely a legacy or custom spec Siemens Allis was a predecessor brand, now Siemens Energy.   - New equivalent would fall under Siemens SENTRON or GEAFOL product lines. Specifications to Know:   - kVA rating (size/load)   - Primary/secondary voltage   - Impedance   - Tap settings   - NEMA or ANSI requirements Questions Regarding Switchgear Medium-Voltage Switchgear:   - Air-insulated (AIS) or Gas-insulated (GIS)   - Arc-resistant options available   - Siemens SIPROTEC, NXAIR, or GM-SG lines Low-Voltage Switchgear:   - Up to 600V   - Siemens WL Series, Sentron, or PowerMod Hospital/VAMC Special Requirements:   - Redundancy and N+1 reliability   - Remote monitoring (SCADA or BMS integration)   - Seismic compliance and fault tolerance Drawing EP101 Note 4 says integral vacuum fault interrupter at transformer .   There is no mention of a vacuum fault interrupter in the Unit Sub specs 261116.  The One-Line on E-602 also does not show a vacuum fault interrupter.  Please clarify what is required. Specification 26 23 00 LOW-VOLTAGE SWITCHGEAR paragraph 2.6 specifies a Battery System.   I don t see a battery system on the drawings anywhere.   Please confirm a battery system is required and where IT would be located. Drawing E602 Note 2 says provide 60A breaker at Panel EED.  However, the One-Line indicates adding a 200A breaker.  Please clarify. Are any of the feeders currently under the slab that need to be extended? There is a video surveillance/access control component to this project.

RFI

Reference (Optional)

Response

1. In regards to drawing HA-01 the Project title on the drawing is Building 1 Halls and Walls. I do see it has in red on the top left for Reference Only.  Â

Â

This is for reference but as this project includes demolition of Vending room, the walls right outside that would be lead containing if it is a yellow glazed block.

2. On Drawing G-003 Under Life Safety General Notes, Note A indicates referencing drawing GI002 which is not included with the contract documents.

G-002

This is assuming GI002 is a typo and that it was suppose to be G-002 in which G-002 does speak on ICRA and life safety.

3. Drawing A-101 please clarify the building numbers on the drawings. Some Reference Bldg 1 some reference Bldg 18. Drawing FX101 References the switchgear Rm as Building One.

Â

Building 1 is the hospital itself. Building 18 is the switchgear room. These two rooms are connected but separated by a wall. For this project, we will be taking down that wall and incorporate the vending room (in Building 1) as part of the switchgear room (building 18).

4. Is Building One and Building 18 the same building?

Â

See question # 3 for explanation.

Is there a video surveillance/access control component to this project

Â

No video surveillance is part of the project.

Are you accepting approved equals on this project

Â

No equipment is being sole sourced. Approved equals are acceptable.

1. Will all the work for this project take place during normal work hours? All work should take place during normal work hours.

Section 01000 subsection 1.25 and Section 010000 subsection 1.6.2

Work that may need be outside of working hours will need to be coordinated with the COR. This is usually not an issue unless the GC wants to complete this project all at night. Outages will be done outside of working hours but coordination will still need to be completed.

2. Does the Superintendent have to be an employee of GC?

010000 sub 1.30.B / 014500.10 sub1.5.1.2 / 014500.10 sub 1.6.1

No, but all qualification must be met as seen in the specs. This superintendent will still be viewed as an extension of the GC by default an employee of the GC. This superintendent will be dedicated only to this project and no others.

3. Can Superintendent or SSHO have more than one duty?

Section 013526 subsection 1.7/ Section 014500.10 subsection 1.5.1.2

Superintendent and SSHO are two different individuals with two different roles. We will usually allow QCM/superintendent to the the same person given qualifications are met for both.

1)Â Â Â Â Please clarify if a superintendent can be a dual hat to cover the requirements of SSHO?

section 013526 sub 1.7

See Specification section 013526 sub 1.7

2)Â Â Â Â If no to the question above, will the SSHO need to be full-time for this project?

section 013526 sub 1.7

See Specification section 013526 sub 1.7

3)Â Â Â Â Please clarify if a superintendent can be a dual hat to cover the requirements of QA/QC?

section 014500.10 sub 1.5.1

See Specification section 014500.10 sub 1.5.1

4)Â Â Â Â If no to the question above, will the QA/QC need to be full time for this project?

section 014500.10 sub 1.5.1

See Specification section 014500.10 sub 1.5.1

5)Â Â Â Â Can a superintendent be a triple hat to cover the requirements of SSHO and QA/QC?

section 014500.10 sub 1.5.1 and section 013526 sub 1.7

See Specification section 013526 sub 1.7 and See Specification section 014500.10 sub 1.5.1

6)Â Â Â Â Please confirm if tax should be included in our proposal?

Â

Proposals should cover your cost to perform the terms and conditions given in the solicitation

7)Â Â Â Â Please provide the latest wage determination for this project s county.

Â

Wage determination is included in the posting.

8)Â Â Â Â Page 51 of 68 Section 4.15 Please check off the appropriate box for VAAR clause 852.219-75.

Â

The contractor may check "general construction" and include with their bid submission.

1. Staging Area: Could you please confirm the designated location for the contractor s staging area?

Â

VA to confirm.

2. Construction Area: What is the defined boundary of the construction area for this project?

Â

See drawing Sheets A-101, MH101, PP101, ED101 and EP101.

3. Switchgear Room Configuration: Will the new switchgear room be a single consolidated space incorporating the existing vending room and the current switchgear room?

Â

Refer to drawing Sheet A-101. There is a new pair-door in the existing wall between the current switchgear room (Bldg 18) and the new expanded switchgear room (BG000, Bldg 1).

4. Equipment Placement: Will the new switchgear be installed in the vending room, or will the transformers be placed there while the switchgear remains in the existing switchgear room?

Â

Refer to drawing Sheets E-001 to E-603.

5. Space Allocation: Alternatively, will all new equipment (transformers and switchgear) be installed within the existing switchgear room, with modifications made to ensure adequate ventilation and spacing?

Â

Refer to the construction documents.

. Will VAMC Facility Electrical Engineering provide a similar or compatible functional Specification against Siemens-Allie?

Â

It is not required to be siemens equipment but rather any equipment that is equal to equipment within the spec and drawings.

Does the SDVOSB Prime have to be a General Contractor?

Â

This is a Total Service-Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) Set-Aside under NAICS code 236220. Contractor qualification determination will be made in accordance with Federal Acquisition Regulations

Does the General Construction phase on pages 50-68 apply to the General Contractor designation as the Prime contractor on this project?

Â

All pages of the contract would apply to the awarded party (Prime).

Is Siemens SENTRON or GEAFOL OEM being upgraded? Is equipment being bid on this project as a Vendor/Subcontractor?

Â

It is not required to be siemens equipment but rather any equipment that is equal to equipment within the spec and drawings.

Do the VAMC Switchgear and Transformer Upgrades have similar OEM (Siemens) specifications in the Bid, or can another vendor's OEM equipment be bid?

Â

It is not required to be siemens equipment but rather any equipment that is equal to equipment within the spec and drawings.

Is the Electrical contractor to replace the existing substation B18-SWGR-Main A/B and transformers B18-XF-T6 and B18-XF only?

Â

Refer to Sheet E-601 for the extent of the demolition. In addition to other work, all distribution equipment including the medium voltage compartments B18-MVS-S6 and S7 and downstream items are to be replaced.

Is it the intention to have the awarded firm provide the newer version of the existing products now under the SENTRON or GEAFOL product lines? If so, why weren't the specifications and model numbers of the newer Siemens Equipment included in the bid?

Â

The equipment is not sole sourced. Approved equivalents are allowed to be used.

Are we to provide a new tie breaker that can properly transfer power without manual load transfer? Has the Siemens Account Representative provided a make and Siemens Product and item number?

Â

Tie breaker is to be kirk-keyed with the main breakers of the transformer secondaries, and manually controlled.

Are we to relocate the distribution circuits to the new switchgear or the former canteen/break room?

Â

Distribution circuits are to be relocated from the existing switchgear to the new switchgear upon energizing, phased in a sequence which is coordinated with the VA so as to be least disruptive and minimize downtime.

Provide a concrete foundation to house the new switchgear in the canteen/break room?

Â

Refer to Drawing 3 GROUND FLOOR NEW WORK PLAN and New Keynote 3 on Sheet A-101 and Detail 7 CONCRETE EQUIPMENT BASE on Sheet A-601.

Is modifying the existing OIT and HAC closet a General Contractor's responsibility?

Â

General contractor should be working with their subcontractors.

Modify the existing location to house the new equipment correctly.

Â

Refer to the construction documents.

Are the new SWGR-Main A/B to be replaced with a warranty under the FAR?

Â

Yes, warranty will be required.

Specification 261219 PAD-MOUNTED, LIQUID-FILLED, MEDIUM-VOLTAGE TRANSFORMERS I don t see any pad mounted transformers for this project. Please clarify the intent of this spec.

Â

The transformer(s) is part of the lineup of the new switchgear, between the medium voltage section and the distribution section, but is not technically pad mounted.

Will the CO agree to modify page 8 (b) Submission of bids of the Soliciation document SF1442 to accept electronically transmitted bid submissions via email and digitally signed documents where originals can be provided at the COs request?

Â

Bids must be received in accordance with the posted solicitation. This is not being amended at this time.

The bid is due 08/7/2025 at 2:00 PM EDT.

Â

Bids are due in accordance with the posted solicitation on sam.gov. There has not been a modification to the bid due date information.

There are no addendums to the most recent bid documents.

Â

All addenda/amendments are posted on sam.gov

There is a site walk on 07/29/25 at 2:00 PM.

Â

The site walk took place on 7/23/25 and the sign in sheet is posted with this amendment.

The site walk isn't mandatory.

Â

REF 52.236-27, included with the solicitation.

Is there anything else we should know about bidding on this project before moving forward?Â

Â

Available information is publically accessible to all potential bidders on sam.gov

Remaining questions to be answered:

Drawing MH101, Could you provide the approximate physical distance from the Cooling units in the Switchgear Room to the condensing units on the roof.

4. What are the NAIC codes for Electrical Distribution Equipment Upgrade of the Siemens infrastructure?

. Do we have to provide new switchgear replacing B18-SWGR-Main A/B and related transformers T6 and T7 in Building 1 BG-000?

2. Are we to provide new Substations and distribution switchgear? Has Siemens SENTRON or GEAFOL provided VAMC Engineering with new SWGR-Main Product numbers and warranty services with commissioning?

8. Is it assumed that just some of the Siemens SWGR-Main A/B is being replaced with new Transformers for T6 and T7?

Questions Regarding Transformer Specifications

Common Types:

 - Dry-type transformers: Often used indoors for hospitals due to safety and ventilation.

 - Liquid-filled transformers: Suitable for outdoor installations.

 - Medium-voltage (MV) transformers: Typically 2.4kV to 35kV.

 - Pad-mounted or Substation Transformers: Depending on layout.

Popular Siemens Models:

 - Type 550-EE 5974: Likely a legacy or custom spec Siemens Allis was a predecessor brand, now Siemens Energy.

 - New equivalent would fall under Siemens SENTRON or GEAFOL product lines.

Specifications to Know:

 - kVA rating (size/load)

 - Primary/secondary voltage

 - Impedance

 - Tap settings

 - NEMA or ANSI requirements

Questions Regarding Switchgear

Medium-Voltage Switchgear:

 - Air-insulated (AIS) or Gas-insulated (GIS)

 - Arc-resistant options available

 - Siemens SIPROTEC, NXAIR, or GM-SG lines

Low-Voltage Switchgear:

 - Up to 600V

 - Siemens WL Series, Sentron, or PowerMod

Hospital/VAMC Special Requirements:

 - Redundancy and N+1 reliability

 - Remote monitoring (SCADA or BMS integration)

 - Seismic compliance and fault tolerance

Drawing EP101 Note 4 says integral vacuum fault interrupter at transformer .  There is no mention of a vacuum fault interrupter in the Unit Sub specs 261116.Â

The One-Line on E-602 also does not show a vacuum fault interrupter. Â Please clarify what is required.

Specification 26 23 00 LOW-VOLTAGE SWITCHGEAR paragraph 2.6 specifies a Battery System.  I don t see a battery system on the drawings anywhere.  Please confirm a battery system is required and where IT would be located.

Drawing E602 Note 2 says provide 60A breaker at Panel EED. However, the One-Line indicates adding a 200A breaker. Please clarify.

Are any of the feeders currently under the slab that need to be extended?

There is a video surveillance/access control component to this project.

 SCOPE OF WORK

 Replace Switchgear in Building 18

Project Number 558-20-156

STATEMENT OF WORK

Description of Work - Summary:

The switchgear in Building #1 at the Durham VA Health Care Center, 508 Fulton St, Durham, NC has been inspected and deemed deficient. There is an immediate need to replace the switchgear as it is past its life cycle.

Estimated construction magnitude is between $2,000,000 and $5,000,000.

NAICS CODE: 236220 Size Standard: $45.0 Million

General:

The contractor shall upgrade the distribution system for building 18 normal power switchgear and transformers to meet the power requirement for redundancy in Building 18 at the Durham VA Health Care System. The contractor shall provide phasing coordination for each section below to minimize impact to normal operations. The contractor is responsible for providing all supervision, materials, labor, equipment, transportation, testing, and storage for this project. The contractor may be required to provide alternate source of power to minimize operation impacts. The contractor shall replace the existing substation B18-SWGR-Main A/B including transformers B18-XF-T6 and B18-XF.  All work shall be performed according to the attached drawings and specifications.

Specific Requirements:

            The construction for this project will cover the following but not limited to:

1. Provide new switchgear and related transformers in Building1 BG-000
   • Provide new Substations and distribution switchgear.
   • Provide new transformers to replace T-6 and T-7.
   • Provide a new tie breaker that can properly transfer power without having manually load shed power to close the breaker.
   • Relocate the distribution circuits to the new switchgear room.
2. Provide a concrete foundation to house the new switchgear.
3. Modify the existing OIT and HAC closet.
4. Modify the existing location to properly house the new equipment.
5. Provide a warranty in accordance with the FAR.

All material and installation will be in accordance to all state and federal codes, NFPA, ANSI standards, drawings, and specifications. Electrical distribution components (switchboards) would include provisions to manually limit the potential energy due to potential fault conditions(Arc Quenching) when operating or maintaining the equipment to ensure maintenance and operational safe working conditions while maintaining system reliability and required code/efficiency ratings.

Installation Requirements:  Competent, experienced, licensed or certified workers shall perform crafts requiring specialized skills.  All work shall be performed in full accordance with applicable local and Federal regulations. All equipment and installation shall conform to the VA master specifications.  All equipment and installation shall conform to the recommendations of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), including the National Electrical Code (NEC).  The Supplier shall use good safety practices while working.  All hardware should be installed in such a manner to minimize damage and maximize patient and employee safety. All equipment and procedures shall conform to OSHA, NEMA, and ANSI Standards and conform to the Standard Building Code and the Standard Mechanical Code. All installations for the Durham VAMC shall conform to VAR and FAR standards. 

Normal working hours shall be 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday through Friday – Federal Holidays or any other Holiday designated by the President of the United States excluded.  Some work may be outside normal working hours.  For working outside the “normal working hours” as defined in this contract, the vendor shall give 3-day notice to the Contracting Officer so that arrangements can be provided for the employees.  This notice is separate from any notices required for utility shutdown described later in this section.  No photography of VA premises is allowed without written permission of the Contracting Officer.

Execute work to interfere as little as possible with normal functioning of Medical Center, including operations of utility services, fire protection systems and any existing equipment, and with work being done by others.  Use of equipment and tools that transmit vibrations and noises through the building structure, are not permitted in buildings that are occupied jointly by patients or medical personnel, and Contractor’s personnel, except as permitted by COR where required by limited working space.

No utility service such as water, gas, steam sewers or electricity, or fire protection systems and communications systems may be interrupted without prior approval of COR.  Electrical work shall be accomplished with all affected circuits or equipment de energized.  When an electrical outage cannot be accomplished, work on any energized circuits or equipment shall not commence without the Medical Center Director’s prior knowledge and written approval.  The vendor shall submit a request to interrupt any such services to COR, in writing, 15 working days in advance of proposed interruption.  Request shall state reason, date, exact time of, and approximate duration of such interruption. Working outside the normal business hour may be necessary to limit the impact as much as possible.

VA reserves the right to close or shut down the project site and order the vendor’s employees off the premises in the event of a national emergency.  The vendor may return to the site only with the written approval of the Contracting Officer.

Site and Building Access:  Maintain free and unobstructed access to facility emergency services and for fire, police and other emergency response forces in accordance with NFPA 241.

Means of Egress:  Do not block exiting for occupied buildings, including paths from exits to roads.  Minimize disruptions and coordinate with COR.

Hot Work:  Perform and safeguard hot work operations in accordance with NFPA 241 and NFPA 51B.  Coordinate with COR.  Obtain permits from facility Safety Manager at least 24 hours in advance.

The contractor shall maintain neat and orderly work areas and shall clean area of debris and rubbish daily and dispose of waste materials offsite per hospital policies. The contractor shall provide a dumpster if it is determined to be necessary, and shall work with the COR in advance for a spot-on site to establish the dumpster. Space on campus is limited and a dumpster location is not guaranteed.

Testing will be accordance with ANSI standards and IEE standards unless otherwise provided in specifications for new devices provided. Coordinate with COR for all Factory Acceptance Testing.

 Contractor must have an EMR Rating of 1 or less and must not have any Repeat, and Willful, or more than three serious OSHA Violations or any EPA violations within the past 3 years. These ratings must be provided by contractor’s insurance company for verification. To our understanding, this should be included to the bidding documents that are to be provided and this language should be included in contracting document for GC required bidding documents.

List of contractor trade to include but is not limited as follows. All trade personnel must meet the specifications.

• Qualified Electricians
• Drywaller
• Floor installers
• Painters
• Plumbers
• Fire sprinkler specialists
• HVAC

Place of Performance:  Tasks will be performed at the VA Medical Center Durham, VA.  Work will be around an occupied healthcare facility in operation 24 hours a day.  This work will require appropriate personal protective equipment and proper infection control measures. Work will be phased to minimize disruption to clinic and medical center operations.

Period of Performance:  Completion of project shall be 238 calendar days from NTP. 

 SCOPE OF WORK

 Replace Switchgear in Building 18

Project Number 558-20-156

STATEMENT OF WORK

Description of Work - Summary:

The switchgear in Building #1 at the Durham VA Health Care Center, 508 Fulton St, Durham, NC has been inspected and deemed deficient. There is an immediate need to replace the switchgear as it is past its life cycle.

General:

The contractor shall upgrade the distribution system for building 18 normal power switchgear and transformers to meet the power requirement for redundancy in Building 18 at the Durham VA Health Care System. The contractor shall provide phasing coordination for each section below to minimize impact to normal operations. The contractor is responsible for providing all supervision, materials, labor, equipment, transportation, testing, and storage for this project. The contractor may be required to provide alternate source of power to minimize operation impacts. The contractor shall replace the existing substation B18-SWGR-Main A/B including transformers B18-XF-T6 and B18-XF.  All work shall be performed according to the attached drawings and specifications.

Specific Requirements:

            The construction for this project will cover the following but not limited to:

1. Provide new switchgear and related transformers in Building1 BG-000
   • Provide new Substations and distribution switchgear.
   • Provide new transformers to replace T-6 and T-7.
   • Provide a new tie breaker that can properly transfer power without having manually load shed power to close the breaker.
   • Relocate the distribution circuits to the new switchgear room.
2. Provide a concrete foundation to house the new switchgear.
3. Modify the existing OIT and HAC closet.
4. Modify the existing location to properly house the new equipment.
5. Provide a warranty in accordance with the FAR.

All material and installation will be in accordance to all state and federal codes, NFPA, ANSI standards, drawings, and specifications. Electrical distribution components (switchboards) would include provisions to manually limit the potential energy due to potential fault conditions(Arc Quenching) when operating or maintaining the equipment to ensure maintenance and operational safe working conditions while maintaining system reliability and required code/efficiency ratings.

Installation Requirements:  Competent, experienced, licensed or certified workers shall perform crafts requiring specialized skills.  All work shall be performed in full accordance with applicable local and Federal regulations. All equipment and installation shall conform to the VA master specifications.  All equipment and installation shall conform to the recommendations of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), including the National Electrical Code (NEC).  The Supplier shall use good safety practices while working.  All hardware should be installed in such a manner to minimize damage and maximize patient and employee safety. All equipment and procedures shall conform to OSHA, NEMA, and ANSI Standards and conform to the Standard Building Code and the Standard Mechanical Code. All installations for the Durham VAMC shall conform to VAR and FAR standards. 

Normal working hours shall be 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday through Friday – Federal Holidays or any other Holiday designated by the President of the United States excluded.  Some work may be outside normal working hours.  For working outside the “normal working hours” as defined in this contract, the vendor shall give 3-day notice to the Contracting Officer so that arrangements can be provided for the employees.  This notice is separate from any notices required for utility shutdown described later in this section.  No photography of VA premises is allowed without written permission of the Contracting Officer.

Execute work to interfere as little as possible with normal functioning of Medical Center, including operations of utility services, fire protection systems and any existing equipment, and with work being done by others.  Use of equipment and tools that transmit vibrations and noises through the building structure, are not permitted in buildings that are occupied jointly by patients or medical personnel, and Contractor’s personnel, except as permitted by COR where required by limited working space.

No utility service such as water, gas, steam sewers or electricity, or fire protection systems and communications systems may be interrupted without prior approval of COR.  Electrical work shall be accomplished with all affected circuits or equipment de energized.  When an electrical outage cannot be accomplished, work on any energized circuits or equipment shall not commence without the Medical Center Director’s prior knowledge and written approval.  The vendor shall submit a request to interrupt any such services to COR, in writing, 15 working days in advance of proposed interruption.  Request shall state reason, date, exact time of, and approximate duration of such interruption. Working outside the normal business hour may be necessary to limit the impact as much as possible.

VA reserves the right to close or shut down the project site and order the vendor’s employees off the premises in the event of a national emergency.  The vendor may return to the site only with the written approval of the Contracting Officer.

Site and Building Access:  Maintain free and unobstructed access to facility emergency services and for fire, police and other emergency response forces in accordance with NFPA 241.

Means of Egress:  Do not block exiting for occupied buildings, including paths from exits to roads.  Minimize disruptions and coordinate with COR.

Hot Work:  Perform and safeguard hot work operations in accordance with NFPA 241 and NFPA 51B.  Coordinate with COR.  Obtain permits from facility Safety Manager at least 24 hours in advance.

The contractor shall maintain neat and orderly work areas and shall clean area of debris and rubbish daily and dispose of waste materials offsite per hospital policies. The contractor shall provide a dumpster if it is determined to be necessary, and shall work with the COR in advance for a spot-on site to establish the dumpster. Space on campus is limited and a dumpster location is not guaranteed.

Testing will be accordance with ANSI standards and IEE standards unless otherwise provided in specifications for new devices provided. Coordinate with COR for all Factory Acceptance Testing.

 Contractor must have an EMR Rating of 1 or less and must not have any Repeat, and Willful, or more than three serious OSHA Violations or any EPA violations within the past 3 years. These ratings must be provided by contractor’s insurance company for verification. To our understanding, this should be included to the bidding documents that are to be provided and this language should be included in contracting document for GC required bidding documents.

List of contractor trade to include but is not limited as follows. All trade personnel must meet the specifications.

• Qualified Electricians
• Drywaller
• Floor installers
• Painters
• Plumbers
• Fire sprinkler specialists
• HVAC

Place of Performance:  Tasks will be performed at the VA Medical Center Durham, VA.  Work will be around an occupied healthcare facility in operation 24 hours a day.  This work will require appropriate personal protective equipment and proper infection control measures. Work will be phased to minimize disruption to clinic and medical center operations.

Period of Performance:  Completion of project shall be 238 calendar days from NTP. 

THIS SECTION IS FOR SOLICITATION PURPOSES ONLY. A COMPLETE BID SHALL CONSIST OF THE FOLLOWING

(a) GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Award will be made to the responsible bidder whose bid is deemed responsive to the terms of this invitation for bid and is deemed most advantageous to the Government.

2. All Bid preparation cost will be the sole responsibility of the Offeror. The Government will not reimburse any interested party for their bid preparation expenses (costs) or any expenses (costs) associated with their Pre-Bid Site Visit or Bid Opening attendance.

(b) SUBMISSION OF BIDS:

1. In accordance with FAR 14.302, Bids shall be submitted so that they will be received in the office designated in the invitation for bids not later than the exact time set for opening of bids. Sealed bids may be delivered in person, or they can be mailed to the following address:

Department of Veterans Affairs

Network Contracting Office 6

ATTN: Alice Custis

100 Emancipation Drive, Building 27

Hampton, VA 23667

2. In accordance with FAR 14.304, Bidders are responsible for submitting bids, and any modifications or withdrawals, so as to reach the Government office designated by the exact time for the Bid Opening specified below. Any bid, modification, or withdrawal of a bid received at the Government office designated in the IFB after the exact time specified for receipt of bids is "late" and will not be considered. Acceptable evidence to establish the time of receipt at the Government installation includes the time/date stamp of that installation on the bid wrapper, other documentary evidence of receipt maintained by the installation, or oral testimony or statements of Government personnel.

(c) BID OPENING INFORMATION: A public bid opening has been scheduled for August 11, 2025, at 11:00 AM EST, at the following location:

Hampton VA Medical Center

Network Contracting Office 6

Building 27 Averill Avenue

Hampton, VA 23667

No virtual attendance to the opening will be available.

(d) SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS A COMPLETE BID SHALL CONSIST OF THE FOLLOWING

1. TAB A: General Information

a. Cover page with:

Solicitation Number and Project Title

Company information to include:

SAM Unique Entry ID,

Cage Code,

Tax ID Number,

Principal point of contact with address, phone numbers and email address.

b. Table of Contents

TAB B: Offer, Guarantee, and Certifications

a. Complete the SF 1442, Blocks 14, 15, 16, 17, 19, 20A, 20B, 20C. An official having the authority to bind your company contractually must sign and date the SF 1442 Block 20A-C. One copy of the SF 1442 must bear an original, authorized signature. In doing so, the Offeror accedes to the contract terms and conditions as written in the IFB. All sections of the IFB, excluding Instructions to Offerors and Evaluation Procedures Sections, constitute the model contract. SF1442 Block 19 Acknowledgement of Amendments (as applicable) Interested Parties need to acknowledge all amendments that were posted to SAM.gov prior to Bid Closing.

b. Bid Bond/Offer/Guarantee IAW Provision 52.228-1. Bidders shall use STANDARD FORM 24 (SF-24) for bid bonds if submitting bid bond for bid guarantee, IAW 52.228-1(b).

c. Proof of SDVOSB certification in the SBA certification database at https://veterans.certify.sba.gov or https://dsbs.sba.gov/search/dsp_dsbs.cfm

d. Complete the following Clause s and Provisions. Certify when necessary:

i. 52.204-8 Annual Representations and Certifications, paragraph (d) applies to this contract.

ii. 52.204-24 Representation Regarding Certain Telecommunications and Video Surveillance Services or Equipment (Nov 2021)

iv. 52.209-7 Information Regarding Responsibility Matters (OCT 2018)

v. 52.209-13 Violation of Arms Control Treaties or Agreements-Certification (Nov 2021)

vi. 52.219-28 Post Award Small Business Program Rerepresentation (Jan 2025)

vii. 52.225-9 Buy American-Construction Materials (Nov 2021) complete sections (d) or mark as Not Applicable by annotating N/A within the chart.

viii. 852.219-75 VA Notice of Limitations on Subcontracting Certificate of Compliance for Services and Construction (JAN 2023)(DEVIATION)) Complete and certify by signing and dating Contractor to sign and date and insert authorized signer's name and title.

Special Notice:

System updates may lag policy updates. The System for Award Management (SAM) may continue to require entities to complete representations based on provisions that are not included in agency solicitations, including 52.223-22, Public Disclosure of Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Reduction Goals Representation, and paragraph (t) of 52.212-3, Offeror Representations and Certifications Commercial Products and Commercial Services. Contracting officers will not consider these representations when making award decisions or enforce requirements. Entities are not required to, nor are they able to, update their entity registration to remove these representations in SAM.