Recently in Bidding Category

Racism in any form is a serious issue, and we don't mean to make light of it here.  However, we were taken aback when a reader shared with us a document issued recently by a governmental agency on a construction project which requires bidders to certify they will have NO SEGREGATED FACILITIES.  No Segregated Facilities Certification.pdf

Now, we understand that as a society we are still dealing with racism in various forms.  You can see it being played out awkwardly in our national politics.  However, we thought that such blatant, institutionalized forms of racism as segregated facilities had died out long ago.

We believe this document represents one of those situations where existing agency standards are not necessarily consistent with current laws, rules, and regulations. Because the document is a "standard," it is not reviewed before it is included in bid solicitations. As a result, its use continues.

What do you think?

• Could it be that we here at Conspectus are living in a bubble where the world is a little more ideal than other places?
  

• Is there still a need for contractors to certify that they will have no segregated facilities?
  

• Have you seen this or similarly outdated forms?
  

• Do you think that the governmental agency that issued this form was being responsible by including it?

I received the specification shown below from a friend, an independent manufacturer's representative today. Yes this is the total expansion control spec. And a Construction Manager is soliciting budgets from subcontractors and materials suppliers for the project with this spec. This is a case where less (outline spec) is definitely not enough.

So What is Required
There is no mention of the joint size, the type of movement, nor the total movement that must be accommodated. Must the joint accommodate seismic movement? This is a significant cost factor and severely limits the available joint designs. The loading for the floor joint is not specified. Will the joint see pedestrian, pallet jack, or fork truck traffic.

And Perhaps Superficial, but Still Important
Are these joints with metal cover plates or an elastomer seal. If it is a seal, there may not be any exposed metal. Can the retainers holding the seal be extruded aluminum which is the industry standard? Are the joints surface applied, semi-recessed, or flush with the surrounding surfaces. Are the finish materials the same on both sides of the joint? Are corner joints required?

Keep Your Fingers Crossed
I am sure my friend is wondering how to begin and if his budget numbers could possibly be relevant or remotely meaningful. I can see the list of budget qualifications being pages long just for expansion control. And the ultimate Construction Manager product budget? Stay tuned for multiple, dreaded Value Engineering exercises.

By the Way
According to AIA standard agreements, the Budget is a document the Owner controls. The project must be designed and constructed to meet the Owner's budget. The Architect provides an Estimate of the Cost of the Work and the Contractor provides Estimates or Bids. It is best not to confuse budget with estimate.

SECTION 079502 - INTERIOR EXPANSION CONTROL

1.1    INTERIOR EXPANSION CONTROL SYSTEMS

A.    Floor-to-Floor

1.    Types: To be determined.
2.    Exposed Metal: Stainless steel.
3.    Fire-Resistance Rating: Same as adjacent construction.

B.    Wall-to-Wall Joint Systems:

1.    Types: To be determined.
2.    Exposed Metal: Stainless steel.
3.    Fire-Resistance Rating: Same as adjacent construction.

C.    Ceiling-to-Ceiling Joint Systems:

1.    Types: To be determined.
2.    Exposed Metal: Stainless steel.
3.    Fire-Resistance Rating: Same as adjacent construction.

END OF SECTION

Competitive Construction Procurement: What do I need besides the drawings and spec? Bidders need additional information about the bidding process to ensure their bids are responsive to the owner's needs and hopefully (for them) successful. Learn what documents are required for competitive bidding and what the key elements must be included in the Invitation to Bid to help ensure a smooth process.

Visit http://www.conspectusinc.com/publications.htm to view or download 2040-Bid Requirements 10.08.01 and all previous Tech Tips.

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