COMBINED SYNOPSIS & SOLICITATION · characteristics, in accordance with the specified requirements and tolerances, in line with the use for which they have been intended. Materials,

SBU - CONTRACTING AND ACQUISITIONS

COMBINED SYNOPSIS & SOLICITATION

United States Embassy San Jose, Costa Rica

SVA HANGAR ELECTRIC POWER SUPPLY & STORM WATER WORKS AT BASE 2

SOLICITATION NO. PR9467432

Issued by:

Embassy of the United States of America

General Services Office

Avenida 0 Calle 120

Pavas, San José

Costa Rica 0920-1200


PR9467432

1. BACKGROUND

The Embassy of the United States of America is heading a project consisting in the

improvement of the electrical and mechanical structure (storm water system) for a newly

constructed hangar, located in Base 2, Juan Santamaría Airport, Alajuela, Costa Rica,

which will be obtained through the construction of the following structures. The different

systems are enlisted separately in this section; however, the Contractor shall ensure both

the correct functioning of each system and the functioning compatibility between the

systems, to ensure a fully functional project and client’s satisfaction.

The project shall be conducted in accordance with the drawings and specifications

detailed in this document. The Contractor shall perform the following work:

2 Specific Task

2.1 Preliminary Works Preliminary

Works includes the installation of provisional facilities for workers according to the

specified in the following sections. Also, shall include a technical revision of all designs,

in order to ensure the fulfillment of all stablished requirements. The Contractor will be

responsible of obtaining the construction permissions from the appropriate authorities,

including Colegio Federado de Ingenieros y Arquitectos (CFIA). Additionally, the

Contractor will provide qualified technical staff which will develop the project, according

to national regulations, and using as base the plans and technical specification’s

document.

2.2 Electrical System

The Contractor shall build an electrical system which must fulfill the requirements

stablished in plans and technical specifications document. This job will be done under the

strict supervision of a certified professional (electrical engineer). The system must fulfill

national and international norms, such as the defined by National Electrical Code (NEC)


and National Fire Proof Association (NFPA). This work includes the installation of a new

power supply from the existing electrical panel located near the main entrance to Base 2

site, as indicated in sheet E1.5. to the new electrical panel to be installed at the hangar.

The installation of this new power supply will include all necessary items, three

infrastructure and accessories in order to ensure compliance with local codes and laws,

as well as guaranteeing that any existing buildings, and their components, will be left as

found or in better condition. The supply will travel both underground and over existing

roofs. New electrical outlets (as shown in sheet E1.3) and lightning (see sheet E1.2) will

also be installed as part of the electrical work.

2.3 Mechanical System

2.4 The Contractor shall build all mechanical systems required for the complete

functioning of the stormwater system and must fulfill the requirements identified in plans

and this document. The system must fulfill national and international norms, such as the

defined by the Código de Instalaciones Hidráulicas y Sanitarias en Edificaciones, 2017.

3 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

3.1 Design and Construction Plans

The construction contract, the technical specifications and construction plans

complement each other, such that whatever appears in one of them has full value, even

if it does not appear in any other document. In case of inconsistencies between these

documents, the Owner or the COR will make the necessary clarifications. In the matter of

the dimensions of architectural elements and location of architectural and structural

elements and general dimensions, the architectural plans rank over the structural plans,

unless a divergence merits a clarification. The blueprints consist of all the plans created

for this project, accompanied by these specifications and those sent during the bidding

process or the four development of the constructions. In plans, the expressed dimensions

rule over the stated scale and, when one is missing, the COR must be consulted. In

general, the plans with larger scale rule over the ones with smaller scale. The technical

specifications govern over the plans. The Contractor shall elaborate updated plans as the

construction progresses, which shall be given to the COR when requested and at the time


to present alternatives in the project for approval, these plans must include the installation

as it was done and the exact location, as well as features, materials, trajectory, duct and

pipelines dimensions and accessories duly identified. These shall be printed in the scale

defined by the COR. Once the construction works are finished, the Contractor shall submit

a compact disc with the blueprints to the Owner and the COR with all of the requested

corrections by the Inspection. All of the plans shall be created in a computer, using the

AutoCAD software y submitted a printed version, using the scale stated by the COR.

3.2 Applicable Publications

The general regulations that shall be followed are:

• Construction Law (Ley de Construcciones).

• Costa Rican Seismic Code (Código Sísmico de Costa Rica).

• Cosntruction Regulations (Reglamento de Construcciones).

• General Health Law (Ley General de Salud).

• Law #7600 –“Equal opportunity for people with disabilities” (Ley #7600 “Igualdad de

Oportunidades para las Personas con Discapacidad”).

• Urban Planification Law (Ley de Planificación Urbana).

• Organic Law of C.F.I.A. (Ley Orgánica del C.F.I.A).

• Municipal Codes and their respective Regulatory Plans (Códigos Municipales y sus

respectivos Planes Reguladores).

• Regulations for the Control of Urbanizations (Reglamento para el Control de

Fraccionamientos y Urbanizaciones). Each specialty area also includes their applicable

specific publications.

3.3 Security during the Construction Process

The Contractor shall comply with the Security Regulations in Construction, published in

the Costa Rican official newspaper #122 in June 27, 1996 and with the next specific

sections in construction security. During the demolition, if any, foundation and building


process, The Contractor is obliged to ensure the safety of the workers in site, as well as

with the exterior, with special consideration with the immediate neighbors and nature. The

admission of workers, personnel, visitors or other, as well as the movement of materials

and Contractors equipment to the site shall be regulated and controlled by the owner,

whenever them or the COR consider it convenient and necessary. When the foundation

works are executed next to existing buildings with shallower foundations than those being

built, the necessary excavations shall be executed in sections and, when the final

retention system is not immediately started, temporary shoring shall be used. Proper

shoring shall be used in the construction of pits or shafts and shall not be removed until

the support structure reaches the top of the pit. The capacity of the wooden planks shall

be proportional to its use and shall have a minimum thickness of 4 cm. When it is

necessary to join several planks, the joint shall be done near the ends, lay over a

crossbeam element and be leveled in order to avoid tripping. The minimum width of the

6-scaffolding platform is 0.90m. Railing shall be placed in the external side of the

scaffolding, at least 1.20m high, to protect the workers. The minimum width of ramps shall

be 0.80m and shall have two capable railings made-up of elements placed at a height of

0.60m and 1.20m from the ramp and their supports shall be fixed to the floor. When the

ramps are used for material transport, they shall have a minimum width of 1.20m. People

working in high places shall use a security belt in order to avoid accidents. The same

applies when the scaffolding is being remove. No access to the scaffolding shall be

granted to workers that do not exhibit a normal physical state, much less in an inebriated

state or showing signs of vertigo. The appropriate institution shall be notified if demolition,

construction or repair works are performed near high voltage cables or any electrical

cable, so that it can be disconnected for proper protection. Proper shoes and gloves shall

be provided to workers in charge of preparing and manipulation of concrete to protect

them from burns. The Contractor shall provide them with adequate means to wash off the

cement in the place of work, to avoid irritation.

4 GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS

All work shall be carried out in strict compliance with all contract clauses and these

technical specifications. In the event that the Contractor discovers discrepancies


contained in the various design/technical documents, Contractor must immediately notify

the Contracting Officer Representative (COR) before taking any other action.

4.1 Quantities

This contract is based on a lump sum priced solicitation. Any quantities indicated in the

specifications, drawings are for reference only, and the Contractor is responsible for

providing quantities needed to complete the work, without any price adjustment after

award.

4.2 Trials and Tests Materials,

Permanent equipment, its accessories and other elements used in the project, shall be

subject to tests necessary to verify their compliance with specifications, properties and

characteristics, in accordance with the specified requirements and tolerances, in line with

the use for which they have been intended. Materials, equipment, accessories or

elements that have not been accepted by the COR (Contracting Officer Representative),

shall be withdrawn from the work site or replaced, at Contractors cost. Laboratory tests

can be carried out, according to the specific case, at the work site or in laboratories

previously authorized by the COR. Materials that bear quality certificates issued by ISO

or its equivalent, do not need to be routinely tested. Costs of laboratory trials and tests

shall be for the account of Contractor. The COR shall be able to carry out special trials

and tests at any time if it is needed to clarify the quality of any item.

4.3 Work Execution

The different items in the construction schedule shall be carried out in a gradual and

progressive manner, without starting any work that could later be affected by other items

that have not been concluded or that lack an adequate support or safety measures, taking

care that work that has been finished is not affected by weather or other elements. The

Contractor shall be responsible for maintaining quality of work by following proper

operation procedures in construction. Throughout the different stages of construction

work, Contractor shall obtain approval, from the COR, in order to continue with

subsequent stages of construction. Before receiving approval to continue through the

various stages, samples of completed work shall be tested to verify the quality of the work.


The Contractor shall provide a construction schedule in which all the works shall be

detailed with the date of performance and delivery.

4.4 Cost of the Project

The Contractor shall include all the costs of the materials, labor, transportation, and

materials testing that will be needed to complete the project and comply with all the

specifications stated in this document.

5 TASK SPECIFICATIONS

5.1 Site Evaluation

Before the project starts, the Contractor shall visit and examine the site to verify its

conditions, facilities and limitations. The information related to topography and service

connections such as pipelines, rainwater and sewage must be checked. In case of a

discrepancy not contemplated neither in plans nor other document, must be notified to

the COR for its resolution.

5.2 Existing Buildings Demolition

The Contractor shall demolish all existing elements that may interfere in the construction

site. All of the materials removed from the projects site must be transported by the

Contractor and disposed of in an appropriate place outside the property, which selection

is part of Contractors responsibilities.

5.3 Preliminary Work

5.3.1 Land clearing this clause includes tree trimming work (any required permissions

apply) and any shrub, trunk, root, grass and topsoil layer removal. The aim of this is to

clear the area on and around the buildings footprint that is deemed unsuitable for

foundation work or terrain leveling works. The Contractor shall perform any land clearing,

root, tree and vegetation removal, and topsoil and organic silt elimination when present.

The Contractor must remove any elements that interfere with the construction work, such

as old foundations, rocks, etc. All of the materials removed from the projects site, such as

topsoil and debris, must be transported by the Contractor and disposed of in an


appropriate place outside the property, which selection, along with any implicit technical

and environmental repercussions, is the Contractors responsibility.

5.3.2 Leveling and Plotting

Before construction start, the Contractor shall define the projects components layout and,

if necessary, construction levels in accordance to the provided drawings. During this

same phase, the Contractor must verify all of the drawings information, and correct them

if any discrepancy exists between real, on-site, dimensions and those provided in

drawings by the designer. 10 To comply with these requirements, the Contractor shall

provide an expert topographer supported by precision equipment such as total stations,

levels, measuring tape, and any other required equipment for layout, alignment and

terrain leveling. The use of this equipment will be performed so that machinery works will

not interfere. Any additional alignment or leveling job cost will be the Contractors

responsibility.

5.3.3 Warning Signs

The Contractor shall provide all the necessary signs and announcements to prevent

accidents according to the safety plan, which shall have the approval of the COR. Signs

shall be made of acrylic or galvanized sheets painted with a yellow background and with

red or black letters.

5.3.4 Temporary Structures

Temporary structures, for the Contractors personnel use, will be implemented for use

during the project’s duration. It is the Contractors responsibility to implement offices,

warehouses, provisional bathrooms and the guardhouses required for their own use, with

a temporary connection to a potable water and sewage system prior to commencing

construction. One sanitary facility shall be implemented for every ten workers, with an

additional one for the technical staff. The Contractor will be responsible for cleaning and

maintaining these structures. The materials used for these provisional facilities can be

metal, concrete, or wood, as long as they are secure and provide a private area. The

COR can demand changes or improvements of the provisional facilities at any time if he


determines that the Contractor is not providing a clean area with sufficient privacy and

safety.

5.4 Earthwork, Excavation and Backfilling

The work described in this chapter includes excavation and backfilling, as well as

carrying, piling up and removing excavation material necessary for the construction of the

building, piping, and all elements indicated in the project drawings.

5.4.1 Leveling

To determine final levels, theodolites or precision instruments will be used. If there are

considerable differences with the specifications in the drawings, the COR shall be notified

and only through a report of mutual agreement will the new levels be determined. The

residual material must be removed and placed outside the construction site in places

approved by the local authority.

5.4.2 Excavation

Generally, excavation is understood as the removal of volumes of land or other materials

forming spaces for construction, foundations, structures, buildings, roads, etc. Excavation

shall be done according to the heights, limits, elevations, gradients and sections set forth

in the structural, architectural, and sanitary drawings, save for different or real conditions

of the project. During excavation, material satisfactory for backfilling shall be stockpiled

in an orderly manner at a distance from banks of the trench equal to ½ the depth of the

excavation, but in no instance closer than 60 cm. Excavated material not required or not

satisfactory for backfill shall be removed from the site, without affecting the adjacent

properties. The material produced from 12 excavation will be temporarily disposed of on

the sides of excavations, so that it will not impede the execution of other work. The final

excavation that will be performed in the places where specific exterior works made out of

concrete will be built shall be carried out as close to the pouring of concrete to avoid any

alterations due to bad weather. In no case shall excavation be performed to a depth in

which the soil is loose. If this happens, it will be considered as an “over excavation” that

will be corrected by the contractor according to the project’s specifications. If, in the

Contractors or CORs opinion, the bottom of the ditch is not strong or is unstable, over-


excavation will be carried out until solid ground is reached, otherwise the Contractor and

the COR. shall jointly agree upon another solution. It is the Contractors duty to protect the

stability of the adjacent properties while excavation is carried out. This should be done in

a way that guarantees the stability of those buildings without causing any damage.

Excavation shall be protected against rain, landslides and other excavations. The

Contractor will protect the personnel excavating in ditches and, if for safety reasons it is

deemed necessary, the contractor shall provide timbering and shoring. This shoring shall

be reviewed and approved by the COR, and the Contractor will protect the shoring and

will be removed after the excavation has been performed. For piping placement in

excavation, the filling will be laid as a first step to cover a height of at least 20 cm above

the highest part of piping and shall be compressed in accordance with the article of this

section. Excavation will be done from the ditch in accordance with the gradient slope and

required transversal lines for placement of piping as indicated on working drawings.

5.4.3 Excavation with Water Presence

The excavation with presence of water may be caused by water coming from the

underground, rainwater, floods, operation of the construction, sewage and others.

Excavation cannot be executed in the presence of water, whatever its origin, and

therefore due precautions and protections must be taken, as construction techniques

advise in these cases. The presence of water makes work more difficult and the safety of

the people and the projects themselves decreases. Therefore, the Contractor is required

to take due precautions to eliminate water in excavation sites by using stake boards,

cofferdams, pumping, drainage, curbs, etc. When placing stone masonries, concrete

structures, or any structure, the Contractor will insure that water is not present in

excavations, and that it will remain so until mortar and concrete have set. None of the

excavations should have water present before placing the pipes, and under no

circumstance will they be placed under water. The trenches shall remain dry until the

pipes have been totally coupled and the welded junctions are completely dry.


5.4.4 Removal of Water and/or Excavated

Material Waste removal is defined as the method of transportation of the materials

produced by excavation, which should have a specifically determined place for disposal

approved by the local authority. When there is an excess material, the Contractor shall

remove it and place it outside the area of construction where such material will not

obstruct watercourses or cause detriment to the neighboring areas. Excess or waste

material should not be located in properties adjacent to the construction site unless the

Contractor receives written authorization from the owners of such properties. The material

produced by excavation that will not be used for the construction of the project shall be

removed from the site using heavy mechanical equipment in good condition, without

causing vehicle transit interruption or neighbors’ annoyance.

5.4.5 Backfilling

Backfilling is defined at the sections indicated by the project, the existing gaps between

structures and excavations, or between the structures and the natural soil in such a way

that any point of the finished section will remain at a distance greater than 10 centimeters

from the corresponding section of the project. The backfilling process will be carried out

using earth, gravel, sand or rock with approval from the COR. Prior to backfilling, the land

shall be free of debris, trunks, branches, etc., and in general, of all organic material and

all the material that is not appropriate for backfilling. The COR will approve the material

that will be used for backfilling in advance and the material will come from the excavation

itself or other extraction sites. The backfilling will be done according to the project

specifications and according to the lines, levels and gradients described in the

architectonic and structural drawings. The Contractor is required to obtain, transport and

maintain the necessary material for backfilling, either from the excavation site or from

qualified quarries. Special care will be given by not using the mechanical compactor in

areas close to buildings or existing construction inside or outside of the property. If 15 any

damage occurs, this shall be repaired and costs assumed by the Contractor. The refill

and/or cover of any excavation that contains lines or pipes installations and other services

will not proceed until they have been placed and tested as well as approved and accepted

by the COR. The backfilling for subflooring will be placed and mechanically compacted in


beds of 0.20m thick according to the D698-64T specifications of the American Society for

testing and Materials (ASTM). Backfilling with gravel, sand or ground stone for formation

of drains or filters shall be consistent with the grain grading specified in the working

drawings; materials will be sieved and washed if required. For filter formation, the

materials will be placed in such a way that the higher-grade particles remain in contact

with the structure and the ones with lesser diameters in contact with the natural terrain,

unless otherwise indicated.

5.4.6 Compacted Backfilling with Natural Soil

Compacted backfilling with natural soil is defined as placing horizontal layers of the

existing soil, with a thickness of 20 cm, with the humidity that the material requires to get

a mechanical compression to 95% minimum of the density of the Proctor Standard

measure. Each layer shall be evenly compacted on the entire surface by pneumatic

rammers or other construction equipment until obtaining the maximum compression

possible with the use of these tools. The material to be used in this backfilling shall be

free of organic residues and waste. Prior to backfilling, the land shall be free of debris.

The COR will approve in advance the material that will be used in the backfilling process.

The compaction process shall be done according to the standards of the American

Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO T-130). 16 If the

approved material for this backfilling is not enough to reach the levels specified in the

project design, the Contractor shall complete the volume needed, with granular material

according to the specification for “Compacted backfilling with granular material.” The

Contractor shall carry out laboratory tests to guarantee the compliance with the

aforementioned specifications and the Contractor will assume the cost of these tests.

5.4.7 Compacted Backfilling with Granular Material

Compacted backfilling with granular material is defined as placing horizontal layers of

sub-base to a maximum thickness of 20 cm. Each layer will be compacted evenly on its

entire surface by pneumatic rammers or heavy construction equipment until obtaining the

maximum compression possible with the use of these tools. Compaction shall be carried

out using sheep foot rollers, pneumatic-tried rollers, steel-wheeled rollers, vibratory

compactors, or other approved equipment. The thickness of the backfilling shall be in


accordance with the structural and architectonic detailed drawings. Prior to backfilling, the

land shall be free of debris. The COR will approve in advance the material that will be

used in the backfilling process. The compaction process shall be done according to the

standards of the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials

(AASHTO). Compacting shall be having a 95% of the maximum density (Proctor Test).

The material to be used shall be granular selected material according AASHTO 145 (A1,

A2, and A3).

5.5 Layout

Once the site is clean, the Contractor may place the topographic reference system:

stakes, levels, etc, used to define the layout, alignment and levels of site. The topographic

reference system must be placed in such way that it does not interfere with the machinery.

The topographic alignment will be place once by the Owner, in case of needing to be

placed again; it shall be paid by the Contractor.

5.6 Final Delivery and Cleaning

5.6.1 Works Final Delivery

The Contractor may ask to the COR for the installation’s final reception, only whenever

all hired jobs and respective specifications are completely done, according to the Owner

and COR satisfaction.

5.6.2 Site and Structure Cleaning

The Contractor shall leave the work site completely clean and residues free. In addition,

before delivering the building, must do a complete cleaning of the structure. No se

aceptarán pisos, paredes ni vidrios con manchas de pintura ni de ninguna otra

naturaleza. Tampoco se aceptarán tuberías con sedimentos o cualquier otro tipo de

suciedad u obstrucción, debiéndose limpiar completamente antes de entregar la obra

terminada. It will not be accepted under any circumstances, walls or glasses with painting,

glue or any other kind of stains. Neither will be accepted pipes 18 obstructed by sediments

or residues, therefore the pipes shall be cleaned before the job is delivered to the Owner.


The Contractor shall remove all machinery, tools and any other implement or accessories

used during the construction process.

6 Concrete Works

6.1 General

The production, transportation and placing of concrete used to build the project must

comply with the recommendations of the American Concrete Institute (ACI), which are

found in the “Specifications for Structural Concrete For Building” ACI 301 Committee

report, last revision. For all of the other processes involved with reinforced concrete, all

of the recommendations of the ACI 318 “Building Code Requirements for Reinforced

Concrete”, last revision, must be followed. Compliance with the standards and

specifications of the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), mentioned in

this document and related to reinforced concrete, is mandatory.

6.2 Properties and Characteristics of Concrete

6.2.1 Applicable Publications

Concrete building, be it onsite or ready mix, must follow the technical and constructive

standards presented in the following publications, in its current versions:

● ACI

● CRSI

● Applicable ASTM standards.

6.2.2 Cement

Cement used in any work execution, must be Portland Type 71-Normal cement, compliant

with the ASTM C-150 standard. It must arrive the project´s warehouse in its original

packing, without any sign of tears or material hardening. If the COR detects any

anomalies, he will be able to request a partial or complete product lot substitution. Cement

must be kept in a fresh place and covered in a way that it is not exposed to rain or affected

by humidity. The product is allowed to be stowed in 10 cm tall wooden pallets in ten bag

stows as maximum.


6.2.3 Sand (fine aggregate)

The sand used for concrete producing must be river sand, except in special cases. To

verify its quality, samples must be approved by the COR, especially when using quarry

sand. In any case, sand must have a siliceous-calcareous origin, free from any

deleterious substance such as, clay, silt, lignite or alkali. It must be free of any dirt, and

kept dry so that its humidity levels are according to the mix design and therefore the

volumetric or by weight dose used to make concrete. Sand used for concrete elements

shall comply with the ASTM C33 standard, in its current version. The used sand must

have grain sizes within the following limits: Chart 1. Sand granulometry Sieve Percentage

passing 3/8” 100 #4 95 to 100 #8 80 to 100 #16 80 to 100 20 #30 25 to 60 #50 10 to 30

#100 2 to 10 6.2.4 Gravel (coarse aggregate) Coarse aggregate consists of materials

which main content is gravel or broken stone. These materials must be clean and free of

any substances such as soil, clay, silt and other organic materials, which could produce

fake adherence in the concrete mix. The required measures for coarse aggregates used

for concrete, are:

● For thin, reinforced concrete elements, less than a fifth of the molds lesser dimension

and less than three fourths of the space between rebar.

● For elements having, approximately, a 6 cm thickness, the use of aggregates bigger

than 25 mm is prohibited.

● For elements such as beams, columns and any reinforced concrete element, aggregate

with a diameter less than 38 mm must be used.

● For non-reinforced concrete elements, aggregate with a diameter between 38 mm and

50 mm can be used.

● For massive concrete elements, aggregate with a diameter up to 150 mm can be used,

prior to the COR approval.

● Coarse aggregate storage must be done in a way that different sized products don’t

mix, for which wooden board enclosures, forming quadrants, with enough height for

stocking more material. Each enclosure must have a sign that indicates the diameter of


the aggregate. Cone shaped piles are forbidden, and a flat surface must be maintained

while in storage, so that any debris can be easily removed and will not easily mix with the

clean aggregate.

6.2.5 Water

All of the water used in the mixing, curing and mortar production, must be clean, potable

water. The water quantity to be used in each concrete pouring must be according to the

specific dosage presented in the following table: Chart 2. Dosage according to

compressive strength

WATER/CEMENT RATIO BY WEIGHT PROBABLE COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH AT 28

DAYS

0.45 350 Kg/cm2

0.53 280 Kg/ cm2

0.62 225 Kg/ cm2

0.71 175 Kg/ cm2

6.2.6 Additives

The use of any concrete additives, i.e. setting accelerants, retardants, or hardeners, must

be done after the COR request or approval. In case that the requested additives are not

commercially available, any similar products must be submitted for approval with its

respective manufacturers technical manual. Any approved additive must arrive to the

construction site in its original package.

6.2.7 Hand mixing

Concrete production using any manual methods is not allowed. In especial cases in

which, for example, small volumes are required, excessive travel distances or difficult

access circumstances are present, the COR can eventually allow, without any

responsibility, the use of hand mixed concrete.


6.2.8 Mechanical Concrete Mixer

The mechanical mixing of concrete is the only type of process allowed. The COR has the

authority to inspect and approve all of the equipment used for mixing concrete. The

requisites that need to be met are:

• All of the equipment employed must be in good mechanical and operation conditions. A

water weight or water level controller for the mixer is desirable.

• The mixer´s barrel size must be according to the concrete volume to be poured.

• Concrete mixers with a capacity of less than a cement bag are not allowed to be used

on-site.

• All of the necessary equipment for any given pouring job to be continuous, free of any

interruptions, must be available in the project. The COR can request, according to the

volume of any pouring job, the addition of mixers and other equipment.

• When placing any concrete, the concrete mixer and any other equipment used during

the process must be clean. When the job is finished, or a pause larger than two hours

happens, the mixers and any equipment involved must be washed.

• All materials must be introduced at the same time in the mixer, so that the mix can be

as homogenous as possible

• The mixing duration cannot be less than two minutes after pouring all the materials

inside the drum.

• The time for the concrete to be cast in place, after pouring all the materials in the mixer,

cannot be higher than thirty minutes.

6.2.9 Mixing While in Transit

Dry, on-plant dosed, concrete and mixed in transit to the Project can be used. The truck

used must be a drum mixer. Each concrete shipment must complete at least fifty

revolutions. The mixing speed will be higher than four drum revolutions per minute and

no larger than 225 ft. of drum circumference per minute. The revolutions must be


continuous once all of the materials are introduced. The maximum time between concrete

deliveries shall not be longer than twenty minutes.

6.2.10 Sleeves in Concrete

The use of sleeves inside reinforced concrete is considered as a non-desired practice.

Only special cases, authorized by the COR and indicated in redline drawings, will be

allowed with previous presentation of workshop drawings and diagrams. In the case that

sleeves are allowed, they shall be located in the central third of the beams longitude and

the central third of its height. When using pipes smaller than 25 mm in diameter, the

separation between each sleeve must be of 25 cm. If the sleeve uses pipe with a diameter

between 64 mm to 100 mm, their separation must be at least 50 cm. Additionally, two #3

bars, 50 cm long, frames will be placed, or what the COR indicates. If the sleeves are

placed with one or both of its ends in contact with the ground, plastic covers must be

placed at the ends. If the pipes go through a tanks walls, instead of sleeves a pipe with

the same characteristics as the rest of the piping will be placed, with a flange in the walls

mid-section.

6.2.11 Anchors and Fittings

Any anchors and fittings necessary to join concrete elements to metal or wood elements

are shown in the projects drawings. The plates or steel sections 24 used to produce them

must meet the established criteria in the chapter “Steel Structure” of this document. Rebar

must comply with the requirements established in the steel chapter of this document,

having a yield strength equal to fy = 2800 kg/cm2 , unless otherwise specified. In any

other case, experimental and documental evidence of the elements weldability must be

provided. The joining elements size and shape will be indicated in the corresponding

drawing, but alternative designs, that facilitates the elements placement while retaining

its structural integrity, can be accepted by the COR. The placement must be done so that

formwork removal doesn’t become complicated. During this procedure, the specified

opening tolerances must be observed.


6.2.12 Construction Joints

All construction, vertical or horizontal, joints must be approved by the COR, who will

determine where and how it will be built, using the necessary elements (key joints, butt-

dowel joint, butt-tie bar joint, etc…). Before the concrete casting, any joint must be

moistened and the concrete surface covered with a thick concrete grout. Contact or

isolation joints must be built every time a slab comes in contact with columns, concrete

walls, CMU walls or reinforced concrete rigid frames. Isolation joints must be built using

expanded polystyrene foam with a 13 mm thickness, or a similar material, adhered with

special glue or nails, and the same width of the concrete slab.

6.2.13 Concrete Casting and Vibration

The COR shall approve the formwork, molds, temporary structures, and the placement

and cover of rebar. He must be notified, five business days in advance, the date and time

at which any concrete element will be casted. All of the necessary equipment for any

given pouring job to be continuous, free of any interruptions, must be available in the

project. The COR can request, according to the volume of any pouring job, the addition

of mixers and other equipment. Next to the concrete casting place, at least two vibrators

in good conditions, with a 65 mm maximum diameter head, will be present. Another

smaller vibrator with a 25 mm diameter head, will be available in the project, in the case

that thin or densely reinforced concrete elements are needed to be casted. Casting shall

proceed in a continuous manner between the previously approved construction joints,

and is only allowed to be interrupted in case that rain can wash the concretes surface.

Concrete more than forty-five minutes old is not allowed to be used, nor remixed with

water or more cement. Concrete casting shall be performed with the utmost care, avoiding

any separation of the mixed materials, cold joints formation or the creation of layers.

Casting height cannot exceed 2 m from the concretes final level.

6.2.14 Concrete Strength

All structural concrete must have the minimum compressive strength, 28 days after being

casted, that the drawings specify. For filled CMU (concrete blocks) the minimum

compressive strength will be 175 kg/cm2 .


6.2.15 Strength Testing

Concretes compressive strength will be determined according to ASTM C-39 standard,

last revision, in test cylinders with 150 mm Ø x 300 mm dimensions. The cylinders will be

prepared under the CORs supervision. When taking fresh concrete samples the ASTM

C-31 standard, latest revision, will be followed. Six steel molds will be available on site,

taking at least one sample per 20m3 of casted concrete. Each sample will consist, at

least, of four test cylinders having the dimensions specified above. The casting date,

casted elements, number and designation of the cylinders, and obtained strength values

will be indicated in the project’s logbook.

6.2.16 Test approval

If compressive strength tests results are not approved, written permission shall be

obtained from the COR to procure samples of the rejected concrete section or element

and subsequently test them, according to the ASTM C-42 standard.

6.2.17 Concrete Curing

All built reinforced concrete elements shall be appropriately cured. This process must

begin once the elements surface has acquired enough hardness so that its integrity isn’t

affected by the force of the water jet. The curing must start four hours after the concrete

casting, at the latest. In extensive concrete elements, with large surface areas, such as

walls or slabs, prone to damage caused by the sun or wind, the COR shall indicate the

appropriate curing procedure, without this justifying the contractor for charging any

additional costs. All curing process will have a 7 day minimum duration, even if the

formwork has not yet been removed.

6.2.18 Concrete Defects Reparation

After every concrete casting, any defects indicated by the COR will be repaired. The

defective section will be scarified or cut, forming clean tooth, removing any loose material

by using compressed air in the produced cavities. The sections being repaired will be

filled with epoxy mortar, following the manufacturer’s instructions. The specific product to


be used shall be indicated by the COR. The sand used to help in the reparation will be

dried in an oven, so that any moisture is removed.

6.3 Formwork

6.3.1 General

The reinforced concrete casting process must be performed using any COR approved

formwork, using the specified measures for every element according to the drawings.

Formwork must be rigid and its reinforcing temporary structures must be designed and

built with enough strength to resist: its own weight, the formworks weight, the concretes

weight and any imposed load during the construction process, so that the formwork and

temporary structures won’t suffer any distortions which could affect the final product. The

materials used must be in good conditions, and the surfaces that will be in contact with

the concrete must be free of any leftover concrete from previous castings, nails, or any

other object not part of the specified concrete mix, such as hooks, black steel wire,

staples, etc. To compensate any deformations and distortions in elements with excessive

weight, a precaber can be given to the formwork or temporary structures, given the CORs

approval. To facilitate formwork removal, a release agent can be used after being

approved by the COR. The aim of any formwork job is to obtain the final finish once it is

released, except when the drawings indicate other finish type. Before any casting job, the

formworks must be submitted for the CORs approval, who will accept, reject or request

changes to the formwork. 6.3.2 Wood Formwork Formwork built using wood need special

care due to its short lifespan. Because of this reason, this type of formwork shall be used

a maximum of three times. In special cases reuses can be allowed, but only if the following

conditions are met:

● Wood used in formwork will be sufficiently dry and of top quality, so that no excessive

deformations will occur during the casting and curing process.

● Wooden plank thickness shall not be less than 25 mm.

● Planks must be reinforced with wooden beams having dimensions of 2.5 cm x 7.5 cm

at 60 cm, to avoid deformations.


● The formworks surface in contact with the concrete shall present a smooth, brushed,

crack and defect-free surface, so that it won interfere with the concrete casting process.

● Any rectangular shaped wood element used for formwork reinforcing must have a

minimum thickness of 5 cm in any side, and it must be clear of any deformation or twists

that may compromise the formwork.

● Wood employed as formwork can be treated with a COR approved formwork releasing

agent.

● A wide variety of wood types can be used as formwork, such as: Pilón, Gallinazo,

Amarillón, Lagarto and others.

6.3.3 Plywood Formwork

Formwork built using plywood must be used when excessive surface areas are

encountered in a casting job, and in those cases that, due to design requirements, they

must remain exposed or the COR has requested so. Plywood used as formwork must be

at least of second hand quality, which shall be indicated with an appropriate

manufacturers certified seal. The formwork side which faces concrete, while working with

plywood, will be in good conditions, which means that no deformations, splintering or any

other defect that can compromise the final product shall be allowed. The minimum

allowed thickness for plywood used as formwork shall be of 12 mm, with 40 cm x 40 cm

traverse wooden beams, with a minimum 5 cm x 5 cm section.

6.3.4 Metal Formwork

Formwork built using metal are considered as a desirable system for use in reinforced

concrete casting (especially those systems which are widely recognized), as long as all

materials are in good shape. Molds used in the mentioned system shall be free of any

deformations, rust, holes or welding burr. Additionally, any temporary structure used to

support formwork can be metal or wooden, or a combination of both. The number of

allowed uses are dictated by the formwork condition and quality prior to each use, with

the CORs approval.


6.3.5 Other Materials

The COR shall indicate or authorize the use of special materials for formwork in those

cases that design and construction drawings require it, or when reinforced concrete is

built in places where formwork removal is too complicated and/or expensive. Particle

boards will not be accepted for use as formwork or support.

6.3.6 Formwork Construction

All constructed formwork must follow a process such that the next phases are completed:

• Formwork design and shop drawings elaboration.

• Shop drawings approval by the COR.

• Material selection.

• Built up, assembly and reinforcement.

• Constructed formwork COR approval.

• Formwork releasing after COR approval.

• Work area cleaning, formwork cleaning and equipment storage. The COR shall approve

or request partial or total substitution of formwork which he considers that don’t meet the

required criteria for work execution. The COR will be able to request, at any time, the

detailed formwork drawings and calculation report.

6.3.7 Non-Exposed Concrete Formwork

Formwork used for concrete that will not be visible, will not exempt the Contractor from

using quality and in good shape formwork for the work execution. The final product from

each concrete casting shall be free of burrs, 31 bulges, or any other defects that can

affect the products final quality, complying with the constructive process described

previously.


6.3.8 Formwork Erection

Previous to formwork erection, a conditioning of the projects soil will be performed, so

that any loose material, rubble, or soil that can represent an obstacle for formwork placing,

a collapsing hazard, or offer low strength for anchors and struts. The plumb and leveling

of molds will be done taking into account the formworks internal measures. Formwork

and falsework will be adequately stiffened so that they are able to resist any lateral or

gravity loads produced during the concretes casting. For this purpose, the use of

hardwood or semi-hardwood with a 5 cm by 5 cm minimum section will be used for posts.

A minimum section of 2.5 cm by 7.5 cm will be used for lateral reinforcement, but always

using low deformation tubular sections or wood sections with larger measurements. When

the temporary structure used to support formwork is a modular system, the manufacturers

technical specifications will be closely followed. It is the CORs criteria to approve the use

of this type of system, which will be given only when drawings, diagrams and installation

manuals are presented by the Contractor. Before starting any casting job, every mold’s

condition will be checked, so that it is free of buckling or deformations. The cleanliness of

the formwork will also be checked, ensuring also that no fissures or cracks are present.

6.3.9 Formwork Removal

The formwork and falsework removal process will be started once the concrete has

acquired enough strength to ensure structural security, stiffness and 32 appearance.

Even when using enhancing additives, concrete will remain protected for at least the

following durations: Chart 3.

Duration of formwork protection for different elements.

Duration For sides of non-exposed frames, walls or columns 2 days, for sides of exposed

frames, walls or columns 4 days, bottoms of slabs with spans shorter than 3.6 m 14 days,

bottoms of slabs with spans longer than 3.6 m 21 days, bottom of masonry (CMU) beams

21 days, bottoms of beams with spans shorter than 6 m 14 days, bottoms of beams with

spans longer than 6 m 21 days and cantilever bottoms 21 days.


6.3.10 Formwork Reuse

Formwork material reuse will be allowed only when in good shape after salvaging,

meaning that no buckling, cracks or any defect (which could compromise its job) are

present. Nevertheless, the COR will be able to check these material’s condition and

decide if they can be reused or will need to be discarded (See section 5.3.2). All reused

material, once selected, will be removed from the working area, cleaned, and stored so

that the rain and sun can’t affect them. These materials will show a sign, in one of its

sides, indicating the number of uses that it has been given.

6.4 Reinforcement Steel

The contractor will provide 6.4.1 General All the material, tools, equipment, accessories

and labor need for executing the reinforcement steel work, indicated in drawings and this

document. For any aspect of work related to reinforcement steel, the following standards

and manuals will be observed, in their current versions:

● "Manual of Standard Practice for Detailing Reinforced Concrete Structures" (ACI-315)

● “Building Code Requirements for Reinforced Concrete" (ACI-318). Samples of the

material that will be used for the project, and therefore used in the necessary laboratory

tests, will be delivered to the COR and quality control department. Rebar spacing,

splicing, lateral reinforcement, temperature and contraction reinforcement and rebar

concrete cover will follow the appropriate specifications according to the ACI 318 code,

unless the COR explicitly states otherwise.

6.4.2 Reinforcement Steel Bars

Any rebar used in the project must comply with the ASTM A-615 or ASTM A706

standards, modified to use the following minimum yield strengths:

● fy=2800 kg/cm2 for Nº 2 bars, where indicated.

● fy=4200 kg/cm2 for Nº 3 bars or larger, where indicated.

● It is assumed that any bar equal or larger than N°5 bars will be grade 60 or fy=4200

kg/cm2 . The ratio between the steel’s ultimate strength and yield limit must not be lower


than 1.3, and its real tested yield strength shall not exceed more than 1300 kg/cm2 the

one specified. If the yield strength or weight of the rebar doesn’t meet the required values

by more than a 5 %, a larger rebar quantity will be used until the element’s original

capacity is reached, without an additional cost and according to the COR’s instructions.

6.4.3 Welded Steel Mesh

Welded steel mesh will comply with the criteria established in the ASTM A185 standard,

latest revision, and it must have a minimum yield strength of fy = 4200 kg/cm2.

6.4.4 Annealed Wire (tie wire)

When tying up rebar annealed wire with a thickness equal or larger than #16 will be used,

with a sufficient malleability so that bending and branding is possible.

6.4.5 Reinforcement Fabrication

The preparation, cut, bending, placing and splicing of rebar will be performed according

to the established common practices for this job, following the recommendations of the

following publications, in their latest version: ● American Concrete Institute (ACI):

"Building Code Requirements for Reinforced Concrete ACI 318". ● Concrete Reinforcing

Steel Institute (CRSI): "Design Handbook". Bars will be fixed and held firmly in position

using # 16 caliber tie wire, so that no displacement is caused when vibrating the concrete.

The specified concrete cover between bars and formwork will be guaranteed using mortar

separators with a cylindrical or cubical shape. Separators made from wood, brick, stone

or other type of material different from the one specified are not allowed. Rebar concrete

cover will have a 50 mm minimum thickness for retaining walls and foundation elements,

and 25 mm for any other concrete element. Bars will be cold bent using a radius larger

than three diameters, as indicated by the drawings, with a maximum tolerance of -5+10

mm. Before casting the concrete, the COR must verify the reinforcement bars’ placement.

Diameters, quantities, separation, and distribution of rebar will be according to what is

indicated in drawings. In the case that splices are necessary, they will be made at the

element’s inflection point or in the element’s section with lower stresses. Splices will be

alternated, and no more than half of the rebar will be spliced at the same point. A 40-

diameter minimum spacing between splices will be used, using the diameter of the largest


bar in the element. When bars are overlapped when splicing, the minimum overlap length

will be 30 diameters when not ending in a hook. “Bottle neck” bending is not allowed,

except when transitioning between elements with different thicknesses, in which case a

maximum slope of 12:1 while be used, but no splicing can be done in this area. Overlap

splices will be tied with #16 caliber black wire, and a minimum concrete cover of 25 mm

will be used.

6.4.6 Fabrication Tolerances

● Straight bars: +- 4 cm in length.

● Bars with tail: +- 4 cm in length.

● Bars with 90-degree tail: +2-1 cm for the tail, measured from the exterior side of the

remaining straight portion.

● Bars with 135-degree tail: Same as with 90-degree tail, but measuring before the last

45-degree bend.

● Stirrups without confinement hooks: For stirrups with sides shorter than 50 cm: +- 1cm

with parallel sides not differing more than 1 cm. For stirrups with sides larger than 50 cm:

+1-2 cm with parallel sides not differing more than 1 cm.

● Stirrups with confinement hooks: For stirrups with sides shorter than 50 cm: +- 0.5 cm

with parallel sides not differing more than 0.5 cm. For stirrups with sides larger than 50

cm: +0.5-1 cm with parallel sides not differing more than 0.5 cm.

● Confinement hooks: Hooks need to be properly placed in relation to stirrups, so that the

concrete cover is never reduced by more than 0.5 cm.

● Bar bending diameter: A reduction of no more than 10 % of the specified value is

allowed, while the maximum increase is of 30 %.

6.4.7 Placement Tolerances

● Vertical placement: +- 0.5 cm for slabs, and +- 1.5 cm in any other element. The

tolerance shall be measured from the formwork’s bottom, without modifying the concrete

cover by a value larger than allowed.


● Longitudinal placement: +- 3 cm without modifying the concrete cover by a value larger

than allowed. 37

● Traverse placement: +- 2 cm without modifying the concrete cover by a value larger

than allowed and using a tolerance of +-0.5 cm for bar spacing.

● Concrete cover: -0.5+1 cm.

● Uniformly placed bar spacing: +-2.5 cm without reducing the total bar number. If major

obstacles are present, the COR can approve appropriate modifications.

● Stirrup spacing: +- 2 cm for spacing equal or larger than 10 cm. shorter spacing will

have a +-1 cm tolerance, without reducing the total stirrup count.

● Restressed beams in existing rebar basket: The COR can allow larger stirrup spacing

than those specified before.

6.4.8 Samples and Testing

The COR will be able to pick one ninety centimeters long sample for every thirty bars

used in the project, for each diameter and bar type, with the purpose of using them for

mechanical testing and compare the results to the specified characteristics in this chapter.

The COR will be able to request partial or total substitution of the lot in which a tested

reinforcement bar was taken from.

6.4.9 Storage

Reinforcement bars will be classified, when arriving at the project, according to its

diameter, length, grade, and final use. They will be stored in moist-free pallets, protected

from the elements. Rebar must be clean and free of rust, scales, and imperfections that

could affect its strength, physical properties and concrete adherence.

6.4.10 Hooks and bends

Rebar bends for stirrups will be done around a bending bolt which diameter will not be

smaller than six times the bar’s diameter. For other type of reinforcement, the same rule

applies, except for those bars with a diameter smaller than 25 mm, in which case the


bending bolt shall not be smaller than eight times de bar’s diameter. All bends will be cold

formed.

6.4.11 Reinforcement Cleaning

The reinforcement bar will be brand new material, free of any deep rust, clean, and free

of impurities. It will be cleaned using a dry method before beginning the bar placement

processes.

6.4.12 Rebar Placement

The minimum concrete cover will be according the values specified in the following table:

Chart 4. Minimum concrete cover Element Cover Continuous Footing 5 cm bottom face,

3.5 cm elsewhere. Isolated Footing 7.5 cm bottom and lateral faces, 5 cm top face.

Foundation Slabs 5 cm bottom face, 2.5 cm top face. Foundation beams 5 cm bottom

face, 3.5 cm elsewhere. Piles 7.5 cm in its entire perimeter.

6.4.13 Supports

Reinforcement will be placed using concrete cubes with the measures specified in this

chapter, in a layout such that the reinforcement will not be able to move beyond the

tolerance values when pouring and vibrating the concrete mix. Plastic supports and

separators are permitted to be used when designed specifically for this purpose.

6.4.14 Inspection

All work done regarding Steel reinforcement, including material and placement, must be

submitted to the COR’s approval prior casting start. For this purpose, a two-day notice

will be given so that enough time for checking will be allowed. Any omission regarding

constructive details of steel reinforcement will be fixed or replaced according to the

previously mentioned ACI and CRSI standards, without this meaning additional cost to

the project.


7 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

This section specifies general requirements for electrical installations,

telecommunications and security for the project; using the best technics to ensure a high-

quality work, as well as the best procedures for its construction according to plans,

sketches, details and technical documentation, abiding what is defined on the National

Electrical Code (Código Eléctrico Nacional – Pedestal 5 cm in all faces. Columns 2.5 cm

in all faces. Retaining wall 5 cm in face against soil, 2.5 cm in free face. 40 NEC),

Executive Decree number 36979 – MEIC: “Officialization bylaw of the Electrical Code of

Costa Rica for life and property security” (RTCR 458-2011) published on La Gaceta

number 33, on 15 February, 2012, as well as the Regulation of Telephone Installations

for Buildings, both documents will be part of the present document.

7.1 General Clarifications

Some of the specifications detailed in this document may not be installed or apply to this

project, therefore these sections shall not be considered. All equipment and materials to

install must be certified by Underwriters Laboratories INC, UL or certified by any OSH

recognized laboratories, according to the designed function defined, as well as extended

guaranty. Any case not included in the present specifications, shall be resolved by the

COR, according to the norms defined by the National Electrical Code (NEC) or any

applicable regulation. The Contractor must consider the following the chart when installing

some of the items, these dimensions may change depending on plans or COR

recommendations. Chart 5. Different element heights Element Height Meter 1,60 meters

Main board 1,60 meters Light switch 1,20 meters Power outlets 0,80 meters Restroom

outlets 1,20 meters Special outlets 0,80 meters 41

7.2 Contractor Obligations and Responsibilities

The Contractor is responsible of the equipment details coordination and constructions

included under in the present specifications

• Fulfill all general and special project requirements defined in this specification, also,

must take into account all observations and instructions written on the Project Binnacle.


• The Contractor must test all electrical and electromechanical systems indicated in plans

and specifications, for the COR approval and its respective reception

• All voltage, current, continuity, insulation, amongst others measurements must be

certified • The Contractor will be responsible for the internal and external constructions

required for pipe laying, as well as any other electrical accessories.

• During the construction, all pipes that are unplugged for later work shall be covered

using a plastic cover fixed with a ribbon or rope.

• The Contractor compromises to fulfill what is stablished on the Construction Safety

Regulations of Costa Rica, decree N° 25235 MTSS, during the job execution.

• The staff set for this job by the Contractor shall be qualified and wide experience. All

installations will be done using the best techniques to ensure a sharp and esthetic finish.

• During the construction, the staff shall have a set of plans to write down all corrections

done, which must be reviewed by the COR one a month.

• At the end of the construction, the Contractor shall deliver on a disc or electrical device

to the COR a complete set of plans of the original installations, which must include all

modifications done during its construction.

• The unnoticed omission of a part of the specifications, plans or any material necessary

for the installation of the involved system, does not release the Contractor of its

obligations of deliver and installation. The following documents are considered part of the

present specifications:

• NFPA 70 – National Fire Prevention Association - National Electrical Code® (NEC®),

last edition

• NFPA 70E – National Fire Prevention Association - Electrical Safety Requirements for

Employee Workplaces, last edition

• ARESEP AR-NT-SIUNAC-2015 technical regulation


• Handbook for Underground Electrical Distribution Nets 13.8; 24.9 y 34.5 kV, from the

Electrical Distribution Commission, CFIA, July 2015, or its last edition

• Manual de Disposiciones Técnicas Generales Sobre Seguridad Humana y Protección

Contra Incendios, Unidad de Ingeniería de Bomberos Costa Rica, Versión 2013.

• NFPA 72 – 2016 National Fire Alarm Code.

• NFPA 780 – 2014 Standard for the Installation of Lighting Protection Systems.

• Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad (ICE), valid regulations

• Comisión Nacional de Fuerza y Luz (CNFL), valid regulations

7.3 Plans

The plans show a schematic setting of the general location of equipment, devices and

pipes. The plans and specifications shall be used as a guide; however, the exact

placement, distance and heights must be defined by in site conditions and COR

recommendations. The scaled plans shall not be used to define the exact localization of

any equipment or electrical outlet. Any job or material not included in this section, but

necessary for its correct functioning, must be considered. The Contractor is the

responsible to stablish the appropriate pipe routes according to the building structure and

obstacles, these routes will be presented to the COR through detailed plans for his

revision and approval. The project delivered by the Contractor, must be reviewed and

approved by the COR, Client and/or any authorized institution.

7.3.1 Plans Update

At the end of the project, the Contractor shall deliver the COR a complete set of

installation plans, as well as digital archives (AUTOCAD) which must include all

modifications done to the original plans during the construction (As-built plans), these

plans must be reviewed and presented to the CFIA, for the application process of the

definitive meter and final delivery to the client.


7.4 Works to Be Performed

7.4.1 Descriptions of Jobs to Realize

The Contractor must include within his offer, all systems and materials specified in plans

and technical specifications, the following are the most important to consider:

• Lightning accessories and lightning installation, according to the distribution and

characteristics indicated in plans

• Construction or installation of posts and connectors of the electrical connections,

according to the ubication and characteristics defined in plans

• Electrical reel installation according to the distributing and characteristics indicated in

plans • Provide and install branch lines: Complete systems for illumination, outlets and

electrical reels

• Provide structural elements such as supports, gauzes, hangers, etc, to obtain a proper

alignment and subjection to the pipes. It is forbidden to use wire as a support method

• The equipment guaranty and technical documents shall be provided to the client.

7.5 MATERIALS AND EQUIPMENT

7.5.1 General

All materials used in the project must be first quality products according to the specified

and approved by Underwriters Laboratories INC, UL o OSH certified laboratories, as well

as each one of the products that composes a system, must be certified. When two or

more units of the same class of material is required, only one manufacturer will be

accepted. The Contractors offer must consider the materials and equipment specified on

plans. In case of quoting different materials, the Contractor must indicate it with a proper

justification, also must include the price difference between the products. Once the project

is adjudged, the Contractor must present a comparative chart between both products,

annexing the manufacturer’s data technical sheet. Following, the COR will analyze the

documents, approving or denying in case of different characteristics or lower quality to

what is specified in plans or specifications. The above does not imply delays of the project


execution schedule. The Contractor is the responsible of taking care and protecting all

materials and equipment until the final delivery of the job. In case of damage, loss or steal,

while storage or installation, the Contractor shall assume the economic costs that the

substitution implies. The equipment guaranty shall be according to what is defined in the

contract or specifications; the Contractor is the responsible of this guaranty and must be

delivered in writing at the final reception of the project.

7.5.2 Pipeline Conduit PVC, EMT and IMC

7.5.2.1 PVC pipeline

Wherever is expressly indicated in plans, the PVC pipes will be made of polyvinyl type

PVC, SCH 40, caliber 40 and the corresponding accessories UL certified. The placement

shall be according to construction plans, however, all pipes set to be placed inside a

concrete wall shall be embedded, also in case of slabs or floors, the pipe must be located

underground. It is not allowed the use and installation of exposed PVC conduit pipes, in

all cases, the pipes shall be EMT, according to the following section. All PVC conduit

pipes must have as much glue as required where it’s needed: unions, curves, etc. The

glue to use will be regular cement solver, certified for its use at Kraloy’s pipes, also must

use the cleaner recommended by manufacturer. In case of bending PVC, SCH40,

diameter 12, 19 and 25 mm, the Contractor shall use a bender for manual EMT with a

spring bender, models as follows: 9040417 (12mm), 9040418 (19mm) and 9040419 (25

mm). To bend bigger diameter, it is allowed to use a traditional EMT bender and heat, as

long as it does not deform or burn the material or cause reductions to the pipe section.

Article 352.24 NEC 2008. Utilize a heat or hot air gun to heat the material, similar to

METABO HE-23-650 CONTROL (50-650°C). The PVC conduit pipes installed inside the

ceiling must be attached to wood or metal structures through supports.

All vertical or horizontal pipes shall be attached and fixed according to Chart 352 – 30

NEC. Chart 6.

Separation between support cording to conduit size:

Conduit Size Maximum separation between supports 19 – 25 [mm] 90 cm 32 – 51 [mm]

1,50 m 63 – 76 [mm] 1,80 m


When installed at a building or construction which includes concrete walls, casts, etc, the

conduit pipe shall not be attached until the wet section of the project is concluded and the

wall system is reasonably dry. All pipes must be cleaned using water from a compressor,

to ensure the complete removal of residues.

7.5.2.2 EMT pipe

All pipes exposed to outdoor conditions, shall be EMT type, wherever is indicated in plans

or technical documents the EMT pipe to use shall be metallic, galvanized, similar or better

than Wheatland, UL certified. Unions, connectors and accessories must fulfill the

requirements above. The spacing between supports shall not be longer than 2,9 linear

meters. Each ending must be supported every 1,5 meters. 47 The unions, connectors or

accessories must de designed for this purpose, also, the connections and unions between

items such as boxes or pipes, shall be using pressure accessories, screwed accessories

are not allowed. All pipes must be storage properly, pipes left outdoor shall not be used.

Use manual bender for 13, 19, 25- and 32-mm diameter EMT pipes, for bigger diameters,

utilize hydraulic equipment to bend. Use unions to adjust properly the pipes over different

surfaces, as follows:

• Between two boxes, drivers, etc

• Height changes between walls, slabs, ets

• Direction changes

• Support architectural elements EMT pipes placed in direct contact to the ground, must

be equipped with a PVC sleeve sealed with Duretan to avoid its corrosion, as an

alternative, it is allowed to use a 25 cm height x 15 cm wide concrete base between PVC

and EMT transitions. It is not allowed under any circumstances the installation of

channelings directly over the template structures, as well as over the aluminum used as

structure for suspended ceilings. Using roof nails to attach the channeling is prohibited,

unless the building architecture provides no other option, in this case, the Contractor must

use support to separate the pipes from the roof cover at least 30 cm. All loops provided

and installed at the pipelines shall be double “footing” and made of metal. It is prohibited


to use two or more 90° curves on the pipeline between two connection boxes. Utilize

additional boxes y/or conductors if necessary.

7.5.2.3 EMT BX (Biex)

The EMT BX pipes to use must be American line, when delivered to the project; the

pipeline shall be properly protected using a cover. The maximum length of the BX pipeline

will be 1,5 meters.

7.5.3 Conductors

The conductors to install shall fulfill the following characteristics:

• Comply UL50 norms

• Comply IP55 norms

• The body and cover shall be made of free aluminum casting

• The cover must be able to be secured using screws.

• Neoprene packaging • Bolts made of stainless steel

• Conductor finish will be according to COR All conductors must be properly attached to

existing structures, providing the necessary supports for each case. The conductors will

be considered as records; therefore, the covers should always be accessible.

7.5.4 Underground Channelings

The pipeline installed underground shall be PVC with a minimum schedule of 40, will be

settle over a sand layer with a minimum thickness of 10 cm, duly compacted. These pipes

must be covered using three layers, the first one will be made of sand with the same

characteristics as before, the second layer made of lean concrete with a 5 cm thickness,

use backfilling compacted according to plans as the last layer over the pipeline. The

channeling system shall be done using isolation wires similar to RHH/RHW-2/USE-2, wet

and weatherproof. Prior the installation, use a compressor to clean the channelings, in

order to remove any dust or soil residues.


7.5.5 Supports

The Contractor shall deliver and install all necessary supports, for safe and robust fixing

of the pipes, air pipelines, boxes, equipment, etc. All supports must be metallic, as follows:

• For conduit PVC and EMT, use metallic trapeze supports, composed by all-threaded

screws and rail channels, also must considerer the packing rings required for an

appropriate installation

• The supports used to attach airports, shall be designed for this function, using other

type of supports is forbidden.

• Wood or EMT pipelines cannot be used as supports When attaching the supports to the

surface, the Contractor must ensure that it does not harm walls, beams or any other

construction element, in addition all supports shall be duly plumbed.

7.5.6 Outlet and Inspection Boxes

All electrical outputs referred in plans or technical documents shall be accompanied with

his respective EMT box or thermoplastics, depending on what is needed. 50 All metallic

boxes embedded in concrete, such as walls and concrete slabs, these items must be

painted prior its installation using red color anticorrosive painting. The Contractor is in the

responsibility to determinate the exact ubication of the outlet boxes, considering

architectonical aspects, such as dimensions, characteristics and installation methodology

of the equipment defined by the manufacturer. The outlet for switches, sockets, etc.,

placed next to Work Stations, air racks, vertical racks, will be installed in such way the

appointments doesn’t block the devices, therefore allowing the access and use of the

potency devices. All boxes shall be rigidly secured in its position, and must ensure the

alignment between the box and the finished walls or slabs. When the boxes are located

in columns or over doors, the boxes shall be placed symmetrically to these elements. For

ceilings, the maximum separation between chambers is 20 meters, additionally the

boxers must be attached to the structure using as a minimum two screws, using the

electrical pipelines to support the boxes is prohibited. Metallic boxes associated to

electrical system must be duly grounded according to the National Electrical Code (NEC),


article 250 and 314-4. Screwdriver’s points will not be allowed inside the outlet or

inspection boxes under any circumstances.

7.5.7 Low Tension Wiring

The materials to use must fulfill the applicable codes, norms and requirements involved

in this document. In case of conflicts between codes and required standards, the COR

will define the requirements to follow: According to the following standards:

• ANSI C119.1-2006 – American National Standard for Sealed Insulated Underground

Connector System 600V, or its recent version.

• NFPA 70 – National Fire Protection Association, National Electrical Code® (NEC®), last

edition.

• UL 83-2003 (R2006) – Thermoplastic-Insulated Wires and Cables, o su versión más

reciente. The conductors belonging to the branch circuit will be made of cooper, AWG,

THHN unless otherwise is stated in plans or as an underground channeling, which much

comply the requirements stablished previously. The wiring cover must fulfill the following

characteristics:

• Resistance to the fire propagation, according to IEEE-383 norm

• Minimum emissions of dense and dark gases

• Minimum emissions of toxic and corrosive gases

• Resistencia to heat, abrasion, wet, oils, grease and chemical products. For underground

channelings, it’s only allowed to use unipolar type AWG conductors, made of soft cooper

or aluminum alloy, with polyethylene thermal insulation. The wire to use must be similar

or better than RHH/RHW-2/USE-2 for 0,6 KV operating at a temperature of 90°C, also

must fulfill the ASTM- B 800, ASTM-B 801, INTE 20-03-10-05, UL-44, UL-854, o IEC 502,

para cables de 0,6/1 kV, class 2. Conductors shall go inside proper and recognized by

NEC channelings. The Contractor must consider the following chart, which defines the

amount of THHN wires to use depending of the pipe diameter. Chart 7. Amount of THHN

conducts according to the diameter Pipe diameter N° 14 N° 12 N° 10 N° 3 N°6 18 mm 9


7 4 2 1 52 19 mm 15 12 9 3 2 25 mm 25 19 15 7 4 Minimum caliber accepted (unless the

COR indicates otherwise):

• Power conductor: 12 AWG

• Control conductor: 18 AWG or as indicated in plans The conductors shall have isolation

for 600V, as follows:

• Up to 7 cooper threads for calibers up to #6 AWG

• Up to 19 cooper threads for calibers from #4 AWG to #4/0 AWG

• Up to 37 cooper threads for calibers up to #4/0 AWG What involves the electrical

system, joints are not allowed, only derivations which will be done using “T” unions,

without cutting the principal conductor. Given this, all lines (F-N-T-TA) should be

continuous from the longer circuit to the power source, is recommended the use of

derivation conductors similar to Scotchlock 562 of 3M, for 10 and 12 calibers. All wires

must be installed in such way they are duly protected from physical damage, rain

exposure, chemical products, high temperature, vapor or water pipes, etc, unless it is

defined the use of special equipment. When wiring terminals, the cable lining should be

cut evenly, additionally, it must reach completely to the terminal, to ensure no parts of it

are left uncovered and exposed. The installation of conductors inside the channelings

shall be done whenever the COR considers it adequate, however, it will not start before

the wet stages, fine coating and pipe cleaning processes are finished. Before installing

the cables, all metallic accessories shall be reviewed and the edges properly filed, this

process is done to prevent damage on the isolation conductors. In case of finding damage

on an isolation conductor, the COR may ask for its replacement.

7.5.8 Systems Identifications

All channelings (each 2m), cable and accessories of any system, must be identified as a

part of the system, using color tapes and identifying the circuit or outlet. Use high-quality

adhesive labels similar to Panduit, prior attaching the labels, clean the surfaces and apply

degreaser to ensure the labels durability, it is allowed to use an isopropyl alcohol solution.

Use danger or alert labels on all electrical equipment exposed or hidden, such as boards,


transformers, emergency sources, underground or aerial wiring, etc.; or places where

unauthorized personal may have access to the equipment. The language on the labels

should be Spanish. Wherever it applies, use “electrical danger signals” designed by

Brady. Use voltage level signs on all electrical equipment exposed or hidden, such as

boards, transformers, emergency sources, air conditioner, etc.; or places where

unauthorized personal may have access to the equipment. All labels shall be approved

by the COR prior being attached.

7.5.8.1 Pipes

Pipes, outlet and record boxers, conductors, systems such as telecommunications, fire

alarms, CCTV, etc., shall be properly identified using a label. The labels shall be made of

polyester, auto adhesive, white color and resistant to site conditions, the maximum

separation between labels is 2 meters, using a legend of the system to identify. The letters

used in the labels will be back and the height no less than 5 mm (#18 PVC) for normal

systems. The Contractor will define if he needs bigger dimensions labels; this depends

on the pipe diameter. If the polyester strip does not cover the impression area completely,

add over the label an additional strip of transparent polyester, to cover completely the

impression area. Provide water proof label when it’s required. Consider the following

nomenclature for branch pipes:

• Circuit TA-X

• CCTV-X or DATA-X The “A” indicates the board number, the “X” defines the circuit or

outlet number. Additionally, aside of each circuit or outlet label, identify each system using

3M masking tape with the assigned color of the systems, each 2 meters, according to

plans.

7.5.8.2 Wiring

All cables inside an electrical equipment shall be identified using labels on their ends; this

label must include the circuit’s number of each system and lines involved.


7.5.8.3 Equipment and Accessories

The labels will be made of polyester, white and auto adhesive; it must include the system,

voltage and circuit number. The letters will be black and the height no less than 4mm (#16

PVC), the legend should not be erased under any circumstances. In case of fire detection

systems, the manual stations, detectors and other components must have the legend “D-

X”, stroboscopic lights and notification system components shall be identified using the

legend: “N-X”. The components of the antitheft, telephone, data and CCTV systems shall

be labeled according to the outlet number, defined by plans.

7.5.8.4 Charge and Data Centers

The Contractor will include labels to describe the equipment’s usage, on both the outside

of the load center lid and inside the equipment (general use, computer system, air

conditions, etc.), as described below:

• On the exterior lid of the board, indicate the board number function, as well as details

regarding the source

• Number the position of each circuit breaker according to what is stablished by the

manufacturer. The labels shall be placed directly over the lid, next to each circuit breaker

and on both right and left sides

• Label each conductor using the branch circuit number neutral, grounded, phase of line.

• The lid label letters shall be black, and a height no less than 5 mm (#18 PC)

7.5.8.5 Circuits Directory

The Contractor shall supply a numbered board inside the charge center, which indicates

the function and localization of the switches for each circuit. This board must be written

clearly and placed behind the lid. The Contractor shall make a report with a proper

description of each one of the circuits according to the charge labels disposed in plans,

using a letter size of #12. This document shall be printed using adhesive paper, and

attached on to the board lid interior, which must indicate as a minimum the circuit number


and description. In case the board already exists, the Contractor must verify the existing

information and adjust it to the new systems.

7.5.8.6 Color Code for Wires and Conductors

All wires and conductors shall be installed complying the following color code. It is allowed

the identification using vinyl electrical adhesive tape only on those cases that the wire

isolation color required is not available on the market or the conductor caliber is higher

than #2 AWG. The identification of the wire and conductors will be done on both ends of

the wire:

• Red: Phases

• Blue: Phases

• White: Neutral conductor

• Green: Grounded conductor

7.5.9 Lighting Equipment

The lighting equipment will be as specified in plans and delivered by the Contractor, its

quality must be similar or better than the items indicated in plans and symbology. All

equipment shall have UL certification. In general, the luminaries shall not be installed until

all the civil job procedures are done, these works include painting application or activities

that produces dust or excessive substances that may adhere to the body or equipment

devices. Any modification the COR may found during the inspection of the installed

lighting equipment, which alter the designed own-seal of the lighting equipment, shall be

rejected, therefore the Contractor will be the responsible of substituting the units, under

no additional cost.

7.5.9.1 Lightning

All lighting units shall be delivered with its own lamps and bulbs, according to the specified

in plans, keeping a strict attachment to the nominal tension characteristics, color

temperature, light dispersion angle, nominal potency and compatibility of the bulb and the

luminaire, etc. The luminaries power system from the exit boxes will be done through the


usage of THHN conductors, channeled inside corrugated Bx “Biex” pipes, with a cover or

PVC lining, the dimensions shall be according to plans, incorporating the Biex connectors

for the both boxes and lamps. The minimum length of the Bx will be 2.5 meters.

7.5.9.1.1 Interiors

The body of patched or embedded luminaries installed on a suspended ceiling shall carry

a minimum of four tensors or galvanized wire hangers, #16 caliber, duly attached to the

metallic or concrete building structure, through the usage of bolts.

7.5.9.1.2 Exteriors

In the case of exteriors and humid areas, all the illumination equipment to deliver and

install shall have seal characteristics according to the standards: IP-65 and/or NEMA 1,

2, 3, 3R, 4, 4X and from 5 to 13, UL certified, according to plans.

7.5.9.2 Emergency Ballasts

When the plans indicate the incorporation of emergency ballasts in the luminaries, will

be required that these items are installed previously by the equipment manufacturer, this

is to ensure the correct compatibility and operation of all devices, as well as have the

guarantee and UL certification. The Contractor shall run charge and discharge battery

tests, to guarantee the correct operation of the emergency device.

7.5.10 Switch and Power Outlet Systems

All accessories and systems shall be installed once the painting works on site are done.

When being installed, the Contractor shall ensure the usage of materials that does not

cause damage on the isolation conductor or maintenance staff. It is not allowed the usage

of final sharp section that may cause damages on the isolation connectors or to the

network maintenance staff. When installed in wet or outside areas, the installing shall

include outdoor lid on both switches and outlet systems.

7.5.10.1 Light Switches

The light switches shall be silent, one pole with mechanical operation, lever action, 125V,

20 A, simple, double, three or four tracks, ivory color, Specification Grade and/or


TradeMaster similar or better than Pass & Seymour and Hubbell, or what is specified in

the symbology, considering the following characteristics:

• Lateral or posterior wiring, cables from #14 to #10 AWG

• Designed with a positive action to minimize arcs and extend the switch useful life

• Strong thermoplastic lever

• Oversized contact plate dimensions to ensure a longer durability of the item, as well as

a better heat dissipation

• Thermoplastic body and cover for a better heat resistance

• UL certification or equivalent All light swtiches shall be installed 110 cm away from the

SNPT center, the Contractor must comply the 7600 Law “Igualdad de Oportunidades para

las personas con discapacidad” and 8661 Law “Convención sobre los derechos de las

personas con discapacidad y su protocolo facultativo” When being installed, the

Contractor shall ensure the use of materials which does not cause damage on the

isolation conductor or maintenance staff.

7.5.10.2 Power Outlets

The power outlets shall be double, polarized and commercial usage, grounded

125V/20A, same or better than Pass & Seymour and Hubbell, or the one indicated in the

symbology, UL certified. Additionally the system exposed to outdoors conditions, shall be

protected by a plate, which may be individual for each outlet or a unique plate to cover

both outlets, it is recommended models similar or better than HBL5205WO or RW51020,

from Hubbell manufacturer. The wiring connection of switches and outlets shall be done

using lateral screws, through the rear pierces disposed by the manufacturer. Prior this,

the Contractor shall make the joints between the source lines (F-N-T), in such way only

one is connected to the receptacle, the “bridge” through line is prohibited.

7.5.10.3 Emergency Unit Reel

The Contractor must install #10 cables retractile reels at the engine room for each

Emergency Unit, to be installed in the ceiling of this room and hanging in the left side of


each unit, the cable length will depend on the reel ubication respecting the emergency

unit. Each reel has to be built for the defined usage, the cable must be flexible and oil

resistant, the lining will be outdoor resistant, similar or better than SJEOW, using three

wire threads, caliber #12, 1800W capacity, 15 A, 12V, 15 meters length and 4 outlets type

NEMA 5-15P. The reel quality shall be the same or better than Bayco SL-8906. Each reel

must be connected to an independent circuit break of 20 A on the load center. 7.5.10.4

Overvoltage protection the transient suppressor must be designed, built and tested

according to the UL 1449 and 1283 standards, as well as certified by the CSA 22.2 norm.

Operation voltage: 120/208 V, or as indicated in plans Maximum operation continuous

voltage must be approximately 115% of the nominal voltage system. The suppressor shall

provide protection in all possible ways: line-neutral, line ground and neutral ground on

system which employs star connections. The equipment shall be built in such way each

phase possesses a suppression module. The transistor suppressor will be equipped

using with an audible alarm, which will active when a suppression module reaches its full

useful life. The equipment must have balanced suppression platforms, electrical noise

filter (55 db to 100 KHz), internal connections through low impedance conductors, self-

diagnosis and event counter. Unless the suppressor is duly installed by the manufacturer

and incorporated to the remaining elements that composes the load center or board, it is

required the utilization of protection circuit breakers recommended by the manufacturer.

8 MECHANICAL INSTALLATIONS

8.1 Applicable publications

The following publications are part of this Specification document, and apply to the pipe

network installation and inspection chambers construction:

● Installation: Código de Instalaciones Hidráulicas y Sanitarias en Edificaciones del CFIA

de Costa Rica (Code of Hydraulic and Sanitary Installations for Buildings, CFIA, Costa

Rica)

● Ley #7600 “Igualdad de Oportunidades para las Personas con Discapacidad” (#7600

Law “Equal Opportunities for Disabled People”)


8.2 General

8.2.1 Approval requests Isometric sketches will be submitted for the CORs approval.

Approval requests must include equipment dimensions, accessories, installation area,

dimension compatibility, and installation details. Anchor and connecting elements

information must also be included. Element fabrication will not start until isometric

sketches are approved, as required by the COR.

8.2.2 Samples

Equipment and material samples must be provided if the CORs requests it.

8.2.3 Drawings and Specifications

Drawings and specifications must be taken as complementary, and the Contractor is

required to submit any necessary written request to the mechanical COR regarding any

need for clarification. Every installation detail will be taken, as “schematic”, and the

Contractor will consider the cost of any challenge indicated in drawings. 8.2.4 Scope All

materials, tools, equipment or minor details not shown in drawings or specifications, but

necessary for a correct installation and operation, will be included in the project at no

additional cost for the Owner, which is hiring a complete functional project, not only a

system. The subcontractors and the General Contractor will define their own contract

scopes, finally delivering one dully finished project at the deadline. It is common for the

civil works contractor to include any concrete necessary for equipment mounting bases,

Inspection chambers and drains. A mechanic specialist will install control circuits, electric

panel and every equipment’s on/off switch, while electric piping and power wiring will be

installed by the electrical specialist.

8.2.5 Approval

Material, accessories and equipment that lack the CORs written approval will not be

accepted. The minimum requirements for approval are: New material or equipment, no

manufacturing defects, manufacturer’s warranty, U.L. seal and that it complies with the

previously mentioned specifications and drawings.


8.2.6 Brands and Models

Any specified brand or model must be taken as reference. The contractor will be able to

submit for CORs consideration any similar brand or model, provided that they share the

same operation conditions, and equipment or accessory standard. In special cases, the

change approval must be backed by a technical opinion that may require professional

responsibility commitments regarding eventual designs. Any change must be submitted

for the CORs approval.

8.2.7 As Built Drawings

The contractor must draw up to date plans according to the projects development, which

must be delivered when the COR requires so and when changes need to be approved.

They will be printed or in a digital format and a defined scale, as requested by the COR.

Once the project is finished, the Contractor will deliver three sets of drawings to the COR.

The drawings must include as-built installation details, indicating the exact equipment

location, and providing its characteristics, materials, origin, duct and pipe dimensions,

valves, accessories and flow values, as well as any other information that the COR

requires. 64 Once the work is accepted, the Contractor will deliver a compact disk, or any

other digital storage unit, with a set of drawings to the COR, containing all requested

corrections. All drawings must be done using computer software (such as AutoCad) and

delivered in print with the scale defined by the COR.

8.3 Stormwater Systems

8.3.1 Approvals

The general requirements for the mechanical system apply to drainpipes, gutters, pipes,

Inspection chambers, wells and drains. If concrete piping is specified in drawings, ASTM

C-14 standard will apply to concrete pipe without reinforcement bars, and ASTM C-44365

standard will apply. Any material to be used must be approved by the COR.

8.3.2 Pipe Installation for External Work

The main pipe will be installed following both the vertical and horizontal lines, as well as

the slope indicated in drawings. It will be placed in the South side of avenues and East


side of streets, unless otherwise noted. The pipe will be installed starting from the lowest

point of each section, so that each pipe spigot points to the following pipes bell in the

water direction. Trenches will have a firm bottom with the pipes required slope, so that no

height adjustments using soil, or any other material, are required. Poor strength concrete

fixtures will support underground piping. Small excavations shall be done inside the

trenches, with enough size to fit the pipes’ union bells. With the final purpose of avoiding

pipe settlements 65 inside the trench, prevent the union bell from receiving ground

pressure and facilitate the sealing joints procedure. This will help with pipe settlements

and excessive ground pressures, as well as with the pipes joint sealing process.

8.3.3 Pipe

Installation for interior work:

a) PVC pipes: When using plastic pipes, the unions or joints will be cleaned using acetone

and a bevel will be done, in the same way that the Durman y Esquivel S.A. technical

manual indicates. All ventilation columns will be PVC, unless otherwise indicated in

drawings.

b) Trenches: Trenches will have a firm bottom with the pipes required slope, so that no

height adjustments using soil, or any other material, are needed. Poor strength concrete

fixtures will support underground piping.

c) Inspection chambers: Inspection chambers will be built in the places indicated in

drawings. They will be placed in the lower end of downspouts and at pints that an abrupt

pipe direction change is needed.

8.3.4 Accessories

All of the employed accessories will come from the same manufacturer.

8.3.5 Tests

Stormwater and wastewater piping will be tested when completed, for which the CORs

indicated procedure would be used. If the tests results are not satisfactory, the network

will be drained and damaged elements replaced. Epoxy resin repairs, and defective

concrete blocks are not allowed. The tests will be repeated after the appropriate repairs


are done, as many times as needed. The test, materials, equipment and labor employed

for this purpose must be considered as part of the Contractors cost. Programming of

partial tests of different pipe sections, before closing any trenches or pipes, by the

Contractor is highly advised. All structural and architectonic damages caused by the

sewer and storm network during tests or reparations must be correctly fixed by the

Contractor and submitted to the COR for approval. The Contractor will assume these

costs.

8.3.6 Pipes and Accessories

The pipes and accessories for the drainages and ventilation will be made of Polyvinyl

chloride (PVC). The polyvinyl chloride pipes (PVC), as well as their respective

accessories will comply with NTC norms 369, 1087 and 1341, and standards ASTM

D2665-82 and CS 272-65. The joints between the PVC pipes and accessories shall be

made using a cleaning compound and a glue solution, or the joints could be done using

elements with tapped extremes, if approved by the COR. Floor sumps. The floor sumps

shall be vertically adjusted to the floor level. For diameters of 3” or more, the body will be

made of galvanized cast iron, brass strainer, and polish nickel finished. For diameters of

2” or less, the body and the strainer shall be made of brass and polish nickel finished.

Roof and terrace sumps. The rainwater sumps in roofs and terraces shall be formed by

semi-rounded iron racks, like a cage to enable a quick flow of the rainwater, but at the

same time, prevents the entrance of garbage or other material that could plug the

downpipes. In both cases, before they are installed, the racks shall have two coats of

non-corrosive paint. Check boxes. The check boxes shall be built according to drawings.

8.4 Construction

8.4.1 Equipment and Material Management

Materials must be protected from corrosion, deformation or any damage. Metal pipes

must be stored in a closed area, without soil and external weather contact. The

Contractor, at no additional cost, shall replace any damaged material. After approval

material, it will be stored to prevent it from suffering damage.


8.4.2 Materials

Any exposed pipe will be galvanized iron, painted according to drawings and

specifications requirements. Painting of any steel element will be done according to the

following procedure: A mechanical cleaning of the pipe will be performed (using steel

brush, circular saw or water sandpaper. If the surface is galvanized, a Wash Primer

00238-100 must be used, Sur brand or similar. When the first coat is completely dry, the

specified anticorrosive will be used, following the manufacturer’s instructions. To dilute

use Sur 00456-900 Sur thinner or similar, with no more than 15% by volume.

8.4.3 Concrete Casting

The Contractor has the obligation to notify, with one-week notice, the next concrete

casting dates that involve mechanical pipes, for the CORs approval. Casting start is not

authorized if the COR. does a complete verification of the electromechanical system. If

formwork blocks the view for checking the mechanical system, the COR must be done

prior to formwork starting. When pressure pipes are placed underground, a concrete

anchor must be casted at every direction change.

8.4.4 Supports

Supports equal or similar to those specified in drawings or these specifications must be

used. Plastic anchor supports or supports fixed to fragile elements will not be allowed in

any case. The indicated support, according to plans, must be installed between the

maximum spacing allowed by the manufacturer. The use of temporary anchors is allowed

as long as the final supports aren’t placed and don’t represent a danger to the workers or

damage the pipe.

8.4.5 Installation Considerations

All pipe ends will be plugged to avoid any obstruction during the construction process.

8.4.6 Tests

The Contractor will be obliged to perform any kind of operation test, in any part of the

mechanical system that the COR requires. Each test will be 69 performed according to

the specifications or the manufacturers’ advice, unless a standard for the test exists, in


which case said procedure will follow. 8.4.7 Work reception Mechanical installations

works will not be accepted before a final inspection is performed, for which a deep

element cleaning is required. All labels, glue residue, rust or packing box will be removed

without affecting any material or equipment. Any defective paint trace will be removed at

no additional cost 8.4.8 System performance guarantee The Mechanical Contractor will

guarantee in writing, and by a year, that every equipment, material and installation work

are free of any defect and that they will work in an optimal way, according to design. Any

damage presented during the mentioned timeline, according to the above-described

deficiencies, will be repaired by the Contractor at no additional cost. Likewise, any

architectonic or structural element that is damaged during the repairing process will be

the Contractors responsibility.

8.5 Protection

All exposed piping will be protected with anticorrosive paint and coating. Underground

piping will have a minimum 60 cm depth measured from the pipes crown to the finished

surface level. The Contractor will be responsible for any pipe that does not meet these

criteria and covering them with the appropriate material thickness. The Contractor must

verify the pipes line, making sure of that it does not cross any structural, architectonic or

natural element that may damage it during service or installation.

Date

The INL Section requires this work to be completed by November 30, 2020.


All firms that respond to the solicitation must be technically qualified and financially

responsible to provide the equipment. At a minimum, each offeror must meet the following

requirements when submitting its proposal:

• Be able to understand written and spoken English/Spanish

• If the contract is over $30,000 the vendor must have or be able to obtain a unique

DUNS and Bradstreet number, NCAGE code and be registered in the System for

Award Management (SAM) (https://www.sam.gov/ )

• Have an established business with a permanent address and telephone listing

• Have the necessary personnel, equipment and financial resources available to

perform the work

• Have all licenses and permits required by local law

• Meet all local insurance requirements

• Have no adverse criminal record

• Have no political or business affiliation which could be considered contrary to the

interests of the United States

• Have good past performance records

• Identify specialized experience and technical competence required for the work in

accordance with this solicitation

If interested in competing, please provide a written letter of your willingness to participate

and your quotation. Direct all the correspondence to Sheena Hall: Contracting

Officer/General Services Office/U.S. Embassy/San Jose, Costa Rica and send it by email

to Mariela Ruiz at [email protected] before November 03, 2020.


October 20, 2020

US EMBASSY SAN JOSE

INL Procurement Support Office

Avenida 0, Calle 120 Pavas, San Jose

Costa Rica

Tel: (506) 2519-2000

E-mail: [email protected]

Combined Synopsis and Solicitation PR9467432

The US Embassy San Jose hereby provides the following Combined Synopsis and

Solicitation for:

SVA HANGAR ELECTRIC POWER SUPPLY & STORM WATER WORKS AT BASE 2

The evaluation of offers will be based on the Lowest- Priced, Technically Acceptable

(LPTA) approach.

C.1 Synopsis:

This is a combined synopsis/solicitation for commercial items/services prepared in

accordance with the format in FAR Subpart 12.6, as supplemented with additional

information included in this notice. This announcement constitutes the only solicitation;

offers are requested and a written solicitation will not be issued. The solicitation

number is PR9467432 and it is issued as a Request for Quotations (RFQ), unless

otherwise indicated herein. The solicitation document and incorporated provisions and

clauses are those in effect through Federal Acquisition Circular FAC 2005-100,

effective August 22, 2018.


C.2 Contract Type:

The Government intends to award a single, firm fixed-price contract to the responsible

offeror whose offer is evaluated as the lowest-priced and technically acceptable. The

total price shall include all labor, equipment, delivery charges, materials, overhead,

profit, insurance, and all other expenses necessary to deliver the required furniture. No

additional sums will be payable due of any escalations in the cost of materials,

equipment, or labor, or because of the Contractor’s failure to properly estimate or

accurately predict the cost or difficulty of achieving the results required by this contract.

Nor will the contract price be adjusted because of fluctuations in currency exchange

rates.

C.3 Term of Contract:

This ensuing contract shall be effective from the date of the Contracting Officer’s

signature and shall remain valid until all items have been received and accepted by the

Government.

C.4 Compliance with Specifications:

Offerors shall also provide with their offer, at a minimum, existing product literature

from the manufacturer or a third party (i.e., clearly identifying the source) substantiating

the acceptability of their offered products in accordance with this solicitation’s

specifications provided. Failure to provide this information will result in a ‘non-

responsive’ offer and removal from award consideration.

C.5 Descriptive Literature

Definition: (a) "Descriptive literature" means information (e.g., cuts, illustrations,

drawings and original manufacturers' brochures) that is submitted as part of an offer.

Descriptive literature is required to establish, for the purpose of evaluation and award,

details of the product offered that are specified elsewhere in the solicitation and pertain


to significant elements such as

(1) Design;

(2) Materials;

(3) Components;

(4) Performance characteristics; and

(5) Methods of manufacture, assembly, construction, or operation. The term includes

only information required to determine the technical acceptability of the offered

product. It does not include other information such as that used in determining the

responsibility of a prospective contractor or for operating or maintaining equipment.

Descriptive literature must be:

(1) Identified to show the item(s) of the offer to which it applies and

(2) Received by the time specified in this solicitation for receipt of offers.

(c) Data displaying more than one model or size shall be clearly marked to indicate

the specific item being offered.

(d) Offers that do not present sufficient information to permit complete technical

evaluation by the Government may be rejected. It is the offeror’s responsibility to prove

that their proposed solution meets the requested specifications, subject to any

limitations elsewhere in this solicitation.

C.6 Other Specific Requirements:

• If applicable, the Contractor shall comply with all import requirements

mandated by the government of Costa Rica. Furthermore, the Contractor shall

provide all the necessary documentation required at destination for importation

of the proposed good.

• All manuals and literature shall be in the English and Spanish language

C.7 Basis of Price:

The Contractor shall provide a copy in English of the applicable manufacturer’s

commercial warranty for the good covered by such a warranty at no additional cost

to the Government.


C.8 Delivery:

Delivery shall be made CIF destination as soon as possible but not later than Thirty

(30) calendar days from the date of contract award.

The contractor shall deliver the service to the following address:

SVA Base 2. Next to the Santamaria Terminals at the Juan Santamaria’s

International Airport. Alajuela, Costa Rica.

C.9 Coordination:

The Contractor shall coordinate the delivery with the Point of Contact (POC) for this

order. Shipping documents for the items being shipped shall be sent to the POC prior

to delivery.

[POC will be provided upon award.]

C.10 Condition of Delivered Goods:

The goods shall be supplied in an appropriate quality and condition.

C.11 Inspection and Acceptance of the goods/service:

The U.S. Government shall perform the inspection and acceptance of the

goods/service. The payment(s) to the Contractor shall be made following satisfactory

inspection and acceptance of the goods/service, and upon presentation of the

certificates of origin or good title to the POC.

C.12 Applicable Clauses and Provisions

The full text of the referenced FAR and DOSAR clauses may be accessed electronically

at https://www.acquisition.gov/far/ and http://farsite.hill.af.mil/vfdosara.htm, respectively.


The selected Offeror must comply with the following commercial item terms and

conditions, which are incorporated herein by reference:

FAR 52.212-1, Instructions to Offerors - Commercial Items, applies to this acquisition;

FAR 52.212-3, Offeror Representations and Certifications - Commercial Items – to be

completed with other certifications and submitted with the offer; FAR 52.212-4,

Contract Terms and Conditions - Commercial Items; FAR 52.211-6, FAR 52.247-42,

FAR 52.225-14, FAR 52.225-

13, FAR, FAR 52.212-5, Contract Terms and Conditions Required to Implement

Statutes or Executive Orders-Commercial Items; the applicable clauses under

paragraph (b) are: 52.204-10, 52.209-6, 52.223-18, 52.225-13, [U.S. firms: 52.222-

21, 52.222-26, 52.222-35, 52.222-36, 52.222-37], 52.222-50, 52.232-33, 52.232-40,

and DOSAR 652.232-70, DOSAR 652.242-73 and DOSAR 652.243-70. DOSAR

652.225-71

The following and provision(s) are provided in full text:

C.13 Addendum to 52.212-2 Evaluation – Commercial Items (Oct 2014)

The Government intends to award a contract resulting from this solicitation to the

responsible offeror (as determined within the meaning of FAR Part 9, paragraph 9.104),

whose offer conforms to the solicitation and is determined to be the most advantageous

solution to the Government, price and other factors considered. Evaluation will be based

on offeror’s submission and the provision at FAR 52.212-2, as provided in this

solicitation.

The Government has the right to award without any discussions.

(a) The following factors shall be used to evaluate offers:

(i) Price

The price will be evaluated by the lowest aggregate sum of the items

including any delivery charges, etc. The U.S. Embassy San José, Costa Rica

is VAT exempt and can provide documentation, if needed.


(ii) Technical Capability/Acceptability

Technical capability is equal to price.

(b) A written notice of award or acceptance of an offer mailed or otherwise furnished

to the successful offeror within the time for acceptance specified in the offer, shall

result in a binding contract without further action by either party. Before the offeror’s

specified expiration time, the Government may accept an offer (or part of an offer),

whether or not there are negotiations after its receipt, unless a written notice of

withdrawal is received before award.

(End of provision)

C.14 52.214-34 Submission of Offers in the English Language (Apr 1991)

Offers submitted in response to this solicitation shall be in the English language. Offers

received in other than English shall be rejected.

(End of Provision)

C.15 52.225-17 Evaluation of Foreign Currency Offers (Feb 2000)

If the Government receives offers in more than one currency, the Government will

evaluate offers by converting the foreign currency to United States currency using

http://ice.cgfs.state.sbu/ in effect as follows:

(1) On the date specified for receipt of offers, if award is based

on initial offers; otherwise

(2) On the date specified for receipt of proposal revisions.

(End of provision)


C.16 Addendum to FAR 52.212-1 Instruction to Offerors – Commercial Items (Aug

2018)

Pursuant to FAR 12.302(d), the provision at FAR 52.212-1, Instruction to Offerors

– Commercial Items (Jan 2017) is augmented as follows: Preparation of Offers -

Offerors shall prepare and submit its offer in two (2) volumes as set forth below.

Preparation of Offers - Offerors shall prepare and submit offers to Mariela Ruiz, via

email to: [email protected] In addition, offerors shall complete and submit the

following:

C.17 VOLUME I:

1. PRICING

The offeror shall complete a table in order to submit its offer. The format will be provided

before the site visit.

2. REPRESENTATIONS AND CERTIFICATIONS

52.212-3 Offeror Representations and Certifications—Commercial Items (Aug

2018)

Offeror Representations and Certifications - Commercial Items - the selected offeror

must submit a completed copy of the listed representations and certifications. A

completed copy of these provisions MUST be included on the System for Award

Management (SAM) web site located

at https://www.sam.gov/SAM/

If the Offeror has not completed the annual representations and certifications

electronically, the Offeror shall complete only paragraphs (c) through (u) of this provision.


C.18 VOLUME II:

1. TECHNICAL CAPABILITY

The proposed good shall meet all of the minimum technical specifications and

the delivery terms contained herein. In addition, the offeror shall provide:

(A) Descriptive Literature if offering other than the named brand.

(B) A delivery confirmation providing a detailed schedule for this project

(C) Warranty provisions:

The Contractor agrees that the good furnished under this contract shall

be covered by the most favorable manufacturer’s commercial warranty

the Contractor gives to any customer for such good and that the rights

and remedies provided herein are in addition to and do not limit any rights

afforded to the Government by any other clause of this contract.

The Contractor shall provide a copy in English of the applicable

manufacturer’s commercial warranty with the good covered by such a

warranty at no additional cost to the Government.

(D) Technical Compliance Matrix (Brand Name or Equal):

Submission of Offers:

The complete offer submission shall include:

(1) Price Offer and Representations and Certifications

(2) Technical Capability – Volume II – Parts (A) thru (D)


C.19 Submission of Questions:

Interested parties may submit any questions concerning the solicitation not later than

16:00 hrs. On Thursday, November 29, 2020 via email to Mariela Ruiz at

[email protected] Late questions may not be considered. The email subject line

must read “Solicitation PR9467432”.

C.20 Site Visit:

Site Visit is scheduled for Tuesday November 27, 2020 at 11:00am at Base 2,

Alajuela.

C.21 Offer due date:

Offers shall be submitted not later than 16:00 hrs. On Tuesday, November 03,

2020 via email to Mariela Ruiz at [email protected]

The email subject line must read “Solicitation PR9467432”. The size shall not

exceed 20MB.

C.22 Late submissions shall not be considered.

Applicable laws and regulations: Solicitation and award will be subject to laws and

regulations of the United States of America.

Documents

COMBINED SYNOPSIS & SOLICITATION · characteristics, in accordance with the specified requirements and tolerances, in line with the use for which they have been intended. Materials,