P100 version 2014

PBS-P100
PBS-P100
Facilities Standards
for the
Public Buildings Service
General Services Administration
GSA P-100 Version 1.0, issued March 2014 Page 1

PBS-P100

PBS-P100
About the P100
The Facilities Standards for the Public Buildings Service establishes design standards and criteria for new buildings,
repairs and alterations, modernizations, lease construction buildings with government option to purchase, and work
in historic structures for the Public Buildings Service (PBS) of the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA). This
document contains both performance based standards and prescriptive requirements to be used in the
programming, design, and documentation of GSA buildings.
Introduction
Through its Public Buildings Service (PBS), the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) designs, constructs, and
operates federal civilian buildings. PBS provides workspace to 1.1 million federal employees, primarily with
courthouses, land ports of entry, and federal office buildings. It ranks among the largest holders of real estate in the
United States.
The PBS-P100, "Facilities Standards for the Public Buildings Service," is GSA's mandatory facilities standard. It applies
to design and construction of new federal facilities, major repairs and alterations of existing buildings, and lease
construction facilities that GSA intends to own or has the option to own. P100 users span the entire spectrum of
building professional disciplines, and the P100 informs and regulates decisions made throughout a project's life.
This edition of the P100 represents the document's substantial transformation from a prescriptive standard to one
that contains both performance-based and prescriptive requirements. A large portion of the new standard specifies
levels of performance, which allows a design team and GSA's other professional partners to identify and implement
the best strategies to meet those goals.
Four levels of performance are defined throughout the P100 in matrices, in which "baseline" performance (plus all
prescriptive requirements) is the lowest permissible level, and it is generally commensurate with the standards of
the P100 published in 2010. The three higher-performance levels are more rigorous and voluntary. Each project
may implement any combination of performance levels, in order to prioritize performance opportunities that stem
from climate, site, program, mandates, and other conditions. Metrics will validate performance goals at various
phases of design and construction through total building commissioning.

PBS-P100

CHAPTER 1: GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
CHAPTER 1 • GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
The design team must review compliance with the
building program at each stage of the project, as
required in Appendix A, to ensure that the
requirements of the program, the P100, and relevant
codes and standards have been met and to guard
against unplanned expansion of the program because
of design and engineering choices.
1.1 Purpose of the Facilities
Standards
The Facilities Standards for the Public Buildings
Service PBS-P100 (known as the P100) establishes
design standards and criteria for new buildings,
repairs and alterations, and modernizations for the
Public Buildings Service (PBS) of the General Services
Administration (GSA). This document also applies to
lease construction with government option-to-
purchase buildings. This document contains policy
and technical criteria to be used in the programming,
design, construction, measurement & verification,
and documentation of GSA facilities.
The P100 is a mandatory standard. It is not a
guideline, textbook, handbook, training manual, nor
substitute for technical competence. The P100
represents the current state of practice in designing
facilities to meet GSA’s commitments, maximize the
efficiency of business processes, and comply with the
requirements of law.
The P100 must be used in conjunction with the
governing standards referenced in this document, as
well as the building program for each project. If
conflicts exist between the facilities standards and a
specific program and project requirements, contact
the Office of Design and Construction for resolution.
The design team must review compliance with the
building program at each stage of the project, as
required in Appendix A, to ensure that the
requirements of the program, the P100, and relevant
codes and standards have been met and to guard
against unplanned expansion of the program because
of design and engineering choices.
1.2 Application of the P100
The P100 applies to all new construction projects.
New construction includes additions and annexes to
existing facilities. In addition, this section describes
how to apply the P100 to projects for repair and
alterations, modernizations, and lease construction
with Government option to purchase.
1.2.1 Repairs & Alterations
Repairs & Alterations (R&A) are improvements made
to existing facilities. Generally, building systems need
only be upgraded to correct deficiencies identified by
GSA, unless the entire building is being renovated. All
new work is required to meet the applicable national
codes and standards adopted by GSA. If a major
portion of the building is being renovated, the specific
codes must be evaluated to determine if the entire
building must be brought into compliance with the
code. Any questions or concerns must be discussed
with the GSA project manager.
The requirements of the P100 apply to renovations
and alterations to the extent those renovations and

alterations are identified in the approved and funded
project prospectus. All items within the designer’s
scope of work need to be designed in accordance
with the P100. The designer should have any
ambiguities clarified in writing before beginning the
design.
1.2.2 Lease Construction with
Government Option to Purchase
Lease construction is new construction of a facility for
Government use required by GSA’s formal Request
for Lease Proposals (RLP).
In lease construction where GSA’s formal RLP has an
option for GSA to purchase the building at a future
date, the requirements of the P100 may be
considered for inclusion in the RLP on a case by case
basis. In addition to the GSA-adopted nationally
recognized codes and requirements, State and local
government codes apply. If a conflict exists between
applicable State and local government codes and the
GSA requirements, the developer must identify these
conflicts in writing and request a resolution from the
GSA contracting officer.
1.2.3 Tenant Improvements
Tenant improvements are defined in the GSA Pricing
Desk Guide at
www.gsa.gov/gsa/cm_attachments/GSA_DOCUMENT
/pricing_guide_R2F-cI-v_0Z5RDZ-i34K-pR.pdf
1.3 Federal Laws, Regulations,
and Standards
The following are Federal laws, regulations, and
standards applicable to all projects.
The Public Buildings Amendments of 1988, 40 U.S.C.
3312, require that each building constructed or
altered by GSA or any other Federal agency must, to
the maximum extent feasible, comply with one of the
nationally recognized model building codes and with
other applicable nationally recognized codes.
1.3.1 Public Buildings Amendments of
1988
The Public Buildings Amendments of 1988, 40 U.S.C.
3312, require that each building constructed or
altered by GSA or any other Federal agency must, to
the maximum extent feasible, comply with one of the
nationally recognized model building codes and with
other applicable nationally recognized codes.
1.3.2 Environmental Protection
In addition to building-specific codes, all projects
must comply with all Federal, State, and local
environmental laws, regulations, and Executive
Orders. Federal regulations are found typically, but
not exclusively, in the Code of Federal Regulations
(CFR) Title 40, Protection of Environment, Executive
Order 13423 — Strengthening Federal Environmental,
Energy, and Transportation Management, and
Executive Order 13514 — Federal Leadership in
Environmental, Energy, and Economic Performance.
In matters of environmental compliance, GSA’s policy
is voluntary conformity to certain State and local code
requirements even when permitting or approvals
from local regulators are not required. Confer with
the regional environmental coordinator for specific
applicability.
1.3.3 Energy and Sustainable Design
Legislation directed toward energy efficiency and
sustainability continues to increase.
Laws, regulations, and Executive Orders affecting the
design and operation of Federal buildings include:
• Executive Order 13514: Federal Leadership in
Environmental, Energy, and Economic
Performance
• Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007
(EISA 2007)

• Executive Order 13423: Strengthening Federal
Environmental, Energy, and Transportation
Management
• Energy Policy Act of 2005 (EPAct 2005)
• Guiding Principles for Sustainable New
Construction and Major Renovations
For information on the implementation of sustainable
design and energy, see Section 1.8, Sustainability.
1.3.4 Historic Preservation
The National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) of 1966
mandates that Federal agencies use historic
properties to the greatest extent possible and strive
to rehabilitate them in a manner that preserves their
architectural character, in accordance with the
Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for
Rehabilitation and Guidelines for Rehabilitating
Historic Buildings (36 CFR 67).
1.3.5 Accessibility
GSA policy is to make all Federal buildings accessible
without the use of special facilities for persons with
disabilities. The intent of this policy is to use standard
building products set at prescribed heights and with
prescribed maneuvering clearances to allow easy
access by disabled employees and visitors. Building
elements designated specifically for use by persons
with disabilities should be kept to a minimum.
1.3.6 The Architectural Barriers Act
Accessibility Standard (ABAAS)
ABAAS is mandatory for all GSA projects. If local
accessibility standards exist, the A/E must follow the
most stringent requirements between the local
standards and ABAAS.
The criteria of these standards should be considered a
minimum in providing access for persons with
disabilities. Dimensions that are not stated as
“maximum” or “minimum” are absolute. All
dimensions are subject to conventional industry
tolerances except where the requirement is stated as
a range with specific minimum and maximum end
points.
1.3.7 Accessible Public Entrances
All public entrances provided in accordance with
Paragraph F206.4.1 (Public Entrances) of the ABAAS
must have at least one entrance door complying with
Section 404.3 (Automatic and Power-Assisted Doors
and Gates) of the ABAAS. Where an accessible public
entrance has a vestibule with exterior and interior
entrance doors, at least one exterior door and one
interior door must comply with Section 404.3.
1.3.8 Accessibility in Federal
Courthouses
Please refer to Chapter 8, Design Standards for U.S.
Court Facilities, Section 8.2, Planning for Accessibility,
and Table 8.1, Accessibility Requirements.
1.3.9 Occupational Safety and Health
Regulations
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration
(OSHA) does not directly regulate facility design;
however, the construction, operation, and occupation
of facilities must comply with OSHA regulations. The
A/E must ensure that facilities can be constructed in a
manner compliant with 29 CFR 1926; the design must
anticipate facility operations and maintenance and
ensure they can be performed in compliance with 29
CFR 1910; and must not subject building occupants to
conditions in violation of 29 CFR 1910.
1.3.10 Randolph-Sheppard Act
The Randolph-Sheppard Act provides qualified blind
persons the opportunity to operate businesses on
Federal, State, or other property. The A/E must
coordinate design with the vending facility operators
to meet the needs of vendors covered by the act.

1.3.11 Buy American Act
Only domestic construction materials shall be
specified in construction contracts performed
in the United States except when a waiver to the Buy
American Act is granted.
1.4 Nationally Recognized Codes
and Standards
For all design and construction work performed on
Federal buildings by GSA or those functions under
GSA’s construction authority, GSA has adopted the
technical requirements of the nationally recognized
codes and standards referred to in this subsection.
The technical requirements of these codes and
standards are supplemented by mandates of Federal
laws and executive orders, as well as GSA and other
Federal agency criteria. The latest edition of these
codes and standards, in effect at the time of design
contract award, must be used throughout design and
construction of the project.
1.4.1 Conflicts between Codes or
Standards and GSA Requirements
To ensure flexibility, GSA’s policy is to make maximum
use of equivalency clauses in all codes and standards.
If a conflict exists between GSA requirements and the
GSA-adopted codes or standards, the GSA
requirements take precedence. All such conflicts must
be brought to the attention of the GSA project
manager as appropriate for resolution.
1.4.2 ICC Family of Codes
GSA has adopted the technical requirements of the
family of codes issued by the International Code
Council (ICC), except as noted below. The ICC family
of codes is available through www.iccsafe.org.
1.4.3 NFPA Life Safety Code
GSA has adopted the technical egress requirements of
the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), Life
Safety Code (NFPA 101), in lieu of the technical egress
requirements of the International Building Code (IBC).
The Life Safety Code is available through
www.nfpa.org.
1.4.4 NFPA National Electrical Code
GSA has adopted the technical electrical
requirements of the NFPA, National Electrical Code
(NFPA 70). The National Electrical Code is available
through www.nfpa.org.
1.4.5 National Standards
Organizations writing voluntary national standards,
including NFPA, the American Society of Heating,
Refrigeration, and Air Conditioning Engineers
(ASHRAE), the Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning
Contractors’ National Association (SMACNA), the
Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE),
and the American Society of Mechanical Engineers
(ASME), publish standards on health, safety, welfare,
and security that are recognized by GSA in various
chapters of the P100. Consistent with GSA’s long-
standing policy to comply with nationally recognized
standards to the extent practicable, these standards
must be used as indicated in the P100. The latest
edition of the nationally recognized standards herein,
in effect at the time of design contract award, must
be used during design and construction.
1.5 State and Local Codes
Facilities built on Federal property are exempt from
State and local building codes. GSA recognizes that
the national building codes are typically the
foundation of State and local building codes, and that
State and local codes represent important regional
interests and conditions. It is GSA’s policy to comply

with State and local building codes to the maximum
extent practicable; however, GSA has the final
authority to accept or reject any recommendation
from State and/or local government officials.
1.5.1 State and Local Government
Consultation and Review
The GSA project manager must provide the
appropriate State and/or local government officials
the opportunity to review the project for
compatibility with local planning and zoning
compliance. Local reviews must occur early in project
development so that the design can easily respond to
appropriate recommendations. These reviews
include, but are not limited to, the review of drawings
and specifications, making recommendations for
compliance with local regulations, compatibility with
local planning goals, and alignment with first
responder requirements. The GSA project manager
must inform State and local government officials that
GSA and its contractors are not allowed to pay any
fee for any actions taken by the State and/or local
government officials in connection with local reviews
or inspections. GSA will review all recommendations
made by State and local government officials. Each
recommendation will be carefully considered based
on adequacy, cost, and nationally accepted practice.
GSA has the final authority to accept or reject any
recommendation from State and/or local government
officials. The GSA project manager will maintain a
record of all recommendations and comments from
State and local government officials for the duration
of the project.
1.5.2 Zoning and Related Issues
The A/E team must offer local officials an opportunity
to review and comment on the design concepts for
compatibility with local plans, zoning, and design
guide-lines. Local review must be done in
coordination with the project design schedule. If local
officials choose not to review the design concept, the
project manager must document this in the project
file.
By law, the A/E must incorporate the National
Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) record of decision
(ROD) requirements in the design documents.
Local regulations must be followed without exception
in the design of systems that have a direct impact on
off-site terrain or infrastructure. These systems
include, but are not limited to, fire protection
services, storm water runoff, erosion control, sanitary
sewers and storm drains, water, gas, electrical power,
communications, emergency vehicle access, roads,
and bridges.
1.5.3 Design Review for Code
Compliance
The GSA project manager must provide the
appropriate State and/or local government officials
the opportunity to review the design for building code
compliance. The GSA project manager will officially
forward design submissions to the appropriate local
officials.
1.5.4 Construction Inspections
If State and local government officials elect to
perform code compliance construction inspections,
the GSA project manager must include provisions in
both the A/E and construction contract for
coordination of the work with local officials. State and
local government officials do not have the authority
to reject, accept, or make changes to the work, and
their inspections are done only to assist GSA in
achieving code compliance.
1.6 Program-Specific Guides and
Standards
In addition to the P100, GSA and its customer
agencies use a number of specific guides and
standards that address program requirements. Use of
these guides is mandatory. In case of conflicts

between the P100 and a specific building guide, the
guide takes precedence. If conflicts exist between the
facilities standards and specific program and project
requirements, contact the Office of Design and
Construction for clarification. The websites for these
guides are listed in Appendix Section B1, References.
1.6.1 Federal Courthouses
The Office of Design and Construction provides
guidance on all levels of development of courthouse
projects between Congress, OMB, the Administrative
Office of the United States Courts (AOUSC), and GSA
and serves as a liaison for all courthouse projects. See
Chapter 8, Design Standards for U.S. Court Facilities,
for detailed descriptions of the publications listed
below and their application.
• GSA Courthouse Visitor’s Guide, February 2003
• GSA Courthouse Project Handbook, August 2004
• U.S. Courts Design Guide
• U.S. Marshals Service Judicial Security Systems
Requirements and Specifications, Volume 3,
Publication 64, 2005
• U.S. Marshals Service Requirements and
Specifications for Special Purpose and Support
Space, Volume One: Architectural & Engineering,
2007; Volume Two: Electronic Security &
Hardware, 2007
1.6.2 Land Ports of Entry
The Office of Design and Construction provides
guidance on the management of the border station
program, including strategic planning, budgeting,
benchmarking, and design guidance. For more
information see:
• United States Land Port of Entry Design Guide,
2010
1.6.3 Child Care Centers
Requirements for child care centers must be
incorporated early in the design and planning process.
The references below provide guidance on such topics
as site design, emergency evacuation, food services,
safety, security, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing:
• Child Care Center Design Guide (PBS-P140)
• Accreditation Criteria and Procedures of the
National Association for the Education of Young
Children (NAEYC)
1.6.4 Security
Please see the following documents for more
information on the security design requirements for
Federal buildings:
• Interagency Security Criteria (ISC) — Physical
Security Criteria for Federal Facilities
• GSA PBS Site Security Design Guide
• GSA PBS Design Notebook for Federal Lobby
Security
1.6.5 Other Guides
• GSA National Business Space Assignment Policy
• GSA P120 Project Estimating Requirements
• GSA Order 8000.1C GSA Metric Program
• GSA 3490.1A on Document Security for Sensitive
But Unclassified Building Information
• Executive Order 13502, Use of Project Labor
Agreements for Federal Construction Projects
1.7 Sustainability
Sustainability is the conditions under which humans
and nature can exist in productive harmony, that
permit fulfilling the social, economic, and other
requirements of present and future generations.
Sustainable design seeks to ensure that future
generations are not disadvantaged by the depletion
of natural or nonrenewable resources by the current

generation. Sustainable designs follow an integrated,
synergistic approach, in which all phases of the facility
lifecycle are considered. Following sustainable design
principles improves building performance, promotes
the health and comfort of building occupants,
minimizes environmental impacts, and supports
natural resource availability. The result must be an
optimal synergy of cost, environmental, societal, and
human benefits while meeting the mission and
function of the intended facility or infrastructure.
Subsequent chapters of the P100 include
requirements and recommendations to meet these
objectives.
The essential principles of sustainable design and
development are:
• Optimize site potential
• Minimize nonrenewable energy consumption
• Protect and conserve water
• Use environmentally preferable products and
materials
• Enhance indoor environmental quality, and
• Optimize operations and maintenance practices
These principles must serve as the basis for planning,
programming, design, budgeting, construction,
commissioning, operation, maintenance, and disposal
of all new facilities, major renovations, and existing
building alterations. These principles must be applied
as appropriate to every project scope. Applicable
strategies and opportunities to improve sustainable
performance must be included in all projects.
New construction and major renovations of GSA
buildings, as well as applicable work in existing GSA
buildings, must comply with the Guiding Principles for
Federal Leadership in High Performance and
Sustainable Buildings. Strategies to meet the Guiding
Principles are included in each appropriate chapter of
the P100. For the latest guidance on implementing
the Guiding Principles see
www.wbdg.org/sustainableEO.
1.7.1 LEED Certification
Through integrative design and application of
sustainable design principles, all new construction
projects and substantial renovations must achieve, at
a minimum, a LEED Gold rating through the
Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design
(LEED) Green Building Rating System of the U.S. Green
Building Council. GSA’s use of LEED is to measure and
quantify building performance achievements in
relation to our mandates and goals. Pursue LEED
credits appropriate to the goals of GSA and to the
type of project being designed.
For projects seeking LEED certification, the following
prerequisites and credits must be achieved to comply
with the Guiding Principles for Federal Leadership in
High Performance and Sustainable Buildings, unless
specifically exempted from the project scope. Credits
are listed under each Guiding Principle. Additional
credits listed are interrelated and synergize with the
Guiding Principles but are discretionary to achieve.
I. Employ Integrated Design Principles
• Integrated Design
o Innovation & Design: LEED Accredited
Professional
• Commissioning
o Energy & Atmosphere Prerequisite:
Fundamental Commissioning of the Building
Energy Systems
o Energy & Atmosphere: Enhanced
Commissioning
II. Optimize Energy Performance
• Energy Efficiency
Minimum Energy Performance
o Energy & Atmosphere: Optimize Energy
Performance — Improve by 30 percent for
New Buildings or 20 percent below pre-
renovations 2003 energy use baseline for
major renovations

• On-Site Renewable Energy — interrelated
discretionary credit
o Energy & Atmosphere: On-Site Renewable
Energy (solar hot water)
• Measurement and Verification/Benchmarking
o Energy & Atmosphere: Measurement and
Verification
III. Protect and Conserve Water
• Indoor Water
o Water Efficiency Prerequisite: Water Use
Reduction (20 percent reduction)
• Outdoor Water
o Water Efficiency: Water Efficient
Landscaping — Reduce by 50 percent
o Sustainable Sites: Stormwater Design —
Quantity Control (Imperviousness)
o Sustainable Sites: Stormwater Design —
Quality Control (Best Management
Practices)
IV. Enhance Indoor Environmental Quality
• Ventilation and Thermal Comfort
o Indoor Environmental Quality Prerequisite:
Minimum Indoor Air Quality Performance
o Indoor Environmental Quality: Thermal
Comfort — Design
o Daylighting
o Indoor Environmental Quality: Daylight and
Views — Daylight 75 percent of Spaces
o Low-Emitting Materials
o Indoor Environmental Quality: Low Emitting
Materials — Adhesives and Sealants
Materials — Paints and Coatings
Materials — Flooring Systems
Materials — Composite Wood and Agrifiber
Products
o Protect Indoor Air Quality during
Construction
o Indoor Environmental Quality: Construction
IAQ Management Plan — During
Construction
o Indoor Environmental Quality: Construction
IAQ Management Plan — Before Occupancy
• Environmental Tobacco Smoke Control
o Indoor Environmental Quality Prerequisite:
Environmental Tobacco Smoke (ETS)
Control
V. Reduce Environmental Impact of Materials
• Recycled Content
o Materials & Resources: Recycled Content —
10 percent (post consumer + 1/2
preconsumer)
• Biobased Content — interrelated discretionary
credit
o Materials & Resources: Rapidly Renewable
Materials
o Materials & Resources: Certified Wood
o Environmentally Preferable Products —
interrelated discretionary credit
o Consult the Federal Green Construction
Guide for Specifiers at
www.wbdg.org/design/greenspec.php
o Materials & Resources: Materials Reuse —
5 percent of total value of materials
o Materials & Resources: Regional Materials
— 10 percent Extracted, Processed &
Manufactured Regionally
o Waste and Materials Management
o Materials & Resources Prerequisite: Storage
and Collection of Recyclables
o Materials & Resources: Construction Waste
Management — 50 percent Recycled or
Salvaged
o Ozone Depleting Compounds
Fundamental Refrigerant Management
o Energy & Atmosphere: Enhanced
Refrigerant Management
1.8 Energy Use Targets
Buildings must be designed to comply with the energy
performance requirements of EPAct 2005 and EISA
2007.

EPAct 2005 Building Design Energy Compliance
EPAct 2005 requires buildings to be designed to be at
least 30 percent more efficient than the design
required by ASHRAE 90.1 if life cycle cost effective.
For guidance to achieve a level of energy efficiency 30
percent greater than ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2007, see
the final rule 10 CFR, Energy, Parts 433-435 issued by
DOE at
www1.eere.energy.gov/femp/pdfs/fr_notice_cfr433_
434_435.pdf.
EISA 2007 Fossil Fuel Reduction Compliance
EISA 2007 requires buildings to be designed so that
the fossil fuel generated energy use is reduced by the
following percentages over CBECS 2003 in designs for
prospectus-level new construction and major
renovations:
FY2010 55% reduction
1.8.1 Major Renovations
Pending the final rule on fossil fuel reduction for
major renovations, the A/E must design all systems to
be replaced with systems that offer the highest level
of energy performance available. All designs that
improve HVAC systems must include recommissioning
of the entire HVAC system. For modernizations where
all systems are replaced, the A/E must target at least
a 20 percent reduction from the 2003 energy usage of
the building. The building’s 2003 energy usage can be
obtained from the Office of Design and Construction.
1.8.2 Energy Use Intensities Design
Maximums
Both EPAct 2005 and EISA 2007 require reductions in
the energy use of the overall portfolio of buildings
owned by GSA. To meet the goal of reducing total site
energy usage by 30 percent by 2015 as compared to a
2003 baseline, energy targets are established for all
new construction. The A/E must design all new
buildings to have an energy performance below the
EISA 2007 energy target or 30 percent below ASHRAE
90.1, whichever is lower.
From concept design through each design phase, the
project must demonstrate that it meets the energy
target. Use energy modeling that includes the
building enclosure systems in concert with
mechanical systems and provides documentation
showing that systems were chosen based on a life-
cycle cost analysis.
For courthouses use the public safety buildings target.
For land ports of entry perform the energy analysis
for the main building, commercial building, and
headhouse, and use public safety target.
1.9 Health and Safety
Health and safety regulations are primarily operation-
oriented and usually do not directly stipulate building
design requirements. The A/E must take a systems
approach to risk management, utilizing codes,
regulations, guidelines, and best practices to identify
and mitigate facility-created health and safety risks
early in the design phases of the project life cycle.
1.9.1 Order of Precedence
At each phase of the design, the A/E must identify
and mitigate safety and health risks in accordance
with the following order of precedence (refer to
ANSI/AIHA Z10-2005):

1.9.2 Eliminate or reduce the hazard
If the hazard cannot be eliminated, the associated risk
must be reduced to an acceptable level through
design.
1.9.3 Isolate the hazard
If the hazard cannot be eliminated through design,
the risk must be reduced to an acceptable level using
engineering controls, protective safety features, or
devices.
1.9.4 Provide warning devices
If safety devices do not adequately lower the risk of
the hazard, cautions and warnings must be provided
using detection and warning systems, as appropriate.
1.9.5 Develop procedures and
training
Where it is impractical to eliminate hazards through
design selection or to reduce the associated risk to an
acceptable level with detection and warning devices,
incorporate special procedures and training.
Procedures may include the use of personal
protective equipment. For high-consequence hazards,
warnings, cautions, or other written advisories must
not be the only risk reduction method.
1.9.6 Specific Health and Safety
Requirements
1.9.6.1 Asbestos
Total renovations of occupied spaces must include
the removal of all asbestos-containing material
(ACM). Encapsulation, enclosure, or management in
place of ACM in occupied spaces is prohibited.
1.9.6.2 Lead-Based Paint
Paint must be tested for lead content when
alterations or demolitions require the sanding,
burning, welding, or scraping of painted surfaces.
Lead-based paint controls must be implemented in
accordance with 29 CFR 1926.62. Lead-based paint
that is intact and in good condition must not be
abated, unless required for alteration or demolition.
Lead-based paint must be abated in child care
centers. Refer to PBS-P140 for specific details.
Construction waste containing lead-based paint must
be considered hazardous waste unless testing proves
otherwise.
1.9.6.3 Confined Spaces
The designer must avoid the creation of confined
spaces except where required as part of a system
(e.g., tanks, pits). Confined space is defined in 29 CFR
1910.
1.9.6.4 Fall Protection
The design must consider the inspection, operations,
and maintenance of the site, facility, and equipment.
Access and fall protection, especially to difficult
maintenance needs in high locations, including
lighting fixtures, mechanical equipment, and skylights,
must be considered in the design. Specific detail is
provided in the appropriate technical chapters.
1.9.6.5 Soil Contamination
If soil or water contamination is a concern during
construction of new buildings, major and minor
alterations, and work in historic structures, EPA
regulations under 40 CFR must be followed.

1.10 Methodologies
1.10.1 Space Measurement and
Building Efficiency
The A/E must design to the area authorized in the
approved prospectus and delineated in the program
of requirements. The area must be confirmed at each
phase of design and is to be measured in accordance
with the GSA National Business Space Assignment
Policy dated May 2009 or current edition, including
any addendums or other clarifications. Projects that
exceed the congressionally authorized area will need
to be redesigned.
GSA’s National Business Space Assignment Policy
establishes current PBS practices for the assignment
of space within the federally owned and leased
inventory. It provides the methodology and
information necessary for the correct assignment of
space.
Additionally, this policy document provides details
and illustrations of how PBS uses the commercial
American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and
Building Owners and Managers Association
International (BOMA) Standard Method for
Measuring Floor Area in Office Buildings (ANSI/BOMA
Z65.1) as the foundation for space measurement and
assignment.
PBS’s measurement and assignment principles are not
100 percent compliant with ANSI/BOMA
measurement standards. For example, PBS uses a
PBS-specific category in conjunction with
ANSI/BOMA’s categories. This document provides the
details and illustrations showing how PBS’s
assignment and measurement processes relate to and
differ from ANSI/BOMA processes.
Space efficiency is defined as the minimum necessary
space for the desired functions to be properly
accommodated, with minimum ‘waste’ between
usable area and gross area. The target for the usable-
to-gross ratio in new building construction is 80
percent. The National Business Space Assignment
Policy established the definition of usable and gross
area. In all building types, space efficiency must be
balanced against effectively achieving space
requirements and desired aesthetics.
The plan configuration, floor-plate depth, planning
module, and circulation patterns together determine
the space efficiencies of a building. The historic
character of a building can create major inefficiencies
where the primary circulation is typically wider and
thereby affects the amount of usable space available.
However, a building’s historic value or design
aesthetics should not be compromised to achieve
greater space efficiencies.
Plan configuration describes the geometry of a typical
floor within a building. A square or rectangular plan
with a single central core will be inherently more
efficient than a plan that is highly irregular, with
distributed service cores. Building types other than
office buildings, like courthouses and Land Ports of
Entry (LPOE), will likely have lower usable to gross
ratios based on numerous special requirements that
are addressed in their design guides. When efficiency
ratios fall, the floor plan is likely to have more
irregularities that, in turn, will increase space
utilizations per full-time equivalent (FTE) and restrict
furniture and tenant space planning. Configuration of
space is an important consideration when selecting a
new building design or comparing one with another.
1.10.2 Workplace Tools and
Processes
Use workplace program analysis and development
tools and processes that provide cost- and time-
effective ways to analyze existing space performance,
space constraints, and organizational mission and
goals, and provide design criteria that directly address
these issues. The analysis should include the
following.
1.10.2.1 A Balanced Scorecard Approach

Developed by Harvard’s Kaplan and Norton, this
provides a framework to analyze and measure the
performance of an organization in four domains —
finance, business process, customer, and human
capital. GSA uniquely uses this framework to directly
link workplace solutions to the organization’s goals.
1.10.2.2 Quantitative and Qualitative
Discovery Processes and Tools
These are used to derive design concepts and
solutions from an understanding of the organization
— its goals, culture, and current and desired work
practices — using both quantitative and qualitative
data. This includes gathering quantitative and
qualitative data, gaining in- depth knowledge of the
customer organization, conducting on-site
observations, interviews, and focus groups, and
developing written guidelines to inform the design
and design review processes.
1.10.2.3 Change Management
This involves a broad segment of the organization to
help define workplace needs and build project
consensus. By engaging occupants early on, change
management can be approached as an organizational
opportunity, and occupant expectations can be
managed proactively.
1.10.2.4 Feedback Loop
This involves identifying connections between
business and workplace goals and design solutions,
measuring for desired outcomes, and using the
findings to improve existing and future organizational
operations and work-place projects. This includes
preoccupancy and post occupancy surveys, design
commissioning, testing, and measurement.
For more information on workplace analysis
processes and tools, visit www.gsa.gov/workplace.
1.10.2.5 Building Information Modeling
(BIM)
The primary goal of the GSA 3D-4D-BIM program is to
incorporate digital visualization, simulation, and
optimization technologies in project planning and
design and to increase quality and efficiency of
business processes throughout GSA project life-cycle.
All major projects are required to have a spatial BIM
program submitted to GSA before final concept
presentation. GSA uses BIM to validate spatial
program requirements (e.g., area and efficiency
ratios). See the GSA BIM Guide Series 02 Spatial
Program Validation for specific requirements at
www.gsa.gov/bim.
1.10.2.6 Total Building Commissioning
Total Building Commissioning (TBC) is a systematic
process of ensuring by verification and
documentation, from the design phase to a minimum
of one year after construction, that facility systems
perform interactively in accordance with the design
documentation and intent, and in accordance with
the owner’s operational needs to include preparation
of operation personnel.
TBC recognizes the integrated nature of all building
systems’ performance, which affects sustainability,
workplace productivity, occupant safety, and security.
All GSA capital construction projects must employ TBC
practices.
For more information describing how the designer
must include commissioning requirements, see the
Building Commissioning Guide, available at
http://www.wbdg.org/ccb/GSAMAN/buildingcommis
sioningguide.pdf.
See Chapter 7, Fire Protection and Life Safety for
additional information on commissioning the fire
protection and life safety systems.
1.10.2.7 Building Operations and
Maintenance
Long-term operations and maintenance costs are
significantly higher over time than first costs. Systems

must be designed for ease of operation and cost-
effective maintenance and repair. System accessibility
is a critical consideration in building design. The A/E
must ensure building systems and elements are
physically accessible for cleaning, maintenance,
repair, and replacement.
As an example, design of atrium spaces must provide
methods to clean skylights, replace lamps, and
maintain fire alarm devices.
The A/E must collaborate with GSA operations and
maintenance personnel during design to provide for
optimal life-cycle performance.
In addition to hard copies, the A/E must specify that
operation and maintenance manuals be provided in
electronic format with training videos for the start up
and maintenance of all major equipment. At the
conclusion of design, the A/E must provide an
electronic document describing the design intent for
all building systems. These instructions must be
developed during the design phase and incorporated
into the comprehensive training for operations and
maintenance personnel.
1.10.2.8 Life-Cycle Costing
Federal facilities must be designed to achieve the
lowest life-cycle cost. A project’s design must
comprehensively define reasonable scope and
performance requirements within the appropriated
budget and authorized prospectus for design and
construction. Consistent with these constraints,
building systems and features must be analyzed and
selected to achieve lowest life-cycle cost.
Life-cycle costing (LCC) must be used when selecting a
system from several alternative systems or
components for a project. LCC is the economic
analysis method required by CFR Title 10, Part 436,
Subpart A, “Program Rules of the Federal Energy
Management Program.” OMB requires this
methodology, through the Federal Energy
Management Program, to evaluate the cost
effectiveness of systems that use energy and water.
LCC compares initial investment options and
operating and salvage costs over the life of the
equipment and identifies the least costly alternatives.
Examples of building systems that affect energy use
are the building thermal envelope, passive solar
features, fenestration, HVAC, domestic hot water,
building automation, and lighting.
Many established guidelines and computer-based
tools that effectively support present value LCC
analyses are available. The National Institute of
Standards and Technology (NIST) has prepared the
Life Cycle Costing Manual for the Federal Energy
Management Program (NIST Handbook 135) and
annually issues real growth energy price indices and
discount factors for life cycle cost analysis. As a
companion product, NIST has also established the
Building Life Cycle Cost (BLCC) computer program to
perform LCC analyses. The latest versions of the BLCC
program not only structure the analysis but also
include current energy price indices and discount
factor references. These NIST materials define all
required LCC methodologies used in GSA design
applications. The A/E may obtain the BLCC software
and updates from NIST. The latest BLCC software is
available at www.eere.energy.gov/femp.
The project team must integrate the LCC analysis into
the concept design process, and the analysis must be
completed by the design development phase.

CHAPTER 2: URBAN DEVELOPMENT AND LANDSCAPE DESIGN
CHAPTER 2 • URBAN DEVELOPMENT AND LANDSCAPE DESIGN

2.1 Urban Planning and Public Use Performance Requirements
Attribute Baseline

Tier 1 High Performance


Tier 3 High Performance Verification Design Construction
Measurement &
Verification Plans & Specs
Calculations &
Analysis Basis of Design Verification
Sustainable Locations
Reference
Site Uses Existing
Infrastructure
Resources and
Preserves Natural
Resources
o Site selection process addressed
EOs 12072, 13006, 13514, and
Implementing Instructions for
Sustainable Federal Locations (CEQ
09/2011)), AND
o Site includes no wetlands, no
water bodies, no land w/in 50 ft. of
wetlands, and no land w/in 100 ft.
of water bodies; complies with all
local, state, and federal
regulations on wetland and water
body conservation.
o Site not within a state or locally
designated agricultural
preservation district; does not
disturb prime soils, unique soils,
or soils of state significance.
o Site not a greenfield.
o The site meets the
Baseline requirements,
AND:
o Site is an infill site within
existing urban or suburban
development, served by
existing water and
wastewater infrastructure.
Baseline requirements, AND:
o The site is a grayfield or
brownfield infill site within
existing water and
o The site meets the Tier 2
High Performance
requirements, AND:
o The site is identified in
consultation with local
officials as being targeted
for redevelopment in
existing local development
plans.
ODC Review of Site
Acquisition Package
and presentation at
relevant reviews
Site Acquisition
and Design
Concept
materials
N/A
EOs 12072, 13006, 13514,
and Implementing
Instructions for Sustainable
Federal Locations (CEQ
09/2011); LEED ND, v2009
Verify relevant design
elements from approved
Concept presentation.
Site Supports Transit-
Use and Reduced
Automobile
Commuting
EOs 12072, 13006, 13514, and
09/2011)), AND
o The site is located w/in an MPO-
served region and w/in a TAZ
where annual VMT does not
exceed 90% of average of
equivalent metropolitan region
value. AND/OR:
o Principal functional building
entrance of facility is (a) w/in a
1/4 mile walk distance of bus
and/or streetcar stops, or (b) w/in
a 1/2 mile walk distance of bus
rapid transit stops, light or heavy
rail stations, and/or ferry
terminals, connected by
pedestrian and bicycle pathways.
AND:
o A) The annual per capita
VMT of TAZ is between 60
and 89% of average of
equivalent metropolitan
region value, AND/OR
B) The minimum daily
service at the transit stops
(must include Saturday and
Sunday) is:
• For multiple transit
types: weekday, up to
100/day; weekends, up to
60/day.
• Commuter rail or ferry
service only: weekday, up
to 24/day; weekends, up to
6/day.
VMT of TAZ is between 30
and 59% of average of
equivalent metropolitan
region value, AND/OR
Sunday) is:
• For multiple transit types:
weekday, 101-245/day;
weekends, 85-150/day.
service only: weekday, 25-
40/day; weekends, 7-10/day.
AND:
VMT of TAZ is 30% or less
of average of equivalent
metropolitan region value,
AND/OR
Sunday) is:
• For multiple transit
types: weekday, more than
245/day; weekends, more
than 150/day.
service only: weekday,
more than 40/day;
weekends, more than
10/day.
Maps detailing transit
buffers around site;
confirmation of transit
service from DOT, local
transit officials, and/or
GSA; confirmation of
TAZ based on data
from MPO or GSA
Site Acquisition
and Design
Concept
materials
VMT and TAZ
calculations based on
MPO data and GSA's SLI
data
EOs 12072, 13006, 13514,
and Implementing
09/2011); LEED ND, v2009
Resubmission of maps
detailing transit buffers
around site; confirmation
of transit service from
DOT, local transit officials,
and/or GSA; confirmation
of TAZ based on data from
MPO or GSA

Attribute Baseline



Measurement &
Calculations &
Site Supports
Neighborhood
Connectivity,
Walkability, and
Bikeability
EOs 12072, 13006, 13514, and
09/2011)), AND
o Principal functional entry on
front façade faces public space,
AND
o Connectivity of site and adjacent
land is at least 90 intersections/sq.
mi. as measured w/in a 1/2-mile
distance from center of the
facility, AND
o Primary functional entrance is (a)
w/in 1/4-mile walk distance of at
least 5 diverse uses or (b) w/in 1/2-
mile walk distance of at least 7
diverse uses.
AND:
o Connectivity of site and
adjacent land is between
90-250 intersections/sq. mi.
as measured w/in a 1/2-
mile distance from center
of the facility, AND
o Primary functional
entrance is (a) w/in 1/4-
mile walk distance of at
least 7 diverse uses or (b)
w/in 1/2-mile walk
distance of at least 10
diverse uses.
adjacent land is between 251-
290 intersections/sq. mi. as
measured w/in a 1/2-mile
facility, AND
entrance is (a) w/in 1/4-mile
walk distance of at least 10
diverse uses or (b) w/in 1/2-
mile walk distance of at least
12 diverse uses.
AND:
adjacent land is greater
than 291 intersections/sq.
mi. as measured w/in a 1/2-
w/in 1/2-mile walk distance
of at least 15 diverse uses.
ODC review of maps
detailing connectivity
around site and retail
and other diverse uses
within specified radius
or buffer.
Site Acquisition
and Design
Concept
materials
Calculations based on
source material from
vetted information
service or GSA's SLI
data.
EOs 12072, 13006, 13514,
and Implementing
09/2011); LEED ND, v2009
Resubmission of
previously specified maps
using updated data as of
time of substantial
construction completion.
Collaborative Design Process
Reference
Design Process
Considers Input of
Local Officials
o For new construction or other projects
with significant impact on the public
realm (e.g., landscape, facades,
perimeter security), GSA’s regional
project team meets with local officials
about the project and considers their
input during the preparation of
feasibility and similar analysis, prior
to requesting design funding.
o Prior to Design Kick-off, GSA project
manager and A/E meet with local
officials, share project info, get
officials’ input, and review local plans.
o At first Peer Review, project team
presents input from consultation with
local officials, explains project’s
responding design strategy in that
context.
o At Final Design Concept presentation
for Commissioner’s approval, design
team presents local input, outlines
responding design strategy, and
presents detail regarding relevant
building and landscape design
elements to enable meaningful
consideration of the concept.
o Meets Baseline
performance
requirements,
AND:
o Prior to approval of the
Final Design Concept,
project team must share
the relevant elements of
the proposed design
strategy with local officials
and address their feedback
in the Final Design Concept
presentation.
o Meets Tier 1 High
Performance Requirements
AND:
o Project development must
be based upon a Feasibility
Study that includes input
from local officials on
relevant design elements.
o Meets Tier 2 High
AND:
o Project design and
development must be
informed by a
neighborhood planning or
charrette process that was
conducted in partnership
with local officials.
ODC Review of Design
Narrative and
presentation at
relevant reviews
Design Concept
materials
N/A
Applicable policies:
Federal Urban Land Use Act
of 1949 (40 USC Sec. 901-
905);
Public Buildings
Amendments of 1988 (40
U.S.C. 3312); and
Executive Orders 12072,
13006, and 13514

Attribute Baseline



Measurement &
Calculations &
Sustainable Locations
Reference
Site Uses Existing
Infrastructure
Resources and
Preserves Natural
Resources
EOs 12072, 13006, 13514, and
09/2011)), AND
o Site includes no wetlands, no
water bodies, no land w/in 50 ft. of
wetlands, and no land w/in 100 ft.
of water bodies; complies with all
local, state, and federal
regulations on wetland and water
body conservation.
o Site not within a state or locally
designated agricultural
preservation district; does not
disturb prime soils, unique soils,
or soils of state significance.
o Site not a greenfield.
AND:
o Site is an infill site within
existing water and
o The site is a grayfield or
brownfield infill site within
existing water and
o The site meets the Tier 2
High Performance
requirements, AND:
o The site is identified in
consultation with local
officials as being targeted
for redevelopment in
existing local development
plans.
ODC Review of Site
Acquisition Package
and presentation at
relevant reviews
Site Acquisition
and Design
Concept
materials
N/A
EOs 12072, 13006, 13514,
and Implementing
09/2011); LEED ND, v2009
Site Supports
Neighborhood
Connectivity,
Walkability, and
Bikeability
EOs 12072, 13006, 13514, and
09/2011)), AND
o Principal functional entry on
front façade faces public space,
AND
o Connectivity of site and adjacent
land is at least 90 intersections/sq.
mi. as measured w/in a 1/2-mile
facility, AND
o Primary functional entrance is (a)
w/in 1/4-mile walk distance of at
least 5 diverse uses or (b) w/in 1/2-
mile walk distance of at least 7
diverse uses.
AND:
adjacent land is between
90-250 intersections/sq. mi.
as measured w/in a 1/2-
w/in 1/2-mile walk
distance of at least 10
diverse uses.
adjacent land is between 251-
290 intersections/sq. mi. as
measured w/in a 1/2-mile
facility, AND
entrance is (a) w/in 1/4-mile
walk distance of at least 10
diverse uses or (b) w/in 1/2-
mile walk distance of at least
12 diverse uses.
AND:
adjacent land is greater
than 291 intersections/sq.
mi. as measured w/in a 1/2-
w/in 1/2-mile walk distance
of at least 15 diverse uses.
ODC review of maps
detailing connectivity
around site and retail
and other diverse uses
within specified radius
or buffer.
Site Acquisition
and Design
Concept
materials
Calculations based on
source material from
vetted information
service or GSA's SLI
data.
EOs 12072, 13006, 13514,
and Implementing
09/2011); LEED ND, v2009
Resubmission of
previously specified maps
using updated data as of
time of substantial
construction completion.

Attribute Baseline



Verification Design Construction
Measurement &
Verification
Plans & Specs
Calculations &
Analysis
Basis of Design Verification
Design for Public Use
Reference
Design for Public Use -
INTERIORS
o Assembly areas in the base
building program (e.g.,
auditoriums, atria, jury assembly
rooms) are designed to allow for
manageable public access for after-
hours use.
o Upon project opening, at least
one interior building assembly
area that holds likely potential for
occasional public use is cataloged
in the property manager’s office
and made available for public use.
o Meets Baseline
Requirements AND:
o Assembly areas within
the base building program
are positioned in relation
to public entries and other
building amenities so as to
enhance their visibility and
utility and to encourage
public interest in their use.
o Meets Tier 1 High
AND:
o Assembly areas for
appropriate public use
includes at least one
contiguous space that
provides a minimum of 2,000
SF.
o Upon project opening, GSA
has approved a permit (GSA
Form 3453) for public use of
an interior space.
o Meets Tier 2 High
AND:
o Design provides interior
spaces or other permanent
structures that will be
leased for long-term
private commercial or other
mixed use.
Narrative and
presentation at
relevant reviews
Design Concept
materials
N/A
Public Building Cooperative
Use Act of 1976 (40 U.S.C.
601a)
Concept presentation,
and submission of
completed form 3453,
when appropriate
Reference
Design for Public Use -
EXTERIORS
o Design provides a specific vision for
how all exterior public areas are meant
to be used, whether for circulation,
passive use, or programmed public
use. The public spaces are designed
and furnished to support that intended
use.
o Pedestrian circulation networks
through and around the project site are
designed with a cohesive vision, to
create a positive pedestrian
experience.
o Landscape design elements provide
access, comfort, shade, seating
options, and visual interest
encouraging passive public use by
visitors and o Design provides a
specific vision for how all exterior
public areas are meant to be used,
whether for circulation, passive use, or
programmed public use. The public
spaces are designed and furnished to
support that intended use.
o Pedestrian circulation networks
through and around the project site are
designed with a cohesive vision, to
create a positive pedestrian
experience.
o Landscape design elements are
assembled in order to provide access,
comfort, shade, seating options, and
visual interest that encourages passive
public use by building visitors and
o Meets Baseline Requirements
AND:
o Landscape design includes
gathering areas for
occasional assembly or
passive use. Plaza areas
seating choices (shade, sun,
sitting walls, tables, furniture,
etc.) that provide minimum of
one (1) linear foot of seating
for every fifty (50) SF of plaza
space. Seating for variety of
needs (e.g., including
‘companion’ seating for elderly
or disabled visitors).
o If not provided under the
project construction contract,
plaza furnishings (furniture,
shade structures, waste cans)
are selected and located by the
project designer, priced and
sourced for later acquisition,
and installed upon project
opening.
o Meets Tier 1 High
AND:
o Landscape design provides
a publicly accessible plaza
space that provides a
minimum of 6,000 square
feet of space that is adjacent
to and readily accessible to
public sidewalks. Plaza
areas provide a minimum of
one tree for every 1,000 SF of
plaza space.
o Gathering areas are
equipped with publicly
accessible WiFi to support
use by building occupants
and visitors.
o Meets Tier 2 High
AND:
o Plaza areas are designed
for programmed public use
and at least one area
includes electrical service
to support such use.
o Upon project opening,
GSA has approved a permit
(GSA Form 3453) for public
use of the space.
Narrative and
presentation at
relevant reviews
Design Concept
materials
N/A
Public Building Cooperative
Use Act of 1976 (40 U.S.C.
601a)
Concept presentation,
and submission of
completed form 3453,
when appropriate

2.2 Urban Planning and Design Performance
Attributes
GSA has the responsibility to leverage its federal real
estate actions in ways that support community
development goals, while also meeting client agency
needs, wherever possible. This derives from several
laws and executive orders: the Federal Urban Land
Use Act of 1949 (40 USC Sec. 901-905); the Public
Buildings Cooperative Use Act of 1976 (40 U.S.C.
601a); the Public Buildings Amendments of 1988 (40
U.S.C. 3312); and Executive Orders 12072, 13006, and
13514. The goal of designing a Federal building that
responds to its site, to the surrounding neighborhood
design and plans, and its potential for interactions
with the general public is leveraging Federal
investment in support of local plans in ways that
improve neighborhood design and experience.
Achieving this level of design quality requires that
attention be paid to sustainably locating the facility
near to transit and in pedestrian-friendly
neighborhoods, to involving local officials
collaboratively in the design process, and to designing
the building for maximum potential public use of the
exterior and interiors.
2.2.1 Sustainable Locations
Sustainably locating a building considers many
factors, addressed in various policy directives (listed
below). These factors include access to transit along
pedestrian- and bike friendly paths and corridors,
proximity to neighborhood amenities that meet daily
needs of employees and visitors, maximization of
existing infrastructure and infill opportunities, and
centralization within existing population centers so
that jobs and services are accessible to a diverse
range of people within the geographic area.
2.2.1.1 Site Uses Existing Infrastructure
Resources and Preserves Natural Resources
• Baseline:
o The site selection process addressed
relevant policy directives, as of publication
of this standard: Executive Orders 12072,
13006, and 13514; and the Implementing
Instructions for Sustainable Federal
Locations (Council on Environmental
Quality, September 2011).
o The project site includes no wetlands, no
water bodies, no land within 50 feet of
wetlands, and no land within 100 feet of
water bodies and complies with all local,
state, and federal regulations pertaining to
wetland and water body conservation.
o The project site is not within a state or
locally designated agricultural preservation
district, and does not disturb prime soils,
unique soils, or soils of state significance as
identified in a state Natural Resources
Conservation Service soil survey.
o The site is not a greenfield.
• Tier 1 High Performance ():
o The site meets the Baseline requirements.
o The site is an infill site within existing urban
or suburban development, served by
existing water and wastewater
infrastructure.
• Tier 2 High Performance ():
o The site meets the Baseline requirements.
o The site is a grayfield or brownfield infill site
within existing urban or suburban
development, served by existing water and
wastewater infrastructure. A brownfield
site is documented as contaminated (by

means of an ASTM E1903-97 Phase II
Environmental Site Assessment or a local
Voluntary Cleanup Program), or on a site
defined as a brownfield by a local, state, or
federal government agency; and
remediation of the site requires that the
controlling public authority approves the
protective measures and/or cleanup as
effective, safe, and appropriate for the
future use of the site.
• Tier 3 High Performance ():
o The site meets the Tier 2 High Performance
requirements.
o The site is identified in consultation with
local officials as being targeted for
redevelopment in existing local
development plans.
2.2.1.2 Site Supports Transit-Use and
Reduced Automobile Commuting
• Baseline:
relevant policy directives as of publication
Quality, September 2011), AND
A) The site is located within a region
served by a metropolitan planning
organization (MPO) and within a
transportation analysis zone (TAZ)
where either:
a) the current annual home-based
vehicle miles traveled (VMT) per
capita (if TAZ is 100% residential), or
b) the annual non-home based VMT
per employee (if TAZ is 100% non-
residential) does not exceed 90% of
the average of the equivalent
metropolitan region value.
The research must be derived from
household or employment transportation
surveys conducted by the MPO within ten
years of the date of project completion or
as provided by GSA, upon request, AND/OR:
B) The site is located near to existing and/or
planned transit service, such that the
principal functional building entrance of the
facility is:
a) within a 1/4 mile walk distance of bus
and/or streetcar stops, or
b) within a 1/2 mile walk distance of bus
rapid transit stops, light or heavy rail
stations, and/or ferry terminals, all of
which are connected continuously by
pedestrian pathways and routes
accessible to bicycles.
o The site meets the Baseline requirements,
AND:
A) The annual per capita VMT of the TAZ is
between 60 and 89% of the average of
the equivalent metropolitan region
value, AND/OR
B) The minimum daily service at the
transit stops identified in the Baseline
requirement meet the following
thresholds (weekend service must
include Saturday and Sunday):
 For facilities near to multiple
transit types, weekday trips up to
100 per day and up to 60 trips per
day on weekends.
 For projects with commuter rail or
ferry service only, weekday trips
up to 24 per day and up to 6 trips
per day on weekends.
AND:
A) The annual per capita VMT of the TAZ is
between 30 and 59% of the average of
value, AND/OR

B) The minimum daily service at the
transit stops identified in the Baseline
transit types, weekday trips
between 101 and 245 per day and
between 85 and 150 trips per day
on weekends.
 For projects with commuter rail or
ferry service only, weekday trips
between 25 and 40 per day and
between 7 and 10 trips per day on
weekends.
o The site meets the Baseline
requirements, AND:
A) The annual per capita VMT of the
TAZ is 30% or less of the average of
value, AND/OR: B) The minimum
daily service at the transit stops
identified in the Baseline
transit types, weekday trips of
more than 245 per day and
more than 150 trips per day on
weekends.
 For projects with commuter rail
or ferry service only, weekday
trips more than 40 per day and
more than 10 trips per day on
weekends.
2.2.1.3 Site Supports Neighborhood
Connectivity, Walkability, and Bikeability
• Baseline:
relevant policy directives as of publication
Quality, September 2011), AND
o The principal functional entry on the front
façade faces a public space, such as a street,
square, park, or plaza, but not a parking lot,
and is connected to sidewalks or equivalent
provisions for walking, AND
o The facility is located such that the
connectivity of the site and adjacent land is
at least 90 intersections per square mile as
measured within a 1/2-mile distance from
the geographic center of the facility, AND
o The facility’s primary functional entrance is:
a) within 1/4-mile walk distance of at
least five diverse uses, OR
b) within 1/2-mile walk distance of at
least seven diverse uses. These uses
must include at least one food retail
establishment and at least one other
community-serving retail business or
service, with the following limitations:
 A single establishment may not be
counted in two categories (e.g., a
place of worship may be counted
only once even if it also contains a
daycare facility, and a retail store
may be counted only once even if
it sells products in several
categories).
 Establishments in a mixed-use
building may each count if they are
distinctly operated enterprises
with separate exterior entrances,
but no more than half of diverse
uses can be situated in a single
building or under a common roof.
 Only two establishments in a single
category may be counted (e.g., if
five restaurants are within the
required distance, only two may be
counted).

AND:
between 91 and 250 intersections per
square mile as measured within a 1/2-mile
distance from the geographic center of the
facility, AND
least 7 diverse uses, OR
least 10 diverse uses. These uses must
include at least one food retail
service, with the same limitations
outlined in the Baseline.
AND:
between 251 and 290 intersections per
square mile as measured within a 1/2-mile
distance from the geographic center of the
facility, AND
least 12 diverse uses. These uses must
include at least one food retail
service, with the same limitations
outlined in the Baseline.
AND:
greater than 291 intersections per square
mile as measured within a 1/2-mile distance
from the geographic center of the facility,
AND
least 15 diverse uses.
These uses must include at least one food
retail establishment and at least one other
service, with the same limitations outlined
in the Baseline.
2.2.2 Collaborative Design Process
The construction and renovation of a Federal facility
may be one of the more significant real estate
investments in many communities. GSA has a
responsibility to meet client needs, but where
possible, federal investment should support local
development plans, or at a minimum, not negatively
impact them. This responsibility derives from the
Federal Urban Land Use Act of 1949 (40 USC Sec. 901-
905); the Public Buildings Amendments of 1988 (40
U.S.C. 3312); and Executive Orders 12072, 13006, and
13514.
In order to meet this responsibility, the project team
must understand local plans and conditions,
neighborhood context, and local perspectives early in
the project’s development and design. This is the
only way to give meaningful consideration to the
input of local officials. In many cases, collaboration
with local planning and land-use officials will be
necessary throughout the project’s design and
implementation.
• Baseline:
o For new construction or other projects with
significant impact on the public realm (e.g.,
landscape, facades, perimeter security),
GSA’s regional project team meets with
local officials about the project and
considers their input during the preparation

of feasibility and similar analysis, prior to
requesting design funding.
o Prior to the Design Kick-off meeting, GSA’s
project manager and A/E must meet with
local planning/land use officials to share
project info, get officials’ input, and review
local plans.
o At the first Peer Review, project team must
present the input from consultation with
local officials and explains the project’s
responding design strategy in that context.
o The Final Design Concept for PBS
Commissioner’s approval discuss local
input, outline the responding design
strategy, and present sufficient detail
regarding relevant building and landscape
design choices to enable meaningful
consideration concept proposal.
o Meets Baseline performance requirements,
AND:
o Prior to approval of the Final Design
Concept, project team must share the
relevant elements of the proposed design
strategy with local officials and address
their feedback in the Final Design Concept
presentation.
o Meets Tier 1 High Performance
Requirements AND:
o Design process enables local officials, or
other relevant stakeholders, to participate
in an informal design review meeting during
concept design. Prior to such meeting, GSA
will make clear that the purpose of the
meeting is to get more nuanced feedback
from key stakeholders, but that GSA retains
authority for all design decisions.
Requirements AND:
o Project design and development must be
informed by a neighborhood planning or
charrette process that was conducted in
partnership with local officials.
2.2.3 Design for Public Use
The Public Buildings Cooperative Use Act of 1976 (40
U.S.C. 601a) requires GSA to encourage the location
of commercial, cultural, educational, and recreational
facilities and activities within GSA public buildings and
sites, and to encourage the public use of these
properties for cultural, educational, and recreational
activities. Although much of this responsibility falls
to how GSA manages and makes such space available,
the design of the spaces – both interior and exterior –
is fundamental.
Federal buildings are inherently public buildings, but
their design determines how successfully the public is
able to access and use the building interior and
exteriors. This is especially true given current security
requirements and project budgets.
Buildings that are highly successful maximize public
investment by both meeting the Federal space need
and by enabling public use. Key factors in a
successful project include the design’s ability to
support flexible passive or programmed use in
gathering spaces, the shaping and orientation of
building program to encourage such use, and, where
appropriate, the expansion of the building’s program
to take advantage of site-specific public use
opportunities.
All public areas of the project site, regardless of scale,
should take a deliberate and proactive approach to
providing a positive usable space for facility users
and, where possible, the local community.
2.2.3.1 Interiors
• Baseline:
o Assembly areas in the base building
program (e.g., auditoriums, atria, jury
assembly rooms) are designed to allow for
manageable public access for after-hours
use.

o Upon project opening, at least one interior
building assembly area that holds likely
potential for occasional public use is
cataloged in the property manager’s office
and made available for public use.
o Meets Baseline Requirements AND:
o Assembly areas within the base building
program are positioned in relation to public
entries and other building amenities so as
to enhance their visibility and utility and to
encourage public interest in their use.
Requirements AND:
o Assembly areas for appropriate public
use include at least one contiguous
space that provides a minimum of
2,000 SF.
o Upon project opening, GSA has
approved a permit (GSA Form 3453) for
public use of an interior space.
Requirements AND:
o Design provides interior spaces or
other permanent structures that will be
leased for long-term private
commercial or other mixed use.
2.2.3.2 Exterior
• Baseline:
o Design provides a specific vision for how all
exterior public areas are meant to be used,
whether for circulation, passive use, or
programmed public use. The public spaces
are designed and furnished to support that
intended use.
o Pedestrian circulation networks through
and around the project site are designed
with a cohesive vision, to create a positive
pedestrian experience.
o Landscape design elements are assembled
in order to provide access, comfort, shade,
seating options, and visual interest that
encourages passive public use by building
visitors and, where appropriate, the general
public.
o Meets Baseline Requirements AND:
o Landscape design includes gathering areas
intentionally designed for occasional
assembly or passive use. Plaza areas
include a variety of seating choices (shade,
sun, sitting walls, tables, furniture, etc.) that
together provide a minimum of one (1)
linear foot of seating for every fifty (50) SF
of plaza space. Seating should be placed to
provide a variety of choices and to meet a
variety of needs (e.g., including ‘companion’
seating for elderly or disabled visitors).
o If not provided under the project
construction contract, plaza furnishings
(furniture, shade structures, waste cans) are
selected and located by the project
designer, priced and sourced for later
acquisition, and installed upon project
opening.
Requirements AND:
o Landscape design provides a publicly
accessible plaza space that provides a
minimum of 6,000 square feet of space that
is adjacent to and readily accessible to
public sidewalks. Plaza areas provide a
minimum of one tree for every 1,000 SF of
plaza space.
o Gathering areas are equipped with publicly
accessible Wi-Fi to support use by building
occupants and visitors.

Requirements AND:
o Plaza areas are designed for programmed
public use and at least one area includes
electrical service to support such use.
o Upon project opening, GSA has approved a
permit (GSA Form 3453) for public use of
the space.

2.3 Urban Planning and Design, and Site
Prescriptive Requirements
2.3.1 Process Criteria
The design team must identify relevant local planning
and/or land-use officials and record interactions with
them, including meeting schedules and minutes.
Note that the appropriate level of government (local,
county, state) will differ with each jurisdiction.
The design team must work with client agency and
local officials to understand mode share split of
employee and visitor commutes, i.e. identify how
people arrive at the site and what percentage of
people by each mode of transportation. This
understanding will assist the design team in
effectively orienting building approaches toward the
highest-use pedestrian entry points to the site.
2.3.2 Design Criteria
2.3.2.1 Exterior connections and gathering
spaces
All outdoor pedestrian pathways must connect
building entrances safely and contiguously to the
means of transportation identified in consultation
with client agency and local officials, described above,
including transit stops off-site.
Building approaches, pathways, and plazas must be
oriented toward primary pedestrian access points to
the site. This orientation must give consideration to
street connections to transit stops, when appropriate,
and to primary neighborhood corridors.
The design team must demonstrate in design
drawings how plazas and other gathering spaces
allow for several different active and passive uses
(such as farmers markets, seated assemblies, and
employee breaks and lunches). Design teams must
consider current best practices in public space design.
For example, isolated bench seating, seating without
shade, and gathering spaces not visible from building
entrances or along primary pedestrian pathways are
not likely to be used regularly.
Design drawings must demonstrate consideration of
human scale in the exterior design by showing
building perspectives at eye-level from designed
pedestrian pathways (such as sidewalks adjacent to
the buildings).
2.3.2.2 Interior spaces and assembly areas
Assembly areas designed for flexible public use both
during and after business hours must have direct and
clear wayfinding from building entrances.
The design team must demonstrate in design
drawings how, when designed for public use, atriums,
jury assembly rooms, and other gathering spaces
allow for several different public uses, such as a
standing reception, a seated dinner, an awards
ceremony, or similar.
2.3.3.4 Zoning and Related Issues.
The A/E team must offer local officials an opportunity
to review and comment on the design concepts for
compatibility with local plans, zoning, and design
guidelines. Local review must be done in coordination
with the project design schedule. If local officials
choose not to review the design concept, the project
manager must document this in the project file. By
law, the A/E must incorporate the national
environmental Policy act (NEPA) record of decision
(ROD) requirements in the design documents. Local
regulations must be followed without exception in

the design of systems that have a direct impact on
off-site terrain or infrastructure. These systems
include, but are not limited to, fire protection
services, storm water runoff, erosion control, sanitary
sewers and storm drains, water, gas, electrical power,
communications, emergency vehicle access, roads,
and bridges.
2.3.3.5 First Responder and Emergency
Access.
Provide fire department vehicle access in accordance
with the requirements of the ICC International Fire
Code.
2.3.3.6 Fire Apparatus Access Roads.
The A/E must design the emergency vehicle access in
accordance with the specific requirements of the local
fire department. At a minimum, the fire department
must be consulted regarding the surface material of
the access roadways, minimum width of fire lanes,
minimum turning radius for the largest fire
department apparatus, weight of the largest fire
department apparatus, and minimum vertical
clearance of the largest fire department apparatus.
2.3.3.7 Aerial Apparatus Access.
For buildings or portions of buildings exceeding 9
meters (30 ft.) in height, from the lowest point of fire
department vehicle access, provide access roads
capable of accommodating fire department aerial
apparatus. Overhead utility and power lines must not
cross the access roadway.
2.3.3.8 Site Signage
A well-designed site uses as few signs as possible.
Signs should make the site wayfinding clear to the
first-time user by identifying multiple site entrances,
parking, and the main building entrance.
Generally, graphics and style of site signage should be
consistent with signage used inside the building. Signs
integrated with architectural elements can also be
very effective. Signage must be consistent in font,
style, and color as well as with any directional
symbology used in site and building signage. Signage
placement can be an important detail element of the
building design whether prominently displayed and
tooled into the exterior building wall materials or as a
freestanding component near the entrance to the
facility. Exterior signs identifying permanent rooms
and spaces must comply with ABAAS (see ABAAS
Section F216). Additional information about GSA
graphic standards can be found at www.gsa.gov/logo.
2.3.3.9 Construction Signs
Construction signs are to be 3,600 mm by 1,800 mm
(12 ft. by 6 ft.) and constructed of a durable, weather-
resistant material, properly and securely framed and
mounted. The sign will be blue with white lettering
and mounted at least 1,200 mm (4 ft.) above the
ground. The sign must include the official GSA logo no
less than 400 mm (16 in.) square. The lettering,
graphic style, and format should be compatible with
the architectural character of the building.
2.3.3.10 New Construction Signs
Signs at new construction sites must include the
name of the architect and general contractor and may
contain an artist’s rendering or photograph of the
model of the building under construction.
2.3.3.11 Repair and Alteration Projects
Signs at prospectus level repair and alteration project
sites must include the name of the architect and/or
engineers for the major systems work (e.g., structural,
mechanical, electrical), in addition to the name of the
general contractor.
2.3.3.12 Site Wayfinding
Minimize the number of wayfinding signs on the site.
For complex sites with multiple buildings or other

destinations, consider developing a wayfinding plan
for review by the project manager and users.
Obtain approval of local authorities for entrance signs
in the public rights-of-way.
Use variable message signs for high-volume areas
where entrance patterns need to be altered.
2.2.3.13 Construction Signs
Construction signs must provide the following
information:
• Building for the People of the United States of
America
• (Name of) Federal Building
• Constructed by (building contractor)
• U.S. General Services Administration–Public
Buildings Service
• (President’s name), President of the United
States
• (Administrator’s name), Administrator, GSA
• (Name), Commissioner, PBS
• (Regional Administrator’s name), Region X
Administrator
2.3.3.14 Flagpoles
A ground-mounted flagpole, located preferably at the
left of the entrance (facing the building), must be
provided for new Federal buildings. If ground-
mounted poles are not feasible, a roof-mounted pole
is permissible; or, if roof mounting is not suitable, an
outrigger pole may be used. Only one flagpole is
needed for a complex of buildings on a common site.
The flag must be illuminated.
Table. The following are approved flagpole heights
and the corresponding flag sizes.
Flagpole Height Flag Dimensions
20 ft. 3 1/2 by 6 2/3 ft.
30 ft. 5 by 9 1/2 ft.
40 ft. 5 by 9 1/2 ft.
50 ft. 8 2/3 by 17 ft.
60 ft. 8 2/3 by 17 ft.

2.4 Landscape Performance Attributes
2.4 Site Landscape Performance Requirements
Design Construction
Measurement
& Verification
Plans & Specs
Calculations
& Analysis
Site Soils
Reference SSI 4.3/4.4-2009 SSI 4.3/4.4-2009 SSI 4.3/4.4-2009 SSI 4.3/4.4-2009 SSI 4.3,4.4 SSI 4.3,4.4 SSI 4.8
Performance
Option 1- Locate 70 percent of soil
displacement and disturbance on soils
disturbed by previous development with
moderate or severe soil disturbance as
identified in a site assessment. (or)
Option 2- On all areas with healthy or
minimally disturbed soil limit
disturbance to:
a. 50 feet beyond the building perimeter,
b. 15 feet beyond surface walkways,
terraces, surface parking, and utilities
less than 12 inches in diameter,
c. 20 feet beyond primary roadway
curbs/roadway edges and main utility
branch trenches,
d. 30 feet beyond constructed areas with
permeable surfaces that require
additional staging areas in order to limit
compaction in the constructed area.
(SSI prerequisites 2.1 and 4.3)
displacement and disturbance on
soils disturbed by previous
development with moderate or
severe soil disturbance as identified
in a site assessment. (or)
Option 2-On all areas with healthy or
disturbance to:
a. 50 feet beyond the building
perimeter,
terraces, surface parking, and
utilities less than 12 inches in
diameter,
curbs/roadway edges and main
utility branch trenches,
d.30 feet beyond constructed areas
with permeable surfaces that require
additional staging areas in order to
limit compaction in the constructed
area. .
disturbed by previous development with
moderate or severe soil disturbance as
identified in a site assessment.
(or)
Option 2-On all areas with healthy or
disturbance to:
perimeter,
branch trenches,
d. 25 feet beyond constructed areas with
permeable surfaces that require
additional staging areas in order to limit
compaction in the constructed area.
•Option1- Locate 100 percent of soil
disturbed by previous development
with moderate or severe soil
disturbance as identified in a site
assessment. (or)
Option 2- On all areas with healthy or
disturbance to:
perimeter,
branch trenches,
d. 25 feet beyond constructed areas
with permeable surfaces that require
additional staging areas in order to
limit compaction in the constructed
area.
Yes. Employ the
SSI Definitions.
Yes, and
Provide Soil
Management
Plan
Provide
comparative l
analysis
covering
geotechnical,
agricultural
and drainage
soil properties
to establish
the reference
site soil
condition and
the proposed
soil
import/condit
ion.
Describe
proposed site
zoning and
corresponding,
phasing, lay-
down, and
sequencing for
all areas
affected by the
construction
process that
respond to
project
particulars.
Describe
engineering
controls for
restoring site
disturbance.
Verify all
imported soils
and
engineered
soils meet
project
performance
requirements.
Vegetation
Reference
SSI
4.1/4.2/4.5/4.6/4.7/4.8/4.9/4.10/4.11/4.12
/4.13-2009
SSI
4.1/4.2/4.5/4.6/4.7/4.8/4.9/4.10/4.11/
4.12/4.13-2009
SSI
4.1/4.2/4.5/4.6/4.7/4.8/4.9/4.10/4.11/4.1
2/4.13-2009
SSI
4.1/4.2/4.5/4.6/4.7/4.8/4.9/4.10/4.11/
4.12/4.13-2009
SSI
4.1/4.2/4.5/4.6/4
.7/4.8/4.9/4.10/4
.11/4.12/4.13-
2009
SSI
4.1/4.2/4.5/4.6/
4.7/4.8/4.9/4.10
/4.11/4.12/4.13-
2009
SSI 4.6
Performance
Provide an invasive species management
plan. Propose non-invasive native or
adapted species. Identify, and if
possible preserve all special status
vegetation. Propose appropriate plant
biomass for the site. Use vegetation to
minimize building climate control
requirements.
Provide an invasive species
management plan. Propose non-
invasive native or adapted species.
Identify, and if possible preserve, all
special status vegetation. Propose
appropriate plant biomass for the
site. Use vegetation to minimize
building climate control
requirements.
management plan. Exclusively propose
plants native to the eco-region. Identify
and preserve all special status
vegetation. Propose appropriate plant
biomass for the site. Use vegetation to
requirements.
management plan. Exclusively
propose plants native to the eco-
region. Identify, preserve and reuse
plant communities and special status
vegetation native to the eco-region of
the site to contribute to regional
diversity of flora and provide habitat
for native wildlife. Use vegetation to
requirements.
Yes. Employ the
SSI Definitions.
Yes
Tier 1, 2 and 3
High
Performance:
provide an
Invasive
Species
Management
Plan. Tier 2
and 3 High
Performance:
Biomass
Density Index.
Describe
proposed
distribution of
plant
communities
throughout the
site that
respond to soil,
topography and
drainage
responding to
project
particulars.
Verify all plant
materials meet
project
performance
requirements.
Verification
Attribute Baseline




2.4 Site Landscape Performance Requirements
Design Construction
Measurement
& Verification
Plans & Specs
Calculations
& Analysis
Water Use and
Management
Reference SSI 3.1/3.7/EISA 438 SSI 3.2/3.3/3.7/3.8/EISA 438 SSI 3.2/3.3/3.7/3.8/EISA 438 SSI 3.2/3.3/3.6/3.7/3.8/EISA 438 EPA
Performance
Reduce water use for irrigation by 50
percent from established baselines.
Manage stormwater on site. If possible,
design rainwater/stormwater features
into the site to provide a landscape
amenity. Design water features with
minimal or no make-up water from
potable sources.
If applicable, protect and restore
riparian, wetland, and shoreline
buffers. Manage stormwater on site.
Design rainwater/stormwater
features into the site to provide a
landscape amenity. Design water
features with minimal or no make-up
water from potable sources. Install a
soil moisture monitoring system.
percent from established baselines. If
applicable, protect and restore riparian,
wetland, and shoreline buffers. Manage
stormwater on site. Design
rainwater/stormwater features into the
site to provide a landscape amenity.
Design water features with minimal or
no make-up water from potable sources.
Install a soil moisture monitoring
system.
If applicable, protect and restore
riparian, wetland, and shoreline
buffers. Manage stormwater on site.
Design rainwater/stormwater
features into the site to provide a
landscape amenity. Design water
features with minimal or no make-up
water from potable sources. Enhance
on-site water resources and receiving
water quality. Install a soil moisture
monitoring system.
Yes. Employ the
SSI Definitions.
Submission
narrative for
planting and
irrigation,
landscape
coefficients,
calculations for
peak watering
month. Indicate
all water
sources.
Yes, and
SWPPP
Provide a
Baseline
Landscape
Water
Requirement
(BLWR) and a
Designed
Landscape
Water
Requirement
(DLWR).
Calculations
that
demonstrate
that on-site
water
features can
meet water
requirements
with
sustainable
water
source/supply
. Provide
calculations of
the target
water storage
capacities of
Describe
proposed site
hydrology that
responds to
existing and
proposed
topographic
conditions
responding to
project
particulars.
After
occupancy,
provide two
year of two
week trend
history for
irrigation
system.
Provide a one
year two week
trend history
for soil
moisture via a
Soil Moisture
Monitoring
system so that
any required
irrigation can
be adjusted.
Site Materials
Reference SSI 5.1/5.5/5.7-2009 SSI 5.1/5.2/5.5/5.7/-2009 SSI 5.1/5.2/5.3/5.5/5.7/5.8-2009 SSI 5.1/5.2/5.3/5.4/5.5/5.7/5.8-2009 SSI 4.1 .
Performance
Only use wood products extracted from
non-threatened species to minimize
negative effects on other ecosystems.
Use recycled content materials. Use
regional materials.
Only use wood products extracted
from non-threatened species to
minimize negative effects on other
ecosystems. Maintain or repurpose
on-site structures and construction
materials to extend life cycle of
existing building materials and
reduce waste. Use recycled content
materials. Use regional materials.
Only use wood products extracted from
non-threatened species to minimize
negative effects on other ecosystems.
Maintain or repurpose on-site structures
and construction materials to extend life
cycle of existing building materials and
reduce waste. Design for deconstruction
and disassembly. Use recycled content
materials. Use regional materials. Use
adhesives, sealants, paints, and coatings
with reduced VOC emissions.
Only use wood products extracted
from non-threatened species to
minimize negative effects on other
ecosystems. Maintain or repurpose
on-site structures and construction
materials to extend life cycle of
existing building materials and reduce
waste. Design for deconstruction and
disassembly. Reuse salvaged plant
material. Use recycled content
materials. Use regional materials.
Use adhesives, sealants, paints, and
coatings with reduced VOC emissions.
Yes. Employ the
SSI Definitions.
yes
Provide a
species list of
all proposed
wood
products and
threatened/e
ndangered
status. High
performance:
Provide a
narrative with
existing site
materials and
quantification
s, including
plants, and
how it will be
reused on site
versus how
much will
enter the
waste stream.
Describe
proposed
approach to site
materials that
achieves both
visual and
performative
goals
responding to
project
particulars.
Verify all site
materials meet
project
performance
requirements.
Verification
Attribute Baseline




2.5 Landscape Prescriptive Requirements
All proposed site design must meet baseline
compliance with all applicable federal, tribal, state
and local regulation and/or guidance. This includes all
elements of work performed under the scopes of the
landscape architect, architect, civil engineer, and
geotechnical engineer. The applicable regulations
must be determined on an individual project basis.
2.5.1 Examples of Federal Design
Criteria
2.5.1.1 Section 438 of the Energy
Independence and Security Act (EISA) &
EISA Technical Guidance
The sponsor of any development or redevelopment
project involving a Federal facility with a footprint
that exceeds 5,000 square feet shall use site planning,
design, construction, and maintenance strategies for
the property to maintain or restore, to the maximum
extent technically feasible, the predevelopment
hydrology of the property with regard to the
temperature, rate, volume, and duration of flow.
2.5.1.2 National Pollution Discharge
Elimination System (NPDES) of the Clean
Water Act (as delegated to the States)
NPDES is a permitting program that applies to all
activities resulting in water pollution discharges,
including construction projects of certain sizes.
Obtaining such a permit typically requires the
development of an Erosion and Sediment Control
Plan, and a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan
(SWPPP). Minimum requirements are developed by
the EPA, and delegated to the individual states. The
states often add additional performance
requirements; therefore, state-by-state compliance is
required.
2.5.1.3 Reference Standard
SSI = Sustainable Sites Initiative (2009)
EISA 2007
2.5.2 Managing Existing Site
Vegetation
2.5.2.1 Documenting Existing Vegetation
To supplement the topographic and boundary survey
a Certified Arborist Report (CAR) must be prepared
and submitted that clearly demonstrates the size,
species, and condition of all existing trees and
shrubbery on site.
2.5.2.2 Incorporating Existing Vegetation
into a Proposed Project
Detailed plans must be provided for those plants that
will be impacted and/or removed for the impacted
site. For all new construction projects this includes
identifying proposed new tree locations and
quantities, as well as the protection plan for existing
trees during the construction activity. Further all
proposed grade changes affecting the protected site
trees should be identified.
2.5.2.3 Defining Tree Protection Zone
Protection Zone is defined as the area surrounding
individual trees, groups of trees, shrubs, or other
vegetation to be protected during construction, and
indicated on Drawings.
2.5.2.4 Determine Tree Protection Zone
For trees, the locations of all Critical Root Zones
(CRZs) are defined as the area for each tree which
contains the estimated minimal amount of both

structural and feeder roots that must be protected to
minimize tree damage and retain structural stability.
The CRZ for each tree is calculated based on the Tree
Species Tolerance to construction impacts and age
class, as outlined in the International Society of
Arboriculture’s Best Management Practices:
Managing Trees During Construction (K. Fite, T.
Smiley, 2008).
Although CRZs will differ by species and tree age,
zones range from ½ foot per one inch DBH (diameter
at breast height) to 1½ foot per one inch DBH. If the
species tolerance is unknown, then the 1½ foot per
one inch DBH standard is assumed. Mixed groupings
of trees will base the required area of protection on
that area which is required for maintaining the health
of the most sensitive individual species composing
the cluster. The 1½ foot standard applies unless
sufficient information detailing the contrary is
provided and a lesser area is approved. For large
shrubs and groups of shrubs a protection area shall be
provided equivalent to 1.5 times the diameter of the
massing itself, unless otherwise indicated.
2.5.3 Site Soils
2.5.3.1 Purpose
Limit disturbance of healthy soil to protect soil
horizons and maintain soil structure, existing
hydrology, organic matter, and nutrients stored in
soil. Develop and communicate to construction
contractors a soil management plan prior to
construction to limit disturbance, assist soil
restoration efforts, and define the location and
boundaries of all vegetation and soil protection zones.
2.5.3.2 Applicability
All projects to preserve and conserve existing site
soils to promote site health and cost savings.
2.5.3.3 Primary areas of work
Include:
a) Create a Soil Management Plan and
b) Minimize soil disturbance in design and
construction.
Note: Soil impacts described within are intended to
manage impacts associated with significant
construction activities, not surface landscape
improvements. In cases where top soils need to be
improved to provide an enhanced growing
environment, such dimensional restrictions would not
apply. The soils section should be cross-referenced
with "Vegetation," and "Water."
2.5.4 Parking Fields
1. All open parking areas with 18 spaces or more, or
6,000 square feet that front upon a street, shall be
screened by a perimeter landscaped area at least
seven feet in width measured perpendicular to the
street line.
2. Perimeter landscaped areas may be interrupted
only by vehicular entrances and exits, and select
walkways that are providing a direct connection
between a public sidewalk and walkway within or
adjacent to the parking field.
3. Where parking stalls are paved with permeable
materials, rooting area computations can incorporate
area located below the certified permeable system.
Where such an approach is undertaken, sufficient
trunk protection must be provided for any proposed
trees that include provisions for full prospective tree
growth, including buttresses, expanded trunk growth.
Further wheel-stops and average car overhang
dimensions should allow for the tree to safely reach
maturity.
4. The perimeter landscape area surface must
typically include living plant material. On water
challenged sites, non-paved mineral surfaces may be

substituted for living plant materials on a qualitative
basis.
5. The open parking area shall be graded to allow
stormwater runoff to drain into all required perimeter
landscaped areas and/or planting infiltration islands.
6. Proper stormwater drainage rates shall be attained,
if required, through under drains that are connected
to detention storage that meet/exceed local/regional
drainage and flow requirements. Computations are
required. If underdrains are not provided, soil boring
tests shall be conducted by a licensed engineer to
ensure that ponded surface water is capable of
draining in at least 24 hours.
7. To allow for adequate drainage, and promote
water infiltration, proposed catch basins placed in the
planting infiltration areas should be elevated above
adjacent grade, to promote ponding and infiltration
without posing a public nuisance or maintenance
hardship for facility managers.
8. One three-inch caliper tree shall be provided for
every 1250 SF of parking area. In regions where
water is scarce and therefore establishment of a tree
would be burdensome or consumptive of a dwindling
resource, a shade structure can be proposed in lieu of
trees to shade the interior parking field. The structure
is expected to provide shade that is equivalent to the
shade that would be provided by an open grown
mature shade tree grown under similar conditions in
the region. This equivalency is to be submitted and
provided for review. The use of a shade structure in
lieu of trees would not eliminate the need for islands
to reduce horizontal scale of the parking field, provide
pedestrian refuge, and manage storm water. Each
tree shall have a minimum planting zone of 150SF of
pervious area. Any space less than 2’ in width shall
not contribute to the square footage requirement of
the trees requisite planting zone. Computations are
required
9. Planting island soil depths should be measured to
be at minimum 30” from finished elevation of
adjacent parking field, or as required to support
sufficient root development. Design details are
required.

CHAPTER 3: ARCHITECTURE AND INTERIOR DESIGN
CHAPTER 3 • ARCHITECTURE AND INTERIOR DESIGN
3.1 Enclosure Performance Requirements
Design Construction
Measurement &
Verification
Plans & Specs
Calculations &
Analysis
Seismic Resistance Life Safety Reduced Damage Immediate Occupancy Operational
Performance
Mockup Testing
IBC-2012
ASCE 7-10
FEMA356
ASTM E 2026
Design Team
Calculations &
Inspection
Describe seismic resistance
design assumptions.
Windborne Debris Resistance Comply with IBC
Large Missile < 30-ft from Grade & Small
Missile > 30-ft of Grade
Large Missile < 30-ft from Grade &
Small Missile > 30-ft of Grade. No
breach in envelope for wind zone.
Site Specific Risk Assessment
(Tornado Hazard)
ASTM E 1996/1886
Wind Tunnel
Testing & Projectile
Impact Testing
ICC/NSSA 500-2008
FEMA 361
ASTM E 1996
Design Team
Calculations &
Inspection
Describe windborne debris
resistance design
requirements.
Witness mockup test when
provided.
Flood Resistance
100-Year Flood Hazard; Critical Action
Facilities Must be Located above the
500-Year Base Flood.
500-Year Flood Hazard and/or Storm
Surge Inundation
Site Specific Risk Assessment (Dam,
Levee, and Floodwall Failure Hazards)
N/A Site Planning
FEMA Flood Maps
ASCE 24-05, “Flood
Resistant Design and
Construction"
Design Team
Calculations &
Inspection
Describe flood resistance
design requirements.
Witness mockup test when
provided.
Wind Resistance Deflection within code limits.
Deflection less than code limits.
Deflection limit to be selected by design
team to result in 4/1000 probability of
breakage at design load.
N/A N/A
ASTM E 330
ASTM E 1300
Wind Tunnel
Testing &
Performance
Mockup Testing
IBC-2012
ASCE 7-10
Design Team
Calculations &
Inspection
Describe envelope wind
resistance design
requirements.
Envelope - Natural Hazard
Envelope - Serviceability
Verification
Attribute Baseline




Design Construction
Measurement &
Verification
Plans & Specs
Calculations &
Analysis
Wind Resistance Deflection within code limits.
Deflection less than code limits.
Deflection limit to be selected by design
team to result in 4/1000 probability of
breakage at design load.
N/A N/A
ASTM E 330
ASTM E 1300
Wind Tunnel
Testing &
Performance
Mockup Testing
IBC-2012
ASCE 7-10
Design Team
Calculations &
Inspection
Describe envelope wind
resistance design
requirements.
Fenestration CW30 @ 15% DP CW30 @ 20% DP AW40 @ 25% DP AW40 @ 30% DP
ASTM E331
ASTM E1105
AAMA 501.1
AAMA E2268
AAMA 501.2
Yes
Water Leakage =
Uncontrolled
Water
Penetration
Delete Test
Pressure Upper
Limits from
AAMA 101-08
ASCE 7-10
AAMA 101-08
Describe fenestration water
penetration resistance level
utilized in the design.
CxA to witness Performance
Mock-Up Test outlined in ASTM
E331-09 , E1105-08 as
applicable
Roofing and Horizontal Waterproofing-
Membrane System
Do not use roof surface for Storm Water
Retention or allow Water to otherwise
pond or remain
Highly resistant to physical damage
Designs that prohibit entrapment of
Water
Baseline and
Fully Reinforced Membrane System
Membrane System Fully Bonded to the
Structural Deck
Tier 1 HP and
Membrane System Fully Bonded to the
Structural Deck
Monolithic/Seamless
Tier 2 HP and
System Protected from
Temperature and Ultra Violet
Radiation
NRCA Roofing and
Waterproofing
Manual
SMACNA
Architectural Sheet
Metal Manual
Yes Yes
Describe roofing and horizontal
waterproofing membrane
water penetration resistance
construction.
CxA to verify installation and
witness testing per ASTM C-
1601-05 or NRCA Manual
Guideline: "Quality Assurance
and Water Test"
Minimum Slope
2012 International Building Code,
Section 1507
1.5 times greater than Baseline 2.0 times greater than Baseline 2.5 times greater than Baseline N/A
2012 IBC,
Section 1507
Yes
waterproofing minimum slope
used in design.
and Water Test"
Drainage
2012 International Plumbing Code,
Section 1106 for 100 yr. max.
1-hr rainfall design
1.1 times greater than Baseline 1.2 times greater than Baseline 1.4 times greater than Baseline N/A
2012 IPC,
Section 1106 for
100 yr. max.
1-hr rainfall
design
2012 IPC,
Section 1106 for 100
yr. max.
1-hr rainfall design
Describe basis for designing
the roofing and horizontal
waterproofing drainage.
and Water Test"
Envelope - Serviceability
Water Penetration Resistance
Verification
Attribute Baseline




Design Construction
Measurement &
Verification
Plans & Specs
Calculations &
Analysis
Vegetative Systems
Tier 3 requirements of Roofing and
Horizontal Waterproofing Membrane
System
Tier 1 for Roofing and Horizontal
Waterproofing Minimum Slope
Tier 1 For Roofing and Horizontal
Waterproofing Drainage
Waterproofing Testing and Monitoring
Baseline and
Tier 1 HP and
Shall meet Tier 2 for Roofing and
Horizontal Waterproofing Testing and
Monitoring
Tier 2 HP and
Waterproofing Testing and
Monitoring
Yes Yes Yes
Describe vegetative roofing
systems water penetration
construction, minimum slope
and basis for sizing drainage.
and Water Test"
Testing & Monitoring
100% Flood Test of all Roofing and
Horizontal Waterproofing Surfaces for
48 hours.
Baseline and
Utilize Electronic Leak Detection
(ELD) or an alternate methods that to pin
point breach locations in the membrane
without reliance on water passage
through the breach during construction.
Limited Area flood testing per ASTM
D5957 at drain bodies and other
transitions or penetrations that do not
allow ELD.
Water nozzle test similar to AAMA 501.2
shall be performed on all roof detailing
not included in ELD and flood testing.
Tier 1 HP and
Allow for future ELD testing during the
life of the structure as leaks are
identified without removal or
disassembly of the coverings.
Tier 2 HP and
Provide a maintenance plan
including monitoring at regular
intervals as determined.
If possible, tie leak detection
system into the Building
Management System (BMS) and
alerts
ASTM D5957
AAMA 501.2
(No Existing
Standard for ELD)
Yes N/A
waterproofing testing
requirements and leak
monitoring system, when used.
CxA to review Testing &
Monitoring procedures
proposed by contractor
CxA to verify BMS system
interface to leak detection in
conjunction with balance of
systems, if applicable
and Water Test"
Ground Water Control Active Ground Water Control
Passive Ground Water Control with
emergency back-up pump, as required.
N/A
Select a location, site, or
building design that allows for
ground water table to remain a
minimum of 600mm (2 feet)
below the lowest level of the
structure.
N/A
2012 IBC,
Section 1805.1.3
2012 IBC,
Section 1805.1.3
Describe method of ground
water control when required.
CxA to test emergency back-up
pump, where applicable.
Below Grade Waterproofing
Relieve hydrostatic pressure on
substructure walls and allow water
drainage to the level of the drain.
Membrane
waterproofing must be fully bonded to
the substrate and seamless.
Below-grade waterproofing must be
applied to the positive
pressure side and must be covered by a
protection drainage and protection
course.
Baseline and
Tier 1 HP designation in Ground Water
Control
Provide a system that does not rely on
unpredictable or difficult to control site
conditions to develop and maintain a
water-tight installation.
Complete “Bathtub” waterproofing in
the presence of water table to mitigate
demand on dewatering system.
May require foundation modification.
Tier 1 HP and
Includes redundant below grade
waterproofing systems, such as a
water repellant additive to the
concrete masonry foundation walls.
Tier 2 HP and
Include secondary drainage layer
within below-grade horizontal
concrete slab assemblies.
N/A
2012 IBC,
Section 1805
2012 IBC,
Section 1805
Describe waterproofing system
for below grade waterproofing
and test method proposed.
CxA shall witness below grade
waterproofing test.
Moisture Control Opaque Assemblies
Design of the above-grade building
enclosure must be demonstrated early
in the design development. ASHRAE 160-
2009, Criteria for Moisture Control
Design Analysis in Buildings is an
acceptable basis of design
Baseline and
Provide continuous exterior insulation
for wall roof, below grade walls and all
slab-on-grade containing conditioned
space.
Provide analysis of project specific
assemblies and exposures.
Provide for the placement of a portion of
the thermal control layer to the exterior
of the air and moisture control layers to
reduce thermal bridging and move the
moisture potential toward the exterior.
Tier 1 HP and
Provide thermal controls to the
exterior to maintain conditions within
the assembly below a 30-day running
average of 70% RH when the
temperature is between 5°C (41°F) and
40°F C (104°F).
Provide monitoring of "vulnerable"
exposures of the assemblies that
alerts the building staff to
approaching conditions that may be
harmful to the assembly or the
occupants.
Tier 2 HP and
All thermal controls are outboard
of the air and vapor control
layers of the assembly.
Monitoring of moisture content
of assemblies tied to BMS for
each exposure and cladding
type.
Yes Yes ASHRAE 160-2009
Document requirement in basis
of design
CxA to witness tests outlined
in ASTM C1601-05, if
applicable
Moisture and Condensation Control
Verification
Attribute Baseline




Design Construction
Measurement &
Verification
Plans & Specs
Calculations &
Analysis
Moisture Control Opaque Assemblies
Design of the above-grade building
enclosure must be demonstrated early
in the design development. ASHRAE 160-
2009, Criteria for Moisture Control
Design Analysis in Buildings is an
acceptable basis of design
Baseline and
Provide continuous exterior insulation
for wall roof, below grade walls and all
slab-on-grade containing conditioned
space.
Provide analysis of project specific
assemblies and exposures.
Provide for the placement of a portion of
the thermal control layer to the exterior
of the air and moisture control layers to
reduce thermal bridging and move the
moisture potential toward the exterior.
Tier 1 HP and
Provide thermal controls to the
exterior to maintain conditions within
the assembly below a 30-day running
average of 70% RH when the
temperature is between 5°C (41°F) and
40°F C (104°F).
Provide monitoring of "vulnerable"
exposures of the assemblies that
alerts the building staff to
approaching conditions that may be
harmful to the assembly or the
occupants.
Tier 2 HP and
All thermal controls are outboard
of the air and vapor control
layers of the assembly.
Monitoring of moisture content
of assemblies tied to BMS for
each exposure and cladding
type.
Yes Yes ASHRAE 160-2009
of design
CxA to witness tests outlined
in ASTM C1601-05, if
applicable
Condensation Resistance Fenestration
NFRC 500
Thermal Analysis and Modeling
Baseline and
Provide laboratory testing per ASTM
1503 of manufacture’s typical
assemblies, to be included in the project
to confirm the NFRC 500 modeling.
Tier 1 HP and
Provide project specific laboratory
testing per ASTM 1503 on project
specific extrusion profiles and
assemblies, including typical anchors.
Tier 2 HP and
Provide a modified AAMA 501.5
Thermal Cycling of Exterior
Walls to include thermal couples
of a full-scale project-specific
laboratory mock-up to verify the
NFRC 500 analysis.
AAMA 1503
NFRC 500
NFRC 500
Testing and
Modeling to
show that no
condensation
occurs on
uncontrolled
surfaces based
on the interior
and exterior
design criteria
NFRC 500
of design
NFRC 500-2010 and 102-2010
(Test Procedure) are intended
for the laboratory for
establishing ratings, not field
testing, so there is no CxA
witness activity
Fenestration CW30 Minimum Performance Class
Baseline and
< 1.5 L/s*m (0.3 cfm/ft)
@ 75 Pa (0.3" wc)
Performance data correlated to
performance testing
Tier 1 HP and
AW40 Minimum Performance Class
< 1.5 L/s*m (0.3 cfm/ft)
@ 300 Pa (1.2" wc)
Durability testing as required for
Performance Class
Tier 2 HP and
AW40 Minimum Performance
Class
< 0.5 L/s*m (0.1 cfm/ft)
@ 300 Pa (1.2" wc)
Additional Durability Testing as
appropriate for the systems
anticipated use.
ASTM E2318
ASTM E283
ASTM E783
AAMA 101-2008 AAMA 101-2008
of design
CxA to witness Performance
Mock-Up Test outlined in ASTM
E783-10, E283-04, as
applicable
Enclosure Airtightness
(All Six Sides of the Building)
2 L/s/M
2
(0.40 cfm/ft2
)
@ 75 Pa (0.3" wc)
1.25 L/s/M2
(0.25 cfm/ft
2
)
@ 75 Pa (0.3" wc)
0.75 L/s/M2
(0.15 cfm/ft
2
)
@ 75 Pa (0.3" wc)
0.5 L/s/M2
(0.10 cfm/ft
2
)
@ 75 Pa (0.3" wc)
ASTM E779/E1827 Yes no
Provide enclosure airtightness
performance requirement and
measures designed to provide
air barrier.
CxA to witness Blower Door
Test outlined in ASTM
E1827-11
Thermal Performance
ASHRAE 90.1-2010, Section 5.5 and
where section 5.5 is referenced
1.15 times greater than Baseline 1.3 times greater than Baseline 1.5 times greater than Baseline ASHRAE 90.1-2010 Yes ASHRAE 90.1-2010
Provide thermal performance
characteristics of the enclosure
assemblies.
CxA to perform HVAC system
testing per ASHRAE Guideline
1.1-2007 (Guideline 30 was
integrated into Guideline 1 in
2007)
Moisture and Condensation Control
Air Tightness
Thermal Performance
Verification
Attribute Baseline




Design Construction
Measurement &
Verification
Plans & Specs
Calculations &
Analysis
Building Enclosure Commissioning
Total Building Commissioning with
Building Enclosure Commissioning Per
ASHRAE Guideline 0 and NIBS Guideline
3
Baseline plus Fundamental Building
Enclosure Commissioning (BECx) per
ASTM E2813
Baseline plus Enhanced BECx per
ASTM E2813
Baseline Enhanced BECx per
ASTM E2813
with Increased performance
testing as determined by OPR
ASTM E2813
ASHRAE Guideline 0
NIBS Guideline 3
ASTM E2813
ASHRAE
Guideline 0
NIBS Guideline 3
ASTM E2813
ASHRAE Guideline 0
NIBS Guideline 3
Provide any special testing
requirements anticipated
during commissioning.
CxA inspection and verification
to be performed as outlined in
NIBS Guideline 3
ASTM WK26027 in review by
ASTM, E2813 no longer
available
ASHRAE Guideline 3 withdrawn
2004
Acoustic Control Assuming NC-35 interior
STC-40/OITC-35 based on standard
performance values reported for
assemblies
STC-45/OITC-40 & site assessment and
lab tests of enclosure components
STC-45/OITC-40 & site assessment
and site mockup testing
STC-50/OITC-45 & site
assessment, mockup field tests
and one field test per 20000 sf
of enclosure
ASTM E90, E366 &
E966.
Classification by
E1332
no
Provide enclosure sound
control performance
requirements.
Testing witnessed by the CxA
per ASTM Standard E1124-10
Walls
(In years to replacement/major
rehabilitation)
50/25 75/30 100/40 150/50 no
Yes, Design
Review, Tier 1
and higher:
Enclosure Cx
CSA S478 plan,
Maintenance
plan
no
Describe expected service life
for each enclosure wall type
proposed.
CxA shall confirm through
submittal review.
Roofs
(Replacement)
20 30 40 50 no
Yes, Design
Review, Tier 1
and higher:
Enclosure Cx
CSA S478 plan,
Maintenance
plan
for roof type proposed.
submittal review.
Fenestration
(years to frame replacement / IGU + gaskets
and seals replacement)
30/15 40/20 50/25 75/25
Yes, Design
Review, Tier 1
and higher:
Enclosure Cx
CSA S478 plan,
Maintenance
plan
for each fenestration assembly
proposed.
submittal review.
Enclosure Acoustic Control
Enclosure Service Life
Verification
Attribute Baseline



Building Enclosure Commissioning

3.2 Building Enclosure Performance Attributes
3.2 1 Natural Hazards
3.2.1 1 Seismic Resistance
This attribute relates to building enclosure
performance levels in terms of extent of damage and
continuity of operations following a design basis
earthquake with a 10% probability exceedance in 50
years (500-year return period). Seismic demands on
the enclosure follow from deformation of the
structure as characterized by peak transient inter-
story drift and acceleration forces.
• Baseline: This performance level is characterized
as Life Safety. Baseline performance anticipates
serviceability degradation (e.g., glass breakage,
weather seal damage, frame distortion,
increased air and moisture infiltration) of the
enclosure system. Controlled deformation of the
enclosure system anchorage is accepted, but
catastrophic failure is not allowable. The
building structural system remains stable and
has significant reserve capacity; hazardous
nonstructural damage is controlled. Occupancy
not expected after the event until repairs are
performed.
• Tier 1 High Performance (): This designation is
characterized as Reduced Damage. This
performance level anticipates moderate damage
to the enclosure system. Ability to provide
weather protection is locally compromised.
Glass damage may occur, but breakage is
mitigated. The building remains safe to occupy;
structural and nonstructural repairs are minor.
• Tier 2 High Performance (): This designation
is characterized as Immediate Occupancy. This
performance level anticipates negligible
structural and nonstructural damage with
minimal damage to cladding components. Seals
remain intact. Gaskets maybe loosened but
remain functional. No glass breakage is
expected.
• Tier 3 High Performance (): This
designation is characterized as Operational. This
performance level anticipates that no
serviceability degradation of the enclosure
system occurs as a result of a 500-year design
basis earthquake.
3.2.1.2 Windborne Debris Resistance
The attribute considers windborne missile impact and
cyclic pressure loading resistance requirements in
high wind zones and defined windborne debris
regions.
• Baseline: This performance level for windborne
debris resistance serviceability references the
IBC. Windborne debris resistance shall be
implemented in zones specified by IBC. In non-
windborne debris zones, protection is not
required at the baseline level.
• Tier 1 High Performance (): This performance
level incorporates windborne debris impact
provisions designed to mitigate breaches of the
enclosure system. The enclosure fenestration
system is designed to resist large and small
missile impacts and cyclic pressure loading per
ASTM E 1996/1886 as referenced in ASCE 7.
• Tier 2 High Performance (): This designation
addresses a perceived increased level of
windborne debris risk and decreased allowable
impact compared to Baseline. This performance
level requires that the building envelope remain
unbreached for wind zone.
performance level is governed by criteria
specified for building enclosure resistance to the
impacts of tornado windborne debris and wind-

induced loads. Risks associated with tornado
hazards should considered as a separate item
where applicable under a site specific
assessment and where high performance is
desired. Recommended tornado design wind
speed is 250 mph (3-second peak gust).
Protection of plant function and occupants is
desired for critical facilities.
3.2.1.3 Flood Resistance
Floodplain management must be accounted for when
formulating or evaluating any land use plans and
should be correlated with the degree of hazard.
Proposed buildings and structures within a flood
hazard area shall be programmed and designed in
accordance ASCE 24, "Flood Resistant Design and
Construction" provisions. Enclosure damage and
continuity of operations are the metrics of
performance for this attribute.
• Baseline: Buildings should be located outside of
100-year floodplain. If this is unavoidable, the
enclosure system shall be designed to
accommodate a 100-year design flood demand
as a Baseline requirement. Critical action
facilities cannot be located in either a 100-year
or 500-year floodplain unless there is no
practicable alternative. If critical action
structures must be located within a floodplain
they shall be elevated above the 500-year base
flood as Baseline. Enclosures below the design
flood elevation shall be designed in accordance
with ASCE 24 provisions.
• Tier 1 High Performance (): This designation
addresses a perceived increased level of flood
risk and decreased allowable impact compared
to Baseline. The building enclosure system shall
be designed for higher performance and
increased resiliency in resisting flood conditions
associated with a 500-year flood event.
Materials with demonstrated increased
resistance to flood damage should be
incorporated below the design flood elevation.
This performance level anticipates cleanup,
drying and minor building enclosure repairs
following a 500-year flood event.
• Tier 2 High Performance (): This
specified for building enclosure resistance to
flood demands. Risks associated with man-
made flood hazards (dam, levee, and floodwall
failure hazards) should be considered as a
separate item where applicable under a site
specific assessment and where high
performance is desired.
3.2.2 Serviceability
3.2.2.1 Wind Resistance (Serviceability)
This attribute relates to the serviceability of the
building enclosure system in response to wind
loading. Wind speed and design wind load
requirements shall be determined in accordance with
applicable ASCE-7 prescriptive methods or wind-
tunnel testing procedures. Wind-tunnel testing
should be considered for large buildings or structures,
in particular those with unusual shape or construction
methodology, and those located in hurricane prone
regions or surrounded by unusual terrain. The
applicability of wind tunnel testing to optimize design
should be evaluated by the design team as early as
practical in the design process.
• Baseline: This performance level for wind
resistance serviceability references deflection
limits specified in IBC. Baseline criteria includes
a glazing hazard consistent with 8/1000
probability of breakage at design load.
addresses a perceived increased level of
serviceability and decreased allowable
deflection compared to Baseline. Deflection
limits are less than code allowable to be
selected by the design team. Characteristic
criteria of this high performance level include a
decreased glazing hazard consistent with 4/1000

probability of breakage at design load. No
permanent framing deformation at overload
(150% design load) is allowed. Center of glass
deflection relative to glass edges shall not
exceed 1". No impacts to serviceability or
occupant comfort expected.
3.2.3 Water Penetration Resistance
3.2.3.1 Fenestration
Fenestration water penetration resistance requires
calculation or wind tunnel testing to determine the
project specific design pressure (DP) and water
penetration test pressure; requirements must be
communicated to the contracting parties in the
construction documents. Water penetration
resistance can be confirmed with product testing,
laboratory mock-up testing, field mock-up testing,
and in-situ field testing. Consideration shall be given
to prescriptive minimum sampling requirements
based on the type of test and number of assemblies
to be included.
• Baseline: AAMA 101-2008 designation of CW30;
gateway DP per ASCE 7-2010 is a minimum of
720 Pa (30 psf). Water resistance test pressure
is calculated at 15% of the DP. The maximum
limits provided in AAMA 101-2008 have been
removed to allow higher test pressures as
warranted by the project conditions. "No
Uncontrolled Water Penetration" is also a
departure from the AAMA 101-2008 definition
and does not allow water penetration on any
interior surface that is not drained to the
exterior or otherwise controlled.
• Tier 1 High Performance (): Increases the
water resistance test pressure to 20% of the DP.
• Tier 2 High Performance (): Increases the
gateway requirement to AW40 with a water
resistance test pressure to 25% of the DP.
• Tier 3 High Performance (): Maintains the
gateway requirement of AW40 with a water
resistance test pressure to 30% of the DP.
3.2.3.2 Roofing and Horizontal
Waterproofing Membrane System
Roofing and horizontal waterproofing membrane
system requires a system that is highly resistive to
physical damage, including impact resistance, and
prohibits the entrapment of water within the
assembly including insulation, protection, and
drainage layers.
• Baseline: Prevents the retention of storm water
or other accumulation or ponding of water on
the membrane surface.
• Tier 1 High Performance (): Adds
requirements for full adhesion to the structural
deck and a membrane system that is fully
reinforced.
• Tier 2 High Performance (): Requires a fully
monolithic system without seams or laps joints.
• Tier 3 High Performance (): Requires the
added protection of layers above the roofing
and horizontal waterproofing systems to fully
protect the system from thermal and UV
exposures from the environment, such as an
inverted roofing membrane assembly (IRMA).
3.2.3.3 Minimum Slope
Minimum slope is intended to eliminate the potential
confluence of construction tolerance, creep, and
other factors that may create ponding or a reduced
evacuation of water from the membrane surfaces and
to increase the longevity and performance of the
membrane. As the slopes are increased the required
“drying” time of the roof is decreased.
• Baseline: The minimum code requirement as
per the 2012 Edition of the International
Building Code (2012 IBC), specifically section

1507, in which various minimum slopes are
identified based on the type of roof covering
system intended for use.
minimum slope to 150% of the baseline
requirement.
• Tier 2 High Performance (): Requires an
increase in slope to 200% of the minimum code
requirement.
• Tier 3 High Performance (): Requires an
increase in slope to 250% of the minimum code
requirement.
3.3.3.4 Drainage (Size of conductors,
leaders, and drains)
The intent of this requirement is to build redundancy
into the drainage system. Redundancy in the roof
drainage system is intended to mitigate ponding in
the event of reduced evacuation of water from the
membrane surfaces due to blockages, and to increase
the longevity and performance of the membrane and
the drainage systems.
• Baseline: The size of conductors, leaders, and
drains is based upon the maximum 100-year
hourly rainfall amount data per the 2012 Edition
if the International Plumbing Code, specifically
section 1106. All storm water piping shall be
tested per 2012 IPC, Section 312.8.
• Tier 1 High Performance (): Increase the
maximum rainfall to 110% of the requirement.
• Tier 2 High Performance (): Increase the
• Tier 3 High Performance (): Increase the
3.2.3.5 Vegetative Systems
Vegetative systems must be designed to meet
minimum performance requirements of other
attributes to ensure that the waterproofing design is
sufficiently robust to ensure continued performance
in a concealed location that will be difficult to access.
• Baseline: Must meet the Tier 3 High
Performance () rating for Membrane
System, Tier 1 High Performance () for
Minimum Slope, Tier 1 High Performance ()
for Drainage, and Tier 1 High Performance ()
for Testing and Monitoring.
• Tier 1 High Performance (): In addition to
meeting the Baseline, must meet the Tier 2 High
Performance () for Slope and Tier 2 High
Performance () for Drainage.
• Tier 2 High Performance (): Requires Tier 3
High Performance () for Slope, Tier 3 High
Performance () for Drainage, and Tier 2
High Performance () for Testing and
Monitoring.
• Tier 3 High Performance (): Requires Tier
3 High Performance () in all roofing and
horizontal waterproofing attributes.
3.2.3.6 Testing and Monitoring
Testing and monitoring are required for all horizontal
waterproofing and roofing surfaces.
• Baseline: 100% flood testing of all horizontal
waterproofing and roofing surfaces for 48 hours.
• Tier 1 High Performance (): Requires
electronic leak detection (ELD) or alternate test
methods of the primary membrane to pin point
breach locations in the system without reliance
on water passage through the breach. Testing
agency confirmation of the suitability of using
non-destructive test equipment (unit type and
field protocol) must be established prior to

proceeding with field test activities. Additional
testing must be provided for portions of the
system that are outside the scope of ELD or an
equivalent method.
• Tier 2 High Performance (): Requires a
“built-in” system wherein testing wiring etc. is
left in-place for future use such as an ELD or an
equivalent method of leak detection without
removal or disassembly of the system or its
protections as required during the life of the
structure.
• Tier 3 High Performance (): Requires
integration of the leak detection into a
maintenance plan for regular testing and the
integration of the leak detection into the
Building Management System (BMS).
3.2.3.7 Ground water control
• Baseline: Allows active removal of ground water
by means of pumping from the lowest level of
the structure. Active systems consume energy
and must not run on more than rare occasions.
• Tier 1 High Performance (): Requires passive
control of ground water without the use of
energy for this function, except as an occasional
back-up.
• Tier 2 High Performance (): No current
designation.
selection of a site where the ground water table
is not within 600 mm (2 feet) of the top of the
lowest structural floor.
3.2.3.8 Below Grade Waterproofing
Below grade waterproofing requires the relief of
hydrostatic pressure on the structure’s walls and
provision for water to drain to daylight or a storm
water management system.
• Baseline: The waterproof membrane must be
fully adhered to the structure and applied to the
positive hydrostatic pressure side of the
structure. Relieve hydrostatic pressure on
substructure walls and allow water drainage to
the level of the drain. Membrane waterproofing
must be fully bonded to the substrate and
seamless. Below-grade waterproofing must be
applied to the positive pressure side and must
be covered by a protection drainage and
protection course.
• Tier 1 High Performance (): In addition to
meeting the Baseline, must meet the Tier 1 High
Performance () in Ground Water Control and
must not rely on compression to maintain the
performance criteria, allowing construction
activities and future earthwork without
compromising the system. When the water
table is within 600 mm (2 feet) of the lowest
finished floor, a “bathtub” waterproofing
system shall be installed to eliminate the need
for continual dewatering.
• Tier 2 High Performance (): Requires
redundancy in the system, such as the inclusion
of additives or penetrating coatings to increase
the water resistance of the foundation walls.
Tier 2 High Performance () performance and
a redundant secondary drainage system.
3.2.4 Moisture and Condensate
Control
3.2.4.1 Moisture Control Opaque
Assemblies
• Baseline: Design of the above-grade building
enclosure must be demonstrated early in the
design development. ASHRAE 160-2009, Criteria
for Moisture Control Design Analysis in Buildings
is an acceptable basis of design.

• Tier 1 High Performance (): Complies with
Baseline. Requires analysis of project specific
assemblies and exposures. Requires the
placement of a portion of the thermal control
layer to the exterior of the air and moisture
control layers to reduce thermal bridging and
move the moisture potential toward the
exterior.
• Tier 2 High Performance (): Complies with
Tier 1 High Performance (). Requires thermal
controls to the exterior to maintain conditions
within the assembly below a 30-day running
average of 70% RH when the temperature is
between 5°C (41°F) and 40°C (104°F). Requires
monitoring of "vulnerable" exposures of the
assemblies that alerts the building staff to
approaching conditions that may be harmful to
the assembly or the occupants.
• Tier 3 High Performance (): Complies
with Tier 2 High Performance (). Requires
that all thermal controls are exterior of the air
and vapor control layers and additional
monitoring is provided so that all exposures and
assembly combination is included.
3.2.4.2 Condensation Resistance -
Fenestration
• Baseline: Perform thermal analysis based on
NFRC 500 to determine the performance of a
manufacture’s typical assembly.
laboratory testing per ASTM 1503 of
manufacture’s typical assemblies to be included
in the project to confirm the NFRC 500
modeling.
• Tier 2 High Performance (): Requires
project specific laboratory testing per ASTM
1503 on project specific extrusion profiles and
assemblies, including typical anchors.
use of a modified AAMA 501.5 Thermal Cycling
of Exterior Walls to include thermal couples of a
full-scale project-specific laboratory mock-up to
verify the NFRC 500 analysis.
3.2.5 Air Tightness
• Baseline: The minimum performance class is
CW 30 Minimum Performance Class, defined in
AAMA 101-2008, NAFS – North American
Fenestration Standard/Specification for
Windows, Doors, and Skylights, and AAMA CW
Design Guide for curtainwall and window wall,
as that which is "optimal" for its intended use.
performance class of CW30 and a maximum air
leakage of < 1.5 L/s*m (0.3 cfm/ft) requirement
per AAMA 101-2008.
• Tier 2 High Performance (): Increases
performance class to AW40 with a maximum
leakage of 0.75 L/s/M2 (0.15 cfm/ft2) to
incorporate the required durability testing for
this class and the increased requirements for air
leakage.
• Tier 3 High Performance (): Adds
durability testing relevant to the project
requirements and further increases the air
leakage requirements to align with the AW level
designation maximum leakage of 0.5 L/s/M2
(0.10 cfm/ft2) from AAMA 101-2008, section
5.3.2.2.
3.2.5.2 Enclosure Air Tightness (all six sides
of the building)

Enclosure air tightness on all six sides of the building
can be easily measured, and there is growing
expertise in the industry of achieving the airtightness
targets specified.
• Baseline: The minimum performance criteria is
based upon the requirement of a maximum air
leakage of 2 L/s/m
2
(0.4 cfm/ft
2
) of enclosure,
including all “six sides”, at a pressure differential
of 75 Pa (0.3“ wc) when tested in accordance
with ASTM E779 or ASTM E1827. This is
consistent with the requirements of ASHRAE
189.1-2009 and
• Tier 1 High Performance (): Requires a
maximum air leakage of 1.25 L/s/m
2
(0.25
cfm/ft
2
) of enclosure, including all “six sides”, at
a pressure differential of 75 Pa (0.3“ wc) when
tested in accordance with ASTM E779, ASTM
E1827, and the USACE Air Leakage Test Protocol
for Building Envelopes v2.
• Tier 2 High Performance (): Builds upon Tier
1 High Performance () by reducing the
allowable air leakage to of 0.75 L/s/m
2
(0.15
cfm/ft
2
a pressure differential of 75 Pa (0.3“ wc).
• Tier 3 High Performance (): Builds upon
Tier 2 High Performance () by reducing the
allowable air leakage to of 0.5 L/s/m
2
(0.10
cfm/ft
2
a pressure differential of 75 Pa (0.3“ wc).
3.2.6 Thermal Performance
• Baseline: Requires the prescriptive
requirements for the building envelope of
ASHRAE 90.1-2010, section 5.5.
requirements of ASHRAE 90.1-2010, section 5.5
to 1.15 times its stated value.
• Tier 2 High Performance (): Increases the
• Tier 3 High Performance (): Increases the
2.3.7 Building Enclosure
Commissioning
• Baseline: Requires Total Building
Commissioning, including Building Enclosure
Commissioning, as described in ASHRAE
Guideline 0 and NIBS Guideline 3.
• Tier 1 High Performance (): Adds the
requirements of ASTM E2813 and the
Fundamental Enclosure requirements within the
standard.
• Tier 2 High Performance (): Includes
requirements for Enhanced Commissioning as
described in ASTM 2813.
• Tier 3 High Performance (): Combines all
the above with additional performance testing
as required by the project.
3.2.8 Acoustic Control
Acoustic control is straightforward in theory, but
there is little experience in the industry for achieving
specific targets. The target inside acoustic signature
must be adjusted for occupancies different than
normal office occupancy. ASTM standards exist for
measuring performance on-site during construction
to verify that the desired performance has been
achieved.
• Baseline: STC-40/OITC-35 based on standard
performance values reported for assemblies

• Tier 1 High Performance (): STC-45/OITC-40 &
site assessment and lab tests of enclosure
components
• Tier 2 High Performance (): STC-45/OITC-40
& site assessment and site mockup testing
• Tier 3 High Performance (): STC-50/OITC-
45 & site assessment, mockup field tests and
one field test per 2000 m
2
(20,000 ft
2
) of
enclosure
3.2.9 Enclosure Service Life
Service life, while very important to many, is very
difficult to quantitatively predict, and there are few
reliable methods of test and verification. Two targets
for each performance level have been identified: the
full service life and the time between major
rehabilitation. The most important tools are material
selection, using experience, and design reviews by
third parties, with experience and knowledge related
to durability.
3.2.9.1 Walls
• Baseline: Minimum 50 year full service life / 25
year for major rehabilitation
• Tier 1 High Performance (): Minimum 70 year
full service life / 30 year for major rehabilitation
75/30
• Tier 2 High Performance (): Minimum 100
year full service life / 40 year for major
rehabilitation 100/40
• Tier 3 High Performance (): Minimum 150
rehabilitation 150/50
3.2.9.2 Roofs
• Baseline: Minimum 20 year full service life
full service life
year full service life
year full service life
• Baseline: Minimum 30 year full service life / 15
year for major rehabilitation of gasket and seal
replacements
•
full service life / 20 year for major rehabilitation
of gasket and seal replacements
rehabilitation of gasket and seal replacements
rehabilitation of gasket and seal replacements

3.3 Prescriptive Enclosure Requirements
3.3.1 Moisture Control
Design of the above-grade building enclosure must be
demonstrated early in the design development.
ASHRAE 160, Criteria for Moisture Control Design
Analysis in Buildings is an acceptable basis of design.
Demonstration of the transient hygrothermal
behavior of the various multi-layer building
components for all critical building enclosure systems
must be confirmed through modeling.
Construction documents must clearly depict all
drainage and air passages. Detail in three dimensions
where practical, indicating critical corner
terminations, interface of all differing systems, proper
sealant methodologies, etc.
3.3.2 Below Grade Systems
3.3.2.1 Ground Water Control
The drainage mat and soil filter should relieve
hydrostatic pressure on substructure walls and allow
water drainage to the level of the drain. Pipes should
not slope less than 1:200. Subsurface drainage should
discharge into the storm drain, by gravity if possible.
Cleanouts must be provided at grade to facilitate
washing out the system.
3.3.2.2 Waterproofing
Membrane waterproofing should follow the
recommendations of the National Roofing
Contractors Association (NRCA) in The NRCA
Waterproofing Manual.
3.3.2.3 Membrane Protection
Below-grade waterproofing must be applied to the
positive pressure side and must be covered by a
protection mat to shield the waterproofing
membrane from deleterious effects of construction
activities, ultraviolet radiation, or aggressive
vegetation.
3.3.2.4 Waterstops
Waterstops must be used at construction joints in
below-grade walls, footings and other elements
where a waterproof system is required. Wherever
possible use level changes to create a redundancy
with the substrate in the event the water barrier fails.
3.3.2.5 Underslab Insulation
Provide insulation under concrete slabs on grade
where a permafrost condition exists, where slabs are
heated, and where they support refrigerated
structures.
3.3.3 Substructure
When soil radon or contaminant levels are present, a
substructure depressurization system must be
provided. If a passive system is designed, it must have
the capability to accommodate future active
depressurization.
3.3.4 Wall Systems
3.3.4.1 Connections and Fasteners Exposed
to Weather
Products constructed of carbon steel are not
permitted in exterior construction, which includes
exterior walls, soffits, or roofs, except where
protected by a galvanic zinc coating of at least 460
grams per m2 (1.5 ounces per sq. ft.) of surface or
other equivalent protection.

3.3.4.2 Materials with Organic Content
In hot-humid and mixed-humid climates, do not use
vinyl wall coverings as the interior finish of exterior
walls. On mass storage walls where water may
penetrate the wall, avoid interior finishes made from
paper-faced gypsum sheathing or other highly
processed organic materials that may promote mold
growth.
3.3.4.3 Air/Moisture Barrier System
An air/moisture barrier is required of all new
construction and should be employed wherever
possible during remediation of existing exterior
envelopes. The air barrier system is:
• A continuous element or combination of
elements designed to control the movement of
air across an exterior enclosure system.
• Continuous in three-dimensions from roof-to-
wall-to-foundation.
• Consisting of materials and components that
are, either individually or collectively, sufficient
in stiffness and rigidity to resist air pressure
differentials across the exterior wall assembly
without permanent deformation or failure.
• Durable and structurally rigid to withstand the
construction process.
The interior and exterior air pressures across an air
barrier system that need to be examined include, but
are not limited to, pressures caused by wind, stack
effect, and mechanical systems. Air barriers may be
located at different locations within a wall system,
and the placement of the air barrier needs to be
indicated by the designer on the drawings. The
designer must carefully consider placement of the air
barrier when the air barrier material(s) will act both
as an air barrier and as a vapor retarder to determine
if drying of the system will be inhibited by the
location of this material within the assembly. Portions
of the air barrier may require regular maintenance
and an allowance should be made within the design
to accommodate this maintenance.
A continuous plane of air tightness, herein called the
air barrier system, must be installed as part of the
building enclosure (both above- and below-grade) to
effectively separate all conditioned air from outdoor
and polluted spaces.
The air barrier system must be shown on the
drawings as continuous through all section drawings
of the enclosure. The air barrier materials and
components of each assembly must be clearly
identified and labeled as "Air barrier" on construction
documents, and detailed at all penetrations, joints,
and transitions. The pressure boundary of the air
barrier system(s) and the zone(s) to be tested must
also be shown on the drawings.
The air barrier material of each assembly must be
joined and sealed to the air barrier material of
adjacent assemblies with sufficient flexibility to allow
for the relative differential movement and with
sufficient strength to resist expected peak air
pressure differences.
Penetrations of the air barrier system must be sealed
to the air barrier system in an airtight manner. These
penetrations include, but are not limited to: lighting
fixtures, wiring, conduit, gas lines, cable services,
windows, doors, ducts, fire protection standpipe
connections, and plumbing pipes.
The air barrier system (and all materials and
components comprising it) must last the anticipated
service life of the enclosure or allow for easy
maintenance, repair, and/or replacement.
Where required in the IBC, elevator hoistways shall
be provided with a means for venting smoke to the
outside air in case of fire. Vents shall be permitted to
open automatically upon detection of smoke in the
elevator lobbies or hoistway, upon power failure, or
upon activation of a manual override control.
Parking garages (attached to or under buildings),
other structures connected to the building, including
those connected via tunnels, walkways, service
conduits, etc., and any storage with contents that can
negatively affect indoor air quality must be separated
from all other conditioned spaces by an air barrier

system. Access to such spaces must be provided by
doors in air-tight vestibules or airtight hatches at
building access points.
Boiler rooms not using sealed combustion equipment
must be separated from the rest of the building space
by an air barrier system and provided with make-up
air for combustion.
Additional equipment and other items required for
testing the building's airtightness are to be installed
by the contractor as specified by the testing agency.
This may include: indoor-to-outdoor pressure taps at
various locations across the air barrier system, air
flow and pressure measuring stations in air
conveyance and handling systems, and tight-sealing
dampers on all ducts carrying air across the air
barrier.
3.3.5 Masonry and Concrete
Materials
Brick masonry design must follow the
recommendations of the Brick Institute of America
contained in the publication, Technical Notes on Brick
Construction.
Concrete masonry design must follow the
recommendations of the National Concrete Masonry
Association contained in the publication, TEK Manual
for Concrete Masonry Design and Construction.
Architectural precast concrete design must follow the
recommendations of the Precast Concrete Institute
(PCI) contained in PCI publication, Architectural
Precast Concrete, Current Edition.
Exterior limestone design must follow the guidelines
of the handbook published by the Indiana Limestone
Institute of America.
Marble and marble veneer design must follow the
recommendations in Exterior Marble Used in Curtain
or Panel Walls, published by the Marble Institute of
America. Extreme care should be used in the design
and selection of thin marble veneers to prevent
thermal hysteresis.
Design alterations and additions to minimize damage
to or concealment of historic walls. Clean historic
masonry prior to repointing or color matching new
materials intended to blend with historic stone, brick,
terra cotta or concrete.
3.3.6 Fenestration Systems
3.3.6.1 Aluminum Windows
Aluminum windows must meet the requirements of
ANSI/AAMA Standard 101-85. Only optimal
performance classes may be used. Metal windows
other than aluminum must meet the requirements of
the National Association of Architectural Metal
Manufacturers Standard SW-1 for the performance
class required. Wood windows should meet the
requirements of ANSI/NWMA Standard I.S. 2-87,
Grade 60.
3.3.6.2 Window Frames
Aluminum frames must have thermal breaks where
there are more than 1,670 heating degree days
O
C
(3,000 heating degree days
O
F). Window mullions, as
much as possible, should be located on the floor-
planning grid to permit the abutment of interior
partitions.
Metal windows other than aluminum must meet the
requirements of Steel Window Institute's (SWI)
Specifier's Guide to Steel Windows for the
performance class required.
Wood windows must meet the requirements of
ANSI/NWMA Standard I.S. 2-87, Grade 60. Wood
windows must meet the requirements of
AAMA/WDMA 101/I.S.2/NAFS. AW Architectural
Class.
Replacement windows in historic structures should
exactly match original frame and muntin profiles. First
consideration should be given to rehabilitating the
existing windows. Insulated glass installed in historic
sash must include weep holes and, if required, glass
fragmentation protection. See Upgrading Historic

Windows
(www.gsa.gov/historicpreservationguidelines) for
additional guidance.
3.3.6.3 Entrance Doors
Entrance doors may be aluminum and/or glass of
heavy duty construction. Glazed exterior doors and
frames must be steel and meet the requirements of
SDI Grade III with a G-90 galvanic zinc coating.
Vestibules are desired to control air infiltration.
Sliding automatic doors are preferred over swinging
type. Motion detectors and push plates are preferred
over mats as actuating devices. Historic entrance
doors must be retained and upgraded with care to
preserve the original appearance of the building.
Where missing, replicas of the original doors should
be installed. All door assemblies installed in the
means of egress must meet the requirements of the
National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), 101 Life
Safety Code.
3.3.7 Roof Systems
3.3.7.1 Roofing Design
Roofing design must follow the recommendations of
the National Roofing Contractors Association as
contained in NRCA publication, NRCA Roofing and
Waterproofing Manual. The design of metal flashing,
trim, and roofing must follow the recommendations
of the Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors'
National Association publication, Architectural Sheet
Metal Manual. In addition, all roof assemblies and
rooftop structures must meet the requirements in the
International Building Code (IBC).
3.3.7.2 Re-Roofing
Where existing roofing is to be replaced, it should be
completely removed and the substrate prepared for
new roofing. The new roofing system should not be of
greater weight than the old roofing system, unless a
structural analysis shows that the framing system can
carry the additional weight. Do not overlay new
roofing membrane systems over existing roof
membranes. See Historic Building Roofing
(www.gsa.gov/technicalpreservationguidelines) for
guidance on repair, replacement and modification of
roofing on historic buildings.
3.3.7.3 Access to the Roof
An interior permanent stair must be provided to
permit access to roof-mounted equipment.
Permanent access to all roof levels must be provided
to facilitate reoccurring inspection and maintenance.
3.3.7.5 Insulation
Roof insulation should use multiple layers to
maximize thermal breaks in the roof system.
3.3.7.6 Roof Mounted Equipment
Roof mounted equipment must be kept to a minimum
and must be housed in penthouses or screened by
walls. Penthouses and screen walls should be
integrated into the building design and constructed of
materials used elsewhere in the building exterior.
Some roof-mounted equipment, such as antennae,
lightning rods, flagpoles, etc., does not have to be
screened, but these elements must be integrated into
the building design. Roof-mounted equipment should
be elevated as recommended in the NRCA Roofing
and Waterproofing Manual and set back from the
roof edge to minimize visibility. Critical roof-mounted
equipment should be installed in such a way to permit
roof system replacement or maintenance without
disruption of equipment performance.
Penetrations through the roof to support equipment
are extremely vulnerable to leaks. Flashing details
must be studied for appropriate continuation of the
waterproof barrier. Do not use pitch pockets as part
of the roof design.

No building element may be supported by the roofing
system except walkways. Provide walkways on the
roof along routes to and around equipment for
maintenance.
When installing roof top photovoltaic systems,
consult with the local building and fire code official
for additional access and safety requirements.
3.3.7.7 Exterior Soffits
Design exterior soffits to resist displacement and
rupture by wind uplift. Design soffits for access to
void space where operating equipment is located or
maintenance must be performed. Soffits can be
considered totally exposed to weather and should
therefore be designed to be moisture resistant.
Provide expansion and contraction control joints at
the edges and within the soffit. Spacing and
configuration of control joints should be in
accordance with the recommendations of the
manufacturer of the soffit material.
Operating equipment or distribution systems that
may be affected by weather should not be located
inside soffits. Where it is necessary to insulate the
floors over soffits, the insulation should be attached
to the underside of the floor construction so that the
soffit void may be ventilated to prevent
condensation.
3.3.7.8 Skylights and Sloped Glazing
Skylights are defined as prefabricated assemblies
shipped ready for installation, while sloped glazing is
defined as field-assembled. Skylight design must
follow the guidelines of AAMA Standard 1600. For the
design of sloped glazing, two AAMA publications are
available: Glass Design for Sloped Glazing and
Structural Design Guidelines for Aluminum Framed
Skylights.
Skylights and sloped glazing should use low emissivity
glass. Placement should be calculated to prevent
glare or overheating in the building interior.
Condensation gutters and a path for the condensation
away from the framing should be designed.
Consideration must be given to cleaning of all sloped
glazing and skylights, including access and equipment
required for both exterior and interior faces.
Skylights must be guarded for fall protection or meet
OSHA structural requirements.
3.3.7.9 Edge Protection
Flat roofs designed for access must include a parapet
or perimeter railing at least 42 inches in height.
Where parapets and railings are not feasible, personal
fall protection anchorage points must be provided.
Equipment should be located away from roof edges
and oriented with access panels inboard of the roof
edge.
3.3.7.10 Rooftop Gardens and Landscaped
Roofs
Vegetated roof, rooftop gardens, and landscaped
roofs must also be installed and maintained in
accordance with the requirements in the ICC,
International Fire Code (IFC).
3.3.8 Quality Assurance
3.3.8.1 Mock-ups
Many unique contemporary building solutions require
full scale, laboratory, and on-site mock-ups of critical
portions of the building facade. The testing of the
laboratory mockup almost always assists in
determining the final design solution. Mock-ups
should be constructed by same team that will
construct the facade.
3.3.8.2 Air Barrier Testing
For new construction, demonstrate performance of
the air barrier system for the building enclosure. Tests

can be conducted using either pressurization or
depressurization: conducting both provides diagnostic
information. The building must not be tested until
verifying that the continuous air barrier system has
been installed as per the design in accordance with
installation instructions.
3.3.9 Sun Control Devices
Where sun control devices are used, operable and
fixed sun control devices must be used, which allow
for ease of maintenance, repair, and replacement.
Window washing systems used for the facility must
also be compatible with any sunscreens or sun control
devices.
3.3.10 Window Cleaning
The facility must have provisions for cleaning the
interior and exterior surfaces of all windows,
skylights, and other glazed openings. The A/E must
demonstrate that cleaning and maintenance of
interior glazing surfaces can be achieved without
extraordinary means and methods. Submit this
information with the construction documents.
3.3.11 Providing Access to Maintain
Equipment in Atriums
The A/E must demonstrate that maintenance of
equipment (e.g., lighting, smoke detectors, and other
systems that are mounted within atrium spaces) can
be achieved without extraordinary means and
methods. Submit this information with the
construction documents.
3.3.12 Providing Access to Elevated
Locations
The provision of stanchions with moveable davits is
the preferred design. Stanchions must be spaced to
accommodate expected scaffold lengths.
If temporary structural attachments are anticipated,
the structure must be designed to support the work
platform load, including OSHA safety factors.
In some cases, GSA may decide to install engineered
systems for window washing and access to elevated
locations that must be incorporated into the building
design. When the design is for buildings three stories
or 12,200 mm (40 ft.) and higher, it must conform to
OSHA Standard 29 CFR 1910.66, Subpart F: Powered
Platforms, Manlifts, and Vehicle-Mounted Work
Platforms, ANSI Standard A120.1, Safety
Requirements for Powered Platforms for Building
Maintenance, and ANSI/IWCA I-14.1-2001, Window
Cleaning Safety.
Regardless of the system selected, secondary tieback
anchors must be provided in the vicinity of
anticipated suspended scaffold operations. Anchors
must be designed to support a 5,000-pound load in
any direction. Where feasible, anchors must be
located to facilitate routine inspection and load
testing.
Facade tiebacks must be provided on buildings over
75 feet high.
Window-washing systems that are widely used in the
region of the project must be considered and the
preferred system and equipment be identified during
design. In large and/or highrise buildings, such glass
surfaces as atrium walls and skylights, sloped glazing,
pavilion structures, and windows at intermediate
design surfaces must be addressed.

3.4 INTERIOR PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS
Acoustics
No Rating No Rating STC 45 STC 50
N/A
ASTM E1425
N/A
Document door STC rating,
when applicable.
Verify STC ratings through
product submittals during
construction for compliance.
Hardware
Grade 1, Bored Locks Grade 1; Standard duty
mortise locks
Grade 1; Heavy duty
mortise locks; solid
stainless steel or bronze
Grade 1; Heavy duty
stainless steel or bronze;
gasketed for sound
transmission
N/A
BHMA A156
Series (door
hardware) N/A
Describe door hardware
requirements.
Verify hardware submittal
during construction to verify
compliance.
Frame
Knock-down hollow
metal, Level 3; 0.053"
(1.3 mm); untreated
Knock-down hollow
(1.3 mm); untreated
Welded hollow metal,
Level 3; 0.053" (1.3 mm);
galvanized
Welded hollow metal;
Level 4; 0.067"
(1.7mm)/galvanized;
filled solid with grout
N/A
ASTM/SDI 250.4
N/A
Describe door frame
construction.
Verify through shop drawing
submittal and product
submittal information.
Security
No Rating No Rating Time Rated Forced Entry, Ballistic
Resistant N/A
UL 752 Required for FE
and BR ratings
Describe UL 752 door rating
level (1-8) when applicable.

3.4 Interior Performance Requirements
Design Construction
Measurements &
Verification
Plans &
Specifications
Calculations &
Analysis
Hollow Metal Doors
Construction
Level 2; 0.042"
(1.0mm)/untreated; Field
applied paint
Level 3; 0.053"
(1.3mm)/untreated; Field
applied paint
Level 3; 0.053"
(1.3mm)/untreated; Shop
applied paint
Level 4; 0.067"
(1.7mm)/galvanized;
Electrostatically applied
paint
N/A
ASTM/SDI 250.4
N/A Describe door construction.
Verify door construction
through shop drawing
Durability
Heavy Duty Extra Heavy Duty Extra Heavy Duty Maximum Duty
N/A
ASTM/SDI 250.4
N/A Document warranty period.
Verify warranty through
product submittal information.
Acoustics
No Rating No Rating STC 35 STC 35
N/A
ASTM E1425
N/A
Document door STC rating,
when applicable.
Hardware
Grade 1; bored locks Grade 1; Standard duty
mortise locks
Grade 1; Heavy duty
stainless steel or bronze
Grade 1; Heavy duty
stainless steel or bronze;
gasketed for sound
transmission
N/A
BHMA A156
Series (door
hardware) N/A
requirements.
compliance.
Frame
Knock-down hollow
(1.3 mm); untreated
Knock-down hollow
(1.3 mm); untreated
Level 3; 0.053" (1.3 mm);
galvanized
Welded hollow metal;
Level 4; 0.067"
(1.7mm)/galvanized;
filled solid with grout
N/A
ASTM/SDI 250.4
N/A
Describe door frame
construction.
Security
No Rating No Rating Time Rated Forced Entry, Ballistic
Resistant, UL Level 3 N/A
UL 752 Required for FE
and BR ratings Describe UL 752 door rating
level (1-8) when applicable.
Glazed Aluminum Doors
Construction
1/8" (3mm) extruded
aluminum; mill finish
1/8" (3mm) extruded
aluminum; Class II
anodic finish
1/8" (3mm) extruded
aluminum; Class I anodic
or fluoropolymer paint
finish
3/16" (5mm) extruded
aluminum; Class I anodic
or fluoropolymer paint
finish
N/A
AAMA
101/I.S.2/A440
N/A Describe door construction.
Durability
Standard Warranty Standard Warranty Standard Warranty 5 Year Warranty
Manufacturer's
Warranty
N/A N/A Document warranty period.
Verify warranty through
Hardware
Offset pivots, BHMA
Grade 2
Offset pivots, BMHA
Grade 1
Center pivots, BMHA
Grade 1
Center pivots, BMHA
Grade 1 N/A
BHMA A156
Series (door
hardware)
N/A
requirements.
compliance.
Glazing
1/4" (6mm) clear safety
glass
glass
1" (25mm) clear
insulating laminated
glass
1/2" (13mm) laminated
clear or decorative glass
N/A
ASTM C 1048
N/A
Describe glazing system
proposed in glazed aluminum
doors.
Verify glazing in glazed
aluminum door submittal
compliance.
Security
Lock Set Only Lock Set Only Lock Set Only Electronically Controlled
Access N/A N/A N/A
Describe security requirement
for glazed aluminum doors.
Verification
Products Baseline




Design Construction
Measurements &
Verification
Plans &
Specifications
Calculations &
Analysis
All Glass Entrances
Construction
All glass with top and
bottom rails or patches
N/A N/A N/A N/A Describe door construction.
Hardware
Offset pivots, BMHA
Grade 1
Center pivots, BMHA
Grade 1
Center pivots, BMHA
Grade 1 N/A N/A
BMHA A156
Series (door
hardware)
N/A
requirements.
compliance.
Glazing
glass
glass
1/2" (13mm) clear or
decorative safety glass N/A N/A
ASTM C 1048
N/A
Describe glazing system
proposed.
Verify glazing in door submittal
compliance.
Security
Lock Set Only Lock Set Only Electronically Controlled
Access N/A N/A N/A N/A
Describe security requirement
for glazed aluminum doors.
Wood Framed Interior
Lights
Construction
AWI Custom grade; field
fabricated and painted
AWI Custom grade; shop
fabricated and field
applied stained
AWI Premium grade;
shop fabricated and
stained
AWI Premium grade;
shop fabricated and
stained N/A
AWI Architectural
Woodwork Quality
Standards N/A
Describe construction of wood
framed interior lights.
Verify through mockup, shop
drawing submittal and product
Frame
Birch, Poplar or clear
softwood
Oak, Maple, Cherry,
Walnut or similar
Oak, Maple, Cherry,
Walnut or similar
Teak, Rosewood or
similar
N/A N/A N/A
Describe frame construction of
wood framed interior lights.
Glazing
glass
glass
1" (25mm) clear
glass
N/A
ASTM C 1048
N/A
Describe proposed glazing for
wood framed interior lights.
Hollow Metal Framed
Interior Lights
Construction
Knock-down hollow
metal, field painted
shop applied paint
custom profile,
electrostatically applied
paint
custom profile,
electrostatically applied
paint
N/A
ASTM/SDI A250.4
N/A
Describe construction of
hollow metal framed interior
lights.
Frame
0.042"
(1.0mm)/untreated
0.053"
(1.3mm)/galvanized in
wet areas
0.053"
wet areas
0.053"
wet areas N/A
ASTM/SDI A250.4
N/A
lights.
Glazing
glass
glass
1" (25mm) clear
glass
N/A
ASTM C 1048
N/A
lights.
Verification
Products Baseline




Design Construction
Measurements &
Verification
Plans &
Specifications
Calculations &
Analysis
Aluminum Framed Interior
Lights
Construction
Manufacturer's standard
profile; mill finish
profile; Class II anodic
finish
profile; Class I anodic or
fluoropolymer paint
finish
Custom profile; Class I
anodic or fluoropolymer
paint finish
N/A
AAMA
101/I.S.2/A440
N/A
Describe construction of
aluminum framed interior
lights.
Frame
1/8" (3mm) extruded
aluminum
1/8" (3mm) extruded
aluminum
1/8" (3mm) extruded
aluminum
1/8" (3mm) extruded
aluminum
N/A
AAMA
101/I.S.2/A440
N/A
lights.
Glazing
glass
glass
1" (25mm) clear
glass
N/A
ASTM C 1048
N/A
lights.
Metal Stud Partitions
Construction
3-5/8" x min. 25 ga.
metal studs @ 24" o.c.,
5/8" gypsum board each
side (max. deflection
L/240)
3-5/8" x min. 25 ga.
metal studs @ 16" o.c.,
side (max. deflection
L/360)
3-5/8" x min. 16 ga. light
gage metal framing
studs @ 16" o.c., 2
layers 5/8" gypsum
board, 9 ga. wire mesh
between studs and
gypsum each side (max.
deflection L/360)
N/A N/A
ASTM C 645,
ASTM C 1396
N/A Describe partition construction.
Verify compliance through
Durability (Impact
Resistance)
Standard Standard High
N/A N/A N/A N/A
Describe impact resistance
requirement, when applicable.
Height
Deck to Ceiling Deck to Slab or Deck
Above
Deck to Slab or Deck
Above
N/A N/A N/A N/A
Describe partition height
requirements.
design submittals.
Acoustics
STC 40 STC 45 STC 50
N/A N/A
ASTM E 90
N/A
Document partition assembly
STC rating.
Security
No Rating No Rating SCIF
N/A N/A N/A
Required for FE
and BR ratings
Document security
requirement.
design submittals and shop
drawings
Verification
Products Baseline




Design Construction
Measurements &
Verification
Plans &
Specifications
Calculations &
Analysis
Masonry Partitions
Construction
6" CMU, 1-5/8" metal
studs @ 16" o.c. and
side
8" filled and reinforced
CMU, 9 ga. wire mesh
one side, 1-5/8" metal
studs @ 16" o.c. and 2
layers 5/8" high impact
resistant gypsum board
each side
N/A N/A N/A
ASTM C 129,
ASTM C 645,
ASTM C 1396
N/A Describe partition construction.
Durability (Impact
Resistance)
Standard High
N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A
Describe impact resistance
requirement, when applicable.
Acoustics
STC 50 STC 70
N/A N/A N/A
ASTM E 90
N/A
STC rating.
Security
Moderate High
N/A N/A N/A N/A
Required for FE
and BR ratings
Document security
requirement.
design submittals and shop
drawings
Demountable Partitions
Construction
Standard Panel Width
Prefinished Metal Panels
Custom Panel Width
Gypsum Board Panels
Custom panel width;
transoms and borrowed
lights Gypsum Board
Panels
Custom panel width;
transoms and borrowed
lights Gypsum Board
Panels
N/A N/A N/A Describe partition construction.
Acoustics
STC 40 STC 45 STC 45 STC 50
N/A
ASTM E 90
N/A
STC rating.
Operable Walls
Construction
Steel or MDF/Vinyl/3"
(75mm)
Steel or MDF/vinyl,
fabric, or veneer/3"
(75mm)
Steel or MDF/vinyl,
fabric, veneer, or marker
board/3" (75mm)
Steel, MDF, or
gypsum/vinyl, fabric,
veneer, or marker
board/4" (100mm)
N/A N/A N/A Describe partition construction.
Acoustics
STC 40 STC 45 STC 50 STC 55
N/A
ASTM E 90
N/A
STC rating.
Operation
Single panels or hinged
pairs, manual
Single panels or hinged
pairs, manual
Continuously hinged
panels, motorized
Hinged pairs, manual
N/A N/A N/A
Describe operable wall
operation type.
Verification
Products Baseline




Design Construction
Measurements &
Verification
Plans &
Specifications
Calculations &
Analysis
Millwork and Cabinets
Construction
Particle Board
Plastic Laminate
Particle Board
Wood Veneer
Particle Board
Wood Veneer
Solid Wood
Detailed Molding/Trim
N/A N/A N/A
Describe construction and
document any environmental
(temperature/humidity) limits,
if any.
Durability
Moderate Moderate Extended Life Extended Life
N/A N/A N/A
Describe anticipated service
life.
Quality
AWI Custom grade,
factory standard
products. Grade 2
hardware.
AWI Custom grade, shop
fabricated by millworker.
Grade 1 hardware.
AWI Premium grade,
shop fabricated by
millworker. Grade 1
hardware.
AWI Premium grade,
shop fabricated by
millworker. Grade 1
hardware.
N/A
AWI Architectural
Woodwork Quality
Standards
N/A
Describe quality of millwork
and cabinets.
Countertops
Construction
Particle Board, Plastic
Laminate Top and Edge
Particle Board, Exterior
Glue, Solid Surface
Material Top
Exterior Grade Plywood,
Stone Top
Exterior Grade Plywood,
Chemical Resistant or
stainless steel top
N/A N/A N/A
Describe countertop
construction.
Durability
Limited Moderate Extended Life Extended Life
N/A N/A N/A
Describe anticipated service
life.
Quality
AWI Custom grade AWI Premium grade AWI Premium grade AWI Premium grade
N/A
AWI Architectural
Woodwork Quality
Standards
N/A
Describe quality of
countertops.
Verification
Products Baseline




Design Construction
Measurements &
Verification
Plans &
Specifications
Calculations &
Analysis
Broadloom/ Carpet Tile
Heavy Traffic Severe Traffic Severe Traffic Severe Traffic
ASTM D 5252/
ASTM D 7330
Document the Texture
Appearance Retention Rating
(TARR).
mockup and product submittal
information.
Type 6 or Type 6,6
BCF Nylon
Type 6 or Type 6,6
BCF Nylon
Type 6 or Type 6,6
BCF Nylon
Type 6 or Type 6,6
BCF Nylon or Bio Based
fiber
N/A N/A N/A Describe the nylon type used.
information.
Maintenance
Green Label Certified
cleaners
cleaners
cleaners
cleaners
N/A N/A N/A
Describe type of cleaning
required.
Verify through maintenance
agreements after installation
Service Life 10 Year Warranty 10 Year Warranty 15 Year Warranty 15 Year Warranty
Provide copy of
Manufacturers
Published
Warranty
N/A N/A Document warranty period.
10% Pre or Post
Consumer Recycled
Content or 7% Bio Based
Fiber
15% Pre or Post
Consumer Recycled
Content or 7% Bio Based
Fiber
25% Post Consumer
Recycled Content or 15%
Bio Based Fiber
35% Post Consumer
Recycled Content or 15%
Bio Based Fiber
Recycled content/
Bio Based must
be calculated in
terms of total
product weight
NSF/ANSI 140
current version at
time of ordering
N/A
Document the percent recycled
content.
NSF 140 Gold Level
NSF 140 Gold Level +
Must have take back
program
NSF 140 Platinum Level
+ Published
Environmental Product
Declaration
Provide Link to
Published EPD &
NSF 140
certificate
N/A N/A Describe NSF level.
Meets Green Label Plus
certification and
equivalent CHPS
protocol
certification and
equivalent CHPS
protocol
certification and
equivalent CHPS
protocol
certification and
equivalent CHPS
protocol
Provide GLP
Certificate and
letter from Mfg
that product is
CHPS compliant
Green Label Plus N/A
Document environmental
testing requirements for
carpet, padding and adhesives.
Durability
Environmental
Verification
Products Baseline




Design Construction
Measurements &
Verification
Plans &
Specifications
Calculations &
Analysis
Vinyl Tile (VT)
Standard VCT - (Class I
Solid Color; Class II
Through Pattern; Class
III Surface Decorated)
Standard VCT - (Class I
Solid Color; Class II
Through Pattern)
N/A
Premium Vinyl Tile(SVT)
(Class III 20 mil wear
Layer) & (Class I
Monolithic)
N/A
ASTM F 1066 for
Standard VCT;
ASTM F 1700 for
Premium
N/A Describe tile construction.
Minimum Overall
Thickness = nom 0.125
inch
Minimum Overall
inch
N/A
Minimum Overall
inches(Class III) & nom
0.125 inches(Class I)
N/A N/A N/A Describe tile thickness.
Static Limit Load >125psi Static Limit Load >125psi N/A Static Limit Load >175psi N/A ASTM F 970 N/A
Document static limit load
rating for VCT.
Maintenance Ex Factory Surface Specialty Top Coat N/A Specialty Top Coat N/A ASTM F 410 N/A
Describe maintenance
requirements.
Service Life 5 Year Warranty 5 Year Warranty N/A 5 Year Warranty N/A N/A N/A Document warranty period.
0 % Recycled Content 5% Recycled Content N/A 25% Recycled Content N/A N/A N/A
content.
CA 1350 Compliant
CA 1350 Compliant +
Floor Score Certification
N/A
CA 1350 Compliant +
N/A NSF/ANSI 332 N/A
Document compliance with CA
01350.
Sustainability None Sustainability NSF 332 N/A Sustainability NSF 332 N/A
Floor Score
Certified
N/A
Describe environmental testing
requirement.
Durability
Environmental
Verification
Products Baseline




Design Construction
Measurements &
Verification
Plans &
Specifications
Calculations &
Analysis
Sheet Vinyl
Heterogeneous Vinyl Heterogeneous Vinyl N/A Homogeneous Vinyl N/A
ASTM F 1303/
ASTM F 1913
N/A Describe tile construction.
Type I (Clear Wear Layer
0.014 inches) Type II
(Filled Wear Layer 0.030
inches)
Type I (Clear Wear Layer
0.020 inches) Type II
(Filled Wear Layer 0.050
inches)
N/A nom 0.075 inches N/A
ASTM F 1303/
ASTM F 1913
N/A
Describe type of backing when
used.
Static Limit Load >125psi Static Limit Load >175psi N/A Static Limit Load >250psi N/A
ASTM F 1303/
ASTM F 1913
N/A
rating.
Maintenance Ex-Factory Surface Specialty Top Coat N/A Specialty Top Coat N/A ASTM F 1303 N/A
requirements.
CA 1350 Compliant
CA 1350 Compliant +
N/A
CA 1350 Compliant +
N/A N/A N/A
01350.
product submittal information
and manufacturer certification.
0 % Recycled Content 5% Recycled N/A 25% Recycled N/A N/A N/A
content.
Sustainability None Sustainability NSF 332 N/A Sustainability NSF 332 N/A NSF/ANSI 332 N/A
requirement.
Environmental
Durability
Verification
Products Baseline




Design Construction
Measurements &
Verification
Plans &
Specifications
Calculations &
Analysis
Rubber Tile
Class II Laminated A&B
(A=Solid Color Wear
Layer; B=Mottled Wear
Layer)
N/A N/A
Class I Homogenous
A&B (A=Solid Color
Wear Layer; B=Mottled
Wear Layer )
N/A ASTM F 1344 N/A
Describe rubber tile
construction.
Min Overall Thickness =
nom 0.080 inches
Hardness >85
N/A N/A
Min Overall Thickness =
nom 0.125 inches
Hardness >85
N/A ASTM D 2240 N/A Describe tile thickness.
Maintenance Class II A&B N/A N/A Class I A&B N/A ASTM F 1344 N/A
requirements.
Service Life 5 Year Warranty N/A N/A 5 Year Warranty N/A N/A N/A Document warranty period.
0 % Recycled Content N/A N/A 50% Recycled Content N/A N/A N/A
content.
Voc Emissions = CA
1350 Compliant
N/A N/A
Voc Emissions = CA
1350 Compliant + Floor
Score Certification
N/A N/A N/A
01350.
Sustainability None N/A N/A Sustainability NSF 332 N/A NSF/ANSI 332 N/A
requirement.
Durability
Environmental
Verification
Products Baseline




Design Construction
Measurements &
Verification
Plans &
Specifications
Calculations &
Analysis
Linoleum
Thickness >2.5mm N/A N/A Thickness >3.2mm N/A ASTM F 2034 N/A Describe linoleum thickness.
Static Limit Load >150psi N/A N/A Static Limit Load >400psi N/A ASTM F 970 N/A
rating.
Maintenance Ex-Factory Surface N/A N/A
Low Maintenance
Coating
N/A ASTM F 2034 N/A
requirements.
Service Life 2 Year Warranty N/A N/A 3 Year Warranty N/A N/A N/A Document warranty period.
10% Recycled Content
and/or 30% Bio Based
Content
N/A N/A
20 % Recycled Content
and/or 50% Bio Based
Content
N/A N/A N/A
content.
NSF 332 - None N/A N/A Sustainability NSF 332 N/A N/A N/A
requirement.
Binder Content min 30 % N/A N/A Binder Content min 30 % N/A N/A N/A Describe binder content.
Voc Emissions = CA
1350 Compliant
N/A N/A
Voc Emissions = CA
1350 Compliant + Floor
Score Certification
N/A
California Section
01350
N/A
01350.
Durability
Environmental
Verification
Products Baseline




Design Construction
Measurements &
Verification
Plans &
Specifications
Calculations &
Analysis
Pressed Floor Tile
Conforms to ANSI A137.1 Conforms to ANSI A137.1
N/A
Conforms to ANSI A137.1
N/A
ANSI A137.1
N/A
Document conformance with
ANSI A137.1.
information.
Abrasion Class III Abrasion Class IV
N/A
Abrasion Class IV
N/A
ASTM C1027
N/A
Document ASTM abrasion
resistance.
N/A
Max. Absorp. Class P3
N/A
Max. Absorp. Class P2
N/A
ASTM C373
N/A
Document water absorption
requirement.
information.
N/A
Breaking Strength
>350lbs N/A
Breaking Strength
>400lbs N/A
ASTM C648
N/A
Document floor tile breaking
strength.
Stain Class Reported Stain Class B or Better
N/A
Stain Class A
N/A
ASTM C1378
N/A Describe Stain Class.
Chem Class Reported Chem Class B or Better
N/A
Chem Class A
N/A
ASTM C650
N/A Describe Chemical Class.
Service Life
1 Year Warranty 18 Month Warranty
N/A
2 Year Warranty
N/A
Manufacturer
Green Squared
Certification
Green Squared
Certification
N/A
Green Squared
Certification with Level 2
recycled /reclaimed
content elective
satisfied
Provide 3rd party
Certificate
ANSI A138.1 &
Green Squared
Certification
Program
N/A
requirement.
N/A N/A N/A
Publically Available
Data
Provide link to
EPD Operators
Website
ISO 14025
N/A
requirement.
Durability
Maintenance
Environmental
Verification
Products Baseline




Design Construction
Measurements &
Verification
Plans &
Specifications
Calculations &
Analysis
Quarry Tile
Conforms to ANSI A137.1 Conforms to ANSI A137.1 Conforms to ANSI A137.1 Conforms to ANSI A137.1
N/A
ANSI A137.1
N/A
ANSI A137.1.
information.
Abrasion Class III Abrasion Class IV Abrasion Class IV Abrasion Class V
N/A
ASTM C1027
N/A
resistance.
N/A
Max. Absorp. Class E3 Max. Absorp. Class E2 Max Absorp. Class E1
N/A
ASTM C373
N/A
requirement.
information.
N/A
Breaking Strength
>350lbs
Breaking Strength
>400lbs
Breaking Strength
>450lbs N/A
ASTM C648
N/A
strength.
Stain Class Reported Stain Class B or Better Stain Class A Stain Class A
N/A
ASTM C1378
Chem Class Reported Chem Class B or Better Chem Class A Chem Class A
N/A
ASTM C650
Service Life 1 Year Warranty 18 Month Warranty 2 Year Warranty 3 Year Warranty
N/A
Manufacturer
Green Squared
Certification
Green Squared
Certification
Green Squared
recycled /reclaimed
content elective
satisfied
Green Squared
recycled / reclaimed
content elective
satisfied + 3 Innovation
Credits
Provide 3rd party
Certificate
ANSI A138.1 &
Green Squared
Certification
Program
N/A
requirement.
N/A N/A
Data
Data
Provide link to
EPD Operators
Website
ISO 14025
N/A
requirement.
Maintenance
Environmental
Durability
Verification
Products Baseline




Design Construction
Measurements &
Verification
Plans &
Specifications
Calculations &
Analysis
Mosaic Tile
N/A
ANSI A137.1
N/A
ANSI A137.1.
information.
Abrasion Class III Abrasion Class IV Abrasion Class IV Abrasion Class V
N/A
ASTM C1027
N/A
resistance.
N/A
Max. Absorp. Class
P3/E3/O3
Max. Absorp. Class
P2/E2/O2
P1/E1/O1
N/A
ASTM C373
N/A
requirement.
information.
N/A
Breaking Strength
>350lbs
Breaking Strength
>400lbs
Breaking Strength
>450lbs N/A
ASTM C648
N/A
strength.
N/A
ASTM C1378
N/A
ASTM C650
Service Life
1 Year Warranty 18 Month Warranty 2 Year Warranty 3 Year Warranty
N/A
Manufacturer
Green Squared
Certification
Green Squared
Certification
Green Squared
recycled /reclaimed
content elective
satisfied
Green Squared
content elective
Credits
Provide 3rd party
Certificate
ANSI A138.1 &
Green Squared
Certification
Program
N/A
requirement.
N/A N/A
Data
Data
Provide link to
EPD Operators
Website
ISO 14025
N/A
requirement.
Limestone Tile
Durability Abrasion Resistance >10 NA NA Abrasion Resistance >15 N/A ASTM C568 N/A
resistance.
Maintenance Absorption max. 7.5 NA NA Absorption max. 3 N/A ASTM C97 N/A
requirement.
information.
Slate Tile
resistance.
Maintenance Absorption NA NA Absorption N/A ASTM C121 N/A
requirement.
information.
Maintenance
Environmental
Durability
Verification
Products Baseline




Design Construction
Measurements &
Verification
Plans &
Specifications
Calculations &
Analysis
Marble
resistance.
Maintenance
Absorption max. 0.20 /
Density 144 min
NA NA
Absorption max. 0.20 /
Density 168 min
N/A ASTM C97 N/A
requirement.
information.
Granite
Durability Abrasion Resistance >25 N/A N/A Abrasion Resistance >25 N/A ASTM C615 N/A
resistance.
Maintenance Absorption max. 0.50 N/A N/A Absorption max. 0.40 N/A ASTM C97 N/A
requirement.
information.
Terrazzo Cementitious Epoxy
Polyacrylate 3/8" N/A N/A 1/4" or 3/8" N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A
Abrasion<40% Loss N/A N/A Ha-10 minimum N/A
MIL-D-3134 Par.
4.7.10/ ASTM C
241
N/A
resistance.
Maintenance Anti-fracture Membrane N/A N/A
Flexible Membrane and
vapor barrier
N/A ASTM E 1745 N/A
Document maintenance
requirements.
Environmental
No VOC
Local Resources
Recycled Marble Chips
N/A N/A
Low VOC
Local Resources
Recycled Glass/Stone
Chips
N/A N/A N/A
requirement.
Durability
Verification
Products Baseline




Design Construction
Measurements &
Verification
Plans &
Specifications
Calculations &
Analysis
Laminate Flooring Commercial Heavy Commercial
Wear Resistance
IP>4000 cycles
N/A N/A
Wear Resistance
IP>6000 cycles
N/A NAFLA LF-01 N/A
Document wear resistance
rating.
Static Load Limit >8 MPa
(1160 psi)
N/A N/A
Static Load Limit >8 MPa
(1160 psi)
N/A NAFLA LF-01 N/A Document static load limit.
Maintenance
High Wear Resistant
Thermoset Surface
N/A N/A
High Wear Resistant
Thermoset Surface
N/A NAFLA Stds N/A
Document maintenance
requirements.
10 Year Warranty N/A N/A 10 Year Warranty N/A N/A N/A Document warranty period.
CARB Verified Phase 2
Compliant
N/A N/A
CARB Verified Phase 2
Compliant
3rd Party Certified
ASTM
E1333/ASTM
D6007
N/A Document CARB compliance.
VOC Emissions - CA
1350
N/A N/A
CA 1350 - (Floor Score
Certified)
N/A N/A N/A
01350.
50% Recycled Content N/A N/A 90% Recycled Content N/A NAFLA Stds N/A
content.
Wood Flooring
Durability Hardness - 380-950 Hardness - 950-1500 Hardness - 1500-2600 Hardness - 2600-3800 N/A Janka Test N/A
Document Janka Test hardness
level.
Maintenance Varnish top coat Varnish top coat Polyurethane top coat Polyurethane top coat N/A ASTM D 4060 N/A
requirements.
Environmental
Local Resources, 91%
Bio Based
Bio Based
Bio Based
Bio Based
N/A
Green Label
Certified
N/A
Describe regional material
content, recycled material
content and environmental
testing requirement.
Bamboo Flooring
Durability Hardness 1300 min Hardness 1400 min Hardness 1500 min Hardness 1600 min N/A Janka Test N/A
level.
requirements.
Environmental
91% Bio Based,
Recycled, Low VOC
91% Bio Based,
Recycled, Low VOC
91% Bio Based,
Recycled, Low VOC
91% Bio Based,
Recycled, Low VOC
N/A
Green Label
Certified
N/A
Service Life
Environmental
Durability
Verification
Products Baseline




Design Construction
Measurements &
Verification
Plans &
Specifications
Calculations &
Analysis
Glazed Wall Tile
N/A
ANSI A137.1
N/A
ANSI A137.1.
information.
Absorp. Class P4 Absorp. Class P4 Absorp. Class P4 Absorp. Class P4
N/A
ASTM C373
N/A
requirement.
Breaking Strength
>175lbs
Breaking Strength
>200lbs
Breaking Strength
>225lbs N/A
ASTM C648
N/A Document breaking strength.
N/A
ASTM C1378
N/A
ASTM C650
Service Life
1 Year Warranty 18 Month Warranty 2 Year Warranty 3 Year Warranty
N/A
Manufacturer
Green Squared
Certification
Green Squared
Certification
Green Squared
recycled /reclaimed
content elective
satisfied
Green Squared
content elective
Credits
Provide 3rd party
Certificate
ANSI A138.1 &
Green Squared
Certification
Program
N/A
content.
N/A N/A
Publically Available EPD Publically Available EPD Provide link to
EPD Operators
Website
ISO 14025
N/A
requirement.
Paint
Durability x
Burnish Resistant Burnish Resistant N/A Burnish Resistant N/A ASTM D6736/MPI N/A
Document requirements in
basis of design.
N/A Stain Resistant N/A Stain Resistant N/A ASTM 3450/MPI N/A
Describe finish types and
maintenance requirements.
N/A N/A N/A Highly Scrubbable N/A ASTM 2486/MPI N/A
Describe finish types and
Environmental
Low VOC, 20% Recycled
Postconsumer Light
Colored, 50%
Postconsumer Dark
Colored or 20% Bio
Based
Postconsumer Light
Colored, 50%
Postconsumer Dark
Colored or 20% Bio
Based
Low VOC/20% Recycled
Postconsumer Light
Colored, 50%
Postconsumer Dark
Colored or 20% Bio
Based
Postconsumer Light
Colored, 50%
Postconsumer Dark
Colored or 20% Bio
Based
N/A CARB 2007 SCM N/A
Document that all paints are
listed in the CARB Approved
Products List.
Environmental
Maintenance
Verification
Products Baseline



Durability

Design Construction
Measurements &
Verification
Plans &
Specifications
Calculations &
Analysis
Wall Covering - Type II
Durability
Compliance to W-101
(2011)
Compliance to W-101
(2011)
Compliance to W-101
(2011)
Compliance to W-101
(2011)
Manufacturer
Provided
Specifications
N/A
W 101 Physical
Test
Requirements
Describe durability
requirements.
Maintenance
Scrubbability - 300
cycles/ min Washability -
100 cycles/ min
Scrubbability - 300
100 cycles/ min
Scrubbability - 300
100 cycles/ min
Scrubbability - 300
100 cycles/ min
Manufacturer
Provided
Specifications
ASTM F 793
W 101 Physical
Test
Requirements
requirements.
NSF 342 Conformant
Level + 5% Minimum
Recycled Post
Consumer or 10% Pre-
Consumer Content
NSF 342 Silver Level +
5% Minimum Recycled
Post Consumer or 10%
Pre-Consumer Content
NSF 342 Gold Level + 5%
Minimum Recycled Post
Consumer or 10% Pre-
Consumer Content
+ 5% Minimum Recycled
Post Consumer or 10%
Pre-Consumer Content
Provide 3rd Party
NSF 342
Certificate;
Recycled content
must be
calculated in
terms of total
product weight
N/A
W 101 Physical
Test
Requirements
content.
VOC - Meets CA 1350 VOC - Meets CA 1350 VOC - Meets CA 1350 VOC - Meets CA 1350
Provide 3rd Party
Lab Results
N/A N/A
01350.
Adhesives SCAQMD Rule
1168
1168
1168
1168
Provide 3rd Party
Lab Results
N/A N/A
Document compliance with
SQAQMD Rule 1168.
Wall Paneling
Plastic/Laminate
Standard Laminate High Pressure Laminate
Fiber Reinforced
Laminate
Fiberglass Reinforced
Plastic
ASTM D 695/
NEMA Testing
Describe proposed laminate
system.
Abrasion Resistance
>400
Abrasion Resistance
>420
Abrasion Resistance
>440
Abrasion Resistance
>460
N/A NEMA Testing N/A
Document NEMA abrasion
resistance.
Maintenance Cleanability 20 cycles Cleanability 18 cycles Cleanability 14 cycles Cleanability 10 cycles N/A NEMA Testing N/A
Describe cleanability and
Service Life 1 Year Warranty 2 Year Warranty 5 Year Warranty 10 Year Warranty N/A N/A N/A Document warranty period.
Low VOC/Low VOC
Installation
Low VOC/Low VOC
Installation
Low VOC/Low VOC
Installation
Low VOC/Low VOC
Installation
N/A N/A N/A
requirement.
40% Recycled Material 50% Recycled Material 60% Recycled Material 60% Recycled Material N/A N/A N/A
content.
Environmental
Environmental
Durability
Verification
Products Baseline




Design Construction
Measurements &
Verification
Plans &
Specifications
Calculations &
Analysis
Wall Paneling/ Wood
Durability Hardness - 380-950 Hardness - 950-1500 Hardness - 1500-2600 Hardness - 2600-3800 N/A Janka Test N/A
level.
Conduct Janka test to verify
compliance after installation.
Environmental
Bio Based
Bio Based
Bio Based
Bio Based or Recycled
Materials
N/A N/A N/A
Wall Paneling/ Composite
Board
Durability Min 6mm thickness Min 10mm thickness Min 20mm thickness Min 30mm thickness
Maintenance Sealant Top Coat Top Coat Polyurethane top coat N/A ASTM D 4060 N/A
Low VOC/Low VOC
Installation
Low VOC/Low VOC
Installation
Low VOC/Low VOC
Installation
Low VOC/Low VOC
Installation
N/A N/A N/A
requirement.
20% Recycled Material
or 89% Bio Based
or 89% Bio Based
or 89% Bio Based
or 89% Bio Based
N/A N/A N/A
content.
Environmental
Verification
Products Baseline




Design Construction
Measurements &
Verification
Plans &
Specifications
Calculations &
Analysis
Wall Paneling/ Sculptural
Panel
Durability Min 6mm thickness Min 10mm thickness Min 20mm thickness Min 30mm thickness Describe proposed thickness.
Maintenance 900 psi. 920 psi. 940 psi. 960 psi N/A ASTM D 638 N/A
Low VOC/Low VOC
Installation
Low VOC/Low VOC
Installation
Low VOC/Low VOC
Installation
Low VOC/Low VOC
Installation
N/A N/A N/A
requirement.
or 89% Bio Based
or 89% Bio Based
or 89% Bio Based
or 89% Bio Based
N/A N/A N/A
content.
Wall Base
Durability Type TV Type TPR N/A Type TS N/A ASTM F 1861 N/A
Describe ASTM F 1861 wall
base type.
Maintenance Group II Group I or II N/A Group I N/A ASTM F 1861 N/A
Environmental Low VOC Low VOC N/A
Low VOC
PVC Free
N/A NSF/ANSI 332 N/A
Describe recycled material
Environmental
Verification
Products Baseline




Design Construction
Measurements &
Verification
Plans &
Specifications
Calculations &
Analysis
Ceilings
Surface Texture
Directional or non
directional fissured
Fine Texture with
perforations Fine Texture Fine Texture
Describe surface texture for
each ceiling type.
Acoustics
Open Plan NRC ≥ 0.70 ≥ 0.80 ≥ 0.90 ≥ 0.95
UL Classified
Acoustical
Performance ASTM C423 N/A
Open Plan CAC N/A N/A N/A N/A
UL Classified
Acoustical
Performance ASTM D 1414 N/A
Closed Plan NRC ≥ 0.50 ≥ 0.55 ≥ 0.60 ≥ 0.70
UL Classified
Acoustical
Performance ASTM C423 N/A
Closed Plan - CAC ≥ 30 ≥ 35 ≥ 35 ≥ 35
UL Classified
Acoustical
Performance ASTM D 1414 N/A
N/A N/A Impact Resistance Impact Resistance
Modified ASTM
D1037 N/A
N/A N/A Scratch Resistance Scratch Resistance Hess Rake Test N/A
N/A Sag Resistance Sag Resistance Sag Resistance N/A
N/A N/A N/A Washable ASTM D4828 N/A
N/A N/A N/A Scrubbable
Modified ASTM
D2486 N/A
Service Life 1 Year Warranty 5 Year Systems Warranty
10 Year Systems
Warranty
20 Year Systems
Warranty
Manufacturer's
Warranty N/A N/A
Describe service life for each
ceiling type.
Total Recycled
Content ≥ 20%
Total Recycled
Content ≥ 30%
Total Recycled
Content ≥ 40%
Total Recycled
Content ≥ 50% N/A ISO 14021 N/A
Recyclable in a closed
Loop Process or 37% Bio
Based
Based
Based
Loop Process
Manufacturer's
Certification Letter N/A N/A
Light Reflectance ≥
80%
85%
85%
85% N/A ASTM E-1477 N/A
CHPS Compliant CHPS Compliant CHPS Compliant CHPS Compliant N/A
CA Dept of Health
Services Std Practices
2010 N/A
Product EPD Available Product EPD Available Product EPD Available Product EPD Available
Environmental
Product Data ISO 14025 N/A
Environmental
Durability
Maintenance
Verification
Products Baseline



Describe if ceiling is washable
and scrubbable.
Describe total recycled
content, light reflectance and
emission requirements.
Describe acoustical properties
for each ceiling type.
Describe impact, scratch and
sag resistance for each ceiling
type.

3.5 Interior Construction and Interior Finishes
Performance Attributes
Interior construction is described in two categories:
construction products and materials, those elements
that are built to create functional spaces, and finish
materials, those products that are applied to the
construction products to conceal, protect, or enhance
the appearance of construction products or to
provide wearing surfaces.
Construction Products and Materials include doors,
windows (borrowed lights), permanent partitions,
demountable partitions, operable partitions, and
millwork. Each product has been evaluated based on
its applicable characteristics. Products have been
evaluated for construction, durability, acoustic
properties, security, operability/flexibility, and other
characteristics that reflect the functional
requirements of the product under consideration.
Interior Finishes and Materials addresses
performance levels of typical floor, wall, and ceiling
finishes, focusing on each product’s durability,
maintenance, service life, and environmental
qualities. Metrics and attributes vary by finish based
on performance need. Durability describes
composition/content, thickness, hardness, strength,
wear resistance, load limit, and water absorption.
Maintenance addresses wear layer/sealer,
barrier/backing, cleanability, stain resistance,
microbial resistance, and mold/mildew resistance.
Service life is described in terms of the length of
warranty available. Environmental addresses
recycled content, renewable resources, local
materials, and VOC emissions.
3.5.1 Construction Products and
Materials
Fire ratings must meet regulatory requirements
without regard to performance level selected. They
do not necessarily enhance performance, durability,
appearance, or other attributes. Therefore, products
and materials are described without regard to fire
rating.
The baseline performance characteristics described
are commercial quality products and would be
suitable for use in most applications.
Acoustical performance is described in terms of
Sound Transmission Coefficient (STC) as determined
by ASTM E90, Standard Test Method for Laboratory
Measurement of Airborne Sound Transmission Loss of
Building Partitions and Elements. Rules of thumb for
interpreting ratings are:
STC 35: Loud speech audible but not
intelligible.
STC 40: Onset of "privacy".
STC 45: Loud speech barely audible.
STC 50: Loud speech not audible; shouting
barely audible.
STC 55: Very loud sounds such as musical
instruments or a stereo can be faintly
heard.
STC 60: Superior soundproofing; most
sounds inaudible.
For specific guidance on office acoustics refer to:
www.gsasoundmatters.gov

3.5.1.1 Solid Core Wood Doors
Wood doors may have vision panels and other
features that do not change their level of
performance. Performance characteristics described
are a minimum combination for each group. Any one
of the characteristics might be enhanced without
changing the performance level (e.g.: A rosewood
veneer could be applied to a Tier 1 High Performance
() door without changing its performance level).
Doors may have power assist or may be power
operated and may have various types of electronically
controlled locking mechanisms such as magnetic locks
or electric strikes. Doors shall be fabricated in
accordance with WDMA I.S.-1.A, Architectural Wood
Flush Doors, and DHI A115-W, Wood Door Hardware
Standards, Hardware Preparation. Hardware shall
comply with BHMA A156 series requirements. Hollow
metal frames shall be fabricated to meet
requirements of ASTM/SDI 250.4, Criteria for Physical
Endurance for Steel Doors and Hardware
Reinforcings. All doors and frames should be factory
prepared for hardware installation. Hollow metal
frames should be factory primed.
• Baseline: Bonded stave core construction, AWI
Custom Grade. Hardwood (birch or poplar) or
medium density overlay (MDO) veneer for field
painting. Grade 1 bored (cylinder) locks with
plated finish. Knock-down hollow metal frame,
0.053-inch (1.3mm) thick, galvanized for
installation in wet areas. Twenty-five year
warranty. No acoustical rating. Security features
are provided by door swing, hinge pin selection,
and lock function.
• Tier 1 High Performance (): Bonded particle
board core, AWI Custom Grade. Field finished
oak, maple, or similar hardwood veneer,
random match. Grade 1 standard duty mortise
locks with plated finish. Knock-down hollow
metal frame, Level 3, 0.053-inch (1.3mm) thick,
galvanized for installation in wet areas. Lifetime
warranty. No acoustical rating. Security features
are provided by door swing, hinge pin selection,
and lock function.
• Tier 2 High Performance (): Bonded
structural composite core, AWI Premium Grade.
Shop finished cherry, walnut or similar
hardwood veneer, running match. Grade 1
heavy duty mortise locks, solid stainless steel or
bronze. Welded hollow metal frame, Level 3,
0.053-inch (1.3mm) thick, galvanized. Lifetime
warranty. STC 45. Time rated (15 minute)
forced entry rating.
• Tier 3 High Performance (): Bonded
structural composite core, AWI Premium Grade.
Shop finished teak, rosewood or similar
hardwood veneer, book match. Grade 1 heavy
duty mortise locks, solid stainless steel or
0.067-inch (1.7mm) thick, galvanized. Lifetime
warranty. STC 50; gasketed frame. Forced entry
and ballistic resistant.
3.5.1.2 Hollow Metal Doors
Hollow metal doors may have vision panels and
other features that do not change their level of
performance. Performance characteristics described
are a minimum combination for each group. Any
one of the characteristics might be enhanced
without changing the performance level. Doors may
have power assist or may be power operated and
may have various types of electronically controlled
locking mechanisms such as magnetic locks or
electric strikes. Doors and frames shall be fabricated
to meet requirements of ASTM/SDI 250.4, Criteria
for Physical Endurance for Steel Doors and Hardware
Reinforcings. Hardware shall comply with BHMA
A156 series requirements. All doors and frames
should be factory primed and prepared for hardware
installation.
• Baseline: Heavy duty, Level 2, 0.042-inch
(1.0mm) sheet metal, galvanized in wet areas.
Field painted. Grade 1 bored (cylinder) locks
with plated finish. Knock-down hollow metal
frame, Level 3, 0.053-inch (1.3mm) thick,
galvanized for installation in wet areas.
Manufacturer’s standard warranty. No

acoustical rating. Security features are provided
by door swing, hinge pin selection, and lock
function.
• Tier 1 High Performance (): Extra heavy duty,
Level 3, 0.053-inch (1.3mm) sheet metal,
galvanized in wet areas. Field painted. Grade 1
Standard duty mortise locks with plated finish.
Knock-down hollow metal frame, Level 3, 0.053-
inch (1.3mm) thick, galvanized for installation in
wet areas. Manufacturer’s standard warranty.
No acoustical rating. Security features are
provided by door swing, hinge pin selection, and
lock function.
• Tier 2 High Performance (): Extra heavy
duty, Level 3, 0.053-inch (1.3mm) sheet metal,
galvanized. Shop painted. Grade 1 Heavy duty
mortise locks, solid stainless steel or bronze.
Welded hollow metal frame, Level 3, 0.053-inch
(1.3mm) thick, galvanized. Manufacturer’s
standard warranty. STC 35. Time rated (15
minute) forced entry rating.
• Tier 3 High Performance (): Maximum
duty, Level 4, 0.067-inch (1.7mm) sheet metal,
galvanized. Electrostatic paint. Grade 1 Heavy
duty mortise locks, solid stainless steel or
0.067-inch (1.7mm) thick, galvanized.
Manufacturer’s standard warranty. STC 35.
Forced entry and ballistic resistant.
3.5.1.3 Glazed Aluminum Doors
Aluminum doors are typically fully glazed. They are
constructed as aluminum entrances or part of a
storefront system even though they are for interior
use. Aluminum doors are usually installed in
aluminum frames. Doors and frames shall be
fabricated in accordance with AAMA101/I.S.2/A440,
North American Fenestration Standard/Specification
for Windows, Doors, and Skylights. They cannot have
a fire rating and are not bullet resistant or forced
entry protected. Safety glass in compliance with
ASTM C1048, Standard Specification for Heat Treated
Flat Glass, must be used. Sound transmission can be
reduced through the use of insulating glass. Doors
may have power assist or may be power operated
and may have various types of electronically
controlled locking mechanisms such as magnetic locks
or electric strikes. Finishes shall comply with AAMA
611, Specification for Anodized Architectural
Aluminum or AAMA 260, Specification for Pigmented
Organic Coatings.
• Baseline: Manufacturer’s standard profile 1/8-
inch (3mm) extruded aluminum door and frame
with mill finish. Fully glazed with ¼-inch (6mm)
clear glass. Grade 2 top and bottom (center
pivot if required for size and weight of door)
offset pivots. Manufacturer’s standard
warranty. Security features are provided by
door swing and lock function.
• Tier 1 High Performance (): Manufacturer’s
standard profile 1/8-inch (3mm) extruded
aluminum door and frame with Class II anodized
finish. Fully glazed with ¼-inch (6mm) clear
glass. Grade 1 top and bottom (center pivot if
required for size and weight of door) offset
pivots. Manufacturer’s standard warranty.
Security features are provided by door swing
and lock function.
• Tier 2 High Performance (): Manufacturer’s
standard profile 1/8-inch (3mm) extruded
aluminum door and frame with Class I anodized
finish. Fully glazed with 1-inch (25.4mm) clear
insulating glass. Grade 1 top and bottom center
pivots. Manufacturer’s standard warranty.
Security features are provided by door swing
and lock function.
• Tier 3 High Performance (): Custom
profile 3/16-inch (5mm) extruded aluminum
door and frame with Class I anodized or
fluoropolymer paint finish. Fully glazed with ½-
inch (13mm) clear or decorative laminated glass.
Grade 1 top and bottom center pivots. Five
year manufacturer’s warranty. Electronically

controlled access. Power assisted or automatic
operator.
3.5.1.4 All Glass Entrances
All glass entrances are installed without traditional
frames. They are not available as fire rated
assemblies or forced entry resistant. They may be
considered in and of themselves to be higher
performance than any of the above door types
because of their cost and appearance. Glass must be
either laminated or tempered in compliance with
ASTM C1048, Standard Specification for Heat Treated
Flat Glass. Doors may have power assist or may be
power operated and may have various types of
electronically controlled locking mechanisms such as
magnetic locks or electric strikes.
• Baseline: All glass with stainless steel or chrome
plated top and bottom rails or patches. Clear
safety glass, ½-inch (13mm) thick. Grade 1 top
and bottom pivots. Concealed floor or overhead
closer. Security features are provided by lock
function.
• Tier 1 High Performance (): All glass with
polished stainless steel, brass or chrome plated
top and bottom rails or patches. Clear safety
glass, ½-inch (13mm) thick. Grade 1 top and
bottom pivots. Concealed floor or overhead
closer. Security features are provided by lock
function.
• Tier 2 High Performance (): All glass with
polished stainless steel, brass or chrome plated
top and bottom rails or patches. Clear safety or
decorative glass, ½-inch (13mm) thick. Grade 1
top and bottom pivots. Concealed floor or
overhead closer. Three year manufacturer’s
warranty. Electronically controlled access.
• Tier 3 High Performance (): Not used.
3.5.1.5 Borrowed Lights
Borrowed lights are used to allow natural light to
penetrate into interior spaces or to allow visual
connection between adjacent spaces. They can make
small spaces feel more open. Borrowed lights include
sidelights, transoms, and openings in other wall
construction. Borrowed lights in corridors and
sidelights are required to be glazed with tempered,
laminated or some other form of safety glass
complying with ASTM C1048, Standard Specification
for Heat Treated Flat Glass.
3.5.1.6 Wood Framed Interior Lights
Wood framed borrowed lights cannot be fire rated.
• Baseline: Field fabricated and finished. Painted
Birch, Poplar or clear softwood. AWI Custom
Grade. Clear ¼-inch (6mm) safety glass.
• Tier 1 High Performance (): Shop fabricated
with field applied clear or tinted stain. Oak,
Maple, Cherry, Walnut or similar hardwood.
AWI Custom Grade. Clear ¼-inch (6mm) safety
glass.
• Tier 2 High Performance (): Shop fabricated
and finished with clear or tinted stain. Oak,
Maple, Cherry, Walnut or similar hardwood.
AWI Premium Grade. Insulating glass or two ¼-
inch (6mm) lights of laminated glass with ½-inch
(13mm) gap for reduced sound transmission.
• Tier 3 High Performance (): Shop
fabricated and finished with clear or tinted
stain. Teak, Rosewood or similar hardwood.
AWI Premium Grade. Decorative laminated
glass, ½- inch (13mm) thick.
3.5.1.7 Hollow Metal Framed Interior Lights
Hollow metal framed borrowed lights may be fire
rated if dimensions comply with the requirements for
required rating and glazed with appropriate material.

• Baseline: Knock-down hollow metal frame,
0.042-inch (1.0mm) thick, untreated, field
painted. Clear ¼-inch (6mm) safety glass.
• Tier 1 High Performance (): Welded hollow
metal frame, 0.053-inch (1.3mm) thick,
galvanized for installation in wet areas, shop
applied painted finish. Clear ¼-inch (6mm)
safety glass.
• Tier 2 High Performance (): Welded hollow
metal frame, 0.053-inch (1.3mm) thick with
custom profile, galvanized for installation in wet
areas, and electrostatically applied painted
finish. Insulating glass with two ¼-inch (6mm)
lights of laminated glass with ½-inch (13mm)
gap for reduced sound transmission.
• Tier 3 High Performance (): Welded
hollow metal frame, 0.053-inch (1.3mm) thick
with custom profile, galvanized for installation
in wet areas, and electrostatically applied
painted finish. Decorative laminated glass, ½-
inch (13mm) thick.
3.5.1.8 Aluminum Framed Interior Lights
Aluminum framed borrowed lights are typically
fabricated from storefront or curtainwall framing
systems. Aluminum framed borrowed lights cannot
be fire rated. Finishes shall comply with AAMA 611,
Specification for Anodized Architectural Aluminum or
AAMA 260, Specification for Pigmented Organic
Coatings.
• Baseline: Manufacturer’s standard profile
extruded aluminum frame, 1/8-inch (3mm)
thick, with mill finish. Glazed with ¼-inch (6mm)
clear safety glass.
• Tier 1 High Performance (): Manufacturer’s
standard profile extruded aluminum frame, 1/8-
inch (3mm) thick, with Class II anodized finish.
Glazed with ¼-inch (6mm) clear safety glass.
• Tier 2 High Performance (): Manufacturer’s
standard profile extruded aluminum frame, 1/8-
inch (3mm) thick, with Class I anodized or
fluoropolymer paint finish. Glazed with 1-inch
(25.4mm) insulating glass made up of two ¼-
inch (6mm) clear, laminated lights for reduced
sound transmission.
• Tier 3 High Performance (): Custom
profile extruded aluminum frame, 1/8-inch
(3mm) thick, with Class 1 anodized or
fluoropolymer paint finish. Glazed with ½-inch
(13mm) decorative or clear laminated glass.
3.5.1.9 Metal Stud Partitions
Performance level does not take into account fire
rating requirements. Metal stud framing shall comply
with ASTM C645, Standard Specification for
Nonstructural Steel Framing Members. Stud sizes and
thickness are minimums; increased dimensions
and/or reduced spacing may be necessary to meet
deflection requirements. Gypsum board shall comply
with C1396, Standard Specification for Gypsum Board.
Gypsum board selection will vary depending on
application: Type X gypsum board for fire rated
assemblies, Type MR for locations subject to moisture
or high humidity, Type IR where impact resistance is
needed, or cementitious backer board in showers.
• Baseline: 3-5/8-inch (92mm) x min. 25 ga. metal
studs @ 24-inch (610mm) o.c., 5/8-inch (13mm)
gypsum board each side (max. deflection L/240).
Partition extends from slab to ceiling. Minimum
STC rating of 40.
• Tier 1 High Performance (): 3-5/8-inch
(92mm) x min. 25 ga. metal studs @ 16-inch
(406mm) o.c., 5/8-inch (16mm) gypsum board
each side (max. deflection L/360). Partition
extends from slab to slab or deck above. Sound
attenuation blankets to provide minimum STC
rating of 45.

• Tier 2 High Performance (): 3-5/8-inch
(92mm) x min. 16 light gage metal framing @
16-inch (406mm) o.c., 2 layers of 5/8-inch
(16mm) gypsum board each side (max.
deflection L/360), and 9 ga. wire mesh between
studs and gypsum board on one side. Partition
extends from slab to slab or deck above. Sound
attenuation blankets to provide minimum STC
rating of 50. SCIF level security.
3.5.1.10 Masonry Partitions
Performance level does not take into account fire
rating requirements. Concrete masonry units shall
comply with ASTM C129, Standard Specification for
Non-load bearing Concrete Masonry Units. Metal
furring shall comply with ASTM C645, Standard
Specification for Nonstructural Steel Framing
Members. Gypsum board shall comply with C1396,
Standard Specification for Gypsum Board. Gypsum
board selection will vary depending on application:
Type X gypsum board for fire rated assemblies, Type
MR for locations subject to moisture or high humidity,
Type IR where impact resistance is needed, or
cementitious backer board in showers.
• Baseline: 6-inch (150mm) CMU, 1-5/8-inch
(41mm) metal studs @ 16-inches (406mm) o.c.
and 5/8-inch (16mm) gypsum board each side.
Minimum STC rating of 50.
• Tier 1 High Performance (): 8-inch (200mm)
CMU with reinforcing and grout-filled cells. 1-
5/8-inch (41mm) metal studs @ 16-inches
(406mm) o.c. and 2 layers of high impact
resistant 5/8-inch (16mm) gypsum board each
side. 9 ga. wire mesh between studs and
gypsum board on one side. Minimum STC rating
of 70. SCIF level security.
• Tier 2 High Performance (): Not used.
3.5.1.11 Demountable Partitions
Demountable partitions are prefabricated assemblies
designed to be installed, removed, and relocated in
various configurations. Partitions extend from finish
floor to ceiling. Systems include doors, hardware, and
borrowed lights. Demountable partitions do not have
fire ratings.
• Baseline: Manufacturer’s standard panel widths
with prefinished metal panels. Minimum STC
rating of 40.
• Tier 1 High Performance (): Custom panel
widths with gypsum board on exposed surfaces.
Minimum STC rating of 45.
• Tier 2 High Performance (): Custom panel
Transoms and borrowed lights. Minimum STC
rating of 45.
• Tier 3 High Performance (): Custom panel
Transoms and borrowed lights. Minimum STC
rating of 50.
3.5.1.12 Operable Walls
Operable walls described below are welded steel
construction, hung from a supporting structure
above, and move on a fixed track system. Accordion
type room dividers are not considered here.
Operable walls do not provide fire ratings.
• Baseline: Single or hinged pairs of panels, steel
or MDF/Vinyl finish, 3-inches (75mm) thick,
manually operated. Minimum STC rating of 40.
• Tier 1 High Performance (): Single or hinged
pairs of panels, steel or MDF/vinyl, fabric or
veneer finish, 3-inches (75mm) thick, manually
operated. Minimum STC rating of 45.
• Tier 2 High Performance (): Continuously
hinged panels, steel or MDF/vinyl, fabric,

veneer, or marker board finish, 3-inches (75mm)
thick, electrically operated. Gasketed at top,
bottom, and panel joints. Minimum STC rating
of 55.
• Tier 3 High Performance (): Hinged pairs
of panels, steel, MDF, or gypsum/vinyl, fabric,
veneer or marker board finish, 4-inches
(100mm) thick, manually operated. Gasketed at
top, bottom, and panel joints. Minimum STC
rating of 55.
3.5.1.13 Millwork and Cabinets
Millwork includes custom wood fabrications such as
paneling, built-in furniture, shelving, and other items
of architectural woodwork. Cabinets include base
and wall cabinets. The descriptions below do not
apply to metal cabinets or casework such as the type
that might be found in laboratories. Quality
descriptions for millwork and cabinets are based on
the AWI’s Architectural Woodwork Quality Standards.
Quality standards for hardware such as drawer slides,
hinges, pulls, latches and locks, and shelf supports are
based on ANSI/BMHA 156.9, Cabinet Hardware.
• Baseline: AWI Custom Grade. Particle board
core with plastic laminate veneer. Factory
fabricated to standard sizes. Grade 2 hardware,
plated finish.
• Tier 1 High Performance (): AWI Custom
Grade. Particle board core with wood veneer on
exposed to view surfaces. Shop fabricated by
millworker to custom sizes and configurations.
Grade 1 hardware, plated finish.
• Tier 2 High Performance (): AWI Premium
Grade. Particle board core with wood veneer on
exposed to view surfaces. Shop fabricated by
millworker to custom sizes and configurations.
Grade 1 hardware, solid stainless, brass, or
bronze.
• Tier 3 High Performance (): AWI Premium
Grade. Solid wood, custom detailed molding and
trim. Shop fabricated by millworker to custom
sizes and configurations. Grade 1 hardware,
solid stainless, brass, or bronze.
3.5.1.14 Countertops
Countertops, often associated with millwork and
cabinets, include any fabricated work surface
including those in offices, kitchens, laboratories or
toilet rooms. Countertops include backsplashes and
endsplashes. Quality descriptions are based on the
AWI’s Architectural Woodwork Quality Standards.
• Baseline: Particle board with plastic laminate
top and edge. AWI Custom Grade.
• Tier 1 High Performance (): Particle board
with exterior glue and solid surface material top
and edge. AWI Premium Grade.
• Tier 2 High Performance (): Exterior grade
plywood with stone top and edge. AWI
Premium Grade.
• Tier 3 High Performance (): Exterior
grade plywood with chemical resistant or
stainless steel top and edge. AWI Premium
Grade.
3.5.2 Interior Finishes and Materials
Finishes must meet requirements of the International
Building Code. Other codes (Example: NFPA Fire
Safety Codes) and application specific performance
attributes (Examples: Severe traffic area; Raised
access flooring) need to be taken into account.
Finishes should incorporate recycled-content
materials to the maximum extent where possible.
3.5.2.1 Broadloom Carpet
• Baseline: Texture appearance retention rating
of 3 or higher (Heavy traffic). Type 6 or Type 6,
6, BCF Nylon. Green label certified cleaners
applied. 10 year warranty. 10% Pre or Post

Consumer Recycled Content. NSF 140 Gold
Level Certified. Meets Green Label Plus
certification and equivalent CHPS protocol.
• Tier 1 High Performance (): Texture
appearance retention rating of 3.5 or higher
(Severe traffic). Type 6 or Type 6, 6, BCF Nylon.
Green label certified cleaners applied. 10 year
warranty. 10% Pre or Post Consumer Recycled
Content. NSF 140 Gold Level Certified with take
back program. Meets Green Label Plus
certification and equivalent CHPS protocol.
• Tier 2 High Performance (): Texture
(Severe traffic). Type 6 or Type 6, 6, BCF Nylon.
Green label certified cleaners applied. 15 year
warranty. 15% Pre or Post Consumer Recycled
Content. NSF 140 Platinum Level Certified.
Meets Green Label Plus certification and
equivalent CHPS protocol.
• Tier 3 High Performance (): Texture
(Severe traffic). Type 6 or Type 6, 6, BCF Nylon
or Bio Based Tile. Green label certified cleaners
applied. 15 year warranty. 15% Pre or Post
Consumer Recycled Content or 15% Bio Based
Fiber. NSF 140 Platinum Level Certified with
published Environmental Declaration. Meets
Green Label Plus certification and equivalent
CHPS protocol.
3.5.2.2 Vinyl Composition Tile
• Baseline: Standard VCT. Class I Solid Color,
Class II Through Pattern, or Class III Surface
Decorated. Thickness of 0.125” or greater.
Static load limit greater than or equal to 125 psi.
Factory finish applied. 5 year warranty. 0%
recycled content. Is CA 1350 compliant.
• Tier 1 High Performance (): Standard VCT.
Class I Solid Color; Class II Through Pattern.
Thickness of 0.125” or greater. Static load limit
greater than or equal to 125 psi. Specialty finish
applied. 5 year warranty. 5% recycled content.
Meets NSF, is CA 1350 compliant and Floor
Score Certified.
• Tier 2 High Performance (): N/A
• Tier 3 High Performance (): Premium
Vinyl Tile. Class III 20 mil wear Layer or Class I
Monolithic. Thickness of 0.100” or greater
(Class III) or 0.125” or greater (Class I). Static
load limit greater than or equal to 175 psi.
Specialty finish applied. 5 year warranty. 5%
recycled content. Meets Sustainability NSF 332,
is CA 1350 compliant and Floor Score Certified.
3.5.2.3 Sheet Vinyl
• Baseline: Heterogeneous Type I (Clear Wear
Layer 0.014 inches) Type II (Filled Wear Layer
0.030 inches). Static load limit greater than or
equal to 125 psi. Factory surface applied. 5
year warranty. 0% recycled content and CA
1350 compliant.
• Tier 1 High Performance (): Heterogeneous
Type I (Clear Wear Layer 0.020 inches) Type II
(Filled Wear Layer 0.050 inches). Static load
limit greater than or equal to 175 psi. Specialty
top coat applied. 5 year warranty. 5%
recycled/renewable content, meets
Sustainability NSF332 and is CA 1350 compliant.
Homogeneous. Thickness of 0.075 or greater.
Static load limit greater than or equal to 250 psi.
Specialty top coat applied. 5 year warranty. 5%
recycled/renewable content, meets
Sustainability NSF332 and is CA 1350 and Floor
Score compliant.

3.5.2.4 Rubber Tile
• Baseline: Class II Laminated A&B (A=Solid Color
Wear Layer; B=Mottled Wear Layer). Thickness
of 0.080” or greater. 5 year warranty. 0%
recycled content and VOC emissions – CA 1350
compliant.
• Tier 1 High Performance (): N/A
• Tier 3 High Performance (): Class I
Homogenous A&B (A=Solid Color Wear Layer;
B=Mottled Wear Layer). Thickness of 0.125” or
greater. 5 year warranty. 10% recycled
content, Floor Score Certified, meets
Sustainability NSF332 and is VOC emission – CA
1350 compliant.
3.5.2.5 Linoleum
• Baseline: Thickness no less than 2.5mm. Static
load limit greater than or equal to 150 psi.
Factory surface applied. 2 year warranty. 10%
recycled/renewable content. 30% minimum
binder content. Is VOC emission – CA 1350
compliant.
• Tier 3 High Performance (): Thickness no
less than 3.2mm. Static load limit greater than
or equal to 400 psi. Low maintenance coating
applied. 3 year warranty. 20%
recycled/renewable content. 30% minimum
binder content. Is VOC emission – CA 1350
compliant.
3.5.2.6 Pressed Floor Tile
• Baseline: Conforms to ANSI A137.1. Light
commercial (Abrasion Class III). Stain and
chemical class reported. 1 year warranty.
Green Squared Certified.
• Tier 1 High Performance (): Conforms to ANSI
A137.1. Commercial (Abrasion Class IV). Semi-
virtuous (Class P3 maximum absorption).
Breaking strength greater than or equal to 350
lbs. Stain and chemical Class B or better. 18
month warranty. Green Squared Certified.
• Tier 3 High Performance (): Conforms to
ANSI A137.1. Commercial (Abrasion Class IV).
Virtuous (Class P2 maximum absorption).
Breaking strength greater than or equal to 400
lbs. Stain and chemical Class A. 2 year
warranty. Green Squared Certified, Level 2
recycled/reclaimed content with publically
available Environmental Product Data.
3.5.2.7 Porcelain Tile
A137.1. Commercial (Abrasion Class IV).
Virtuous (P3/E3/O3). Breaking strength greater
than or equal to 350 lbs. Stain and chemical
Class B or better. 18 month warranty. Green
Squared Certified.
• Tier 2 High Performance (): Conforms to
Virtuous (P2/E2/O2). Breaking strength greater
Class A. year warranty. Green Squared
Certified, Level 2 recycled/reclaimed content
and publically available Environmental Product
Data.

ANSI A137.1. Heavy commercial (Abrasion Class
V). Virtuous (P1/E1/O1). Breaking strength
greater than or equal to 450 lbs. Stain and
chemical Class A. 3 year warranty. Green
Squared Certified, Level 3 recycled/reclaimed
content, 3 Innovation Credits and publically
3.5.2.8 Quarry Tile
Virtuous (Class E3). Breaking strength greater
Class B or better. 18 month warranty. Green
Squared Certified.
Virtuous (Class E2). Breaking strength greater
Class A. 2 year warranty. Green Squared
Certified, Level 2 recycled/reclaimed content
and publically available Environmental Product
Data.
V). Virtuous (Class E1). Breaking strength
3.5.2.9 Mosaic Tile
Virtuous (P3/E3/O3). Breaking strength
chemical Class B or better. 18 month warranty.
Virtuous (P2/E2/O2). Breaking strength
content and publically available Environmental
Product Data.
3.6.2.10 Limestone Tile
• Baseline: Abrasion resistance greater than or
equal to 10. Maximum absorption of 7.5.
• Tier 3 High Performance (): Abrasion
resistance greater than or equal to 15.
Maximum absorption of 3.
3.5.2.11 Slate Tile

Maximum absorption of 0.25.
3.5.2.12 Marble
Density greater than or equal to 144.
Maximum absorption of 0.20. Density greater
than or equal to 168.
3.5.2.13 Granite
Maximum absorption of 0.40.
3.5.2.14 Terrazzo
• Baseline: Cementitious Polyacrylate 3/8” thick
with anti-fracture membrane. Abrasion
resistance no greater than 40% loss. Local
resources and recycled marble chips. No VOCs.
• Tier 3 High Performance (): Epoxy 1/4” or
3/8” thick with flexible membrane and vapor
barrier. Hardness greater than or equal to 10.
Local resources and recycled marble chips. No
VOCs.
3.2.5.15 Laminate Flooring
• Baseline: Classified as Commercial flooring.
Wear resistance no less than 4,000 cycles using
NEMA test 3.7- Taber model 5130 test or
equivalent. Static load limit greater than or
equal to 8 MPa. High wear resistant thermoset
surface. 10 year warranty. California Air
Resources Board (CARB) verified Phase 2 and
VOC emissions – CA 1350 compliant with 50%
recycled content.
• Tier 3 High Performance (): Classified as
Heavy Commercial flooring. Wear resistance no
less than 6,000 cycles using NEMA test 3.7-
Taber model 5130 test or equivalent. Static load
limit greater than or equal to 8 MPa. High wear
resistant thermoset surface. 10 year warranty.
California Air Resources Board (CARB) verified
Phase 2 and VOC emissions – CA 1350 compliant
with 60% recycled content.
3.2.5.16 Wood Flooring
• Baseline: Hardness rating between 380 and
950. Varnish top coat applied. Local resources.
• Tier 1 High Performance (): Hardness rating
between 950-1500. Varnish top coat applied.
Local resources.
• Tier 2 High Performance (): Hardness rating
between 1500-2600. Polyurethane top coat
applied. Local resources.

• Tier 3 High Performance (): Hardness
rating between 2600-3800. Polyurethane top
coat applied. Local resources and recycled
materials.
3.2.5.17 Bamboo Flooring
• Baseline: Hardness greater than or equal to
1300. Varnish top coat applied. Renewable and
recycled materials. Low VOCs.
• Tier 1 High Performance (): Hardness greater
than or equal to 1400. Varnish top coat applied.
Renewable and recycled materials. Low VOCs.
• Tier 2 High Performance (): Hardness
greater than or equal to 1500. Polyurethane top
coat applied. Renewable and recycled
materials. Low VOCs.
greater than or equal to 1500. Polyurethane top
coat applied. Renewable, recycled and local
materials. Low VOCs.
3.2.5.18 Glazed Wall Tile
• Baseline: Conforms to ANSI A137.1.
Absorption Class P4. Stain and chemical class
reported. 1 year warranty. Green Squared
Certified.
A137.1. Absorption Class P4. Breaking strength
chemical Class B or better. 18 month warranty.
ANSI A137.1. Absorption Class P4. Breaking
strength greater than or equal to 200 lbs. Stain
and chemical Class A. 2 year warranty. Green
content and publically available Environmental
Product Data.
3.2.5.19 Paint
Low VOC information: Limits are expressed as VOC
Regulatory (except as noted), thinned to the
manufacturer’s maximum thinning recommendation,
excluding any colorant added to tint bases. Table 1
architectural coating regulatory category and VOC
content compliance determination shall conform to
the CARB 2007 AIM SCM -
http://www.arb.ca.gov/coatings/arch/Approved_200
7_SCM.pdf. * Effective January 1, 2014: All interior
flat, non-flat, and high gloss coatings containing
colorants must meet the VOC limits indicated within
the CARB 2007 AIM SCM, after colorant has been
added.
• Baseline: Burnish resistant qualities. Conforms
to the CARB 2007 AIM SCM.
• Tier 1 High Performance (): Burnish and stain
resistant qualities. Conforms to the CARB 2007
AIM SCM.
• Tier 3 High Performance (): Burnish and
stain resistant qualities. Highly scrubbable.
Gloss finish. Low VOCs.
3.2.5.20 Wall Covering

• Baseline: Type II wall covering compliant with
W-101 (2011). Scrubbability no less than 300
cycles per minute. Washability no less than 100
cycles per minute. NSF 342 Conformant Level.
VOC emissions – CA 1350 compliant with 5%
recycled post consumer content or 10% pre-
consumer content.
• Tier 1 High Performance (): Type II wall
covering compliant with W-101 (2011).
Scrubbability no less than 300 cycles per minute.
Washability no less than 100 cycles per minute.
NSF 342 Silver Level. VOC emissions – CA 1350
compliant with 5% recycled post consumer
content or 10% pre-consumer content.
• Tier 2 High Performance (): Type II wall
NSF 342 Gold Level. VOC emissions – CA 1350
compliant with 5% recycled post consumer
• Tier 3 High Performance (): Type II wall
NSF 342 Platinum Level. VOC emissions – CA
1350 compliant with 5% recycled post consumer
3.2.5.21 Wall Paneling - Plastic/Laminate
• Baseline: Type - Standard laminate. Abrasion
Cleanability no greater than 20 cycles. 1 year
warranty. 40% recycled material.
• Tier 1 High Performance (): Type – High
pressure laminate. Abrasion resistance greater
than or equal to 420. Cleanability no greater
than 18 cycles. 2 year warranty. 50% recycled
material.
• Tier 2 High Performance (): Type – Fiber
reinforced laminate. Abrasion resistance
greater than or equal to 440. Cleanability no
greater than 14 cycles. 5 year warranty. 60%
recycled material.
• Tier 3 High Performance (): Type –
Fiberglass reinforced laminate. Abrasion
Cleanability no greater than 10 cycles. 10 year
warranty. 60% recycled material.
3.2.5.22 Wall Paneling - Wood
• Baseline: Hardness rating between 380 and
950. Varnish top coat applied. Local resources.
• Tier 1 High Performance (): Hardness rating
between 950-1500. Varnish top coat applied.
Local resources.
• Tier 2 High Performance (): Hardness rating
between 1500-2600. Polyurethane top coat
applied. Local resources.
rating between 2600-3800. Polyurethane top
coat applied. Local resources and recycled
materials.
3.2.5.23 Wall Paneling – Composite Board
• Baseline: Minimum thickness of 6mm. Factory
sealant applied. Low VOC/Low VOC installation.
40% recycled material.
• Tier 1 High Performance (): Minimum
thickness of 10mm. Factory sealant applied.
Low VOC/Low VOC installation. 50% recycled
material.
• Tier 2 High Performance (): Minimum
material.

• Tier 3 High Performance (): Minimum
material.
3.2.5.24 Wall Paneling – Sculptural Panel
• Baseline: Minimum thickness of 2mm. 900 psi.
material.
• Tier 1 High Performance (): Minimum
thickness of 6mm. Factory sealant applied. Low
VOC/Low VOC installation. 30% recycled
material.
• Tier 2 High Performance (): Minimum
material.
• Tier 3 High Performance (): Minimum
material.
3.2.5.25 Wall Base
• Baseline: Thermoplastic vinyl (Type TV) w/
layered construction (Group II). 1 year
warranty. Low VOC/Conforms to NSF 332.
• Tier 1 High Performance (): Thermoplastic
rubber (Type TPR) w/ layered construction or
solid (homogeneous) construction (Group I or
II). 1 year warranty. Low VOC/Conforms to NSF
332.
• Tier 3 High Performance (): Vulcanized
thermoplastic rubber (Type TS) w/ solid
(homogeneous) construction (Group I). 1 year
warranty. Low VOC/Conforms to NSF 332.
3.2.5.26Ceilings
• Baseline: Directional or non-directional fissured
texture. Acoustical qualities as follows: Open
Plan NRC ≥ 0.80; Open Plan CAC = N/A; Closed
Plan NRC ≥ 0.70; Closed Plan = ≥ 30
1 year warranty. Recycled content greater than or
equal to 20%. Recyclable in a closed loop process.
Light reflectance no less than 80%. CHPS compliant
with Environmental Product Data available.
• Tier 1 High Performance (): Fine texture with
perforations. Acoustical qualities as follows:
Open Plan NRC ≥ 0.80; Open Plan CAC = N/A;
Closed Plan NRC ≥ 0.55; Closed Plan = ≥ 35
Sag resistant with 5 year systems warranty. Recycled
content greater than or equal to 30%. Recyclable in a
closed loop process. Light reflectance no less than
85%. CHPS compliant with Environmental Product
Data available.
• Tier 2 High Performance (): Fine texture.
Acoustical qualities as follows: Open Plan NRC ≥
0.90; Open Plan CAC = N/A; Closed Plan NRC ≥
0.60; Closed Plan = ≥ 35
Sag, impact and scratch resistant with 10 year
systems warranty. Recycled content greater than or
equal to 40%. Recyclable in a closed loop process.
Light reflectance no less than 85%. CHPS compliant
with Environmental Product Data available.
• Tier 3 High Performance (): Fine texture.
Acoustical qualities as follows: Open Plan NRC ≥
0.95; Open Plan CAC = N/A; Closed Plan NRC ≥
0.70; Closed Plan = ≥ 35
Sag, impact and scratch resistant with washable and
scrubbable surface. 20 year systems warranty.
Recycled content greater than or equal to 50%.
Recyclable in a closed loop process. Light reflectance
no less than 85%. CHPS compliant with
Environmental Product Data available.

3.6 Interior Construction and Interior Finishes
Prescriptive Requirements
3.6.1 Workspace Requirements
Development
GSA’s pricing policy mandates developing a
“comprehensive, professional requirements package
for all projects including new expansion or
replacement’ office space.” Part of GSA’s pre-design
project planning includes developing customer
requirements, an in-depth analysis of the customer’s
workspace requirements referred to as the RD
process. The process uses analytical tools, methods,
and technology to structure input from a broad range
of client staff, and integrates experienced insights and
recommendations concerning the following:
• Formal and informal amenities for collaborative
spaces.
• Space adjacencies, types, and sizes necessary to
support the tenant's mission.
• Analysis and documentation of clients work
patterns and styles.
• Flexibility to adapt to future change
• Mobility of workforce and accommodating
technology
For quality assurance purposes, the workplace
consultant must meet the designers-of-record and
inform them on the findings to ensure the client’s
requirements are translated into the design. A/E
must be invited to participate in client meetings
during the RD process. Similarly, the workplace
consultant must have the opportunity to review and
comment throughout the development of Design
Intent Drawings (DIDs). This feedback must be
reflected in the final construction documents.
3.6.2 Tenant Spaces
When designing and planning the tenant space, the
following factors should be established as the primary
criteria for calculating the total space needed:
• Ratio of open to enclosed space, based on
percentages of employee population.
• Average size of open workstations (36-64 SF is
recommended)
• Average size of enclosed offices (100-150 is
recommended)
• Percentage of collaborative space, both informal
and formal
• Percentage of workforce with job mobility for
desk-sharing potential
Additionally, design goals should include:
• Maximize natural light in open spaces and avoid
placing enclosed rooms along the windows.
• Provide adequate speech privacy and consider
sound masking if necessary to ensure
appropriate acoustics.
• Circulation patterns should be clearly
recognizable and wayfinding must be user
friendly. Proceeding through the office should
be pleasant and intuitive for the users,
encouraging informal communication. See
Circulation Guide.
• Provide and minimize centrally located resource
centers for files, supplies, and equipment.
• Provide adequate space for the recycling
program within café area.
• Choose workplace components and furnishings
that occupants can easily move themselves and
reconfigure to accommodate change, without
skilled labor or technical contract support.

3.6.2.3 Acoustics
The standards in this section establish adequate
acoustic qualities in Federal buildings. Post-
construction commissioning will confirm that the
acoustical standards have been met.
3.6.3 General Criteria for Building
Spaces
Four key concepts govern the quality of office
acoustics. See Table 3-2 for design criteria.
1 Speech Privacy: The degree to which a conversation
cannot be overheard in an adjacent space.
2 Background Sound: Continuous background sound
may have to be supplemented with additional
electronically generated sound to provide for masking
of speech while private conversation is being
conducted. The A/E will differentiate between
enclosed and open office environments to meet these
objectives.
3 Equipment Vibration and Reverberation: Office
equipment noise levels must meet the standards at
the workstations. Reverberation and echoes must be
controlled in courtrooms, auditoriums, and
conference, team, and training room spaces that may
require professional acoustical engineers to meet the
standards. Sound transmission through building
frames must be inhibited.
4 Exterior Noise: Facilities located near airports,
highways, rail corridors, or other sources of significant
environmental noise levels must have building
envelope assemblies controlling noise intrusions to
the required standards.
3.6.3.1 Closed Offices versus Open Plan
For work that does not require acoustic and/or visual
privacy, an open plan environment with low or no
partitions between workstations is permitted. For
work that requires a balance between ongoing, active
collaboration, easy workgroup reconfiguration,
flexible settings, and minimized unwanted acoustic
distraction, an open plan setting with a well-
engineered acoustical design is recommended.
Key components of such engineered open plan
designs are highly absorptive ceilings, suitable height
partition panels that both absorb and block sound,
suitable levels of background sound (typically
provided by electronic sound masking systems), and
ready access to acoustically private (closed-office)
meeting spaces.
Closed offices must be provided for workers who
routinely require extended periods of concentration,
in-office meetings, and/or confidential conversation.
Meeting spaces and closed offices that require speech
security must be designed in conjunction with a
qualified acoustical consultant.
In enclosed offices, HVAC background sound may be
an important component in achieving the required
level of privacy because it helps to cover up or "mask"
speech transmitted between adjacent spaces. In open
plan areas, the background sound provided by
contemporary HVAC equipment is often not uniform
and/or does not have the tonal balance and loudness
needed to mask speech transmitted between
adjacent cubicles. For this reason, additional
electronic background noise or sound masking is
often deployed in these areas.
3.6.3.2 Mechanical and Plumbing Noise
All mechanical equipment must be vibration isolated
from the building frame as required by Chapter 5.
Ambient noise from mechanical equipment must not
exceed noise criteria (NC) values described in the
acoustical section of this chapter. Diffusers with an
NC rating 5 points less than the noise criterion for the
space being served must be used where occupied
space occurs adjacent to, above, or below mechanical
or electrical equipment or machine rooms, or
adjacent to HVAC or elevator shafts. The intervening
structure (partitions, shaft walls, doors, floor and
ceiling assemblies, etc.) must be sufficient to control
noise intrusion to no greater than the maximum NC

or room criteria (RC) values. Where an elevator shaft
or equipment room occurs adjacent to noise-sensitive
spaces (NC/RC 35 or lower), the maximum intrusion
level of elevator noise must be limited to 5 dB below
the maximum NC/RC for the space in all octave
bands. In the walls, ceilings, and floors enclosing
noise-sensitive spaces (Table 3-2, column 1, RC/NC 35
or less), all water, wastewater, and drain piping must
be vibration-isolated from the structure, finishes, and
other piping. Install R-11 batt insulation in all wall
spaces where such piping is located and install the
piping at least 200 mm (1 in.) away from the gypsum
wall board.
3.6.3.3 Noise Isolation, Room Acoustics, and
Speech Privacy
Absorptive materials are required in speech-sensitive
spaces to control reverberation and echoes. Table 3-
2, columns 2 and 3, lists spaces that require
absorptive finishes. The first number in each column
refers to the minimum level of the material's
performance; the second refers to the minimum
percentage of the ceiling or wall that must have
finishes achieving this performance.
Floor and ceiling assemblies separating office spaces
must achieve an NIC of not less than 50 (when
furnished) and Field Impact Isolation Class (FIIC) of
not less than 50. Table 3-2, column 4, lists the
minimum noise isolation (NIC) for spaces requiring
acoustically rated walls.
For constructions on suitable slab floors, when
properly detailed and constructed, and with all
connections caulked airtight with acoustical sealant,
the following wall assemblies typically will satisfy the
minimum specified NIC requirements, with the spaces
furnished typically. These wall examples are not the
only constructions that will satisfy the performance
criteria; they are intended solely to provide guidance
on projects that do not require a qualified acoustical
consultant during the design phase.
• NIC 53 (teleconference room): Double stud wall,
two layers of gypsum board each side, batt
insulation in the stud cavities. Full height (slab
to slab).
• NIC 48 (meeting rooms, training facilities):
Staggered stud wall, two layers of gypsum board
each side, batt insulation in the stud cavity. Full
height (slab to slab).
• NIC 45 (private offices, confidential speech
privacy): Single stud wall, two layers of gypsum
board each side, batt insulation in the stud
cavity. Full height (slab to slab) or 6 inches
above a hung gypsum board ceiling.
• NIC 40 (private offices, normal speech privacy):
Single stud wall, two layers of gypsum board
one side, one layer of gypsum board the other
side, batt insulation in stud cavity. Slab to slab
(preferred); minimum 6 inches above acoustical
tile ceiling (minimum CAC 44).
• NIC 35 (private offices, normal speech privacy,
sound masking): Single stud wall, single layer
gypsum board each side, batt insulation in stud
cavity. Minimum 6 inches above acoustical tile
ceiling (minimum CAC 44).
• NIC 31 (private offices, normal speech privacy,
low voice level, miscellaneous other spaces):
Single stud wall, single layer of gypsum board
each side, batt insulation in the stud cavity.
Terminates at underside of acoustical tile ceiling
(minimum CAC 35).
Acoustical performance will be verified during the
commissioning of the building. The commission
requirements are further defined in the GSA Building
Commissioning Guide.
3.6.3.4 Parameters Used in Acoustical
Design
The following parameters are used to specify
acoustical standards for GSA buildings:
• Background noise The loudness of noise is
quantified by NC, balanced NC-B, and RC
contours.

• Environmental noise The continuous noise
outside a building. The day-night average noise
level (DNL) is a descriptor established by the
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to
describe the average day-night sound level.
Lower values are quieter.
• Noise isolation The amount of noise
transmitted through the perimeter boundary
elements of a space. Sound transmission class
(STC) quantifies the sound insulating
performance of building elements such as walls,
windows, and doors when tested in a laboratory
in accordance with ASTM E90. NIC quantifies the
field-tested sound isolation between two
enclosed spaces separated by a partition when
tested in accordance with ASTM E336. FIIC
quantifies the field-tested impact sound
insulating properties of a floor/ceiling assembly
when tested in accordance with ASTM E1007.
• Reverberation time The time required for sound
to decay 60 decibels in the 500 Hz band in an
enclosed space. Reverberation time becomes
longer as the sound absorption is reduced
and/or the room volume increases.
• Sound absorption The amount of sound
absorbed by a surface finish. Sound absorption
average (SAA) quantifies the efficiency of a
material in absorbing sound energy when tested
in accordance with ASTM C423.

Table: Acoustics
1 2 3 4 5
Space
Maximum
Mechanical
Noise
(RC/NC)
Minimum
Absorption:
Ceiling
(SAA/NRC)
Minimum
Absorption:
Wall
(SAA/NRC)
1
Minimum
Noise
Isolation
(NIC)
Optimum
Reverberation
(RT60)
Teleconference Facility 20
0.8/
50%
0.8/
25%
53 0.5
Meeting rooms,
Training facilities
25
0.8/
50%
0.8/
25%
48
2
0.6
Private offices,
confidential speech privacy
30 n/a
0.8/
25%
45 n/a
Private offices,
normal speech privacy
35 n/a
0.8/
25%
40 n/a
Plan offices, normal speech privacy,
sound masking
35
3
n/a
0.8/
25%
35 n/a
Private offices, normal speech,
low voice level
35 n/a
0.8/
25%
31 n/a
Open Plan offices, normal speech
privacy, sound masking
40
4 0.9/
100%
0.8/
25%
n/a n/a
Open Plan offices,
No speech privacy
40
0.8/
100%
n/a n/a n/a
Child care center 35
0.8/
80%
0.8/
25%
31 0.5
1
Absorption should be placed on two adjacent walls.
2
Operable walls and partitions must achieve the required NIC rating for the spaces that they are separating.
3
Steady state background noise provided by electronic sound masking system: 40-42dBA.
4
Steady state background noise provided by electronic sound masking system: 45-48dBA.

3.6.3.5 Fire Performance and Smoke
Development
Interior wall and ceiling finish materials shall comply
with the applicable requirements in the International
Building Code (IBC) for fire performance and smoke
development (i.e., flame spread index and smoke
developed index). The allowable fire performance and
smoke development of interior wall and ceiling finish
materials are based on occupancy classification.
Typically, interior wall or ceiling finishes are classified
as either Class A (i.e., flame spread index 0-25; smoke
developed index 0-450), Class B (i.e., flame spread
index 26-75; smoke developed index 0-450), or Class
C (i.e., flame spread index 76-200; smoke developed
index 0-450) based on test results from ASTM E84 or
ANSI/UL 723. Wherever the use of Class C interior
wall and ceiling finish is required, Class A or Class B
shall be permitted. Wherever the use of Class B
interior wall and ceiling finish is required, Class A shall
be permitted.
Interior floor finish and floor covering materials must
meet the applicable fire performance floor finish and
floor covering material requirements in the IBC.
Typically, interior floor finishes are classified as either
Class I having a critical radiant flux of not less than
0.45 W/cm
2
or Class II having a critical radiant flux of
no less than 0.22 W/cm
2
but less than 0.45
W/cm
2
based on test results from NFPA 253 or ASTM
E 648. Wherever the use of Class II interior floor finish
is required, Class I interior floor finish shall be
permitted.
Carpet and carpet like interior floor finishes shall
comply with ASTM D 2859 or DOC FF-1 “pill test”
(CPSC 16 CFR Part 1630).
Decorative materials and trim shall comply with the
applicable requirements in the IBC. Decorative
materials are considered materials applied over the
building interior finish for decorative, acoustical or
other effect (such as curtains, draperies, fabrics,
streamers and surface coverings), and all other
materials utilized for decorative effect (such as
batting, cloth, cotton, hay, stalks, straw, vines, leaves,
trees, moss and similar items), including foam plastics
and materials containing foam plastics. Decorative
materials do not include floor coverings, ordinary
window shades, interior finish and materials 0.025
inch (0.64 mm) or less in thickness applied directly to
and adhering tightly to a substrate. Typically,
decorative materials suspended from walls or ceilings
shall meet the flame propagation performance
criteria of NFPA 701 or be noncombustible.
Combustible materials installed on or embedded in
floors of buildings of Type I or Type II construction
shall comply with the applicable interior finish
requirements in the IBC.
3.6.3.6 Cornerstone
A cornerstone is required for all new buildings as a
part of the exterior wall. The cornerstone must be a
cut stone block having a smooth face of size adequate
to present the following incised letters: UNITED
STATES OF AMERICA, (PRESIDENT'S NAME),
PRESIDENT, GENERAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION,
(YEAR OF PROJECT COMPLETION). Only the name of
the President is allowed on the cornerstone. The
words UNITED STATES OF AMERICA should be in
letters 50 mm (2 in.) high and other letters should be
proportionally sized by rank.
The name should be the President in office at the
time construction funds were appropriated, if
construction is completed during a subsequent
President's term of office.

CHAPTER 4: STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING
CHAPTER 4 • STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING
4.1 Structural Performance Requirements
Design Construction
Measurement
& Verification
Plans & Specs Calculations & Analysis Basis of Design Verification
Live Load
Vibrations Limited Vibration Control
Enhanced Vibration
Control for Still
Environments
Enhanced Vibration
Control for Laboratories
and Sensitive Equipment
N/A Y Y
Design Team should provide
calculations showing
requirements are met.
Calculations required at all
performance levels.
AISC Design Guide Series 11, Floor
Vibrations Due to Human Activity
Describe design narrative for
how the floor structure design
addresses the effects of
vibration.
N/A
Wind
Structure 15% in 50 Yr Exceedance 7% in 50 Yr Exceedance 3% in 50 Yr Exceedance N/A Y Y
performance levels.
ASCE 7-10
Describe wind resistance
design assumptions.
N/A
Seismic
Structure Life Safety Immediate Occupancy Operational Performance N/A N/A Y
performance levels.
ASCE 41-06
Describe seismic resistance
design assumptions.
The design review should
include: Review of any site-
specific seismic criteria
employed in the analysis
including the development of
site-specific spectra and
ground motion time histories.
Review of acceptance criteria
used to demonstrate the
adequacy of structural
elements and systems to
withstand the calculated force
and deformation demands,
together with that laboratory
and other data used to
substantiate these criteria.
Review of the preliminary
design including the selection
of structural system and the
configuration of structural
elements.
Review of the final design of
the entire structural system
and all supporting analyses.
Nonstructural Life Safety Immediate Occupancy Operational Performance N/A N/A Y
performance levels.
ASCE 41-06 N/A N/A
Flood
Flood Mitigation 100-Year Flood Hazard 500-Year Flood Hazard
Determined on a Site
Specific Basis
N/A N/A Y
Design Team must provide
performance levels.
FEMA Flood Maps
ASCE 24-05, “Flood Resistant Design
and Construction"
Describe how structural design
is responsive to the flood level
performance metric.
N/A
Reference Standard
Verification
Attribute Baseline

Tier 1 High
Performance

Tier 2 High
Performance

Tier 3 High
Performance

4.2 Structural Performance Attributes
4.2.1 Live Load
4.2.1.1 Vibrations
This attribute relates to the design of floor systems
for occupant comfort relating to walking induced
vibrations. AISC Design Guide 11 “Floor Vibrations
Due to Human Activity” is the primary reference for
this attribute. Design should consider proposed use
of building and possible future uses.
• Baseline: The floors will be designed for “Office”
acceleration limits per AISC Design Guide 11.
• Tier 1 High Performance (): This performance
level is intended for areas that require still
environments such as the bench in a courtroom.
The floors will be designed for acceleration
limits that are between the “Office” level and
the ISO baseline level per AISC Design Guide 11.
performance level is intended for areas that
contain sensitive equipment such as
laboratories. Design for the specific equipment
type expected per AISC Design Guide 11 Chapter
6.
4.2.2 Natural Hazard
4.2.2.1 Wind Resistance of Structure Lateral
Force Resisting System
This attribute relates to building structure to resist
wind loading. See the enclosure attributes for
performance attributes related to the wind
performance of the cladding and roof components.
The primary reference for this attribute is ASCE 7-10.
The higher performance levels correspond to
designing the structure for higher velocity basic wind
speeds associated with a less frequent wind event
(expressed as probability of exceedance in a 50 year
period). It is not permitted to design the building for
wind speeds below the applicable building code
specified minimum. Wind speeds are dependent on
region and other factors specified in ASCE 7-10. Wind
tunnel testing may be used during the design phase
to determine loads on building structure more
precisely than ASCE 7-10. A rigid model test can be
used to determine pressures applied to the building.
An aero-elastic model test can be used to evaluate
the dynamic response of the building due to wind
loading.
• Baseline: Design structure for a wind speed with
a 15% probability of exceedance in 50 years or
the minimum wind speed required by code.
• Tier 1 High Performance (): Design structure
for a wind speed with a 7% probability of
exceedance in 50 years or the minimum wind
speed required by code.
• Tier 2 High Performance (): Design structure
for a wind speed with a 3% probability of
exceedance in 50 years or the minimum wind
speed required by code.
4.2.2.2 Seismic Resistance of Structure
Lateral Force Resisting System
This attribute relates to the performance of the
structural system in response to a design basis
years (500-year return period). Higher performance
levels are expressed as lower inter-story drifts and
damage during the seismic event. The primary
reference is ASCE 41 “Seismic Rehabilitation of
Existing Buildings”. The guidelines from ASCE 41 are
intended to be applied to new buildings as well to

existing buildings to achieve higher performance
levels. It is not permitted to design the building for
seismic performance below the minimum level
specified by IBC and ICSSC RP 8 (NISTIR 6762).
• Baseline: Life Safety - Design structure for a “Life
Safety” level of performance per ASCE 41.
Structure will suffer moderate damage that
requires repair before it is operational.
• Tier 1 High Performance (): Immediate
Occupancy - Design structure for an “Immediate
Occupancy” level of performance per ASCE 41.
Structure will suffer light damage and can be
made operational with minimal downtime.
Designers should consider the use of advanced
seismic response modification technologies such
as base isolation or dampers at this
performance level.
• Tier 2 High Performance (): Continued
Operations - Design structure for an
“Operational” level of performance per ASCE 41.
Structure will suffer very light damage and will
remain operational during and after the seismic
event. Designers should consider the use of
advanced seismic response modification
technologies such as base isolation or dampers
at this performance level.
4.2.2.3 Seismic Resistance of Non-Structural
Components
This attribute relates to the performance of the non-
structural components in response to a design basis
years (500-year return period). Higher performance
levels are expressed as lower damage states and
recovery costs after the seismic event. The primary
reference is ASCE 41 “Seismic Rehabilitation of
Existing Buildings”. The guidelines from ASCE 41 are
intended to be applied to new buildings as well as
existing buildings to achieve higher performance
levels. It is not permitted to design the building for
seismic performance below the minimum level
specified by the applicable building code.
• Baseline: Heavy Damage - Moderate Damage -
Design structure for a “Life Safety” level of
performance per ASCE 41. Non-structural
components will suffer moderate damage
during the seismic event.
• Tier 1 High Performance (): Limited Damage -
Design structure for an “Immediate Occupancy”
level of performance per ASCE 41. Non-
structural components will suffer limited
damage during the seismic event.
• Tier 2 High Performance (): Minimal
Damage - Design structure for an “Operational”
level of performance per ASCE 41. Non-
structural components will remain operational
during the seismic event with minor damage
that does not impact the function of the
building.
4.2.2.4 Flood Mitigation
Floodplain management must be accounted for when
formulating or evaluating any land use plans and
should be correlated with the degree of hazard.
Proposed buildings and structures within a flood
hazard area shall be programmed and designed in
accordance ASCE 24, "Flood Resistant Design and
Construction" provisions. Structural system damage
and continuity of operations are the metrics of
performance for this attribute.
• Baseline: Buildings should be located outside of
100-year floodplain. If this is unavoidable, the
structure system shall be designed to
accommodate a 100-year design flood demand
as a Baseline requirement. Critical action
facilities cannot be located in either a 100-year
or 500-year floodplain unless there is no
practicable alternative. If critical action
structures must be located within a floodplain
they shall be elevated above the 500-year base
flood as Baseline. Structure below the design
flood elevation shall be designed in accordance
with ASCE 24 provisions.

addresses a perceived increased level of flood
risk and decreased allowable impact compared
to Baseline. The building structural system shall
be designed for higher performance and
increased resiliency in resisting flood conditions
associated with a 500-year flood event. The
structure shall be designed for loads from the
500- year floor event. This performance level
anticipates cleanup, drying and minor building
repairs following a 500-year flood event.
specified for building structure resistance to
flood demands. Risks associated with man-
made flood hazards (dam, levee, and floodwall
failure hazards) should be considered as a
separate item where applicable under a site
specific assessment and where high
performance is desired.

4.3 Prescriptive Structural Requirements
4.3.1 Innovative Materials and
Methods
The use of special construction, innovative methods
and the installation of any material is permitted when
necessary, advantageous, and economical. However,
specifying new or untried materials or methods of
construction should be avoided until the merits of the
methods or materials have been established. When
the merits are established, new, unusual, or
innovative materials, systems, or methods may be
incorporated into designs when evidence shows that
such use is in the best interest of the Government
from the standpoint of economy, lower life-cycle
costs, and quality of construction. When new and
innovative methods and materials are proposed for a
specific building a peer review panel, determined by
GSA, must evaluate the adequacy of the methods,
systems, and materials proposed by the engineer.
The evaluation will be based on the best interest of
the Government from the standpoint of economy,
lower life-cycle costs, and quality of construction.
4.3.2 IBC for Structural Design of New
Buildings
The structural design (including wind, snow, and
earthquake) of new buildings, structures, and
portions thereof must be in full compliance with the
latest edition of the IBC. Unless otherwise specified,
all new buildings must be assigned a Risk Category II
according to Chapter 16 of the IBC.
4.3.3 ISC Security Standards
The Interagency Security Committee (ISC) Physical
Security Criteria for Federal Facilities applies to new
construction of Federal office buildings and
courthouses. Where prudent and appropriate the
criteria apply to major modernization projects. Also
see Physical Security Performance Requirements.
4.3.4 Design Methods
If Load and Resistance Factor Design (LRFD) method is
used, the design narrative must specifically address
floor vibration.
4.3.5 Structural Loads
Design loads shall be in accordance with International
Building Code (IBC) except as noted:
Since locations of corridors are not always known
until after the completion of construction documents
and are subject to change over time, use a uniform
live load of 100 pounds per square foot (psf) over the
entire floor for all elevated slabs unless the tabulated
uniform live load required by the International
Building Code is higher than 100 psf. This load
includes 15 pounds per square foot of partitions, but
excludes heavy loads like the planned use of space
saver file systems.
Do not use live load reductions for (1) horizontal
framing members, (2) transfer girders supporting
columns, and (3) columns or walls supporting the
roofs where mechanical equipment can be located.
Live load reductions shall be considered in the design
of foundation members regardless of the restrictions
placed on individual members.
Plazas: For building having plaza area where there is
possibility of large trucks or vans entering and
parking, the design loads for the trucks and vans shall
be provided for design of the plaza.

4.3.6 Structural Systems and
Elements
Precast floor framing systems should be used only for
Federal office buildings when the design can be
demonstrated to adapt well to future changes in
locations of heavy partitions or equipment. Precast
systems may be considered for low-rise structures
such as parking garages, industrial building, and
storage and maintenance facilities. Precast shall not
be used as part of the structural framing to prevent
progressive collapse
Pre-tensioning and post-tensioning systems are not
allowed.
Exception: Pre-tensioned or post-tensioned systems,
bonded or unbonded, for parking structures that are
separate from the occupied building is allowed.
Footings and permanent support structures, such as
tiebacks, must not project beyond property lines.
4.3.7 Alterations in Existing Buildings
and Historic Structures
Alteration requires ingenuity and imagination. It is
inherently unsuited to rigid sets of rules, since each
case is unique. It is recognized that total compliance
with standards may not be possible in every case.
Where serious difficulties arise, creative solutions
that achieve the intent of the standard are
encouraged.
4.3.8 Seismic Upgrading
Historic buildings should meet the same life safety
objectives as other buildings while preserving historic
spaces and features to the greatest extent possible.
Any decision made to preserve essential historic
features must not result in a lesser seismic
performance than that required by “Standards of
Seismic Safety for Existing Federally Owned and
Leased Buildings “ICSSC Recommended Practice 8
(RP8).
Where deficiencies in the attachment of elements of
structures, nonstructural components, and
equipment pose a life safety risk, they must be
prioritized and those elements with the greatest life
safety risk strengthened first to meet current
standards.
4.3.9 Seismic Instrumentation
New and existing Seismic Design Category D,E, and F
buildings over six stories in height with an aggregate
floor area of 5,574 m
2
(60,000 ft
2
) or more, and every
Seismic Design Category D,E, and F building over 10
stories in height regardless of floor area, must be
provided with U.S. Geological Survey (USGS)
approved recording accelerographs. The Seismic
instrumentation of Buildings (with Emphasis on
Federal Buildings), Special GSA/USGC project, USGS
Project No 0-7460-68170
(http://nsmp.wr.usgs.gov/celebi/gsa_report_instrum
entation.pdf) should be used.

4.4 Physical Security Performance Attributes
4.4 Physical Security Performance Requirements
Design Construction
Measurement
& Verification
Plans & Specs Calculations & Analysis Basis of Design Verification
Physical Security
Performance
ISC Level I or II -
minimum or low
level of protection
ISC Level III - medium
level of protection
ISC Level IV - high
level of protection
ISC Level V - very high
level of protection
N/A N/A
Design Team must
provide calculations
showing requirements
are met. Calculations
required at Tier 1 High
Performance and
above.
Interagency Security Criteria
ISC Physical Security
Criteria and the Building
Specific Risk assessment.
Describe ISC Level used in
design and how the
criteria and risk
assessment were met.
See the Prescriptive
Physical Security
requirements section for
further information
N/A
Reference Standard
Verification
Attribute Baseline

Tier 1 High
Performance

Tier 2 High
Performance

Tier 3 High
Performance

4.5 Physical Security Performance Attributes
The following physical security performance levels
reference the Interagency Security Committee (ISC)
“Physical Security Criteria for Federal Facilities”.
Other reference documents include the ISC “Facility
Security Level Determinations for Federal Facilities”,
the ISC “The Design-Basis Threat” report, and the
General Services Administration Facility Security
Requirements for Explosive Devices Applicable to
Facility Security Levels III and IV, GSA’s Interpretation
of the Interagency Security Committee (ISC) Physical
Security Criteria, August 2, 2011. Each of these
documents is For Official Use Only (FOUO) and
contains sensitive details that are not repeated here.
Refer to the ISC references for more information.
This attribute relates to the design of the buildings
physical security, and its ability to resist the Design
Basis Threats. These threats include but are not
limited to blast, progressive collapse, vehicle
ramming, and ballistics. GSA buildings are to meet
the ISC Security Criteria for the given Facility Security
Level (FSL).
• Baseline: ISC FSL I and II facilities have
minimum and low levels of protection.
These buildings are to be classified as
Baseline for Physical Security Performance.
• Tier 1 High Performance (): ISC FSL Level III
facilities have medium levels of protection
and are to be classified as GSA Tier 1 for
Physical Security Performance.
• Tier 2 High Performance () ISC FSL Level
IV facilities have medium levels of protection
and are to be classified as GSA Tier 2 for
• Tier 3 High Performance () ISC FSL
Level V facilities have medium levels of
protection and are to be classified as GSA
Tier 3 for Physical Security Performanc

4.6 Prescriptive Physical Security Requirements
GSA buildings shall meet the Interagency Security
Committee's (ISC) standards and best practices for
protecting Federal facilities in the United States.
These Standards include:
The Physical Security Criteria for Federal Facilities
(PSC) establishes a baseline set of physical security
measures to be applied to all Federal facilities and
provides a framework for the customization of
security measures to address unique risks at a facility.
The ISC’s Design-Basis Threat (DBT) report is a stand-
alone threat analysis to be used with the Physical
Security Criteria. The DBT document establishes a
profile of the type, composition, and capabilities of
adversaries.
The Building Specific Risk Assessment is developed for
each building or project. The assessment evaluates
the credible threats, identifies vulnerabilities, and
assesses consequences.
General Services Administration Facility Security
Requirements for Explosive Devices Applicable to
Facility Security Levels III and IV, GSA’s Interpretation
of the Interagency Security Committee (ISC) Physical
Security Criteria, August 2, 2011.
All of the above documents are For Official Use Only
(FOUO)
The GSA P100 Physical Security Requirements are
intended to align with the ISC Facility Security Level
These physical security performance requirements
are not intended to supersede the ISC standards, but
to coincide with them:
ISC FSL I and II facilities have minimum and low levels
of protection. These buildings are classified to be GSA
Baseline for Physical Security Performance.
ISC FSL Level III facilities have medium levels of
protection and are to be classified as GSA Tier 1 for
ISC FSL Level IV facilities have high levels of protection
and are to be classified as GSA Tier 2 for Physical
Security Performance.
ISC FSL Level V facilities have very high levels of
protection and are to be classified as GSA Tier 3 for
Physical Security Performance

CHAPTER 5: MECHANICAL ENGINEERING
CHAPTER 5 • MECHANICAL ENGINEERING
5.1 Mechanical Performance Requirements
Design Construction
Measurement
& Verification
Plans & Specs
Calculations
& Analysis
Temperature
Reference ASHRAE 55-2010 ASHRAE 55-2010 ASHRAE 55-2010 ASHRAE 55-2010
ASHRAE 0
ASHRAE 1.1
SMACNA
ASHRAE 0
ASHRAE 1.1
Performance
24±2ºC (75±3ºF) cooling,
22±2ºC (72±3ºF) heating,
Allowance for unoccupied
hour setup and setback
optimized with re-
occupancy pick-up and
pull-down energy
demands within a range of
13ºC to 28ºC (55ºF to
83ºF),
Thermal zones limited to
42 m2
(450 ft2
) at the
perimeter 5m (15ft) (or
no more than 3 private
offices on the same solar
orientation) and 140 m2
(1500 ft2
) interior
Baseline features and add
control or provide that
surface radiant
temperatures are ±4ºC
(±7ºF) of the air
temperature,
Thermal zones limited to 42
m2
(450 ft2
) at the
perimeter 5 m (15ft) (or no
more than 3 private offices
on the same solar
orientation) and 75 m2
(800
ft2
) interior
features and add control or
provide that surface radiant
temperatures are ±1ºC (±2ºF)
of the air temperature, or
inversely offset expanded air
temperature ranges and do
not form condensation.
and individual occupant
controlled surface radiant
temperatures and
optimized air at
24-27 ºC (75-80ºF) cooling
18-22 ºC (65-72ºF) heating
Baseline: No
Tier 1 High
Performance:
No
Tier 2 High
Performance:
Yes
Tier 3 High
Performance:
Yes
Baseline: Yes
Tier 1 High
Performance:
Yes
Tier 2 High
Performance:
Yes
Tier 3 High
Performance:
Yes
Provide
calculations of
the transient
coupled one-
dimensional
heat and
moisture
transport in
multi-layer
building
components
exposed to
natural
weather using
WUFI-
ORNL/IBP for
each
construction
condition.
Show proposed
zoning and
corresponding
square footage
for all
conditioned
spaces. Show
temperature
range for each
zone and
interior surface
temperatures,
when
applicable.
After
occupancy,
provide 2
weeks of 15
minute trend
history of
space and
surface
temperature
(when
controlled).
Humidity Control
Reference
ASHRAE 55-2010, graphic
comfort zone method
ASHRAE 55-2010,
Michalski (1998),
2011 ASHRAE Handbook –
HVAC Applications, Chapter
23, Museums, Galleries,
Archives, and Libraries
ASHRAE 55-2010,
Michalski (1998),
HVAC Applications, Chapter
23, Museums, Galleries,
Archives, and Libraries
ASHRAE 0
ASHRAE 1.1
SMACNA
ASHRAE 0
ASHRAE 1.1
Performance
Maximum 13ºC (55ºF) dew
point
RH setpoint (Historic
annual average at indoor
dry bulb temperature =
21ºC (70ºF), default
50%RH), Class C (ASHRAE
Applications) control (no
short term RH range), 25%
to 75% seasonal setpoint
adjustment, and 13ºC
(55ºF) dew point
maximum.
RH setpoint (Historic annual
average at indoor dry bulb
temperature = 21ºC (70ºF),
default 45%RH), Class B
(ASHRAE Applications)
controlled range of +/- 10%
RH short term, +/- 10%
seasonal setpoint
adjustment, and 13ºC (55ºF)
dew point maximum.
RH setpoint (Historic annual
average at indoor dry bulb
temperature = 21ºC (70ºF),
default 45%RH, Class A
(ASHRAE Applications)
controlled range of +/- 5%
RH short term, +/- 10%
seasonal setpoint
adjustment (OR +/- 10% RH
and NO seasonal setpoint
adjustment), and 13ºC
(55ºF) dew point maximum.
Baseline: No
Tier 1 High
Performance:
No
Tier 2 High
Performance:
Yes
Tier 3 High
Performance:
Yes
Baseline: Yes
Tier 1 High
Performance:
Yes
Tier 2 High
Performance:
Yes
Tier 3 High
Performance:
Yes
Show relative
humidity control
range for each
zone and
describe
method of
control when
applicable.
After
occupancy,
provide 2
weeks of 15
minute trend
history of
space relative
humidity
(when
controlled).
Verification
Attribute Baseline




Design Construction
Measurement
& Verification
Plans & Specs
Calculations
& Analysis
Air Movement
Reference ASHRAE 55-2010 ASHRAE 55-2010 ASHRAE 55-2010 ASHRAE 55-2010
ASHRAE 0
ASHRAE 1.1
SMACNA
ASHRAE 0
ASHRAE 1.1
Performance
Less than 0.2 m/s (40 fpm)
at occupied level
Occupant controlled
between 0.1 and 0.76 m/s
(20 and 150 fpm)
Occupant controlled
between 0.1 and 0.76 m/s
(20 and 150 fpm)
N/A
Baseline: No
Tier 1 High
Performance:
Yes
Tier 2 High
Performance:
Yes
Tier 3 High
Performance:
Yes
Baseline: Yes
Tier 1 High
Performance:
Yes
Tier 2 High
Performance:
Yes
Tier 3 High
Performance:
Yes
Describe air
speed
performance
and how it will
be achieved by
the proposed
design.
Verify space air
speed at
occupant level
during TAB/Cx.
Pressure
Reference 2009 ASHRAE Handbook –
HVAC Fundamentals
HVAC Fundamentals
HVAC Fundamentals,
Lstiburek (1999),
Quirouette (2004)
ASHRAE 0
ASHRAE 1.1
SMACNA
ASHRAE 0
ASHRAE 1.1
Coordinate with
Building
Enclosure Air
Tightness
metric.
Performance
Positive building pressure
when occupied, and
when outside dew point is
higher than 8ºC (47ºF)
when unoccupied.
Active pressure control by
floor to achieve 12Pa (0.05"
wc) positive building
pressure when occupied,
and when outside dew
point is higher than 8ºC
(47ºF) when unoccupied.
Maintain building perimeter
zones at 12 Pa (0.05" wc)
positive pressure with
respect to outdoor; control
per exposure per floor when
outside dew point is higher
than 8ºC (47ºF). No design
negative pressure spaces at
building perimeter.
and provide envelope
cavities at 5 Pa (0.02" wc)
positive pressure with
respect to interior occupied
space when outside
temperature drops below
dew point of inside air.
Baseline: Yes
Tier 1 High
Performance:
Yes
Tier 2 High
Performance:
Yes
Tier 3 High
Performance:
Yes
Baseline: Yes
Tier 1 High
Performance:
Yes
Tier 2 High
Performance:
Yes
Tier 3 High
Performance:
Yes
Describe
building air
pressure
performance
and how it will
be achieved by
the proposed
design.
Prior to
occupancy,
provide 24
hours of 5-min
trend history of
building air
pressure.
Performance
Comply with 2011 ASHRAE
Applications Chapter 48,
Table 1
Table 1
Table 1
Provide sound masking
Table 1
Baseline: Yes
Tier 1 High
Performance:
Yes
Tier 2 High
Performance:
Yes
Tier 3 High
Performance:
Yes
Baseline: Yes
Tier 1 High
Performance:
Yes
Tier 2 High
Performance:
Yes
Tier 3 High
Performance:
Yes
List design RC
level goals for
all space types
and describe
how design will
meet these
goals.
Verify space
acoustic sound
levels during
TAB/Cx.
Verification
Attribute Baseline




Design Construction
Measurement
& Verification
Plans & Specs
Calculations
& Analysis
Ventilation
Reference ASHRAE 62.1-2010
ASHRAE 62.1-2010
LEED 2009
ASHRAE 62.1-2010
LEED 2009
ASHRAE 62.1-2010
LEED 2009
ASHRAE 0
ASHRAE 1.1
SMACNA
ASHRAE 0
ASHRAE 1.1
Performance
• Standard 62.1
Ventilation Rate
Procedure only
• Air Flow Measurement
Stations (AFMS) on VAV
systems
• Standard 62.1 Ventilation
Rate Procedure only
• LEED IAQ materials credits
Stations on VAV systems
• 9.4 L/s (20 cfm) per person
minimum for all occupancies
in the breathing zone
• LEED IAQ materials credits
Stations on all systems
• Tier 2 High Performance,
and:
• Provide an occupant
indoor air quality survey in
the Post Occupancy
Evaluation (POE)
Baseline: Yes
Tier 1 High
Performance:
Yes
Tier 2 High
Performance:
Yes
Tier 3 High
Performance:
Yes
Baseline: Yes
Tier 1 High
Performance:
Yes
Tier 2 High
Performance:
Yes
Tier 3 High
Performance:
Yes
Provide
Standard 62.1
VRP
calculations
for each air
handling
system
Describe how
minimum
ventilation rates
will be
maintained for
all systems.
Verify HVAC
system
minimum
ventilation
rates during
TAB/Cx.
Provide 24
hours of 15
minute trend
history of each
AFMS to verify
minimum
ventilation
control.
Filtration
Reference
ASHRAE 62.1-2010,
ASHRAE 52.2-2007
ASHRAE 62.1-2010, ASHRAE
52.2-2007
52.2-2007
52.2-2017
ASHRAE 0
ASHRAE 1.1
AABC, NEBB, or
TABB
ASHRAE 0
ASHRAE 1.1
Performance
• MERV 8 upstream of all
cooling coils and other
devices with wetted
surfaces
• MERV 8 on OA where
PM10 limit exceeded
• MERV 11 on OA where
PM2.5 limit exceeded
• MERV 8 for all coils
• MERV 11 on OA
• MERV 8 for all coils
• MERV 13 for outdoor air
• MERV 13 for all supply air
units with OA
• MERV 8 for recirculating
units with coils
• UVGI at cooling coils
Baseline: Yes
Tier 1 High
Performance:
Yes
Tier 2 High
Performance:
Yes
Tier 3 High
Performance:
Yes
Baseline: Yes
Tier 1 High
Performance:
Yes
Tier 2 High
Performance:
Yes
Tier 3 High
Performance:
Yes
Describe
proposed
filtration design
for all air
handling
systems.
Verify installed
filtration
during TAB/Cx.
Verification
Attribute Baseline




Design Construction
Measurement
& Verification
Plans & Specs
Calculations &
Analysis
HVAC Noise Control
Reference
ASHRAE Handbook -
Applications 2007
ASHRAE Handbook -
Applications 2008
ASHRAE Handbook -
Applications 2009
ASHRAE Handbook -
Applications 2010
ASTM E336
Coordinate with
Building
Enclosures STC
Metric
Performance
Table 1
Table 1
Table 1
Table 1
Baseline: Yes
Tier 1 High
Performance:
Yes
Tier 2 High
Performance:
Yes
Tier 3 High
Performance:
Yes
Baseline: Yes
Tier 1 High
Performance:
Yes
Tier 2 High
Performance:
Yes
Tier 3 High
Performance:
Yes
List design RC
level goals for
all space types
and describe
how design will
meet these
goals.
Verify space
acoustic sound
levels during
TAB/Cx.
HVAC Operational Efficiency
Equipment
Performance
90.1-2010 90.1-2010 189.1-2011
Greater of Tier 2 Energy
Star or 189.1-2011
Yes Yes
Describe what
efficiency level
is proposed for
the HVAC
equipment.
Cx agent to confirm
equipment
efficiencies during
equip. submittal
review.
Fan Energy
Performance
90.1-2010 5% below 90.1-2010 189.1-2011 10% below189.1-2011 Yes
Provide fan
power limitation
calculation per
90.1-2010 Table
6.5.3.1.1.A.
Describe how
fan energy
performance
will be less than
metric.
Cx agent to confirm
fan equip.
efficiencies during
equipment
submittal review.
HVAC Energy
Performance
90.1-2010 10% below 90.1-2010 15% below 189.1-2011 30% Below 189.1-2011
Provide 90.1-
2007 Appendix G
energy model
showing HVAC
annual energy
does not exceed
project target.
Describe HVAC
strategies
employed in
energy model
that result in
energy target
being met.
Cx agent to confirm
energy model HVAC
equip.performance
assumptions on
design reviews and
submittal reviews.
HVAC Energy
Metering
Not Required 50% of HVAC Energy 80% of HVAC Energy 100% of HVAC Energy Yes Yes
Provide energy
model results
showing %
HVAC energy
metering is met.
Describe
proposed HVAC
metering
scheme.
Calibrate all meters
and provide 2 weeks
of 15 minute trend
history for all HVAC
meters.
Verification
Attribute Baseline




5.2 Mechanical Performance Attributes
The premise of achieving higher levels of building
performance is to provide indoor environments that
are most conducive to comfort, health, and
productivity, to increase the longevity of the
property, and to deliver these in an optimally energy
efficient and cost effective manner. Protection of
property includes assets such as wood furnishings,
art, archives where applicable, as well as minimizing
detrimental effects of mold growth and material
corrosion and decay.
5.2.1 Temperature
Temperature is one of several determining factors of
a comfortable and productive environment; however,
maintenance and control of temperature alone does
not assure an acceptable environment. Other
component attributes include air movement,
humidity, acoustics, air quality, as well as the physical
and psychological dispositions of the occupants, and
the ability of the occupants to have autonomy over
the control of their environment. Increasing levels of
indoor environmental performance as impacted by
the discrete attribute of temperature are defined as
follows.
• Baseline: Control of dry bulb temperature
range, allowing for seasonal and unoccupied
setpoint adjustment.
provision of control of surface temperatures
surrounding the occupants to limit the
detrimental effects of radiant temperature
asymmetry, as well as decreasing the size of
control zones, so that fewer personal
preferences are subject to a common
environment. Control of surface temperatures
is to be done passively, such as better R-values
in materials, and synergistically, through
intentional delivery of heating and cooling
media (air, water, electricity, refrigerant) to
offset undesirable surface temperatures. Better
adaptation to individual preferences is
necessary to achieve the goal of lower PPD
(predicted percentage of dissatisfied).
• Tier 2 High Performance (): Adds Building
Automation System (BAS) control of surface
temperatures to reduce the detrimental aspects
of radiant temperature asymmetry on
occupants and allow for space air dry bulb
temperature reset from the baseline
parameters.
• Tier 3 High Performance (): Additionally
allows for occupant control of the surface
temperatures within optimized limits
determined by a BAS.
5.2.2 Humidity Control
Humidity is one of several determining factors of an
acceptable environment, but the limits for occupant
comfort and productivity are much more widespread
than the humidity limits required for asset protection
and longevity. ASHRAE Standard 55-2010 “Thermal
Environmental Conditions for Human Occupancy”
does not require a lower limit of humidity with
respect to maintaining an acceptable environment.
Occupant satisfaction does not increase when
humidity is controlled more precisely than the
requirements of ASHRAE Standard 55. Therefore, for
general occupancy, higher levels of humidity control
performance are not required or encouraged. The
high performance tiers of humidity performance are
intended to protect humidity-sensitive finishes and
contents of the space, if present, such as art
collections, rare documents, vulnerable woodwork,
etc. The selected levels of performance reference the
2011 ASHRAE Handbook – HVAC Applications,
Chapter 23, Museums, Galleries, Archives, and
Libraries.

Increasing levels of indoor environmental
performance as impacted by the discrete attribute of
humidity are defined as follows.
• Baseline: Provide a maximum indoor dew point
limitation, applicable to all times and seasons.
provision of Class C control and seasonal
setpoint adjustment for the preservation of
"medium vulnerability" woodwork; this does not
necessarily require humidification equipment.
• Tier 2 High Performance (): Upgrades to the
provision of Class B control and seasonal
"high vulnerability" woodwork. No archival
storage of fabrics, books, film, or photos is
considered.
• Tier 3 High Performance (): Upgrades to
the provision of Class A control and seasonal
"high vulnerability" woodwork, through which
also allows a small risk to archival storage items
such as fabrics, books, film, or photos.
5.2.3 Air Movement
Air movement is discussed under the temperature
attribute, because the amount and control of air
movement directly affects the level of temperature
control required to maintain a comfortable and
productive environment. Levels of indoor
environmental performance as impacted by the
discrete attribute of air movement are defined as
follows.
• Baseline: Less than 0.2 m/s (40 fpm) air speed
at the occupied level.
• Tier 1 High Performance (): Group occupant
controlled air speed at the occupied level
adjustable between 0.1 and 0.76 m/s (20 and
150 fpm), but subject to not more than six
occupants per control zone so that 1) fewer
occupants are dissatisfied with their
environment, and 2) space temperatures can be
reset upward for overall energy savings in the
cooling mode, and internal heat recovery in
transitional seasons.
• Tier 2 High Performance (): Individual
occupant controlled air speed at the occupied
level adjustable between 0.1 and 0.76 m/s (20
and 150 fpm), adapting to individual
preferences to achieve the goal of lower PPD.
• Tier 3 High Performance (): Continues
Tier 2 High Performance; no further
enhancement.
5.2.4 Pressure
Pressure is a factor contributing to longevity of the
property, and the resultant indoor air quality. Under
ordinary conditions, the relatively small orders of
magnitude of air pressure experienced in and
immediately around a facility do not usually create
uncomfortable indoor environments. Control of
space pressurization is important, in overall facility
operations, to manage moisture, water vapor,
airborne contaminants, and the consequent effects of
mold growth. Levels of building performance as
impacted by the discrete attribute of pressure are as
follows.
• Baseline: Maintain positive building pressure
when occupied, and when outside dew point is
higher than 8ºC (47ºF) when unoccupied.
• Tier 1 High Performance (): Manage the
differential flow rates of building outdoor air
and exhaust air by the HVAC equipment, reset
as determined by the pressure differential of
each floor’s exterior space with the outdoor, to
achieve 12Pa (0.05" wc) positive building
pressure when occupied.
• Tier 2 High Performance (): Maintain
building perimeter zones at 5 Pa (0.02” wc)

positive with respect to outdoor, with control
zones no larger than per exposure and per three
floors in height. Return air plenums require
isolation near the perimeter. Note: The
architectural design cannot locate negative
pressure spaces at building perimeter.
• Tier 3 High Performance (): Provide
envelope cavities at 5 Pa (0.02” wc) positive
with respect to interior occupied space when
outside temperature drops below the dew point
of inside air.
5.2.5 Ventilation
Ventilation is one of the key elements (along with
source control and air cleaning) to achieving
acceptable indoor air quality. Source control alone is
not sufficient because it is impossible to eliminate all
off-gassing materials in the built environment and
people are also a source of pollutants (bioeffluents).
Hence, ventilation is required in all occupied spaces.
ASHRAE Standard 62.1 is the consensus standard
prescribing ventilation requirements in the U.S. It has
been integrated into the International Mechanical.
Ventilation rates higher than Standard 62.1 rates have
been shown in several studies to increase alertness,
reduce indoor air quality concerns, and reduce
absenteeism.
• Baseline: Ventilation rates shall comply with
Standard 62.1-2010 using the Ventilation Rate
Procedure. (The IAQ procedure is not practical
since it is not possible to identify all pollutants,
their source strengths, and their maximum
acceptable concentrations.)
All variable air volume systems shall include
devices to measure and control minimum
outdoor air flow.
• Tier 1 High Performance (): Comply with the
baseline requirements
Comply with all the technical requirements of
LEED 2009 Indoor Environmental Quality credits
for building materials including IEQ Credit 4.1
(Low-Emitting Materials − Adhesives and
Sealants), IEQ Credit 4.2 (Low-Emitting
Materials−Paints and Coatings), IEQ Credit 4.3
(Low-Emitting Materials−Flooring Systems), IEQ
Credit 4.4 (Low-Emitting Materials−Composite
Wood and Agrifiber Products)
• Tier 2 High Performance (): Breathing zone
outdoor air ventilation rates for private and
open office spaces shall be equal to or greater
than a total of 9.4 L/s/person (20 cfm/person).
Comply with all the technical requirements of
LEED 2009 Indoor Environmental Quality credits
for building materials including IEQ Credit 4.1
(Low-Emitting Materials − Adhesives and
Sealants), IEQ Credit 4.2 (Low-Emitting
Materials−Paints and Coatings), EQ Credit 4.3
(Low-Emitting Materials−Flooring Systems), EQ
Credit 4.4 (Low-Emitting Materials−Composite
Wood and Agrifiber Products)
All systems shall include devices to measure and
control minimum outdoor air flow.
• Tier 3 High Performance (): Comply with
Tier 2 High Performance requirements
Provide an occupant indoor air quality survey in
the POE.
5.2.6 Filtration
Filtration and air cleaning can improve indoor air
quality by removing contaminants from ventilation
air. It is particularly effective in areas where outdoor
air quality is poor. Particulate filtration can also
improve air quality by reducing dirt on surfaces that
can support microbial growth such as cooling coils.
• Baseline: Provide minimum MERV 8 filters
upstream of all cooling coils and other devices
with wetted surfaces per Standard 62.1-2010
Section 5.8

Provide minimum MERV 8 filters on all
ventilation outdoor air intakes where the
national standard for PM10 is exceeded per
Standard 62.1-2010 Section 6.2.1.1
Provide minimum MERV 11 filters on all
ventilation outdoor air intakes where the
national standard for PM2.5 is exceeded
per Standard 62.1-2010 Section 6.2.1.2
• Tier 1 High Performance ():Comply with
baseline
Provide minimum MERV 11 filters on all outdoor
air
• Tier 2 High Performance (): Comply with
Provide minimum MERV 13 filters on all outside
air, and MERV 8 filters upstream of all cooling
coils and other devices with wetted surfaces.
Provide ultra-violet germicidal irradiation (UVGI)
for cooling coils and other devices with wetted
surfaces.
5.2.7 HVAC Noise Control
Acoustics in the workplace can affect productivity and
excessive noise can also cause physical symptoms.
Cross-talk in open offices can also be a detriment to
worker productivity. However, there is no evidence
to suggest that these factors are improved with lower
sound pressure levels. Hence requirements are to
simply meet the industry standard Room Criteria (RC)
levels for all levels.
• Baseline: Design all systems so that space RC is
equal to or less than those listed in 2011
ASHRAE Applications, Chapter 48, Noise and
Vibration Control, Table 1, Design Guidelines for
HVAC-Related Background Sound in Rooms
• Tier 1 High Performance (): Comply with
• Tier 2 High Performance (): Comply with
Provide sound masking in open office spaces per
PBS-P100 2010.
Confirm design sound levels are achieved
through field measurements in accordance with
ASTM E336 “Field Measurement of Sound
Insulation in Buildings and General Services
Administration (GSA) Workplace 20•20 testing
protocol for speech privacy calculation in private
offices
Tier 2 High Performance requirements
Provide an occupant indoor acoustical survey in
the POE.
5.2.8 HVAC Operational Efficiency
The goal of HVAC operational efficiency is to
maximize system energy efficiency in order to reduce
HVAC energy consumption and costs. Although
annual HVAC energy consumption is impacted by
many other factors in the building including building
envelope, lighting, and equipment loads, this metric
focuses strictly on the HVAC equipment and system
efficiencies by utilizing industry standards for the
various levels of efficiency.
• Baseline: HVAC equipment efficiencies shall
comply with the minimum efficiencies shown in
ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2010
HVAC fan energy consumption shall not exceed
that allowed by ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2010 Fan
System Power Limitation Requirements
Building HVAC energy performance shall not
exceed that allowed using ASHRAE Standard
90.1-2010 Appendix G

• Tier 1 High Performance (): HVAC equipment
efficiencies shall comply with the minimum
efficiencies shown in ASHRAE Standard 90.1-
2010
HVAC fan energy consumption shall be 5% less
than that allowed by ASHRAE Standard 90.1-
2010 Fan System Power Limitation
Requirements
Building HVAC energy performance shall be 10%
below that allowed using ASHRAE Standard
90.1-2010 Appendix G
Provide energy sub-metering for at least 50% of
the building HVAC energy
• Tier 2 High Performance (): HVAC
equipment efficiencies shall comply with the
minimum efficiencies shown in ASHRAE
Standard 189.1-2011
HVAC fan energy consumption shall not exceed
that allowed by ASHRAE 189.1-2011 Fan System
Power Limitation Requirements
189.1-2011 Section 7.5.2
Provide energy sub-metering for at least 80% of
the building HVAC energy
HVAC equipment efficiencies shall meet the
maximum efficiency required by Tier 2 Energy
Star or ASHRAE Standard 189.1-2011 minimum
efficiencies
HVAC fan energy consumption shall be 5% less
than that allowed by ASHRAE 189.1-2011 Fan
System Power Limitation Requirements
189.1-2011 Section 7.5.2
Provide energy sub-metering for 100% of the
building HVAC energy
5.2.9 Energy Performance
The attribute of energy performance considers the
whole building synergistically and measured with
respect to both energy utilization (consumption) and
carbon emissions (total or source) on an annual basis.
Federal law requires minimum levels of performance
for Federal facilities and total portfolio performance
for Federal agencies. The related attribute of energy
cost is required to be reported for LEED certification,
and this may be a driving requirement in terms of
systems selection, particularly thermal storage and
demand peak shaving/load offset.
Energy cost and its effect on life cycle cost is an
essential consideration in the design of GSA buildings.
However, because there is no federal mandate on
energy cost, it is not a direct report for P100
Performance.
Energy software used to demonstrate compliance
must be compliant with ASHRAE Standard 140-2011.

5.3 Mechanical Engineering Prescriptive
Requirements
All mechanical and electrical equipment within the
building or on the property must be located in areas
not subject to flooding and 1.6 meters (5 ft.) above
the 100-year flood plain.
5.3.1 Design Criteria
Outdoor air design criteria must be based on weather
data tabulated in the latest edition of the ASHRAE
Handbook of Fundamentals.
• Winter design conditions must be based on the
99.6 percent column dry bulb temperature.
• Summer design conditions for sensible heat load
calculations must be based on the 0.4 percent
column dry bulb temperature, with its mean
coincident wet bulb temperature.
• Design conditions for the summer ventilation
load, cooling tower selection, and all
dehumidification load calculations must be
based on the 0.4 percent dew point, with its
mean coincident dry bulb temperature.
Designer to provide ranges, fill out table, and state
what criteria is used. Designer must submit list of
rooms with negative pressure. Designer shall submit
occupancy loads as the basis of design.

Type of Area Summer DB Winter DB
Locker rooms 26˚C (78˚F) 21˚C (70˚F)
Electrical closets 26˚C (78˚F) 13˚C (55˚F)
Mechanical spaces 35˚C (95˚F) 13˚C (55˚F)
Electrical switchgear 35˚C (95˚F) 13˚C (55˚F)
Elevator machine room 26˚C (78˚F) 13˚C (55˚F)
Emergency generator room 40˚C (104˚F) 18˚C (65˚F)
Transformer vaults 40˚C (104˚F)
Stairwells (none) 18˚C (65˚F)
Storage room 30˚C (85˚F) 18˚C (65˚F)
Other
Table 1. Indoor Design Conditions – Supplemental Spaces
Occupancy loads must be determined as follows:
• Determine occupant density (persons/m
2
or
persons/ft
2
) from the occupancy schedule of the
Project Program of Requirements.
• In the event this information is not available,
use the occupancy density values in ASHRAE
62.1-2010.
• For dining areas, auditoriums, and other high-
occupancy spaces, occupancy densities must
represent the number of seats available.
• Sensible and latent loads per person must be
based on the latest edition of the ASHRAE
Handbook of Fundamentals.
The HVAC load calculations must be performed with a
computer-based program using the latest ASHRAE
Handbook of Fundamentals Heat Balance (HB)
Method, Radiant Time Series (RTS) Method, or
Transfer Function Method (TFM), developed for the
hourly analysis of heating and cooling loads in
commercial buildings.
The program must be capable of calculating each
zone’s peak heating and cooling loads as well as the
whole-building simultaneous peak load. The program
must, at a minimum, calculate solar gains through
fenestration, internal gains from occupants, including
latent heat for cooling purposes, internal gains from
lighting and equipment, outside air loads (sensible
and latent) from ventilation and infiltration, and heat
and moisture gains or losses through fenestration,
walls, floors, and roofs. The heating load calculations
must be done without credit for occupants and
internal gains. The HVAC load calculations must not
include additional safety factors unless specifically
asked for in the applicable tenant design guides (i.e.
the Courts Design Guide has 20 percent sensible
added to courtrooms).

Provide HVAC load calculations at each design phase.
The HVAC load calculations report must include all
input and output used in the heating and cooling
calculation program. The report must also include
zone peak heating and cooling loads results and
whole-building simultaneous peak load, air-handling
unit coil selections, and psychrometric charts that
show the complete cycle of all of the processes in the
HVAC system.
5.3.1.2 Energy Analysis
A building energy analysis must be performed at each
phase of the design to demonstrate that the building
design meets or exceeds the energy performance
goals established for the project. Energy software
used for proof of compliance must conform with
ASHRAE Standard 140-2011.
The compliance methodology must be in accordance
with Sections 5 (except Section 5.6), 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10
of ASHRAE Standard 90.1.
5.3.2 HVAC Systems
5.3.2.1 Chiller Plant
If the whole building or property simultaneous peak
cooling load is 3520 kW (1000 Tons) or more, a
minimum of three chillers must be provided. If the
whole-building simultaneous peak cooling load is less
than 3520 kW (1000 tons), a minimum of two equally
sized chillers at 67 percent of the peak capacity must
be provided. All units must have adequate valving to
isolate of the offline unit without interruption of
service.
A waterside-economizer cycle must be analyzed
during the design of the chiller plant and incorporated
in the design if it improves the performance.
5.3.2.2 Boiler Plant
The central boiler plant within the building or on the
property must be provided with modular boilers. For
boiler plants greater than 300kW (1,000 MBH), a
minimum of three boilers must be provided. For
buildings less than 300kW (1,000 MBH) peak demand,
two equally sized modular boilers sized at 67 percent
of peak demand must be provided.
5.3.2.3 Cooling Towers
Each chiller must have its own matching cooling
tower or cell, and condenser and chilled water pump.
Multiple cooling towers must have equalizing lines
and the necessary automatic control valves for
individual chiller/cooling tower operation.
5.3.2.4 Distribution Systems
Supply air distribution systems must be fully ducted
to the spaces that are served.
5.3.2.5 Roof-Mounted Equipment
Mechanical equipment, except for cooling towers, air-
cooled chillers, evaporative condensers, and exhaust
fans, is not permitted on the roof of the building.
Access to roof-mounted equipment must be by stairs
or freight elevator; ship’s ladders are not permitted.
5.3.2.6 Special Area HVAC Systems
Develop table to show dedicated systems, energy
requirements, and redundancy requirements,
Special areas such as atriums, auditoriums, entrance
lobbies and vestibules, cafeterias, mail rooms, loading
docks, computer and server rooms, fire pump rooms,
BAS control rooms, and fire command centers must
have dedicated HVAC systems, separate from all
other HVAC in the building, with individual controls to
condition these spaces as required.
Each courtroom must have its own dedicated air-
handling unit, and each courtroom must be provided
with a minimum of three thermostatic zones.
A separate dedicated air-handling system must be
provided for each mail room. Airflow must maintain

negative pressure in the room relative to adjacent
spaces.
5.3.3 HVAC Components
5.3.3.1 Air Handling Units
All AHU must have DDC (BACnet or LonTalk) self-
contained controls that are capable of being
connected to the central BAS. Controller must have a
current-sensing device that transmits information to
the BAS for calculating the energy consumption of the
AHU motor.
All AHUs except OAVS must be provided with factory-
fabricated mixing boxes on the return side of the
AHU.
AHU housing must consist of formed and reinforced,
insulated panels, fabricated to allow removal for
access to internal parts and components. All AHUs
must be double wall construction.
There shall be a maximum 1% leakage on the casing.
5.3.3.2 Outdoor Air Intake Locations
The placement and location of outdoor air intakes
must be in compliance with the ISC criteria.
On buildings more than 12 m (40 ft.) tall, intakes must
be located a minimum of 12 m (40 feet) above grade.
On buildings less than 12 m (40 ft.), the intakes must
be located as high as practical on the roof or on a
wall. Table 6-2 provides requirements for minimum
separation distances between ventilation air intakes
and other building features.
Outdoor air intakes must be ducted directly to the
AHU cabinet; the equipment room must not be used
as an outdoor air intake plenum.
Object Minimum
Distance
m ft
Garage entry, loading dock 7 25
Driveway, street, or public way 3 10
Limited-access highway 7 25
Cooling tower or evaporative condensers 7 25
Exhaust fans and plumbing vents 5 15
Kitchen exhaust air 7 25
Table 2. Air Intake Minimum Separation Distances

5.3.3.3 Temperature and Airflow Control
Psychrometric process charts must be prepared for
each air-handling unit application, characterizing full-
load and part-load operating conditions for all
processes in the system. Air-handling unit/coil
designs must ensure that conditioned space
temperatures and humidity levels are within an
acceptable range, per programmed requirements.
5.3.3.4 Cooling and Heating Coils
Equipment and other obstructions in the air stream
must be located sufficiently downstream of the coil so
that it will not come in contact with the water droplet
carryover. Cooling coils must be selected at or below
2.5 m/s (500 fpm) face velocity. Heating coils must be
selected at or below 3.8 m/s (750 fpm) face velocity.
HVAC coils subject to outside air in hot, humid and
marine climates shall be provided with copper tubes
and copper fins or electro coated copper tubes with
electro coated aluminum fins with a coating thickness
to be maintained between 0.6 –mil and 1.2- mil and
with minimum salt spray resistance of 6,000 hours.
Individual finned-tube cooling coils five or fewer rows
may have a maximum of 12 fins per inch. Individual
finned-tube cooling coils of six rows or more should
not exceed 10 fins per inch.
5.3.3.5 Boilers
Boilers for hydronic heating applications must be
modular units. Boilers must be installed in a
mechanical room with all provisions made for
breaching, flue stack, and combustion air.
5.3.3.6 Hot Water Piping and Pumps
Materials acceptable for piping systems are stainless
steel, black steel, cast iron and copper.
For copper piping, brazed, soldered and press-seal
(test to 2100 kPa (300 psig) fittings are acceptable;
grooved or mechanically formed T-type fittings are
not acceptable.
Partial-load and full-load performance must be shown
on the pump curve.
5.3.3.7 Isolation of Piping at Equipment
Isolation valves, shutoff valves, bypass circuits, drain
valves, flanges, and unions must be provided for
piping at equipment to facilitate equipment repair
and replacement. Equipment requiring isolation
includes boilers, chillers, pumps, coils, terminal units,
and heat exchangers. Valves must also be provided
for zones off vertical risers, including drain valves.
5.3.3.8 Flexible Pipe Connectors
Flexible pipe connectors must be fabricated from
annular close pitched corrugated and braided
stainless steel. All pumps, chillers, cooling towers, and
other rotating equipment must have flexible
connectors. All flexible piping must be sized one size
larger than the piping connected size.
5.3.3.9 Cooling Towers
Galvanized steel is prohibited on water contact
surfaces for cooling towers.
5.3.3.10 Meters, Gauges, and Flow
Measuring Devices
Each piece of mechanical equipment must be
provided with instrumentation in addition to test
ports to verify critical parameters, such as capacity,
pressures, temperatures, and flow rates. Each meter,
gauge, and flow measuring device must be calibrated
before startup and must have provisions for periodic
calibration at its location. All the metering devices
must be capable of transmitting information to the
central BAS for monitoring and control.

5.3.4 Air Distribution
5.3.4.1 Air Delivery Devices
Ceiling diffusers or booted-plenum slots must be
specifically designed for VAV air distribution. Booted
plenum slots must not exceed 1.2 m (4 ft.) in length
unless more than one source of supply air is provided.
The locations of the air delivery devices and the
ranges of their outlet airflow rates must be selected
to ensure that the air diffusion performance index
(ADPI) values remain above 80 percent during all full-
load and part-load conditions, and below the
specified noise level to achieve the background noise
criteria, in accordance with the test procedures
specified in Appendix A of ASHRAE Standard 113.
Adequate space ventilation requires that the selected
diffusers effectively mix the total air in the room with
the supplied conditioned air that contains adequate
ventilation air.
Shall be submitted in Basis of Design:
Application
Controlling Factor – Noise Generation
Main Ducts Branch Ducts
m/s fpm m/s fpm
Private offices
Conference rooms
Libraries
6 1,200 4 800
Theaters
Auditoriums
4 800 2 400
General offices 7.5 1,500 5 1,000
Cafeterias 9 1,800 6 1,200
Table 3. Recommended Air Velocities for Supply, Ducted Return, and Exhaust

5.3.5 Water Treatment
5.3.5.1 Submittal Requirements
A licensed water treatment specialist must design the
water treatment for closed and open hydronic
systems with consideration of the operational and
maintenance needs of all system equipment including
such components as boilers, chillers, cooling towers,
other heat exchangers, pumps, and piping. The design
must address four aspects of water treatment:
biological growth, dissolved solids and scaling,
corrosion protection, and environmental discharge
regulations. Subject to the specific requirements of
the components, the performance of water treatment
for closed and open systems must include:
5.3.5.2 Closed Systems
• The pH must be in the ranges of 8.5–9.5 for
chilled water systems, and 9–10.5 for heating
water systems.
• The alkalinity of the water must be maintained
between 100 and 500 ppm.
• Total dissolved solids must have a maximum
value not to exceed 5 ppm.
5.3.5.3 Open Systems
• The pH of the water must be maintained
between 7.5 and 9.5.
• The alkalinity of the water must be maintained
between 100 and 500 ppm.
• The iron content of the water must have a
maximum value not to exceed 3 ppm.
• Soluble copper must have a maximum value not
to exceed 0.2 ppm.
• Total dissolved solid must have a maximum
value of 5 ppm.
• Total aerobic plate counts shall have maximum
values not to exceed 1,000 organisms/ml, and
an additional limit of 10 CFU/ml Legionella.
The methods used to treat the systems’ makeup
water must have demonstrated prior success in
existing facilities on the same municipal water supply
and must follow the guidelines outlined in ASHRAE
Applications Handbook.
The chemical feed system must have BACnet or
LonTalk self-contained controls.
5.3.5.4 Primary Heating Systems
GSA requires low-temperature hot water heating
systems, with the lowest working pressure suitable
for the system and a maximum temperature
limitation of 93.3°C (200°F).
5.3.5.5 District Steam Heating
When steam is furnished to the building, it must be
converted to hot water with a heat exchanger in the
mechanical room near the entrance into the building.
Steam heating is discouraged inside the building,
other than the conversion of steam to hot water in
the mechanical room.
The designer must investigate the use of district
steam condensate for preheating domestic hot water.
5.3.5.6 Hot Water Heating Systems
If glycol is used for freeze protection, it should be
propylene glycol; use of ethylene glycol is prohibited
5.3.5.7 Piping Systems
Hot water and chilled water air systems must use a
four-pipe main distribution system. Dual temperature
piping systems are not permitted.
5.3.5.8 Piping Insulation
Pipes subject to condensation must be insulated with
non-permeable insulation (of perm rating 0.000), such
as cellular glass or preformed composite insulation

system. Composite insulation system shall provide
0.000 permeability rating.
5.3.5.9 Noise Control in Duct Systems
Acoustic duct lining used in supply air systems shall be
non-fiberglass material impregnated with an
antimicrobial agent and covered by an internal
perforated sheet metal liner.
5.3.5.10 Controls/Building Automation
Systems (BAS)
For new construction, use DDC with an open BACnet
or LonTalk communication protocol in accordance
with ASHRAE Standard 135-2004.
For repair and alteration projects and new additions
to existing projects, the following options are
permitted: 1) installation of DDC with the BACnet or
LonTalk protocol, 2) integrating the existing system
with customized gateways to the BACnet or LonTalk
protocol.
See Sections 5.6 and 5.18 for additional requirements.
5.3.5.11 Coordination of Digital Control
Systems
Digital building control systems are beginning to share
common protocols, compatible equipment, and
uniform standards with other building IT services. GSA
seeks BAS designs that integrate with other IT
systems to minimize costs and improve operations.
Since this technology is in a constant state of
improvement and contract methodologies are not
well established in the design and construction
industry, the A/E and Project Manager must
coordinate the design of controls and monitoring
systems with the PBS CIO (Chief Information Officer)
at the beginning of design. These systems include, but
are not limited to; utility metering, HVAC building
automation systems, lighting controllers, and
renewable energy systems.
The CIO may provide Government Furnished
Equipment and will specify system components to
insure compatibility with the GSA network. Related IP
network design must be reviewed and approved by
the CIO. All network connections will be made
through the GSA network. All server applications must
be able to be hosted in a virtual server environment.
Other GSA IT policies and procedures may also apply.
5.3.6 Plumbing Fixtures
Plumbing fixtures must comply with the International
Plumbing Code and local building codes.
In compliance with EISA 2007 Section 433(a), water
conservation technologies must be applied to the
extent that the technologies are life‐cycle cost‐
effective.
GSA requires the use of plumbing products labeled
under the EPA WaterSense program. WaterSense is a
partnership program sponsored by the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency. Its mission is to
protect the future of our nation’s water supply by
promoting and enhancing the market for water-
efficient products and services.
More information is available at
http://www.epa.gov/watersense/index.html.
Plumbing fixture accessibility clearances, installation,
and accessories must be compliant with The
Architectural Barriers Act Accessibility Standard
(ABAAS).
All plumbing fixtures must be water-
conserving/saving-type fixtures, faucets, and valves.
Low-flow water fixtures must be provided.
5.3.6.1 Water closets (toilets) —
flushometer valve type
Water closets must be either dual-flush or low-flow
type, manually controlled. For single flush, maximum
flush volume when determined in accordance with
ASME A112.19.2–4.8 L (1.28 gal). For dual-flush,

effective flush volume determined in accordance with
ASME A112.19.14 and USEPA WaterSense Tank-Type
High Efficiency Toilet Specification – 4.8 L (1.28 gal).
5.3.6.2 High Efficiency Toilets (HET) Water
Closets — Tank-Type
Tank-type water closets must comply with the
performance criteria of the U.S. EPA WaterSense
Tank-Type High-Efficiency Toilet Specification.
5.3.6.3 High Efficiency Urinals (HEU)
Urinals must be low-flow, flush-type fixtures.
Maximum flush volume when determined in
accordance with ASME A112.19.2 – 0.5 L (0.125 gal).
5.3.6.4 Public Lavatory Faucets
Use metered-type faucets for lavatories. Maximum
water use — 1.0 L 0 (.25 gal) per metering cycle when
tested in accordance with ASME A112.18.1/CSA
B125.1.
5.3.6.5 Emergency Fixtures
Eyewash (0.025 L/s [0.4 gpm] per fountain), face wash
(0.2 L/s [3 gpm] each), or shower (1.3 L/s [20 gpm]
each) must be tempered immediately at the fixture or
group of fixtures within 7.6 m (25 ft) to deliver tepid
water between 29°C (85°F) and 37.8°C (100°F), at
0.207 megapascal (30 psi), within 10 seconds, for a
minimum period of 15 minutes, and must account for
temperature drop across the valve (generally 7°C or
20°F) at flow.
5.3.6.6 Solar Water Heating
In compliance with EISA 2007, if lifecycle cost-
effective, as compared to other reasonably available
technologies, not less than 30 percent of the hot
water demand for each new Federal building or
Federal building undergoing a major renovation must
be met through the installation and use of solar hot
water heaters.
5.3.7 Operability and Maintainability
5.3.7.1 Accessible for Maintenance
Install equipment so that it can be safely and easily
maintained and inspected. Comply with requirements
for mechanical room sizes and manufacturer’s
recommended clearances around installed
equipment.
Do not install equipment that requires maintenance
below a raised access floor.
5.3.7.2 Simple/Understandable to Operate
The sequence of operation for the control systems
must be clearly described and comprehensively
documented. The HVAC system design should
minimize the need for overly complex control
systems.
5.3.7.3 Operations
Design the HVAC system so that equipment failures
and normal maintenance have minimal impact on the
tenants. Failure of one piece of equipment should not
shut down large portions of the building. Install piping
and valves so that equipment can be easily isolated
for repair and so that different combinations of
equipment can be used during replacement and
overhaul. Equipment components, spare parts, and
materials should be readily available and the
equipment should be repairable by crafts people
available in the local area. This is especially important
in the remote locations of some Land Ports.
5.3.7.4 Robust and Reliable: Extended Life
Expectancy
Public buildings have a longer life expectancy than
most commercial office buildings. Forty percent of
GSA’s occupied inventory is over 50 years old. Many
buildings are over 100 years old and are expected to
continue in service for decades to come. HVAC
systems are expected to have extended service lives.

They will be modified many times over the life of the
building and operated by many different maintenance
firms and occupied by many different tenants.
Selection of robust, reliable, energy efficient
equipment is important. Systems that can be reliably
operated at near design conditions over the long term
are needed.
5.3.7.5 Alterations in Existing Buildings and
Historic Structures
The following steps must be followed for HVAC work
in historic buildings:
• Design HVAC systems to avoid affecting other
systems and historic finishes, elements, and
spaces.
• Place exterior equipment where it is not visible.
Recess equipment from the edge of the roof to
minimize visibility of the equipment from grade.
Alternatively, explore creating a vault for easier
access to large mechanical equipment. If
equipment cannot be concealed, specify
equipment housings in a color that will blend
with the historic face. As a last resort, enclose
equipment in screening designed to blend
visually with the facade.
• Locate equipment with particular care for
weight and vibration on older building materials.
These materials cannot accept the same stress
as when the equipment is used in newer
construction.
• If new ceilings are to be installed, ensure that
they do not block any light from the top of
existing windows or alter the appearance of the
building from the outdoors. Original plaster
ceilings in significant spaces, such as lobbies and
corridors, must be retained to the extent
possible and modified only as necessary to
accommodate horizontal distribution. Use
soffits and false beams where necessary to
minimize the alteration of overall ceiling
heights.
• In buildings containing ornamental or
inaccessible ceilings, piping and ductwork must
be routed in furred wall space or exposed in the
occupiable building area. Exposed ducts must
also be considered in historic industrial buildings
with open plan, tall ceiling, and high window
spaces suited to flexible grid/flexible density
treatments.
• If new vertical air distribution risers are
required, they should be located adjacent to
existing shafts.
• Select system types, components, and
placement to minimize the alteration of
significant spaces. In previously altered spaces,
design systems to allow historic surfaces, ceiling
heights, and configurations to be restored.
Reuse of HVAC system elements is permitted
only with written documentation obtained from
GSA Property Management by the A/E.
• Retain decorative elements of historic systems
where possible. Ornamental grilles and radiators
and other decorative elements must be retained
in place.
• Retain and enhance the performance of the
original type of system where a new one cannot
be totally concealed or would adversely affect
historic spaces or features. For example, adapt
existing radiators with modern heating and
cooling units, rather than adding another type
of system that would require the addition of
new ceilings or other non-original elements.
• To the greatest extent possible, ensure that
space is available to maintain and replace
equipment without damaging significant
features and select components that can be
installed without dismantling window or door
openings.
• Select temperature and humidity conditions
that do not cause deterioration of building
materials.

Refer to HVAC Upgrades in Historic Buildings

5.4 Whole Building Energy Performance Requirements
Design Construction
Measurement
& Verification
Plans & Specs
Calculations
& Analysis
Whole Building Energy Performance
Reference
ASHRAE 90.1-2007 ASHRAE 90.1-2007 ASHRAE 90.1-2007
ASHRAE 90.1-2007
U.S. Department of
Energy, Zero Energy
Buildings: A Critical Look
at the Definition
(Washington, DC: GPO,
2006), 6-7. Definition of
Net Zero Site Energy.
Whole Building
Energy Utilization
Whole-Building
Carbon Emissions
Whole-Building
Metering
Reduce fossil fuel-
generated energy
consumption by 55%
when compared to a
similar building in most
recent CBECS Database
Reduce fossil fuel-
generated energy
consumption by 65%
when compared to a
similar building in most
recent CBECS Database
Reduce fossil fuel-
generated energy
consumption by 80% when
compared to a similar
building in most recent
CBECS Database
Reduce fossil fuel-
generated energy
consumption by 100%
30% reduction in energy
usage compared to an
ASHRAE Standard 90.1-
2007 baseline building
as analyzed using the
informative Appendix G
2007 baseline building as
analyzed using the
2007 baseline building as
analyzed using the
The expected annual EUI
when the building is
designed in compliance
with a goal to achieve
zero-net-energy (ZNE)
All major utilities
Baseline, plus
All major building
systems
Tier 1 High Performance,
plus
Building subsystems
Tier 2 High Performance,
plus
Tenant Metering
Baseline thru
Tier 3 High
Performance:
No
Baseline thru
Tier 3 High
Performance:
No
Baseline thru
Tier 3 High
Performance:
No
Baseline thru
Tier 3 High
Performance:
No
Baseline thru
Tier 3 High
Performance:
No
Baseline thru
Tier 3 High
Performance:
No
Describe
proposed
building
metering and
subsystem
Calibrate all
meters and
provide 2
weeks of 15
minute trend
h f ll
Provide 90.1-
2007
Appendix G
energy model
demonstratin
g whole
building
energy
performance.
Provide written
narrative
showing how
energy model
meets energy
reduction target.
Cx agent to
confirm energy
model material
and equipment
performance
assumptions
on design
reviews and
submittal
reviews.
Calibrate
building
energy model
to first year
building
historical data
and compare
energy
performance to
actual
measured
energy
performance.
Provide
calculation
showing fossil-
fuel based
energy
reduction
compared to a
similar
building in FY
2003.
Provide written
narrative
showing how
building meets
carbon
reduction target.
Calculate fossil-
fuel based
energy used in
the first year of
operation from
utility bills as
kBtu/ft2-yr.
EISA 2007 Section 433,
Executive Order 13423,
Guiding Principles for
Sustainable New
Construction and Major
Renovations
Verification
Attribute Baseline



Sustainable New
Renovations
Sustainable New
Renovations
Sustainable New
Renovations

5.5 Whole Building Performance Attributes
5.5.1 Energy Performance
The attribute of energy performance considers the
whole building synergistically and measured with
respect to both energy utilization (consumption) and
carbon emissions (total or source) on an annual basis.
Federal law requires minimum levels of performance
for Federal facilities and total portfolio performance
for Federal agencies. The related attribute of energy
cost is a driving requirement in terms of systems
selection, particularly thermal storage and demand
peak shaving/load offset.
Energy cost, however, is not a direct report for P100
Performance, as it is possible to decrease energy
consumption without a corresponding decrease in the
annual cost of energy. It is possible to decrease the
annual energy cost while experiencing an increase in
annual energy consumption through technologies
such as thermal storage. Because this would be
counter to the goals of the Federal mandates, it is for
this reason that only energy consumption and carbon
emissions are to be measured here.

CHAPTER 6: ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING
CHAPTER 6 • ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING
6.1 Lighting Performance Requirements
Design Construction
Measurement
& Verification
Plans &
Specs
Calculations &
Analysis
Lighting Quality - Interior Electric
Luminance Balance None
3 to 1 (task to immediate
surround); 40 to 1 (non
work areas)
work areas)
work areas)
Yes Yes
Provide photometric
calculations.
Describe luminance balance
requirements.
Using photometer measure footcandle levels at task
and at immediate surroundings at 3' above floor level
. Record illumination levels in footcandles and verify
conformance to attribute.
Spectral Distribution
CCT <3500K <3500K <3500K Tunable Yes Yes
Document color temperature
requirements.
Use luminance meters with built in color sensors to
confirm CCT and CRI and verify conformance with
attribute.
CRI >80 >85 >90 >95 Yes
Document color rendering
index requirements.
confirm CCT and CRI and verify conformance with
attribute.
Lighting Layers
Ambient Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Describe how ambient lighting
requirement is met.
Verify provision of ambient lighting layer after
construction
Personalized Minimal Task Personal Personal Yes Yes Describe task lighting system.
Verify provision of personal lighting layer after
construction.
Visual Comfort (Glare) Minimal Direct/Indirect Direct/Indirect Direct/Indirect Yes Yes
Describe how the design will
minimize glare.
Verify provision of indirect/direct lighting fixture as
part of submittal review during construction.
User Acceptance >60% >70% >80% >90%
Describe how this POE Survey
will be implemented.
Survey users after installation to determine the
percentage of users that are satisfied with lighting
quality and quantify the percentage of satisfied
users.
Lighting Quality - Interior Daylight
Luminance Balance View Preserving Blinds View Preserving Blinds View Preserving Blinds View Preserving Blinds Yes Yes
Describe blind system to
preserve luminance balance.
Verify provision of the blinds during design submittal.
Lighting Layers None Yes Yes Yes
Describe lighting layers
utilized in design.
Confirm provision of daylighting during submittal
review
Visual Comfort (Glare) View Preserving Blinds View Preserving Blinds View Preserving Blinds View Preserving Blinds Yes Yes
Describe blind system to
preserve luminance balance.
Verify provision of the blinds during design submittal.
User Acceptance >60% >70% >80% >90% Yes
Survey users after installation/occupancy to
determine the percentage of users that are satisfied
with lighting quality and quantify the percentage of
satisfied users.
Views (11 degree minimum) Minimal 50% 80% 100% Yes Yes
Document provision of views
in basis of design
Measure angle of views from each user to confirm
direct views to daylight/outside.
Maximize daylight access with toplighting, sidelighting, interior glazing, and low
partitions on the perimeter spaces.
Verification
Attribute Baseline
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•
GSA P-100 Version 1.0, issued March 2014
Page 129

Design Construction
Measurement
& Verification
Plans &
Specs
Calculations &
Analysis
Lighting Quality - Exterior
Spectral Distribution
CCT <4200K <4200K <4200K Tunable Yes Yes
Describe color temperature
requirement.
confirm CCT and verify conformance with attribute.
CRI >80 >80 >90 >90 Yes
Describe color rendering index
requirement.
confirm CRI and verify conformance with attribute.
Environmental <3500K <3500K <3500K Tunable Yes Yes
Describe color temperature
requirements.
confirm CCT and verify conformance with attribute.
Visual Comfort (Glare)
Meet G ratings per
lighting zone of site
Meet G ratings per lighting
zone of site (not to exceed
G2)
Meet G ratings per
lighting zone of site (not
to exceed G1)
Meet G ratings per
lighting zone of site (not
to exceed G1)
Yes Yes
Describe G rating
requirements.
Verify luminaire G ratings during submittal review.
User Acceptance >60% >70% >80% >90% Yes
Survey users after installation/occupancy to
determine the percentage of users that are satisfied
with lighting quality and quantify the percentage of
satisfied users.
Light Pollution / Light Trespass
Meet BUG ratings per
lighting zone of site
Meet BUG ratings per LZ2 Meet BUG ratings per LZ1 Meet BUG ratings per LZ1 Yes
Describe BUG ratings for
fixtures.
Verify luminaire BUG ratings during submittal review.
Lighting Quantity - Interior Electric
Illuminance
Horizontal
Meets IES 10th
Handbook
Meets IES 10th Handbook Meets IES 10th Handbook Meets IES 10th Handbook
Provide photometric
calculations.
Describe horizontal
illuminance requirements.
Measure illuminance levels at 3' A.F.F. using a
footcandle meter after installation/commissioning to
verify compliance with IES.
Vertical
Meets IES 10th
Handbook
Meets IES 10th Handbook
adjustable
adjustable
Provide photometric
calculations.
Describe vertical illuminance
requirements.
Measure illuminance levels on vertical
surfaces/walls using a footcandle meter after
installation/commissioning to verify compliance with
IES.
Availability
Surface Reflectance
(Ceiling/Wall/Floor)
>80/50/20 >90/60/20 >90/70/30 >90/70/30 Yes Yes
Define accepted surface
reflectance of ceiling/wall and
floor.
Measure surface reflectance levels using a
reflectance meter after installation/commissioning to
verify compliance.
Operational Efficiency
Ambient None 80% 70% 60% Yes Yes
Provide
calculations.
Define percentage of ambient
lighting.
Measure provision of ambient lighting levels as a
percentage of overall lighting using a footcandle
meter after installation/commissioning to verify
compliance.
Personalized None 20% 30% 40% Yes Yes
Provide
calculations.
Define percentage of
personalized lighting.
Verify conformance by calculating the installed
percentage of personalized lighting to overall
lighting.
Verification
Attribute Baseline
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Page 130

Lighting Performance
Design Construction
Measurement
& Verification
Plans &
Specs
Calculations &
Analysis
Lighting Quantity - Interior Daylight
Surface Reflectance
(Ceiling/Wall/Floor)
>80/50/20 >90/60/20 >90/70/30 >90/70/30 Yes Yes
Define accepted surface
reflectance of ceiling/wall and
floor.
Measure surface reflectance levels using a
reflectance meter after installation/commissioning to
verify compliance.
Daylight Autonomy (10-500
fc)
Minimal >50% >80% >100% Yes Yes
Describe provision of
daylighting autonomy as a
percentage.
Provide daylight model as part of submittals to verify
compliance.
Lighting Quantity - Exterior
Illuminance
Meets IES 10th HB
Meets IES 10th
Handbook
Meets IES 10th Handbook Meets IES 10th Handbook Meets IES 10th Handbook Yes Yes
Provide photometric
calculations.
Define acceptable exterior
illuminance levels in
conformance with IES 10th HB.
Measure horizontal illuminance levels at floor level
using a footcandle meter after
installation/commissioning to verify compliance with
IES.
Vertical
Meets IES 10th
Handbook
(adjustable)
(adjustable)
Yes Yes
Provide photometric
calculations.
Define acceptable illuminance
levels in conformance with IES
10th HB.
Measure illuminance levels using a footcandle meter
after installation/commissioning on vertical
walls/facades to verify compliance with IES.
Lighting Energy Use - Interior Electric
System Efficiency
Exceeds ASHRAE 90.1-
2007 by 30%
2007 by 40%
2007 by 50%
(performance)
2007 by 70%
(performance)
Yes Yes Yes
Provide ASHRAE 90.1-2007
Appendix G energy model
demonstrating lighting annual
energy does not exceed
project target.
Measure interior lighting energy after
installation/commissioning and confirm percentage
exceeding ASHRAE requirements by documenting the
ratio of actual interior lighting power density to
ASHRAE allowed lighting power density and
calculate/document actual percentage.
Verification
Attribute Baseline



Page 131

Design Construction
Measurement
& Verification
Plans &
Specs
Calculations &
Analysis
Lighting Energy Use - Interior Electric
Controls
2007 by 30%
Automatic OC + personal
DALI Equivalent +
personal
DALI Equivalent +
personal
Yes Yes
Describe lighting control
system.
Verify control system operation/commission system
after installation to verify compliance.
Real Time Energy Use Minimal Modeling Modeling + Monitoring
Modeling, Monitoring,
Feedback
Yes Yes
Describe real time energy use
scheme proposed in the
design.
Document interior lighting energy after
installation/commissioning and confirm/document
actual interior lighting energy consumed to modeled
energy.
Lighting Energy Use - Exterior
Lighting Power Density (w/sf)
Exceeds 90.1-2007 by
30%
40%
50% (performance)
70% (performance)
Yes
Provide
calculations.
Provide requirement for
describing exterior lighting
energy separately and showing
exceeding ASHRAE
requirements.
Measure exterior lighting energy after
installation/commissioning and confirm percentage
exceeding ASHRAE requirements by documenting the
ratio of actual exterior lighting power density to
ASHRAE allowed lighting power density and
calculate/document actual percentage.
Controls
Nighttime setback
controls added
(Not less than 50%
maximum output)
Nighttime setback controls
added
(Not less than 50%
maximum output)
Network Controls
(Not less than 50%
maximum output)
Network Controls
(Not less than 50%
maximum output)
Yes Yes
Describe lighting control
system.
Verify control system operation/commission system
after installation to confirm nighttime set back
controls at less than 50%.
Real Time Energy Use Minimal Modeling Modeling + Monitoring
Modeling, Monitoring,
Feedback
Yes Yes
Describe real time energy use
scheme proposed in the
design.
Document exterior lighting energy after
installation/commissioning and confirm/document
actual exterior lighting energy consumed to modeled
energy.
Power Quality
Power Factor >0.85 >0.90 >0.90 >0.95 Yes
Describe power factor
accepted values in basis of
design.
Use power meter to confirm ratio of total active to
reactive power to confirm the power factor of the
system. Measure input power on light fixtures
circuits to confirm the parameter and verify
compliance.
Total Harmonic Distortion <20% <15% <10% <5% Yes Yes
Describe acceptable
percentages of total harmonic
distortion in ballasts.
Use power meter to confirm total harmonic
distortion. Measure input power quality on lighting
circuits to confirm the parameter after installation to
verify compliance.
Wiring
Run separate neutral for
each circuit
each circuit
each circuit
each circuit
Yes
Indicate provision of a
separate neutral for each
lighting circuit in basis of
design.
Provide in Lighting specifications and confirm by
inspecting during installation to verify compliance.
Verification
Attribute Baseline
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
Page 132

Lighting Performance
Design Construction
Measurement
& Verification
Plans &
Specs
Calculations &
Analysis
Maintenance
Equipment Life 1 Yr Warranty 5 Yr Warranty Performance Based Service Provider Yes
Describe warranty for each
equipment.
Verify through light fixture submittals and warranty
certificates.
Accessibility Yes Yes Yes
Provide requirement for easy
access to luminaires and their
components.
Verify installation of fixtures heights and locations in
shop drawing submittal and actual heights and
clearances after installation.
Diagnostics Minimal Minimal Full Ability Full Ability + Predictive Yes Yes
Describe the ability to
diagnose lighting systems.
Verify through shop drawing submittal and product
Service Life
Replacement 10 Years 15 Years 20 Years 20 Years Yes
Describe serviceable life of
lighting system.
certificates.
Retrofit 2 Years 5 Years 10 Years 10 Years Yes
Describe service life
requirement for retrofit of
system.
certificates.
Coordinate design with facilities maintenance to ensure all luminaires can be reached with lifts, ladders,
etc.
Verification
Attribute Baseline

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6.2 Lighting Performance Attributes
The following attributes make up a lighting system for
any space. The descriptions below do not isolate
electric lighting from daylighting. Instead, the
attributes apply to both sources of light and
continually interact throughout the day to provide
adequate and appropriate visibility.
6.2.1 Lighting Quality
The quality of a visual environment considers a wide
range of variables including luminance balance, color
appearance, visibility of multiple visual tasks (often
accomplished by a layered lighting system), visual
comfort, daylight and views, control and finally, user
acceptance.
Luminance balance refers to the brightness of
surfaces (vertical and horizontal) within the view of
an occupant. When excessive brightness and darkness
are combined in the same view, the contrast leads to
visual discomfort and even headaches as the eyes
continually adjust between the extremes. Balancing
these luminance values means maintaining good
uniformity between all the surfaces that make up a
field of view. Lighting the vertical wall surfaces is one
of the best ways to improve luminance balance. Since
luminance, especially for interior areas, is difficult to
calculate, the IES 10
th
Edition Handbook recommends
illuminance and uniformity values for vertical surfaces
such as walls. If surfaces have very low reflectance
values such as dark wooden walls, these illuminance
values may need to be increased.
Color appearance is made up of the correlated color
temperature (CCT - the color of the light source) the
color rendering index (CRI - how well the light
portrays the color of objects) as well as the individual
wavelengths that make up the light (the Spectral
Power Distribution [SPD]).The R9 value refers to a
specific rating of the red component of the light color.
Office and industrial building occupants generally
prefer warm to neutral color temperatures in the
3000-4100K range. Cooler colors than this can
produce slightly higher visual acuity in some
applications but may also create a sense of starkness
and institutionalism.
Layering the lighting system with ambient, task, and
accent light creates variety in spaces and makes it
easier to maintain the luminance balance. An ambient
layer provides a low level of diffuse lighting that can
help illuminate objects and people’s faces, which is
helpful for general wayfinding and for face-to-face
communication, a sense of brightness and illuminates
the architectural surfaces, such as the walls and
ceiling. Task lighting provides the actual quantity of
light necessary to perform a job (such as reading
paperwork or filing) and draws the eye to the work
surface. Accent lighting adds emphasis and visual
variety in a space. Luminance balance means keeping
enough brightness variety in the space to make it
interesting and to highlight work areas, without
making the lighting appear spotty or full of shadows.
Visual comfort relates mostly to glare from any light
source – a luminaire, window, skylight, etc.
Unfortunately, glare tolerance is often subjective and
varies between individuals. Glare is controlled by
selecting luminaires that direct their light toward the
ceiling, walls, or work areas, but not into the
employee’s eyes. Louvers, shields, fins, overhangs,
and blinds all reduce glare from windows and
skylights; louvers, lenses, baffles, and the optics of the
luminaire control glare from electric sources.
Closely related to visual comfort, views to the
outdoors are an essential part of visual comfort –
providing a link to activity, changes in time and
weather, more organic forms, and other variety for
the eyes. However, care must be taken to eliminate
unwanted glare and excessive brightness that can
occur at some times of day at some times during the
year. Glare from windows must be minimized and
balanced with the other views of the space.
Page 134

Lighting control is essential for the users. View-
preserving blinds or shades minimize direct sun and
glare from windows or skylights. Personal controls
give the individual user the ability to adjust task
lighting and balance brightness in their own
workstation. Automatic controls for daylight dimming
and occupancy save energy.
The true test of a quality lighting system is customer
feedback. Post occupancy evaluation of the
daylighting, views, electric lighting, and controls will
be best evaluator of the lighting quality success.
All of these components result in some level of user
acceptance of the lighting system.
• Baseline: Does not have any requirements for
vertical surface illuminance or color appearance,
allows for CCT up to 5000K and minimum CRI of
70. The baseline also has no minimal
requirements for task lighting, glare control, and
access to views.
• Tier 1 High Performance (): This level requires
maximum illuminance uniformity ratios of 40:1,
CCT of no more than 4100K, and CRI of at least
80. It also requires task lighting, direct/indirect
ambient lighting, view-preserving blinds, and
views for at least 50% of regularly occupied
areas.
• Tier 2 High Performance (): Raises
uniformity ratios to 20:1 and CRI to 80 and R9 of
at least 50. For outdoor lighting, that could have
a negative effect on flora and fauna, CCT cannot
exceed 4100K. Occupants should have personal
control over their entire work area or task
lighting and access to views is increased to 80%
of regularly occupied area.
performance level continues Tier 2 High
Performance () but allows for tunable CCT.
Additionally, at this level, color rendering may
be measured with a new color quality scale. Also
at this level, views are provided for 90% of
regularly occupied spaces.
6.2.2 Lighting Quantity
The quantity of light is easier to measure and verify
than the many components of lighting quality.
Illuminance measures the quantity of light falling on a
surface (either vertical or horizontal). Recommended
values of illuminance are recommended by the
Illuminating Engineering Society (IES) calculated, and
measured.
Availability refers to the how well the daylight is
provided to the space. With good building
orientation and glare control, quality daylight can be
provided throughout the space. High reflectance
surfaces and high ceilings also help to distribute
daylight throughout the space. Low partitions and
interior glazing allow for this daylight delivery deeper
into the building, as well as providing views to the
outdoors for more occupants. Operational efficiency
relates to the availability and the quality aspect of
layered lighting. Because the light level recommended
for a particular task does not need to be provided
throughout an entire space, a specific portion of the
work area can be illuminated with task lighting. As
more and more of the lighting requirements are met
with task lighting (close to the task) the ambient layer
can be lowered as long as luminance balance is
maintained. This shifting between lighting layers
results in a net improvement in system efficiency.
• Baseline: Meets the IES 10
th
Edition Handbook
recommendations for horizontal illuminance
and meets minimum average base surface
reflectance recommendations of 80% for
ceilings, 50% for walls, and 20% for floors.
• Tier 1 High Performance (): Meets the IES 10
th
Edition Handbook recommendations for both
horizontal and vertical illuminance. Surface
reflectances are increased to 90%/60%/20%.
Daylight provides adequate lighting for 50% of
the daytime occupancy and the electric lighting
Page 135

system is made up of 80% ambient and 20% task
(+/- 10%).
• Tier 2 High Performance (): This level
maintains Tier 1 High Performance () but also
allows for adjustable illuminance levels and
recommends 90%/70%/25% minimum base
surface reflectance. Additionally, daylight now
provides for 80% of the daytime requirements
and layers are divided 70% ambient and 30%
task (+/- 10%).
• Tier 3 High Performance (): This level
maintains Tier 2 High Performance (), but
increases daylight autonomy to 100%, and splits
electric light between 60% ambient and 40%
task(+/- 10%). Daylight autonomy refers to the
percentage of annual daytime hours that
daylight alone provides the required illuminance
levels in regularly occupied spaces.
6.2.3 Energy Use
The lighting power density (LPD) of a space reflects
the actual lighting power use in a space if the entire
lighting system is energized at one time. However,
with the use of controls, the actual energy use is
significantly lower than what the LPD might suggest.
Controls can provide a level of user satisfaction
because the user has more adjustability of his or her
own working environment, and controls also save
energy. They also eliminate energy use when daylight
provides adequate or a partial level of visibility, when
a space is unoccupied, and when less light is desired.
An additional element of lighting control shows the
building manager the real time energy use of the
different building systems including lighting. While
not a control that reduces energy use, it can identify
potential maintenance and operation issues or
potential areas for additional energy savings.
Daylighting glare control is also necessary for each
occupant near windows or skylights. Either manual or
automatic shade controls helps the occupant adjust
the personal luminance balance when glazing
luminance is too high.
• Baseline: Exceeds ASHRAE 90.1 2007 by 30% for
overall system efficacy and control
requirements. It also meets LPD values of 0.60
watts/SF for ambient and 0.1 watts/SF for task
lighting.
• Tier 1 High Performance (): This level exceeds
ASHRAE by 40% and lowers the LPD allowances
to 0.48 ambient and 0.12 task. Additionally,
daylight, occupancy, and personal controls are
required in all occupied spaces and energy
modeling is required as a step toward real-time
energy monitoring.
• Tier 2 High Performance (): Exceeds ASHRAE
by 50% with LPD allowances of 0.35 and 0.15
ambient and task. Addressable lighting control
systems are required at this level in additional to
personal control. These systems also allow for
energy monitoring.
• Tier 3 High Performance (): Exceeds
ASHRAE by 60% with LPD allowances of 0.18 and
0.12 ambient and task. At this level, tunable CCT
and real time energy monitoring and feedback
features are added to the addressable control
system.
6.2.4 Power Quality
Lighting, and especially dimmable lighting, can have a
negative effect on the overall power quality of a
building. Dimming of fluorescent and LED sources can
lower the power factor and introduce harmonic
distortion to the electrical system. In many cases,
electrical components must be added at the building
service entrance.
Additionally, separate neutrals must be run for
circuits that contain LED dimming. Otherwise,
flickering can occur over the entire circuit, even when
part of the circuit is not being dimmed.
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• Baseline: All circuits must run separate neutrals.
The overall electrical system must have a power
factor (PF) of at least 0.90 and have a Total
Harmonic Distortion (THD) less than 20%.
• Tier 1 High Performance (): Continues all of
the Baseline criteria but lowers the THD limit to
15%.
• Tier 2 High Performance (): Continues all of
the Baseline criteria but lowers THD to 10%.
• Tier 3 High Performance (): This level
maintains Tier 2 High Performance () but
lowers THD to 5%.
6.2.5 Maintenance
Maintenance of a lighting system includes starting out
with long life light sources and high quality luminaires
or ballast and drivers that will not fail before the light
sources. Fluorescent sources can last between 20,000
and 60,000 hours. LED sources now are rated for at
least 50,000 hours. Induction lighting is rated for
100,000 hours. Some solid state lighting such as LEDs
may not burn out, but slowly dim over the course of
their life. In these instances, life is based on an L70 or
when the light source is producing only 70% of its
initial light output.
In addition to the life of the lighting equipment,
diagnostic controls and models can pinpoint failed
components such as ballasts or drivers and predict
the end-of-life periods, provide real time energy use,
and recommend replacement times.
• Baseline: 1 year warranty on all lighting
equipment.
• Tier 1 High Performance (): 5 year warranty on
all lighting equipment.
• Tier 2 High Performance (): At this level, a
performance based life is required rather than a
warranty. This difference requires the lighting
equipment to meet a certain level of
performance for a given amount of time – not
just replace a component failure. Additionally,
diagnostics must be part of the lighting control
system to assist in trouble shooting and
maintenance activities.
• Tier 3 High Performance (): At this point,
“visibility” becomes the responsibility of a
service provider. This entity agrees to meet the
high performance criteria of the HP level for a
set rate. Then capital, energy, maintenance and
any other associated costs are paid by the
provider. The incentive of lower operating costs
keeps the system at its most cost effective and
efficient. Also as part of this system the controls
are upgraded to include some level of predictive
ability as well as diagnostic.
6.2.6 Service Life
The serviceable life of the lighting system may not be
as long as the actual life of all of its individual
components. Space uses change. Retrofits may make
sense for improved energy savings. Renovations may
require changes in lighting locations. The replacement
of luminaires and sources might make sense in some
cases. Ideally, individual components could be easily
replaced rather than entire luminaires. Sources could
be relocated or simply replaced with more efficient
versions with the same form factor. As solid state
lighting such as LEDs and OLEDs take on a wider and
wider range of applications and shapes while still
rapidly increasing in efficiency, service life must be
carefully considered.
• Baseline: Lighting equipment should be
expected to be replaced within 5 years. Light
source or driver technology may be upgraded
after 2 years.
• Tier 1 High Performance (): At this level,
improved lighting equipment should not need
replacement within 10 years. If technological
advances such as LED efficacy make a retrofit
Page 137

desirable, the equipment should accommodate
such upgrades for the first 5 years.
• Tier 2 High Performance (): Replacement
and retrofit levels increase to 20 years and 10
years respectively.
• Tier 3 High Performance (): At this level,
the service provider replaces and retrofits the
lighting equipment on a time frame based on
cost effectiveness with appropriate
technologies.
Page 138

6.3 Lighting Prescriptive Requirements
6.3.1 Indoor Lighting and Daylighting
Criteria
6.3.1.1 Qualifications of the Lighting
Practitioner
Lighting design for new construction, lighting
renovations and energy retrofits must be performed
or supervised by a lighting practitioner with a
minimum of 10 years full time experience in lighting
design with at least two of the three following
qualifications of LC, IES member, or IALD member,
and that devotes the majority of his/her professional
time to the design of architectural lighting.
6.3.1.2 Artwork
Museum standards for lighting works of art must
follow the IES 10
th
Edition Handbook; see Chapter 4.1,
Installation Standards, in Fine Arts Collection Policies
and Procedures 2007 for additional information.
6.3.1.3 Exterior Lighting Design Criteria
Exterior lighting must meet the IES 10
th
Edition
Handbook recommendations and comply with the
IDA/IES Model Lighting Ordinance (MLO) for lumen
density limits and backlight, up-light, and glare (BUG)
ratings or light pollution and light trespass
performance method.
Exterior luminaries and control systems must comply
with all local zoning laws, and lighting levels for
exterior spaces shall not exceed the IES 10th Edition
Lighting Handbook recommendations.
Luminaires with instant strike light sources at all
entrances and exits must be connected to the
emergency lighting system.
6.3.1.4 Site Lighting
Illumination of exterior exit discharges must be in
accordance with the requirements in NFPA 101.
The flagpole must be illuminated and controlled.
6.3.1.5 Open Parking Lots and Roadway
Lighting
Parking lots and roadway lighting must be designed
per RP-8 current version in addition to the IES and
IDA/IES MLO requirements.
6.3.1.6 Parking Structures
Parking structure lighting must be designed per the
IES and dimmed to at least 50% during periods of low
activity and turned off when daylight is plentiful.
Luminaires must meet the following standards:
• Efficacy of a minimum of 63 lumen per watt
(LPW)
• Wet-location rated
• Withstand mechanical vibration
• Life of minimum 25,000 operating hours for
LED fixtures before reaching the L70 lumen
output degradation with no catastrophic
failures per IES standard LM-21-11
• Lumen depreciation per IES standard LM-
79-08
• Luminaire classification per IES TM-15-11
6.3.1.7 Illumination of Means of Egress
Illumination of means of egress shall be provided in
accordance with the requirements in NFPA 101. In
addition, the use of automatic, motion sensor-type
lighting switches shall be permitted within the means
of egress, provided that the lighting control devices
comply with the requirements in NFPA 101.
Page 139

6.3.1.8 Exit Stair Illumination and
Photoluminescent Materials
Exit enclosures where photoluminescent materials
are installed must comply with the requirements in
NFPA 101
6.3.1.9 Emergency Lighting Criteria
Power loss resulting from utility system interruptions,
building electrical distribution system failure, or the
accidental opening of switches or circuit breakers
dictates the requirement for emergency lighting.
6.3.1.10 Luminaires
Emergency electric lighting systems may consist of
separate luminaries and wiring with an independent
power source, e.g., a diesel generator, or separate
luminaries or unit devices supplied by the normal
power supply and a secondary source that comes on
automatically when the normal power supply fails.
6.3.1.11 Emergency Lighting
Emergency lighting for means of egress must be
provided in accordance with the requirements in
NFPA 101. Emergency lighting outside the building
must also provide illumination to either a public way
or a safe distance away from the building, whichever
is closest to the building being evacuated.
6.3.1.12 Performance of Emergency Lighting
System
The performance of the emergency lighting system
must be in accordance with the requirements in NFPA
101
6.3.2 Load Criteria
6.3.2.1 Lighting Loads
The lighting and daylighting systems must be sensitive
to the architectural design, provide adequate quality
and quantity of illumination for interior and exterior
lighting, comply with the design criteria, minimize
maintenance requirements, and use 30 percent less
electrical energy (kwh) than required for compliance
with Section 9.6 (Alternative Compliance Path: Space-
by-Space Method) of ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2007.
General lighting must comply with the following
luminaire, lamp, light source ballast and driver
requirements.
6.3.2.2 Luminaires
All luminaires must be appropriately selected based
upon the expected application. Luminaires must have
a minimum luminaire efficiency of 65 percent.
Where parabolic luminaires are used, louvers must be
semi-specular or diffuse finishes; specular finishes
must not be used.
LED lamps must not be retrofitted into existing
luminaires.
Minimize lamps, light sources ballasts and driver
types.
6.3.2.3 Lamps
Effort must be made to minimize the number of lamp
types within a facility to simplify lamp maintenance.
In retrofit scenarios, all fluorescent lamps must be
recycled by firms that recover the mercury that is
contained within the lamps. All PCB-containing
ballasts must be disposed of through specialized
disposal firms that destroy the PCBs.
Page 140

6.3.2.4 Ballasts and Drivers
Ballasts for fluorescent lamps must be “NEMA
Premium” when applicable. Ballasts must be
compatible with control system.
Electronic ballasts and drivers must be used wherever
possible and have a sound rating of “A.” When EM
ballasts must be used in special applications, EM
ballasts must have a sound rating of “A” for 430MA
(Standard Output) lamps, or “B” for 800 MA lamps,
and “C” for 1,500 MA lamps. Special consideration
must be given to the ballast types where an electronic
clock system is also specified to confirm compatibility
of application.
6.3.2.5 Lighting Controls
Control systems must be compatible with lamps, light
sources, ballasts and lamps.
Lighting controls must use individual luminaire
control, such as DALI equivalent. Ambient lighting
must be adjusted per daylight availability,
occupant/vacancy, and other BAS signals, such as
demand response. Task and personalized ambient
lighting must be adjusted per occupancy/vacancy and
personal dimming.
Lighting controls must be commissioned to operate as
intended without false triggering. All lighting controls
must be compatible with luminaires. Lighting control
devices provided for illumination within exit
enclosures must comply with the requirements in
NFPA 101.
6.3.3 Security Lighting, Exit Signs, and
Emergency Lighting
6.3.3.1 Security Lighting
Security lighting is lighting that remains on during
unoccupied hours per applicable GSA and tenant
criteria. Security lighting in daylit spaces must be
controlled by photosensors. When security lighting
also functions as emergency lighting, separate circuits
and emergency ballasts are required.
6.3.3.2 Exit Signs
Exit signs must meet the requirements in NFPA 101
and be energy efficient and environmentally friendly
products (e.g., light emitting diodes (LED type),
photoluminescent type. Tritium exit signs must not
be installed.
6.3.3.3 Emergency Lighting
Emergency lighting must be provided in accordance
with the requirements of NFPA 101. At a minimum,
unswitched emergency lighting must be provided in
the following areas:
• Zones covered by closed-circuit TV cameras
• Security zones
• Fire command center
• Security control center
• Where required in NFPA 101
• UPS and battery rooms
Emergency lighting may be manually switched from
within in the following areas:
• Communication equipment rooms
• Electrical rooms
• Technology/server rooms
• Engineers’ offices
Supplemental battery-powered emergency lighting
must be provided in the following spaces to bridge
the generator startup time:
• Generator rooms
• Main mechanical and electrical rooms
• Any locations where lighting cannot be
interrupted for any length of time
Page 141

6.3.4 Specific Lighting Requirements
6.3.4.1 Special Areas
Certain areas, where the lighting design must be an
integral part of the architecture, require special
lighting design concepts. The certified lighting
designer must integrate the design with the interior
finishes and furniture arrangement to enhance the
functionality of the spaces. Further consideration
must be taken to adhere to the energy criteria and
maintenance criteria, as well as minimizing the
number of special lamp types and fixtures required.
Areas generally requiring special lighting treatment
are as follows:
• Main entrance lobbies
• Atriums
• Elevator lobbies
• Public corridors
• Public areas
• Auditoriums
• Conference rooms
• Training rooms
• Dining areas and serveries
• Libraries
6.3.4.2 Lighting – Historic Buildings
Historic chandeliers, pendant lights, sconces, and
other period lighting may be upgraded with energy
efficient light sources and optical enhancements that
preserve the historic appearance of the luminaire and
space. Replica lighting for restoration zones should be
fabricated or modified to accept energy efficient
lamps. Supplemental lighting, when required, must be
designed and located to minimize penetration of
ornamental wall and ceiling surfaces and to avoid
competing visually with historic lighting.
Recommended alternatives for increasing light levels
in ceremonial spaces, when relamping is not
sufficient, include compatibly designed floor lamps,
task lights, and discretely placed indirect lighting.
Refer to Upgrading Historic Building Lighting
Page 142

6.4 Electrical Performance Requirements
Design Construction
Measurement &
Verification
Plans & Specs
Calculation &
Analysis
Transformers
Efficiencies for Network Transformers and
Substation Transformers
(<= 600V Secondary & <=34.5 KV Primary)
NEMA TP-1-2002
10 Percent less losses than
NEMA TP-1 -2002
NEMA TP-1 -2002
NEMA TP-1 -2002
Yes
Submit certified
performance
data for each
unit
NEMA TP-1 -2002
Describe transformer efficiency
requirements.
Verify submittals and certified
performance data from
manufacturer for supplied
transformer units to verify
compliance.
Insulating fluid for oil-filled Network
Transformers and Substation Transformers
(<= 600V Secondary & <=34.5 KV Primary)
65 °C non-petroleum-based insulating-oil
65 °C non-petroleum-based
insulating-oil
65 °C FR3 non-petroleum-based
insulating-oil
65 °C FR3 non-petroleum-based
insulating-oil
Yes NEMA TP-1 -2002
Describe transformer
insulating fluid requirements.
compliance.
Efficiencies for Low-voltage Distribution
Transformers
(120/208 3Ph, 4W Secondary; 480V, 3Ph, 3W
Primary)
NEMA TP-1-2002
NEMA TP-1 -2002
NEMA TP-1 -2002
NEMA TP-1 -2002
Certified
Representative
Factory Test
Report
NEMA TP-1 -2002
Describe low voltage
distribution transformer
efficiencies.
compliance.
Impedance for Low-voltage Distribution
Transformers (120/208 3Ph, 4W Secondary; 480V,
3Ph, 3W Primary)
>4 %Z >4 %Z >4 %Z >5 %Z
Certified
Representative
Factory Test
Report
NEMA TP-1 -2002
Describe transformer
impedance requirements.
compliance.
Harmonic Rated Transformers & Harmonic
Mitigating Transformers
K-13 or higher w/200% neutral
>4% Z
K-20 or higher w/200% neutral
>4% Z
Zigzag 3rd Harmonic Mitigating
Transformers (0 degree, and 30
degree), Copper windings, >4% Z,
K13 or higher (Match 0 and 30
degree transformers in distribution
for harmonic mitigation of 5th and
7th order harmonics)
Zigzag 3rd Harmonic Mitigating
Transformers (0 degree, 15 degree
and 30 degree), Copper windings,
>4% Z, , K13 or higher (Match 0, 15
and 30 degree transformers in
distribution for harmonic mitigation
of 5th and 7th order harmonics)
Certified
Representative
Factory Test
Report
NEMA TP-1 -2002
Describe transformer harmonic
requirements.
compliance.
Variable Frequency Drives
Use on motors 5HP (3.7kW) to 25 Hp (18.7kW) 6-pulse width modulation (PWM) IGBT Drives
6-pulse width modulation
(PWM) IGBT Drives
Passive Harmonic Filtration <5%
THD Current at Drive Terminals
6-pulse width modulation (PWM)
IGBT Drives
Active Harmonic Filtration <5% THD
Current at Drive Terminals
6-pulse width modulation (PWM)
IGBT Drives
IGBT Front End <5% THD Current at
Drive Terminals
>95% Input Power Factor
IEEE 519 5% Current THD at
Drive Input Terminals, IEEE
519 3% Voltage THD in at
Sensitive Equipment Panels,
and 5% Voltage THD at
480/277 Transformer
Secondary Terminals
Describe VFD requirements to
show compliance with metrics.
manufacturer for supplied VFD's s
to verify compliance.
Use on motors 30HP (22.4kW) to 100HP (74.6 kW)
6-pulse width modulation (PWM) IGBT Drives. Provide 12
or 18 pulse where the harmonic analysis indicates
noncompliance
12-pulse width modulation IGBT
Drives with integral input phase
shifting transformers (PWM)
<= 5% THD Current at Drive
Terminals
Terminals
Terminals
480/277 Transformer
Secondary Terminals
Use on motors 125HP (93.3kW) and larger
18-pulse width modulation IGBT Drives with integral input
phase shifting transformers (PWM)
<= 5% THD Current at Drive Terminals
Terminals
Terminals
Terminals
480/277 Transformer
Secondary Terminals
Reference Standard
Verification
Attribute Baseline
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Design Construction
Measurement &
Verification
Plans & Specs
Calculation &
Analysis
Metering
Metering at Building Mains
Voltmeter reading all phase to phase and phase to neutral
voltages. Switchable ammeter and three-phase totalizing
watt-hour meter. The power meter should be pulse-type
and digital networked and/or tied into the Advanced
Metering System.
Baseline, plus Utility Class
0.2%, (Phase Volts, Phase
Currents, Neutral Currents,
Ground Currents, power
consumption KWH, adjustable
power demand KW, KVA &
KVAR, Power Factor)
Tier 1 High Performance, plus
Harmonic Waveform Analysis
Tier 2 High Performance, plus
Transient Disturbance Monitoring
for capture, remote alarm
monitoring and disturbance
download to laptop
yes yes ANSI C12.1 & C12.20
Describe building electrical
meter requirements and show
on single line diagram.
Verify submittals and supplied
meter specifications to verify
compliance.
Metering for Building Feeders As required for Advanced Building Metering and Control
As required for Advanced
Building Metering and Control
and to coordinate with ECMs for
M&V (KW, KVA Demand, KWH)
As required for Advanced Building
Metering and Control and to
coordinate with ECMs for M&V
(KW, KVA Demand, KWH)
Metering and Control and to
yes
Describe building electrical sub-
metering requirements and
show on single line diagram.
compliance.
Metering Trending As required for Advanced Building Metering and Control
and with trending configured to
Metering and Control and with
trending configured to coordinate
with ECMs for M&V (KW, KVA
Demand, KWH)
Metering and Control and with
trending configured to coordinate
with ECMs for M&V (KW, KVA
Demand, KWH)
yes
Describe electrical metering
scheme and trend
requirements.
compliance.
Electrical Meters input to BAS and graphic
displays
MODBUS/TCP/IP Protocol Meters/BACnet/LonWorks
protocol Meters to match BAS with twisted pair to BAS for
monitoring. The power meter should be networked and/or
tied into the Advanced Metering System.
MODBUS/TCP/IP/BACnet/LonW
orks Protocol Meters to match
BAS with twisted pair to BAS for
monitoring and graphics.
Interfaced to BAS and
configured for Advanced
Metering System. Also ethernet
for TCP/IP for metering
customized graphical GUI at
BAS front end.
MODBUS/TCP/IP/BACnet/LonWork
s Protocol Meters to match BAS
with twisted pair to BAS for
monitoring and graphics (also
ethernet for TCP/IP for metering
customized graphical GUI at BAS
front end)
s Protocol Meters to match BAS
with twisted pair to BAS for
monitoring and graphics (also
front end) and Wireless Submeters
yes yes
ANSI C12.1 & C12.20;
EPACT 2005, EISA 2007 -
Section 434(b)
Describe meter/BAS interface
requirements.
Verify interface with BAS system
and confirm metering data to
verify compliance.
PV Systems Input to BAS and graphic displays As required for Advanced Building Metering and Control
orks Protocol to match BAS with
twisted pair to BAS for
monitoring data registers and
graphics screens for alarms.
Also ethernet for TCP/IP for
metering customized graphical
GUI at BAS front end.
s Protocol to match BAS with
twisted pair to BAS for monitoring
data registers and graphics screens
for power measurements [KW, KVA,
Power Factor, KWH}, status and
alarms. Also ethernet for TCP/IP
for metering customized graphical
GUI at BAS front end
Power Factor, KWH}, status and
alarms. Also ethernet for TCP/IP
for metering customized graphical
GUI at BAS front end
yes
eMerge Alliance 24VDC
Occupied Space Standard
Describe PV system
metering/BAS interface
requirements.
and confirm indicated metered
data to verify compliance.
Automatic Transfer Switches input to BAS and
graphic displays
N/A
graphics screens for ATS status
(also ethernet for TCP/IP for ATS
customized graphical GUI at
BAS front end)
Power Factor, KWH} status, and
alarms Also ethernet for TCP/IP for
metering customized graphical GUI
at BAS front end.
Power Factor, KWH} status, and
alarms Also ethernet for TCP/IP for
at BAS front end.
Describe ATS/BAS interface
requirements.
Standby Generator input to BAS and graphic
displays
N/A
graphics screens for generator
status and alarms
Power Factor, KWH} and generator
status and alarms (NFPA 110 status
and alarms)
and alarms) Also ethernet for
TCP/IP for metering customized
graphical GUI at BAS front end.
Describe Standby
Generator/BAS interface
requirements.
Building Automation System - Interface from Electrical Systems
Reference Standard
Verification
Attribute Baseline
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Page 144

Design Construction
Measurement &
Verification
Plans & Specs
Calculation &
Analysis
Standby Generator input to BAS and graphic
displays
N/A
graphics screens for generator
status and alarms
and alarms)
and alarms) Also ethernet for
TCP/IP for metering customized
graphical GUI at BAS front end.
Describe Standby
Generator/BAS interface
requirements.
Uninterruptible Power Systems input to BAS and
graphic displays
N/A
graphics screens for alarms
(also ethernet for TCP/IP for
metering customized graphical
GUI at BAS front end)
Power Factor, KWH} and alarms.
at BAS front end.
Power Factor, KWH} and alarms.
at BAS front end.
Yes
Describe UPS/BAS interface
requirements.
Variable Frequency Drives Input to BAS and
graphic displays
N/A
monitoring data registers
data registers
Power Factor, KWH, Amps, %
speed}, status( HOA, run, bypass),
troubles, and alarms. Also
front end.
Yes
Describe VFD/BAS interface
requirements.
Motor Starters Input to BAS and graphic displays N/A
monitoring data registers
data registers
for status [HOA, run], power
measurements [KW, KVA, Power
Factor, KWH}, and alarms. Also
front end.
Yes
Describe motor starters/BAS
interface requirements.
Additional computer-based BAS interface
requirements
DDC using BACnet or LonTalk open communication
protocols
IP sensors, thermostats, &
devices
wireless self powered switches &
devices
wireless self powered switches &
devices
Yes yes EnOcean Alliance
Describe BAS interface
requirements with switches
and devices.
and confirm indicated devices to
verify compliance.
Additional computer-based BAS interface
requirements
Energy management & monitoring software
interface with smart phones &
tablets
tablets
tablets
yes yes
Provide BAS interface
requirements with smart
phones and tablets.
and confirm indicated devices to
verify compliance.
Separate grounding system for Lightning
Protection System and single point bond to
building counterpoise system.
N/A
5 Ohm to Earth (Engineered
system based on earth testing
and confirmed by fall-of-
potential method.
5 Ohm to Earth (Engineered system
based on earth testing and
confirmed by fall-of-potential
method.
method.
NFPA 70, 780, UL 96
Describe grounding
requirements.
Measure grounding resistance
using fall of potential method per
IEEE 81 standard to verify
compliance with stated values.
Equipment Grounding Conductors
Describe grounding conductor
requirements.
Verify provision of grounding
conductors for each of the low
voltage distribution systems.
Building Automation System - Interface from Electrical Systems
All low voltage power distribution systems must be supplemented with a separate, insulated ground conductor routed with the phase and neutral conductors.
Reference Standard
Verification
Attribute Baseline
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Page 145

Page 146

Design Construction
Measurement &
Verification
Plans & Specs
Calculation &
Analysis
Interior Electrical Distribution
Energy saving controls for automatic
interruption of non-critical power after
operating hours
N/A
Time of day scheduling for auto
shutdown of task lighting
receptacle circuits or integrate
occupancy sensors with task
lights.
Time of Day controllable branch
panel breakers for automatic
shutdown of computers, displays
and task lighting after scheduled
hours
IT network smart controls for
automatic hot standby after initial
period of inactivity & automatic
power down after extended period
of inactivity. Automatic controls
for automatic shutdown of task
lighting or time of day scheduling
for auto shutdown of task lighting
receptacle circuits or integrate
occupancy sensors with task lights.
yes
ASHRAE 90.1,
LEED M&V Standards
Describe scheme for automatic
shut down of lighting and
computer/display and task
lighting circuits.
Verify shut down of stated loads
after installation of systems to
verify control sequences and shut
down of stated loads after
scheduled hours.
Distribution for Energy Monitoring As required for Advanced Building Metering and Control
and to measure individual
Energy Cost-saving Measures
(ECM) for M&V (KW, KVA
Demand, KWH).
Metering and Control with meters
for separate load types (1. Lighting
loads, 2. Receptacle loads, 3.
Motor loads(VFD's) 4. (Motor loads
(Non-VFD's), 5. Central Plant
Equipment, and 6. Special purpose
rooms, e.g. computer/server rooms.
Also to measure individual Energy
Cost-saving Measures (ECM) for
M&V (KW, KVA Demand, KWH).
Panels assigned to tenants shall
also be individually metered.
Metering and Control with meters
for separate load types (1. Lighting
loads, 2. Receptacle loads, 3.
Motor loads(VFD's) 4. (Motor loads
(Non-VFD's), 5. Central Plant
Equipment, and 6. Special purpose
rooms, e.g. computer/server rooms.
Also to measure individual Energy
Cost-saving Measures (ECM) for
M&V (KW, KVA Demand, KWH).
Panels assigned to tenants shall
also be individually metered.
yes
ASHRAE 90.1,
LEED M&V Standards
Describe advance building
metering requirements.
compliance.
Arc Reduction Maintenance Switches (ARMS) N/A N/A
All Switchgear and Main Breaker at
Motor Control Centers,
All Switchgear and Main Breaker at
NFPA 70, 70E, NEMA, UL
Describe requirements of arc
flash maintenance switches.
Verify submittals and shop
drawings from manufacturer for
supplied units to verify
compliance.
Arc- Flash barriers upon insertion of equipment N/A N/A
All Switchgear Main Breakers and
tie breakers.
All Switchgear Main Breakers tie
breakers, and feeder breakers.
NFPA 70, 70E, NEMA, UL
Describe requirements of arc
flash barriers.
compliance.
Power Factor Correction
95% PFC with harmonic-tuned filters
95% PFC with automatic
controls and harmonic-tuned
filters
95% PFC with automatic controls
and active harmonic filters
98% PFC with automatic controls
and active harmonic filters
NFPA 70, NEMA
Describe power factor
correction requirements.
Measure power factor using a
power meter to confirm
compliance with stated
requirements.
Surge Protection Devices
277/480 Volt distribution at Main Switchgear Surge Protection Device - Type 2 (SPD-2) (250KA)
Surge Protection Device - Type 2
(SPD-2) (250KA)
(SPD-2) (250KA)
(SPD-2) (250KA)
UL 1449 Current Edition
Describe surge protection
requirements at main
switchgear.
compliance.
277/480V Volt distribution at Distribution Panels Surge Protection Device - Type 2 (SPD-2) (160KA)
(SPD-2) (160KA)
(SPD-2) (160KA)
(SPD-2) (160KA)
requirements at distribution
panels.
compliance.
277/480V Volt Branch Panels N/A N/A N/A
(SPD-2) (50KA)
requirements at branch panels.
compliance.
120/208V Volt Branch Panels N/A N/A N/A
(SPD-2) (50KA)
requirements at branch panels.
compliance.
Arc- Flash Reduction Maintenance Switches (ARMS) and Arc Flash barriers
Reference Standard
Verification
Attribute Baseline
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Page 147

Design Construction
Measurement &
Verification
Plans & Specs
Calculation &
Analysis
Lightning Protection Systems Yes where required per NFPA evaluation
Yes where required per NFPA
evaluation
evaluation
evaluation
Yes
Describe lightning protection
system.
compliance.
Lightning Protection Systems UL Compliance UL 96 UL 96 UL 96 UL 96 Yes UL 96, NFPA 780
system.
compliance.
Lightning Protection Systems UL Master Label
Compliance
N/A N/A Master Label Master Label Yes UL 96 (Master Label)
system.
compliance.
Surge Protection for building service, incoming
copper cables and equipment per Master Label
Requirements
N/A N/A Yes Yes Yes UL 96 (Master Label)
Describe lightning surge
protection requirements.
compliance.
Grounding
Earth counterpoise N/A
potential method.
method.
method.
Yes NFPA 70, IEEE, BICSI/TIA
Describe grounding
requirements.
Separate grounding system for Lightning
Protection System and single point bond to
building counterpoise system.
N/A
potential method.
method.
method.
NFPA 70, 780, UL 96
Describe grounding
requirements.
Equipment Grounding Conductors
Describe grounding conductor
requirements.
Verify provision of grounding
conductors for each of the low
voltage distribution systems.
Efficiency Double conversion efficiency of 90%
Double conversion efficiency of
95%
IGBT rectifier and IGBT inverter
96%
IGBT rectifier and IGBT inverter
97%
Yes
Describe UPS efficiency
requirements.
Verify submittals from
manufacturer for supplied units to
verify compliance.
Power Factor - Output 80% 80% 90% 90% Yes
Describe UPS output power
factor requirements.
Measure output power factor using
a power meter to confirm
requirements.
Power Factor - Input 80% 80% 90% 100% Yes
Describe UPS input power
factor requirements.
Measure input power factor using
a power meter to confirm
requirements.
Input Harmonics <30% current THD
Rectifier with filters for <7%
current THD
IGBT rectifier for <5% current THD IGBT rectifier for <5% current THD
Certified
Representative
Factory Test
Report
Describe UPS THD
requirements.
Measure harmonics using a power
meter per IEEE 519 standard to
confirm compliance with stated
requirements.
Uninterruptible Power Systems (ABS)
All low voltage power distribution systems must be supplemented with a separate, insulated ground conductor routed with the phase and neutral conductors.
Lightning Protection Systems (LPS)
Reference Standard
Verification
Attribute Baseline



Page 148

6.5 Prescriptive Electrical Engineering
Requirements
6.5.1 Goals and Objectives
This chapter identifies criteria that must be used to
program and design electrical power, lighting, and
communications systems in GSA buildings. These
systems support the many types of equipment in a
reliable fashion. During the life span of a Federal
building, many minor and major alterations are
necessary as the missions of Government agencies
change. The flexibility to adjust to alterations must be
designed into the building systems from the outset.
Electrical power, lighting, and communications
systems must provide ample capacity for increased
load concentrations and allow modifications to be
made in one area without causing major disruptions
in other areas of the facility.
The electrical system design must be signed by a
registered professional electrical engineer.
6.5.1.1 Design Intent
The design of electrical power, lighting,
communications systems, and other building
components must function together resulting in a
building that meets the project’s program
requirements, as well as incorporating GSA’s
commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency.
GSA recognizes that communication needs and
technology are growing at an increasingly rapid pace.
Work stations are becoming more powerful, requiring
faster and easier access to more information. It is
GSA’s intent to provide the wiring and interfaces to
support these requirements. The design of all
communications cabling systems is the responsibility
of GSA’s Federal Acquisition Service (FAS).
A computer-based Building Automation System (BAS)
that interfaces, monitors, and automatically controls
lighting, heating, ventilating, and air conditioning is
critical to the efficient operation of modern Federal
buildings, including courthouses, office buildings, and
other facilities. GSA requires the integration of
building automation systems, with the exception of
fire alarm and security systems, which must function
as stand-alone systems with a monitoring-only
interface to the BAS (see Electrical Performance
Criteria).
Security is important in the design, construction, and
operation of electrical power, lighting, and
communications systems design. Refer to ISC Security
Guidelines.
systems must be adapted to support all performance
objectives defined for the project, typically including
sustainability, workplace performance (productivity
and efficiency), fire safety, security, historic
preservation, and improved operations and
maintenance. Compliance with Appendix A,
Submission Requirements, is required to demonstrate
that these systems have been adapted into the
project at each phase of the design.
Maintainability and reliability are paramount to the
operation of Federal buildings. Therefore, the design
and installation of all electrical systems and
equipment must allow for the safe repair, removal,
and replacement—including major components such
as switchgear, motor control centers, and
emergency/standby generators—without removal of
exterior walls and impact to adjacent equipment and
building occupants.
systems must be specifically designed to meet all of
the defined performance objectives of the project at
full-load and part-load conditions that are associated
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with the projected occupancies and modes of
operation.
Commissioning of major changes to electrical power,
lighting, and communications systems must be
initiated at the conceptual design phase of the project
and continue through all design and construction
phases.
For special design considerations and design criteria
for U.S. Court facilities, see Chapter 8, Design
Standards for U.S. Court Facilities.
6.5.2 Codes, Standards, and
Guidelines
Refer to Chapter 1 for guidance on code compliance.
6.5.2.1 Electrical Design Publications and
Standards
The latest editions of publications and standards
listed here are intended as guidelines for design. They
are mandatory only where referenced as such in the
text of this chapter or in applicable codes. The list is
not meant to restrict or preclude the use of additional
guides or standards.
When publications and standards are referenced as
mandatory, any recommended practices or features
must be considered as “required.” When
discrepancies between requirements are
encountered, GSA will determine the governing
requirement.
The following Codes and Standards requirements
must be incorporated into any GSA project design.
Codes and Standards
• ASME: American Society of Mechanical
Engineers
• ASME A17.1, Safety Code for Elevators and
Escalators
• ASTM: American Society for Testing and
Materials
• ASHRAE Standard 90.1, Energy Standard for
Buildings Except Low-Rise Residential Buildings
• BICSI, (Building Industry Consulting Service
International) Telecommunications Distribution
Methods Manual
• BICSI, Wireless Design Reference Manual
• California Energy Commission, 2008 Building
Energy Efficiency Standards (Title 24)
• CBM: Certified Ballast Manufacturers
• ETL: Electrical Testing Laboratories
• FAA: Federal Aviation Agency
• Federal Information Processing Standard 175,
Federal Building Standard for
Telecommunication Pathways and Spaces
• IESNA: Illuminating Engineering Society of North
America
• IESNA Lighting Handbook, Ninth Edition
• IESNA RP-1-04, American National Standard
Practice of Office Lighting
• IESNA RP-5-99, Recommended Practice for
Daylighting
• IESNA LM-79-08, Electrical and Photometric
Measurements of Solid-State Lighting Products
• IESNA LM-80-08, Measuring Lumen
Maintenance of LED Light Sources
• IESNA TM-15-07, Luminaire Classification
System for Outdoor Luminaires
• IEEE: Institute of Electrical and Electronics
Engineers
• ICEA: Insulated Cable Engineers Association
• NEMA: National Electrical Manufacturers
Association
• NFPA: National Fire Protection Association
• NFPA 70, National Electrical Code
• NFPA 70E, Standard for Electrical Safety in the
Workplace
• NFPA 101, Life Safety Code
• NFPA 110, Standard for Emergency and Standby
Power Systems
• NFPA 111, Standard on Stored Electrical Energy
Emergency and Standby Power Systems
• NFPA 780, Standard for the Installation of
Lightning Protection Systems
• UL: Underwriters’ Laboratories
Page 150

• UL50, Enclosures for Electrical Equipment for
Types 12, 3, 3R, 4, 4X, 5, 6, 6P, 12, 12K, and 13
• UL67, Panelboards
Communication System Pathways and Spaces Design
Standards
The communications system pathways and spaces
must be designed in accordance with the latest
edition of the BICSI Telecommunications Distribution
Methods Manual, and coordinated with GSA’s FAS to
fulfill specific system requirements. The following
standards define the minimum allowable
requirements.
Wireless systems must be designed in accordance
with the latest edition of the BICSI Wireless Design
Reference Manual, and coordinated with GSA’s FAS to
fulfill specific requirements.
Electronic Industries Alliance/Telecommunications
Industry Association (EIA/TIA) Standards are listed
below.
• EIA/TIA Standard 568, Commercial Building
Wiring Standard (and related bulletins)
Standard for Telecommunications Pathways and
Spaces (and related bulletins)
• EIA/TIA Standard 606, Administration Standard
for the Commercial Telecommunications
Infrastructure (and related bulletins)
Grounding (Earthing) and Bonding
Requirements for Telecommunications (and
related bulletins)
• EIA/TIA Standard 758, Customer-Owned Outside
Plant Telecommunications Cabling Standard
6.5.2.2 Load Criteria
In determining electrical loads for Federal buildings, it
is important to look beyond the immediate
requirements stated in the project program. Future
moves and changes have the effect of redistributing
electrical loads. Unless otherwise specifically defined
in the program requirements, the connected
receptacle loads and lighting loads must be combined
with other electrical loads in the building, multiplied
by the appropriate demand factors and with spare
capacity added, to determine the overall electrical
load of the building. The specific electrical power
loads must be determined independently for the
following load groups:
• Lighting
• Receptacle loads
• Motor and equipment loads
• Elevator and other vertical transportation
loads
• Miscellaneous loads
Receptacle Loads
A list of typical receptacle load requirements is shown
in Table 6-10. Refer to Section 6.10 for further
information on the receptacle design conditions and
constraints.
Page 151

Area/Activity Service Equipment Distribution Equipment
W/m
2
W/ft
2
W/m
2
W/ft
2
Office/enclosed 14.00 1.30 27 2.50
Office open 14.00 1.30 35 3.25
Non-workstation areas 5.00 0.50 10 1.00
Core and public areas 2.50 0.25 5 0.50
Technology/server rooms 540.00 50.00 700 65.00
Table. Minimum Receptacle Load
Motor and Equipment Loads
Loads associated with motors and equipment must
use the rated brake horsepower of specified
equipment and nominal full-load efficiencies that
exceed those in Table 10-A of ASHRAE Standard 90.1-
2004. Refer to Section 5.3 for additional criteria.
Elevator and Other Vertical Transportation Loads
Electrical power loads for elevators and other vertical
transportation equipment must be based on the rated
brake horsepower of the specified equipment and
nominal full-load efficiencies that exceed those in
Table 10-A of ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2004. Demand
factors identified in NFPA 70, Chapter 6 must be
applied. Refer to Section 5.3 for additional criteria.
Miscellaneous Loads
These loads include:
• Security, communication, BAS, and alarm
systems
• Heat tracing
• Kitchen equipment
• Central computer servers and data centers
• Uninterruptible power supply (UPS) and
battery rooms
Electrical loads for miscellaneous equipment must be
based on the rated electrical power requirements or
brake horsepower of the specified equipment and on
the nominal full-load efficiencies that exceed those in
Table 10-A of ASHRAE Standard 90.1. Demand factors
identified in NFPA 70 must be applied.
6.5.2.3 Demand Load and Spare Capacity
To ensure maximum flexibility for future systems
changes, the electrical system must be sized for the
demand load with additional spare capacity as
follows:
Demand factors identified in NFPA 70, Chapter 6,
must be applied.
• Panelboards for branch circuits : 50 percent
spare ampacity and 35 percent spare circuit
capacity
• Panelboards serving lighting only: 50 percent
spare ampacity and 25 percent spare circuit
capacity
• Switchboards and distribution panels: 35
percent spare ampacity and 25 percent spare
circuit capacity
• Main switchgear: 25 percent spare ampacity
and 25 percent spare circuit capacity
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All distribution equipment ampacities must be
calculated in accordance with NFPA Article 220 and as
modified in this chapter. If the addition of 25 or 35
percent spare circuit capacity results in the need for a
two-section panel, the design engineer must limit the
spares to the capacity of the panel in question and
assign sufficient space in the electrical closet layout to
accommodate a future panel and associated
transformer.
All panelboards must be fully populated with breakers
of a size and rating of breakers actively being used in
the panelboard.
Spare overcurrent devices must be provided for the
installation of future protective devices.
Before adding the spare equipment ampacity to
account for future load growth, it is important that
the load study reflect actual demand loads rather
than connected loads. The designer must apply
realistic demand factors by taking into account
various energy-conserving devices such as variable
frequency drives applied to brake horsepowers,
energy-efficient motors, occupancy sensors, and so
on. The designer must also avoid adding the load of
standby motors and must be careful to distinguish
between summer and winter loads by identifying such
“noncoincidental” loads. A “diversity factor” must be
applied to account for the fact that the maximum
load on the elevator system, as a typical example,
does not occur at the same time as the peak air
conditioning load. Once the estimated “peak
demand” load is established, the factor for load
growth must be added.
6.5.2.4 Visual Impact
Options regarding the location and selection of
electrical work that will have a visual impact on the
interior and exterior of the building must be closely
coordinated with the architectural design. This
includes the placement and specification of the
lightning protection system, colors, and finishes of
light fixtures, outlets, switches, and device plates.
6.5.2.5 Equipment Grounding Conductor
Except for isolated ground systems, all low-voltage
power distribution systems must be supplemented
with a separate, insulated equipment grounding
conductor.
6.5.2.6 Lightning Protection
Lightning protection must be provided in accordance
with NFPA 780. The system must be carefully
designed to ensure that static discharges are provided
with an adequate path to ground. Surge arrestors on
the main electrical service must be provided. Systems
served at utilization voltages 208Y/120V or
480Y/277V must be provided with two levels of
protection for sensitive electronic loads.
6.5.3 Utility Coordination
6.5.3.1 Power Company Coordination
A detailed load study, including connected loads and
anticipated maximum demand loads, as well as the
estimated size of the largest motor, must be included
in the initial contact with the local utility company to
prepare its personnel for discussions relative to the
required capacity of the new electrical service.
The service entrance location for commercial
electrical power must be determined concurrently
with the development of conceptual design space
planning documents. Standards for equipment
furnished by utility companies must be incorporated
into the concept design. Locations of transformers,
vaults, meters, and other utility items must be
coordinated with the architectural design to avoid
conflicts with critical architectural features such as
main entrances and must accommodate both
equipment ventilation and equipment removal. All
major electrical equipment must be located 5 feet
above the 100-year flood plain.
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6.5.3.2 Communications Service
Coordination
The telecommunications design professional must
contact the local telecommunications providers and
coordinate with the client agency GSA’s FAS to
determine the number, size, and location of the
incoming services and to determine the enclosure and
pathway requirements for telecommunications
systems. The scope of services varies with each
project; it includes, at a minimum, the design of the
infrastructure (pathway and enclosure) and may
include the full design and specification of the
telecommunications system. The design professional
must contact the local telecommunications providers
through GSA’s FAS early in the project.
Provision must also be made to provide either cable
television (CATV) or satellite service to the facility.
CATV or satellite service may be independent from
other communications services. The need for multiple
space service conduits to accommodate multiple
voice/data vendors must be evaluated.
The need for separate redundant internal and
external pathways may be required depending on the
level of security and mission that may be required by
the building occupant.
6.5.3.3 Site Requirements
The routing of site utilities and location of manholes
must be determined early in the design process in
coordination with the site civil engineer. The designer
must coordinate with the utility company to
determine the capabilities, rate structure options, and
associated initial costs to the project and must
evaluate the available utility service options.
Electrical Power Services
For buildings less than 100,000 gross square-feet
(gsf), utility power must be requested at the main
utilization voltage, i.e., 480Y/277V or 208Y/120V.
For buildings greater than 100,000 gsf and less than
250,000 gsf, at least one electrical secondary service
at 480Y/277V must be provided. For buildings
250,000 gsf and larger, or for campus sites, electrical
service must be provided to the site, at medium-
voltage distribution, up to 34.5kV, for primary power
distribution to substations.
Primary Cable Selection
Medium-voltage cable selection must be based on all
aspects of cable operation and on the installation
environment, including corrosion, ambient heat,
rodent attack, pulling tensions, potential mechanical
abuse, and seismic activity. Conductors for newly
construction buildings rated above 150 amperes may
be cooper or aluminum, insulated with cross-linked
polyethylene (XLP) or ethylene propylene rubber
(EPR). Conductors rated 150 amperes and below shall
be copper. New cabling to be connected to
equipment built or installed before 1980 shall be
investigated to determine compatibility of aluminum-
to-copper terminations prior to specifying aluminum
cabling. Insulation must be rated at 133 percent.
Individual conductor size must not exceed 240 mm2
(500 mcm).
Direct Buried Conduit
Direct buried Schedule 80 PVC, coated intermediate
metallic conduit (IMC), or rigid galvanized steel must
be used only for the distribution of exterior branch
circuits 38 mm (1.5 in.) or larger. Backfill around the
conduits must be selected based on the thermal
conductivity and be free of materials detrimental to
the conduit surface.
Concrete-Encased Ductbanks
Concrete-encased PVC Schedule 40 ductbanks must
be used where runs are under permanent pavements
and where service reliability is paramount.
Concrete-encased ducts must be provided with a
cover that is at least 750 mm (30 in.) thick. Ductbanks
under railroads must be reinforced. Ducts must slope
toward manholes and all entries into buildings must
have watertight seals. Changes in direction must be
by sweeps with a radius of 1.2 m (4 ft.) or more. Stub-
ups into electrical equipment may be installed with
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manufactured elbows. Duct line routes must be
selected to avoid the foundations of other buildings
and structures. Electrical power and communication
ducts must be kept clear of all other underground
utilities, especially high-temperature water, steam, or
gas. Direct buried duct banks should be continuously
indicated by installation of tracer tape 300 mm (12”)
above the exterior of the duct bank.
Where it is necessary to run communication cables
parallel to power cables, two separate ductbanks
must be provided with separate manhole
compartments. The same holds true for normal and
emergency power cables. Ductbanks must be spaced
at least 300 mm (1 ft.) apart. Site entrance facilities,
including ductbanks and manholes, must comply with
the requirements stated in Federal Information
Processing Standard 175, Federal Building Standard
for Telecommunication Pathways and Spaces. [See
also EIA/TIA (Electronic Industrial
Association/Telecommunication Industry Association)
Standard 568-A and related bulletins.]
Where redundant service is required (power,
communications, and/or life safety), alternate and
diverse paths with 1-hour fire separations must be
provided.
Duct Sizes and Quantity
Ducts must be sized as required for the number and
size of cables. All ducts for medium-voltage services
must be a minimum of 100 mm (4 in.). Inner ducts
must be provided inside communication ducts
wherever fiber optic cables will be used. Spare ducts
must be included for planned future expansion; in
addition, a minimum of 25 percent spare ducts must
be provided for unknown future expansion and/or
cabling replacement.
Manholes
Manholes must be spaced no farther than 150 m (500
ft.) apart for straight runs. The distance between the
service entrance and the first manhole must not
exceed 30 m (100 ft.). Double manholes must be used
where electric power and communications lines
follow the same route. Separate manholes must be
provided for low- and medium-voltage systems.
Manholes must have clear interior dimensions of no
less than 1,800 mm (6 ft.) in depth, 1,800 mm (6 ft.) in
length, and 1,800 mm (6 ft.) in width, with an access
opening at the top of not less than 750 mm (30 in.) in
diameter. Medium-voltage manholes must be sized in
accordance with utility company requirements.
Manholes must have a minimum wall space of 1,800
mm (6 ft.) on all sides where splices may be racked.
Manholes must be provided with pulling eyes, sumps,
and grounding provisions as necessary.
Stubs
A minimum of two spare stubs must be provided (to
maintain a square or rectangular ductbank), so that
the manhole wall will not need to be disturbed when
a future extension is made. Stubs for communications
manholes must be coordinated with GSA’s Federal
Technology Service.
Handholes
Handholes may be used for low-voltage feeders (600V
and below), branch circuits, or communications
circuits. If used, they must be not less than 1,200 mm
(4 ft.) in depth, 1,200 mm (4 ft.) in length, and 1,200
mm (4 ft.) in width, and must be provided with
standard manhole covers and sumps of the same type
provided for manholes. Generally, at least four racks
must be installed. Where more than two splices occur
(600V feeders only), a 1,800 mm (6 ft.) by 1,800 mm
(6 ft.) by 1,800 mm (6 ft.) manhole must be required.
Penetrations
Lighting and communication circuits that penetrate
fire walls, fire barriers, fire partitions, smoke barriers,
smoke partitions, and between floors must be
properly sealed in accordance with the requirements
of the IBC with approved firestopping materials.
Exterior Concrete
Concrete pads constructed to support exterior
mechanical and electrical equipment must be
provided with sufficient conduit penetrations to
provide the necessary power and control connections
plus an additional 50 percent for future equipment
additions and modifications. Spare conduits need not
extend more than 1,200 mm (4 ft.) past the end of the
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concrete slab. All spare conduits must be capped at
both ends.
6.5.3.4 Advanced Building Metering and
Control
All projects must install advanced meters for
electricity in accordance with EPAct 2005, and install
advanced meters for gas and steam in accordance
with EISA 2007, Section 434 (b), and EPAct 2005,
“Guidance for Electric Metering in Federal Buildings.”
Government facilities must be prepared to reduce
demand quickly and effectively and include intelligent
electric meters capable of bidirectional monitoring of
phase voltages, phase currents, power consumption
(demand), power factor, kVAR, and availability. These
meters must be capable of communicating via
MODBUS/TCP/IP. Meters must meet at a minimum
the definition stated. Government projects must also
include demand reduction logic in the building
automation system that is capable of activation upon
input from the building operator or the intelligent
meters. Ideally, the logic would be capable of three
tiers of demand reduction—low/no occupant impact,
minor occupant impact, and some impact. The
equipment curtailed or set-points changed during
each level must be identified by the A/E and agreed
to by the project manager.
Further information for advanced metering and
guidance is offered by the PBS Chief Information
Officer’s Advanced Metering System Implementation
Guide.
6.5.4 Distribution System
Alternatives
6.5.4.1 Primary Distribution
Where the design alternatives have been thoroughly
evaluated and a medium-voltage service is selected as
the optimal utility service for the application, the
design professional must request that the utility
company provide multiple 15 kV (nominal) feeders to
serve the facility. Feeders must not be connected to
the same utility switchgear bus section. Where
feasible, it should be requested that facility feeders
be extended from different substations.
The following types of primary distribution systems
are listed in terms of increasing flexibility, reliability,
and cost:
1 Looped primary (not recommended)
2 Radial primary
3 Primary selective
4 Primary selective-secondary selective
5 Network
The selection of a primary distribution system must
be based on a study comparing the relative
advantages and disadvantages of the feasible
alternatives, including a life-cycle cost comparison.
Where primary service is provided, GSA will provide,
own, and maintain the building transformers.
Medium-Voltage Switchgear
Design of the medium-voltage switchgear must meet
all of the requirements of the local utility. Switchgear
must be provided with enclosed, drawout-type
vacuum interrupter breakers, one per each size fully
equipped spare cubicle/breakers up to 1,600 amps, a
breaker lifting device, and a ground and test device.
The ground and test device must be stored in a spare
switchgear cubicle.
Voltmeters, ammeters, and watt-hour digital meters
with demand registers on each feeder must be
provided for medium-voltage switchgear in addition
to utility-approved digital relaying. Meters must be
digital pulse-type for connection to and monitoring by
the Advanced Metering Equipment. IR camera
inspection ports shall be considered on the enclosure
of all medium voltage switchgear for ease of
inspecting switchgear for thermal problems while
under load.
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All switchgear sections must be installed on four-inch
concrete housekeeping pads.
Medium-Voltage Conductors
Conductors must be copper, insulated with XLP or
EPR. Insulation must be rated at 133 percent of the
voltage rating. Individual conductor size must not
exceed 240 mm2 (500 mcm).
Network Transformers
Where continuity of service is determined to be
critical by the program, network transformers must
be considered as the first priority.
Network transformers must be liquid-filled and have a
kVA rating as required, with copper primary and
secondary windings. Transformers must be equipped
with provisions for fans and/or dual temperature
ratings to increase the rated capacity and must be
provided with sufficient contacts to permit the
remote monitoring of the status of the network
protector, temperature and pressure in the enclosure,
and other components recommended by the
manufacturer. Fans must not be used in determining
the initial rating of the transformer. In addition,
transformers must be provided with voltage taps ±2.5
percent with a no-load tap changer. Network
transformers and tap changers located in areas
subject to flooding or water backup must be specified
as waterproof. Network trans-formers must be
provided with disconnects for safe isolation servicing.
The energized status of the transformers must be
monitored by the Advanced Metering System.
Double-Ended Substations
Where either a primary selective or primary selective-
secondary selective (double-ended) substation is
selected, the following paragraph applies:
If reliability is critical and spot networks are not
feasible, double-ended substations must be used.
Transformers must be equipped with provisions for
fans to increase the rated capacity. The sum of the
estimated demand load of both ends of the
substation must not exceed the rating of either
transformer and must not exceed the fan cooling
rating. All double-ended substations must be
equipped with two secondary main breakers and one
tie breaker configured for open transition automatic
transfer, initiated through the use of an under-voltage
relaying scheme. Breakers must be of the electrically
operated drawout type.
Network Substations
Network substations are usually close-coupled to the
secondary switchboards serving the respective loads.
All circuit breakers up to and including the secondary
switchgear main circuit breaker must be drawout
type.
Transformers
Transformers in double-ended and network
substations must be dry type with epoxy resin cast
coils or liquid filled, 300 C° insulation, non-petroleum-
based insulating-oil type. Liquid-filled transformers
must be used outdoors and for below-grade vault
construction. Provide lightning arrestors on the
primary side of all transformers. Provide surge
suppression on the secondary and/or downstream
busses.
Where silicon or oil-filled transformers are used, the
design must comply with all spillage containment and
electrical code requirements.
6.5.4.2 Secondary Distribution
Main Switchgear (480 V Service)
In the case of double-ended substations, all main and
secondary feeder breakers must be draw-out power
type. Breakers with solid state trip units should have
modbus communications allowing the trip units to be
remotely monitored via the AMS system.
Each metering section must contain a voltmeter,
ammeter, and watt-hour meter with demand register.
Meters must be pulse type for connection to and
monitoring by the BAS. Switchgear must be front and
rear accessible.
All breakers in the 480 volt-rated service main
switchgear must be fully rated. Series rating is not to
be permitted. Main and feeder breakers must be
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provided with integral solid-state ground-fault
protection tripping elements.
Main Switchgears and Switchboards (208 V Service)
Switchboards with 208 V service, including substation
secondary switchboards, must be freestanding and
provided with a single main service disconnect device.
This main device must be insulated case, power air
circuit breaker, or bolted-pressure fusible switch,
have ground fault protection, and must be
individually mounted, drawout type (as applicable).
Insulated case and power air circuit breakers must be
electrically operated. Branch feeders must be
protected by fusible load-break switches or by fully
rated molded case circuit breakers. Front access is
required.
Surge Suppression
Surge suppression on the main incoming service
secondary switchboard must be provided.
Switchgear Metering
All main switchgear metering sections should contain
a voltmeter capable of reading all phase-to-phase and
phase-to-neutral voltages. The meter section should
have a switchable ammeter and a three-phase
totalizing watt-hour meter. The power meter should
be networked and/or tied into the Advanced
Metering System.
6.5.5 Space Conditions
It is the joint responsibility of the architect and the
electrical engineer, functioning as part of an
integrated design team, to provide adequate space
and suitable locations for the electrical systems
serving the facility and a planned method to install
and replace this equipment. However, it is the sole
responsibility of the electrical engineer, during the
concept phase, to provide detailed space
requirements and suggested preferred locations of all
critical space requirements for the power and
communication systems for the facility. The
cooperation of the architect is then required to
provide the required space conditions, clear of any
structural columns or beams as well as shear walls,
stairways, duct shafts, and other obstructions.
Equipment space selection must take into
consideration adjacencies, such as stairs, mechanical
rooms, toilets, elevators, air/piping shafts, and fire-
rated assemblies, to permit secondary distribution of
electrical and telecommunications circuitry to exit the
assigned spaces. In addition, electrical equipment
must be located at five feet above the 100-year flood
plain. The electrical engineer must determine from
local jurisdictions any additional freeboard
requirements above this base level.
Do not run electrical power or communication
systems within stair enclosures unless power or
communication serves the stair or is part of the
emergency communication system.
Note: The designers must refer to Chapter 3, Section
3.8, Chapter 5, Section 5.7, and Chapter 7, Section 7.6
for design criteria related to the following elements of
the electrical and communication systems:
• Main equipment rooms
• Electrical rooms
• Communications rooms
• Building engineer’s office
• Security control center
• Fire command center
• UPS systems and batteries
• Emergency generator.
6.5.5.1 Main Equipment Rooms – Electrical
and Telecommunications
The size of the electrical service room will depend on
the type of service provided by the local utility
company. If a secondary (480 V or 208 V) service is
provided, the size of the room must be determined by
the number of service stubs into the room and the
respective number and size of switchgear. In this
case, the rooms must be located securely in a vault or
inside the building along a perimeter wall at an
elevation that minimizes the transformer secondary
feeder lengths. Main switchgear room doors must be
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large enough (in width and height) to allow for the
removal and replacement of the largest piece of
equipment. All equipment doors and personnel doors
must swing out and be provided with panic hardware.
The sizes and locations of the telecommunications
service rooms must be established in concert with the
local communications service provider. Depending on
the equipment selected, telecommunication service
rooms may require 24-hour HVAC service, and may
need protection from contaminants by proper
filtration equipment.
Where the application of water from fire sprinklers
installed in a main electrical room constitutes a
serious life or fire hazard, the main electrical room
must be separated from the remainder of the building
by walls and floor/ceiling or roof/ceiling assemblies
having a fire-resistance rating of not less than 2
hours.
6.5.5.2 Electrical Rooms
Electrical rooms are generally located within the core
areas of the facility and must be stacked vertically.
Adequate numbers of electrical rooms must be
provided, such that no electrical room serves more
than 930 m2 (10,000 sq. ft.). Electrical rooms must be
provided with minimum clear dimensions of 1,800
mm by 3,000 mm (6 ft. by 10 ft.). If transformers are
located in the rooms, ventilation must be provided.
Doors must swing out.
6.5.5.3 Communications Rooms
Communications rooms are also generally located
within the core areas of the facility and must be
stacked vertically. Rooms must be sized to contain
adequate floor space for frames, racks, and working
clearances in accordance with EIA/TIA standards.
Depending on the equipment selected, provisions
may be required for 24-hour air conditioning in these
rooms. The installation of dedicated electrical
panelboards within the communications rooms
should be considered to minimize electrical noise and
to prevent unauthorized access.
6.5.5.4 Building Engineer’s Office
Even if not included in the building program, office
space for the building engineer must be evaluated.
Most GSA buildings require such a space, which
houses the consoles for the BAS and remote
annunciators for other critical systems such as fire
alarm, generator status, miscellaneous alarm systems,
and lighting control systems. This space is normally
located near the loading dock or main mechanical
spaces.
6.5.5.5 Security Control Center
Each GSA building with a local security force must
have a control center. In the event that the building
will not be served by a local security force, this room
may be combined with the building engineer’s office
or the fire command center.
The security control center must be located within
the most secure area of the building and must be
sized to house the command station for the security
guards and their equipment, for current as well as
anticipated future building needs.
6.5.5.6 Spaces for Uninterruptible Power
Systems (UPS) and Batteries
Since all UPS systems are considered above standard
for GSA space, the requirement for a UPS system will
be a tenant agency requirement. To establish the
proper size, locations, and environmental
requirements for the UPS and battery systems, the
electrical engineer must arrange to meet with the
architect and representatives of the tenant agencies
to determine the required/estimated load and
physical size requirements and the nature of the
critical loads. Refer to the UPS and battery
manufacturers’ installation instructions for heat
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dissipation requirements, weights, dimensions,
efficiency, and required clearances in the design.
For small systems up to 50kVA, the UPS modules and
sealed cabinet batteries must be installed in the room
with the equipment being served.
For medium and large systems greater than 50kVA,
the UPS system must be provided with standby
generator backup to limit the battery capacity. The
UPS system equipment and batteries must be in
separate rooms and located on the lowest level above
the 100-year flood plain because of the weight of the
batteries and the noise of the UPS equipment.
Space for storage of safety equipment, such as
goggles and gloves, must be provided. Special
attention must be given to floor loading for the
battery room, entrance door dimensions for
installation of the UPS, and ceiling height for
clearance of the appropriate HVAC systems and
exhaust systems.
6.5.5.7 Fire Command Center
See Fire Protection and Life Safety, for specific
requirements for the Fire Command Center.
6.5.5.8 Flood Plain Clearance
Electrical equipment must be located at five feet
above the 100-year flood plain.
6.5.6 Secondary Branch Power
Distribution
6.5.6.1 Feeder Assignments (Bus Ducts vs.
Cable-In-Conduit)
The secondary main branch power distribution
system conveys power to the various load groups
distributed throughout the building. The decision as
to whether this power is conveyed to the various
loads in copper cables-in-conduit or in copper bus
duct must be based on the following factors:
• Size and shape of the facility
• Design of the main switchgear
• Coordination with piping and ductwork in
the lower levels
• Design of the electric rooms – proximity to
the transformer vault
• Ceiling space available
• Access to bus splice connections for testing
• Flexibility
• Reliability
• Cost
At the early stages of a project, alternate designs
comparing the factors listed above must be evaluated
to determine the feeder assignments. Results must be
submitted in accordance with Appendix A.
Bus Duct
Bus ducts must be copper, fully rated, 3-phase, 3-wire
or 3-phase, 4-wire with 100 percent neutral and an
integral ground bus, sized at 50 percent of the phase
bus. NEMA Class 3R or higher jacketing should be
considered if the bus duct is to be installed in areas to
be sprinkled or located adjacent to steam lines.
Calculations supporting the specified short-circuit
rating must be submitted in accordance with
Appendix A.
6.5.6.2 Motor Control Centers
Grouped motor controls must be used where eight or
more starters are required in an equipment room.
Motor control center (MCC) construction must be
NEMA Class I, Type B copper, with magnetic (or solid-
state if appropriate) starters and either molded case
circuit breakers or fused switches. The minimum
starter size in motor control centers must be Size 1.
MCC’s must be provided with Advanced Metering for
remote monitoring. Control circuit voltage must be
120V connected ahead of each starter via a fused
control transformer. Reduced-voltage starters may be
used for larger motors to reduce starting kVA.
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Time-delay relays must be incorporated in the
starters or programmed in the BAS system to reduce
inrush currents on the electrical system.
Where variable frequency drives (VFDs) are used on a
project, an LCC evaluation must be conducted to
determine when VFDs must be incorporated into the
MCCs. If determined not appropriate, then VFDs must
be powered from distribution panels installed for that
purpose. See below for additional VFD requirements.
6.5.6.3 Elevator and Other Vertical
Transportation Power
If two or more switchgears are available, the load of
the elevator and other vertical transportation feeders
must be divided among the secondary switchgears,
provided that alternate elevator machines must be
fed from different switchgears.
Note: One elevator in each bank must be connected
to the emergency generator. Where multiple
elevators are in a common bank, provide a common
emergency feeder from the elevator automatic
transfer switch (ATS), to allow each elevator to be
operated individually during an emergency. See
Section 6.12 for additional requirements. Interlocking
the ATS with the elevator group controller,
programming must be made by the elevator supplier
to set up a controlled return to the terminal floor and
then to limit the number of elevators in that bank
that can be run concurrently.
See Chapter 7 for additional information on standby
power requirements for fire service access elevators
and occupant evacuation elevators. Sufficient standby
power must be provided to operate all designated fire
service access elevators and occupant evacuation
elevators along with their associated controllers and
the cooling and ventilation equipment serving their
machinery rooms and machinery spaces,
simultaneously.
Elevator machines must be powered from circuit
breakers with a shunt trip and with padlocking
capability, located in the elevator machine rooms.
Electrical design standards in ASME A17.1, Safety
Code for Elevators and Escalators, must be followed.
6.5.6.4 Variable Frequency Drive
Variable frequency drives must be used on all speed
control motors larger than 3.7 kW (5 horsepower) to
reduce the energy consumption of the project.
However, VFDs generate harmonics, which are
injected into the secondary power distribution
system. These harmonics must be minimized through
the use of filters tuned to the peak harmonic
generated by the drive. All VFDs must be provided
with a contactor bypass option.
VFDs must use a minimum 6-pulse width modulation
(PWM) design because of their excellent power
factors and high efficiencies. VFDs must be specified
with passive harmonic filters and also with isolation
transformers where required. Individual or
simultaneous operation of the variable frequency
drives must not add more than 5 percent total
harmonic voltage distortion to the normal bus, nor
more than 10 percent while operating from the
standby generator (if applicable), per IEEE 519, latest
edition. The load side of the main breaker must be
the point of common coupling.
A harmonic (voltage and current) analysis must be
conducted by the electrical engineer, including all
calculations, and submitted in accordance with
Appendix A, Sections A.3 and A.4.
Where the harmonic analysis indicates
noncompliance, the application of 12-pulse, pulse
width modulation, or zig-zag transformers or other
approved alternate method must be used to reduce
the total harmonic voltage distortion.
Thermal sensors must be specified that interlock with
the VFD control circuit for additional protection for
motors running at low speeds and subject to
overheating. This is in addition to the standard over-
current protection required.
VFD’s should typically be located less than 50’ from
their load.
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6.5.7 Branch Wiring Distribution
Systems
6.5.7.1 Lighting – Circuit Loading
120 volt circuits must be limited to a maximum of
1,400 volt-amperes.
277 volt circuits must be limited to a maximum of
3,200 volt-amperes.
6.5.7.2 Receptacles – Circuit Loading
120 volt circuits for convenience receptacles must be
limited to a maximum of 1,440 volt-amperes (8
receptacles at 180 watts).
Each special purpose receptacle must be circuited on
a dedicated circuit to a protective device to match the
rating of the receptacle.
In GSA buildings, general wiring devices must be
specification grade. Emergency receptacles must be
red. Isolated grounding receptacles must be orange.
Special purpose and dedicated receptacles must be
gray. The color of standard receptacles and switches
must be coordinated with the architectural color
scheme; for example, white, not ivory, devices must
be used if walls are white or light gray.
Building standard receptacles must be duplex,
specification-grade NEMA 5-20R. Each Ground Fault
Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) receptacle should have a
light indicating when it has been tripped.
Communication room equipment receptacles should
be locking type to prevent accidental disconnection.
Special purpose receptacles must be provided as
required. Device plates must be plastic, colored to
match the receptacles. Device plates and lighting
switch plates must be labeled on the exterior with
typewritten machine-made labels indicating the panel
and circuit number from which they electrically feed.
Occupancy-based, time-schedule based, or building-
management system based plug load controls should
be considered by the designer for all office cubicles
and private office workstations.
6.5 7.3 Placement of Receptacles
Corridors
Receptacles in corridors must be located 15 m (50 ft.)
on center and 7.5 m (25 ft.) from corridor ends.
Office Space
Receptacles for housekeeping must be placed in
exterior walls and walls around permanent cores or
corridors. Where receptacles are placed on exterior
walls, installation of conduits and wallboxes must
minimize air infiltration and moisture incursion. See
Section 5.3 and Chapter 3 for additional
requirements.
Placement of receptacles in walls must be avoided
where raised access floors are used. See Section 6.10,
Underfloor Raceway Systems, for additional
requirements. For areas where raised access floors or
underfloor raceway systems are not used, placement
of receptacles must comply with the project
requirements.
Each office and workstation must have an isolated
ground receptacle located adjacent to each
convenience that could be used for powering
computer based equipment. There should be a
minimum of two for each office and a minimum of
one for workstations. If modular furniture is to be
installed, it may be necessary to connect the IG
receptacle box to the convenience box with a conduit
to allow wire extension to modular furniture whips.
Conference and Training Rooms
Conference rooms and training rooms must be served
in the same fashion as office space, except where
specifically outfitted for audio-visual equipment.
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Courtrooms and Related Areas
Refer to Chapter 8 for special electrical requirements.
Maintenance Shops
Maintenance shops require plug-mold strips above
work benches with duplex outlets 900 mm (36 in.) on
center. Receptacles must be wired on alternating
circuits. Receptacles or circuit breakers must be of the
ground fault interrupt (GFI) type. Provide emergency
power off stations and associated contactors for
shops containing freestanding equipment.
Electrical and Communications Rooms
Electrical rooms require one emergency power
receptacle that is identified as emergency power at
the receptacle. Communication rooms must contain
power and grounding for the passive and active
devices used for the telecommunications system,
including at least two dedicated 20A, 120 volt duplex
electrical outlets on emergency power, and additional
lock type convenience outlets at 1,800 mm (6 ft.)
intervals around the walls and direct connection to
the main building grounding system. If uninterruptible
power is required in communications rooms, it must
be furnished as part of the communications system.
Larger communication rooms must be provided with
ceiling-mounted locking receptacles on ceiling-hung
strain relief whips.
Main Mechanical and Electrical Rooms
Main mechanical and electrical equipment rooms
must each have, at a minimum, one emergency
power receptacle that is identified as such at the
receptacle.
Exterior Mechanical Equipment
Provide one receptacle adjacent to mechanical
equipment exterior to the building, including each
roof section. Receptacles must be of the
weatherproof GFI type. Receptacles must be located
within 7.62 m (25 ft.) of each piece of equipment in
accordance with NFPA 70 210-63.
Toilet Rooms
Each toilet room must have at least one GFI
receptacle at the vanity or sink. All receptacles
located in toilet rooms must be GFI protected.
Carefully coordinate the location of the receptacles
with all toilet accessories.
6.5.7.4 Underfloor Raceway Systems
Underfloor raceways fall into three categories:
Raised Access Floors
All wiring beneath a raised access floor must meet the
requirements in NFPA 70 and must be routed in rigid
metal or flexible conduit to underfloor distribution
boxes. One distribution box per bay is recommended.
Flush-mounted access floor service boxes must be
attached to the underfloor distribution boxes by eans
of a modular, prewired system to facilitate easy
relocation.
Cellular Metal Deck
In cellular metal decks that frame the concrete floor
slabs in a steel building, the cells are generally fully
“electrified” by the placement of steel sheets
enclosing the underside of the cells. Access to the
individual cells is obtained by a series of
compartmented header ducts. The width of the
header duct is sized according to the area served and
the depth is 63 mm (2 1/2 in).
Underfloor Duct System
A 3-cell underfloor duct system is placed in a 100 mm
(4 in.) concrete fill over the concrete slab. The cells
are generally located on 1,500 mm (5 ft.) to 1,800mm
(6 ft.) centers. Note: This type of raceway system is
frequently found in existing buildings selected for
modernization.
The cell assignments in cellular metal deck systems
and the 3-cell duct systems are generally designated
as 1) power, 2) voice/data, and 3) signal. However,
the recent increase in bandwidth required by the
latest IT equipment has been accompanied by the use
of CAT 6 cables and fiber optic cables. The CAT 6
cables cannot tolerate the proximity to the power
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cables and neither of these cables is compatible with
the sharp bends from the header ducts to the cells
and to the outlets, which significantly diminishes the
practical use of these systems.
6.5 7.5 Panelboards
Panelboards must be constructed to comply with the
requirements of UL 67 and UL 50.
All panelboard interiors must be constructed using
hard-drawn copper of 98 percent conductivity, with
AIC bracing greater than the calculated available fault
current. The minimum short circuit rating for
208Y/120V panelboards must be 10,000 amperes
symmetrical. The minimum short circuit rating for
480Y/277V panelboards must be 14,000 amperes
symmetrical. A 200 percent neutral must be provided
for panelboards serving office loads feed from the
secondaries of K-rated transformers or harmonic
canceling transformers. A full-size copper ground bus
for connecting ground conductors must be bonded to
the steel cabinet. Provide isolated ground bus where
required.
Branch circuit breakers must be bolt-on designed for
replacement without disturbing the adjacent units.
Breakers must comply with the requirements of UL
489, thermal magnetic type with a short-circuit rating
greater than the calculated available fault current.
Panels must be specified with “door-in-door” trim.
Power Distribution Panels
Circuit breaker-type panels must be the standard of
construction for Federal buildings. With the exception
of lighting and receptacle panelboards, fusible
switches may be considered if specific design
considerations warrant their application, such as in
electrical coordination of electrical over-current
devices.
Lighting and Receptacle Panelboards
Lighting and receptacle panelboards must be circuit
breaker type: a maximum of 30 poles for 100 amp
panelboards, and a maximum of 42 poles for 225 amp
panelboards.
Conduit Systems
The specification must list the various types of
conduit systems that are approved for use on the
project and the specific raceway applications for
which they are to be used, as follows:
• RSC – Rigid galvanized steel conduit – ANSI
C80.1 Exposed outdoors, wet, or damp
locations
• RAC – Aluminum conduit (with steel elbows)
Indoor feeders – exposed and/or concealed
• IMC – Intermediate steel conduit – ANSI
C80.6 Indoor feeders – exposed and/or
concealed
• EMT – Electrical metallic tubing (full
compression steel fittings) – ANSI C80.3
Branch circuit wiring, exposed and/or
concealed
• FMC – Flexible steel conduit – connections
to recessed lighting fixtures and concealed in
movable and/or dry wall partitions
• LFMC – Liquid flexible steel conduit with PVC
jacket. Connections to vibrating equipment
(motors, transformers, etc.)
• PVC – Underground feeders encased in
concrete envelope. Indoors and outdoors.
Transition to steel or aluminum when not
encased.
Conductors
Aluminum or copper conductors are acceptable for
motor windings, distribution transformer windings,
switchgear bussing, and switchboard bussing, where
the conductor is purchased as part of the equipment.
Copper conductors must be used for cables and
conductors.
6.5.8 Voice and Data Distribution
System
The configuration and type of the voice and data
cabling distribution systems must be developed at the
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earliest stages of design, since the space
requirements are so significant and widespread.
System requirements are user generated and are
generally translated into distribution system
requirements by the design engineer in conjunction
with GSA’s FAS, who together develop systems in
accordance with the latest edition of the BICSI
Telecommunications Distribution Methods Manual
and the Telecommunications Distribution Design
Guide.
6.5.8.1 Communications Raceways
Communication raceways must meet the installation
requirements in NFPA 70.
Raised Access Floor
If GSA has determined that raised access floors are to
be used for cable management in the project (see
Section 6.10), the communications services must be
installed by laying the cable in a tray for main runs
and then branching directly on the floor slab below
the raised access flooring system.
Cable Trays in Hung Ceilings
Since underfloor raceway systems cannot
accommodate the large turning radii required by the
CAT 6 and fiber optic cables, the primary alternative
to a raised floor system is a series of cable trays
installed above accessible hung ceilings. Cable trays
must be continuously grounded.
6.5.9 Emergency and Standby Power
Systems
Emergency and standby power systems must be
designed to comply with the requirements of the IBC,
NFPA 110, and NFPA 111. Compliance with the
electrical safety of the installation, operation, and
maintenance of emergency systems is required, as
addressed in Article 700 of NFPA 70. Unless otherwise
specifically authorized by the contracting officer, all
facilities must be provided with a standby generator
to supply power to the facility in the event of a
sudden loss of power.
6.5.9.1 Classification of Emergency Power
Supply Systems (EPSSs)
The class and type of Emergency Power Supply
Systems (EPSSs) for Federal buildings must be a
minimum of Class 72, where 72 is the minimum time
in hours for which the EPSS is designed to operate at
its rated load without being refueled (see Chapter 4,
NFPA 110). The EPSS must have a designation of Type
10, where 10 is the maximum time in seconds that
the EPSS will permit the load terminals of the transfer
switch to be less than 90 percent of the rated voltage.
Where the standby generator supplies a switchboard,
power may be distributed from the switchboard to
the emergency, legally required standby, and optional
standby systems, in accordance with Figure B.1 (a)
and B.1 (b), NFPA 110.
Emergency System
The EPSS must supply emergency loads through an
automatic transfer switch upon failure of the normal
supply. The transfer time limit must not exceed 10
seconds. At all critical facilities, automatic transfer
switches shall be provided with maintenance bypass
switches to allow the automatic transfer switch to be
maintained while still providing power to the building.
Emergency illumination must include all required
egress lighting, illuminated exit signs, and all other
lights specified as necessary to provide required
illumination. See Sections 6.3 and 6.8 for additional
criteria and requirements.
An emergency supply source must supply equipment
classified as emergency through an automatic
transfer switch upon failure of the normal supply.
• Emergency loads (life safety loads) must
include:
• Emergency lighting
• Fire alarm system
• Exit signs
• Automatic fire detection equipment for
smokeproof enclosures
• Emergency voice/alarm communication
systems
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• Smoke control systems• Exit stairway
pressurization systems
• Fire pump
• Pressure maintenance (jockey) pump
• Air compressors serving dry pipe or pre-
action systems
• Power and lighting for fire command center
and security control center
• Fire service access elevators and associated
controllers and the cooling and ventilation
equipment serving their machinery rooms
and machinery spaces (simultaneously all
designated elevators).
• Occupant evacuation elevators and
associated controllers and the cooling and
ventilation equipment serving their
machinery rooms and machinery spaces
(simultaneously all designated elevators).
Required Standby System
This system must automatically supply power to
selected loads (other than those classified as the
emergency system) upon failure of the normal source.
The transfer time limit must not exceed 60 seconds.
Required standby loads must include:
• Visitor screening equipment
• Telephone switches and fiber cable battery
systems
• Security systems
• Mechanical control systems
• BASs
• Sump pumps
• Sewage ejection pumps
• Uninterruptible power systems serving
technology/server rooms
• HVAC systems for technology/server rooms,
UPS rooms, and communications rooms
• Exhaust fan in UPS battery rooms
• FAA aircraft obstruction lights
• Drinking water booster pumps (high rise
buildings)
Optional Standby System
This system must supply power to the facilities or
property where life safety does not depend on the
performance of the system. The optional standby
system must supply on-site generated power to
selected loads, either automatically or by manual
transfer.
Optional standby system loads may include:
• General areas of the buildings
• HVAC and refrigeration systems
• Data processing and communications
systems
• Boiler, hot water pumps, perimeter HVAC
units, and any other ancillary heating
equipment necessary to freeze-protect the
building
• Receptacles and emergency lighting in large
conference rooms to facilitate command and
control operations during an emergency
situation
6.5.9.2 Generator System
The emergency and standby generator system must
consist of one or more central engine generators and
a separate distribution system with automatic
transfer switches, distribution panels, lighting panels,
and, where required, dry-type transformers feeding
208Y/120V panels. The electrical engineer must
coordinate with the mechanical engineer and
architect on the design of the generator system.
Service Conditions
If possible locate the generators outside and on
grade. If installed outdoors, they must be provided
with a suitable walk-in acoustic enclosure and jacket
water heaters to ensure reliable starting in cold
weather. If critical action structures must be located
within a floodplain, generators shall be elevated
above the 500-year base flood elevation.
When installed at high altitudes or in areas with very
high ambient temperatures, the generators must be
derated in accordance with manufacturers’
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recommendations. Operation of starting batteries
and battery chargers must also be considered in sizing
calculations. In humid locations heaters can reduce
moisture collection in the generator windings. Critical
silencers are required for all generators. Acoustical
treatment of the generator room must be provided as
necessary. Temperature and ventilation must be
maintained within the manufacturers’
recommendations to ensure proper operation of the
unit. Calculations to support the size of the intake air
supply for combustion, cooling, and radiation, as well
as exhaust piping and exhaust paths, must be
provided by the mechanical engineer in accordance
with Appendix A, Sections A.3 and A.4.
Radiators must be unit mounted if possible. If
ventilation is restricted in indoor applications, remote
installation is acceptable. Heat recovery and load
shedding must not be considered. The remote
location of radiators must be designed to avoid excess
pressure on the piping seals.
A permanently installed load bank, sized at a
minimum of 50 percent of generator rating, must be
provided. The load bank may be factory mounted to
the radiator. Care should be taken in selecting
materials that will tolerate the high temperatures
associated with radiator-mounted load banks to
include belts, flex connections, motors, sprinkler
heads, and so on.
Capacity
The engine generators must be sized to serve
approximately 150 percent of the design load and to
run at a maximum of 60 percent to 80 percent of their
rated capacities after the effect of the inrush current
declines. When sizing the generators, the initial
voltage drop on generator output due to starting
currents of loads must not exceed 15 percent. Day
tanks must be sized for a minimum capacity of four
hours of generator operation. Provide direct fuel oil
supply and fuel oil return piping to the on-site storage
tank (see Section 5.20 for additional requirements).
Piping must not be connected into the boiler transfer
fuel oil delivery “loop.”
Care must be exercised in sizing fuel oil storage tanks
by taking into account that the bottom 10 percent of
the tank is unusable and that the tank is normally not
full (normally at a 70 percent level) before the
operation of the generator.
Generator Alarms
Generator alarms must be provided on the exterior
wall of the generator room. All malfunctions must be
transmitted to the BAS. In all buildings, with or
without BAS, a generator alarm annunciator must be
located within the fire command center. The
generator output breaker must have a contact
connected to the BAS indicating output breaker
position, to allow annunciation of the open position
on the BAS.
Automatic Transfer Switches
Automatic transfer switches serving motor loads must
have in-phase monitors (to ensure transfer only when
normal and emergency voltages are in phase) to
prevent possible motor damage caused by an out-of-
phase transfer. They must also have pretransfer
contacts to signal time delay returns in the
emergency motor control centers.
Automatic transfer switches must include a bypass
isolation switch that allows manual bypass of the
normal or emergency source to ensure continued
power to emergency circuits in the event of a switch
failure or required maintenance.
Fuel Distribution System
See Chapter 5 for additional requirements for venting,
fuel oil piping, and underground fuel oil tanks.
Location
The generators and the generator control panel must
be located in separate rooms or enclosures.
Load Shedding
Life safety generators may be designed to operate in
parallel with the local utility, thus allowing for load
shedding and smart grid and intelligent building
initiatives. Before designing emergency generators for
peak shaving purposes, local, State, and Federal
authorities must be contacted due to the need for
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possible noise, air quality permitting, and additional
hardware requirements.
6.5.10 Clean Power Systems
6.5.10.1 Uninterruptible Power Systems
In some facilities, technology/server room backup
systems are designed by the tenant agency. If this is
the case, shell space and utility rough-ins must be
provided. In facilities where UPS systems are to be
provided as part of the building construction, they
must be designed as described in this section. All UPS
systems are considered to be above standard for GSA
space. Tenant agencies with UPS requirements should
be advised that a maintenance contract is
recommended.
Requirements for UPS systems must be evaluated on
a case-by-case basis. If UPS is required, it may or may
not require generator backup. When generator
backup is unnecessary, sufficient battery capacity
must be provided to allow for an orderly shutdown.
Critical Technical Loads
The nature, size, and locations of critical loads to be
supplied by the UPS will be provided in the program.
Noncritical loads must be served by separate
distribution systems supplied from either the normal
or electronic distribution system. A UPS system must
be sized with at least a 25 percent spare capacity. The
specification of a redundant module must depend
upon the criticality of the loads.
Emergency Electrical Power Source Requirements
When the UPS is running on the site emergency
generator, the amount of current to recharge the UPS
batteries must be limited so as to not overload the
generator. This limited battery charging load must be
added to the required standby load (see Section 6.12)
when sizing the standby generator.
If the UPS system is backed up by a generator to
provide for continuous operation, the generator must
provide power to all necessary auxiliary equipment,
i.e., the lighting, ventilation, and air conditioning
supplying the UPS and the critical technical area (see
Section 6.12).
System Status and Control Panel
The UPS must include all instruments and controls for
proper system operation. The system status panel
must have an appropriate audio/visual alarm to alert
operators of potential problems. It must include the
following monitoring and alarm functions: system on,
system bypassed, system fault, out of phase utility
fault, and closed generator circuit breaker. It must
have an audible alarm and alarm silencer button.
Since UPS equipment rooms are usually unattended,
an additional remote system status panel must be
provided in the space served by the UPS. The alarms
must also be transmitted to the BAS.
UPS and Battery Room Requirements
Emergency lighting must be provided in both spaces
and a telephone must be provided in or adjacent to
the UPS room. The battery room design must provide
proper ventilation, hydrogen detection, spill
containment, and working clearances. See Chapters 3,
5, and 7 for additional requirements for the UPS and
battery rooms. Also, see NFPA 70.
6.5.10.2 Computer Center Power
Distribution Unit
In some GSA buildings the power distribution system
for computer centers is designed by the tenant
agency. If this is the case, utility rough-in must be
provided under the construction contract. If power
distribution is to be provided under the building
contract, it must be designed according to the criteria
in this section.
Power Distribution Units (PDUs)
PDUs with internal or remote isolation transformers
and output panelboards must be provided in all
computer centers to reduce/eliminate harmonic
currents generated by nonlinear loads and reflected
back to the neutral service conductors. Neutral
busses/conductors must be sized at 200 percent of
phase busses/conductors. PDUs with internal or
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remote isolation transformers must be K-rated or
harmonic mitigating to serve nonlinear loads. The
transformer rating must take the increased neutral
size into account.
Computer Center Grounding
To prevent electrical noise from affecting computer
system operation, a low-frequency power system
grounding and a high-frequency signal reference
grounding system must be provided. The design of
the technology/server room grounding system must
be coordinated with the computer center staff.
Low-Frequency Power System Grounding
A safe, low-frequency, single-point grounding system
must be provided that complies with Article 250 of
NFPA 70. The single-point ground must be established
to ground the isolation transformer or its associated
main service distribution panel.
A grounding conductor must be run from the PDU
isolation transformer to the nearest effective earth
grounding electrode as defined in NFPA 70. All circuits
serving automated data processing (ADP) equipment
from a PDU must have grounding conductors equal in
size to the phase conductors.
High-Frequency Power System Grounding
A high-frequency signal reference grounding system
shall consist of a grid made up of 600 mm (2-ft.)
squares must be provided as a signal reference
grounding system. If a raised floor has been provided,
its grid with mechanically bolted stringers may be
used. Alternatively, a grid can be constructed by
laying a 600 mm mesh (2 ft. squares) of braided
copper strap or 1.3 mm (16 gauge, 0.051 in.) by 50
mm (2 in.) copper strap directly on the structural
floor. Data processing equipment must be connected
to the reference grid by the most direct route with a
braided copper strap.
Common-Mode Noise Reduction
The reduction of common-mode noise is particularly
important for the proper operation of computer-
based, distributed microprocessor-based systems,
i.e., BASs, electronic security systems, card-access
control systems, and local area networks.
The following steps must be taken to reduce
common-mode noise:
• Avoid running unshielded metallic signal or
data lines parallel to power feeders.
• Where metallic signal or data lines are
routed in noise- prone environments, use
shielded (grounded at one end) cables or
install wiring in ferrous metal conduit or
enclosed cable trays.
• Locate metallic signal or data lines and
equipment at a safe distance from arc-
producing equipment such as line voltage
regulators, transformers, battery chargers,
motors, generators, and switching devices.
• Provide isolation transformers, electronic
power distribution panelboards, or power
conditioners to serve critical electronics
equipment loads.
• Provide isolated grounding service on
dedicated circuits to critical data terminating
or communicating equipment.
• Replace metallic data and signal conductors
with fiber optic cables where practical.
6.5.10.3 Harmonic Generation, K-Rated and
HMT Transformers, Sizing of Neutrals
Harmonic frequencies are introduced into the branch
circuit distribution system by the power supplies of
the following equipment:
• Electronic ballasts
• Variable frequency drives
• PCs
• Laser printers
• File servers
• Fax machines
• Copiers
• Telecommunication equipment
K-rated transformers (K13 or higher) with a 200%
neutral must be used to help to dissipate the
additional heat that is a direct result of harmonic
distortion. A much better solution is to eliminate or
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cancel this harmonic distortion by the use of
harmonic mitigating transformers (HMT). Since
energy efficiency is of primary concern, HMTs are the
preferred solution.
Harmonic distortion will create overheating and
power quality problems such as overheating in
transformer and conductor neutrals, motor failure,
false tripping of protective devices, computer
operational problems, and hardware component
failures. To correct these problems, the electrical
design engineer must investigate the use of K-Rated
transformers (K-13 or higher) with a 200 percent
neutral, must feed branch circuit panelboards with
200 percent neutrals, and/or the use of harmonic
mitigating transformers (HMT). HMT are preferred
since they actually cancel the harmonic frequency
distortion.
All isolated ground, computer room, and
communication room transformers should have these
features specified.
6.5.11 Grounding Systems
Grounding systems must be designed to coordinate
with the specific type and size of the electrical
distribution system, including the following applicable
generic types of grounding systems or grounding
components.
6.5.11.1 Separate Equipment Ground
Conductors
The types, sizes, and quantities of equipment
grounding conductors must comply with NFPA 70,
Article 250, unless specific types, larger sizes, or more
conductors than required by NFPA 70 are indicated.
• Insulated equipment grounding conductors
must be installed with circuit conductors for
the following items, in addition to those
required by NFPA 70:
• Feeders and branch circuits
• Lighting circuits
• Receptacle circuits
• Single-phase motor and appliance branch
circuits
• Three-phase motor and appliance branch
circuits
• Flexible raceway runs
• Metal clad cable runs
• Cabletrays (bond each individual section)
6.5.11.2 Busway Supply Circuits
Insulated equipment grounding conductors must be
installed from the grounding bus in the switchgear,
switchboard, or distribution panel to the equipment
grounding bar terminal on the busway.
6.5.11.3 Separately Derived Grounds
To minimize extraneous “noise” on certain systems,
particularly those in which harmonics are generated,
the specific system grounds must be separated before
grounding at the service grounding electrode or
counterpoise.
6.5.11.4 Isolated Grounds
Isolated grounds must be applied where the
equipment served may be particularly sensitive to
external interference from sources generating third
harmonics and higher. In these instances the grounds,
beginning from the panelboard ground and the
grounding conductor from the raceway to the
grounding terminal at the receptacle or outlet box,
must be electrically isolated from the main grounding
system. The isolated grounds must terminate at a
common ground or counterpoise.
In buildings where a 208Y/120V service is supplied by
the power company and there is no intermediate
transformer isolating the utilization voltages from the
various harmonic generators previously mentioned,
the use of isolated ground panels serving the office
power requirements must be installed.
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6.5.11.5 Raised Floors
All access floors must be grounded. A grounding
conductor must be bonded to every other floor
pedestal and must be extended to the
technology/server room common ground bus.
6.5.11.6 Counterpoise
Where feasible, a grounding conductor (counterpoise)
must be provided in an isosceles triangle
configuration with sides greater than or equal to 3
meters (10 ft.). The conductor must be tinned copper
not less than No. 4/0 AWG and must be electrically
connected to the incoming domestic water services
(provided the piping for the water service is a
conducting material) on either side of the building as
well as the various clusters of three ground rods
spaced at intervals. Ground rods must be 15 mm (5/8
in.) diameter by 2,400 mm (96 in.) long and must be
tin coated copper. The counterpoise loop will involve
direct burial in earth 600 mm (24 in.) below grade.
The following items must be connected to the
counterpoise loop. All ground rod and grounding
connections must be exothermically welded:
• Lightning protection system “down
conductors”
• Transformers in substations
• Emergency generator ground
• Telecom and data room grounds
• Separately derived grounds
• Isolated ground panels
• Main switchgears
• Normal and emergency distribution systems
• Flagpoles
6.5.11.7 Common Ground System
Consideration should be given to providing a common
ground bus throughout the building. Conceptually a
common ground bus would originate from the main
service entrance and run up through stacked
electrical rooms, where an insulated wall-mounted
copper ground plate would be installed for
connecting any equipment needing a common
ground. Where conditions might prohibit an isosceles
triangle counterpoise ground, consideration should
be given to installing chemical ground rods in
trenches or borings supplemented with conductivity-
enhancing soil conditioners such as Bentonite clay or
conductive concrete.
6.5.12 Safety Systems, Equipment,
and Personal Protection
6.5.12.1 Lightning Protection Systems
Lightning protection systems are important safety
features in the design of electrical distribution
systems. Their application on any specific project is a
function of its geographic location, height, proximity
of taller adjacent structures, regional ground
resistance, and the architectural configuration of the
building. The decision to provide a lightning
protection system must be made at the earliest
stages of design and must be supported by a study, as
prescribed by NFPA 780.
If a decision is made to provide a lightning protection
system, specify that it be installed in compliance with
NFPA 780 and the components meet the
requirements of UL 96.
Alternate Systems
The requirement of a UL certification imposes certain
restrictions or limitations on the design of the system,
which may be in conflict with the architectural design,
particularly if the facade includes large curved
surfaces that preclude the installation of air terminals
and where the spacing of down conductors is limited.
In those instances, the electrical engineer may appeal
to the contracting officer to waive the UL certification
requirement on the basis that the design generally
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follows the Faraday Cage principle of lightning
protection.
Grounding
The down conductors must follow direct paths from
the air terminals to the ground connections or to the
counterpoise loop. Lightning ground conductors
should have long sweeping bends and not hard 90
degree bends forcing them to conform to
architectural building features.
6.5.12.2 Security Systems
Every government building, virtually without
exception, whether new or existing, large or small,
recent vintage or historic, must have provisions for a
security system. The type and level of security system
must be determined by GSA, FPS, and the client
agency. The security requirements must be integrated
into the design for the project. The systems must be
integrated with the emergency and standby power
systems.
6.5.12.3 Short Circuit and Coordination
Study
The electrical engineer must submit a preliminary
short circuit analysis on all projects in accordance
with Appendix A, Sections A.3 and A.4. The final
coordination and analysis must be completed by the
electrical contractor’s testing agency or by an
independent agency employed by GSA, and a report
must be submitted as part of the commissioning
process (see Chapter 1 for commissioning
requirements). This language must be written into the
design specifications.
Arc Flash
The design engineer must submit a computer-
generated arc flash analysis for the entire building
electrical distribution system. The data from the arc
flash calculations for individual pieces of electrical
equipment must be transposed to NFPA 70E-
approved labels and all panelboards, motor control
centers, switchgear, and major electrical equipment
must be appropriately labeled and protection
boundaries delineated per OSHA 1910 Subpart and
NFPA 70E requirements.
6.5.13 Alterations in Existing
Buildings and Historic Structures
The goal of alteration projects is to meet the same
standards described in this document for new
projects. The prospectus for a capital project, or
statement of work for a smaller project, will describe
the extent of the replacement and upgrade of existing
systems and equipment. Equipment that is unsafe or
beyond the useful service life must be demolished
and new systems designed to meet the current and
future usage of the facility. Renovation and
rehabilitation designs must satisfy the immediate
occupancy needs and anticipate additional future
changes. Remodeling must make building systems
more flexible. Parameters of reuse and disruption of
service must be clearly specified in construction
documents. All replacement and upgrades must
comply with the requirements of this chapter. The
result of these projects should be enhanced
performance, not just equipment replacement.
6.5.12.1 Lighting – Historic Buildings
Historic fixtures may be upgraded with energy
efficient lamps, ballasts, reflectors, or other means to
achieve required light levels, if changes can be made
without affecting the appearance of the fixture.
Energy-efficient light sources should match
incandescent light or daylight as closely as possible in
regards to temperature (color rendering) and the
surrounding lighting. In restoration zones,
opportunities should be sought to replace
unsympathetic contemporary lighting with replicas of
original historic fixtures. Replica fixtures in which light
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sources are not exposed should incorporate high-
output, energy efficient lamps as necessary to achieve
required light levels and meet energy conservation
standards. Supplemental lighting, if required, should
be designed and placed to minimize penetration of
ornamental wall and ceiling surfaces and to avoid
competing visually with historic lighting. Freestanding
torchieres, task lighting, and discrete accent lighting
are recommended for increasing light levels in
ceremonial spaces containing historic chandeliers,
pendant lights, or sconces.
6.5.14 Photovoltaic Systems
The installation of photovoltaic systems (PV) presents
concerns for safety (energized equipment, trip
hazards, etc.) and fire fighting operations (restricting
venting locations, limiting walking surfaces on roof
structures, etc.). The intent of the requirements
below is to address these issues while embracing the
environmental advantages of this technology.
Be cognizant that because of the growing demand for
photovoltaic system products, manufacturers are
developing new products and methods daily and
therefore GSA may encounter photovoltaic systems
that will require an alternative means of compliance.
Please note that it is not intended to prohibit the use
of alternative systems, methods, or devices not
specifically prescribed, provided GSA approves all
proposed alternatives.
Before the PV system installation, the GSA project
manager must meet with the contractor, GSA
property manager, GSA fire protection engineer, GSA
safety specialist, local power utility company, and
local fire official to ensure the proposed PV system
design and layout is acceptable to all parties.
Before the acceptance of the PV system, the GSA
project manager must confirm that the PV system has
been tested. All testing must be witnessed and
documented by a qualified independent third party
test entity. The third party test entity must have an
advanced understanding of the installation,
operation, and maintenance of the PV system
installed. Third party test entities must be licensed
(certified) where required by applicable codes and
standards. At completion of witnessing the PV system
testing, the third party test entity must provide to the
GSA project manager documentation verifying that
the PV system is in compliance with the design and
specifications and all applicable codes and standards.
6.5.14.1 Requirements
The installation of PV systems at GSA Federal
buildings must comply with the requirements in the
International Building Code, International Fire Code,
and National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 70,
National Electrical Code.
6.5.14.2 Special Requirements
The following requirements take precedence over the
requirements in the International Building Code and
International Fire Code:
• The materials used for marking must be
reflective and weather resistant in
accordance with UL 969 that is suitable for
the environment.
• Signage is required on all stairway doors
providing access to the roof where PV
systems are installed. Each stairway door
providing access to the roof must have a sign
affixed to the interior side of the stairway
door. The signage must contain the text
“CAUTION PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEM
INSTALLED ON ROOF.” The sign must consist
of letters having a principal stroke of not less
than 3/4 inch wide and be at least 6 inches
high on a contrasting background.
Marking Direct Current (DC) Circuits
All interior and exterior DC conduits, raceways,
enclosures, cable assemblies, and junction boxes
associated with the PV system must be marked to
alert individuals that DC power is present. The
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marking must be placed every 10 feet or fraction
thereof, at turns and above and below penetrations,
and on all DC combiner and junction boxes.
The marking must contain the text “CAUTION: PV
CIRCUIT ENERGIZED” in capital letters a minimum of
3/8 inches in height with white letters on a red
background. The materials used for marking must be
reflective and weather resistant in accordance with
UL 969 that is suitable for the environment.
6.5.14.3 Roof Clearance Requirements
The PV system, including supports and power
conductors, must not interfere with roof drains,
expansion joints, air intakes, existing electrical and
mechanical equipment, existing antennas, and
planned areas for future installation of equipment.
Rooftop installation must coordinate with the
building rigging plan associated with powered
platforms, boatswain chairs, etc., and address the
relocation or incorporation of the davits.
In addition to the pathway requirements noted
above, a 3-foot clear path of travel must be
maintained to and around all rooftop equipment.
6.5.14.4 Roof Mounting Requirements
Mounting systems must be either fully ballasted or
must limit penetrations of the roofing system. All roof
penetrations must be designed and constructed in
collaboration with the roofing professional or
manufacturer responsible for the roof and roofing
material warranty for the specific site. The number
and size of the penetrations necessary to extend the
power and control cable into the building must be
kept to a minimum and grouped in a single location
when practicable. All weather-proofing of
penetrations must be compatible with the roof
warranty.
6.5.14.5 Equipment and Components
All PV hardware and structural components must be
either stainless steel or aluminum.
All interconnecting wires must be copper. Power
provided must be compatible with on-site electric
distribution systems.
6.5.14.6 Safety
Provide detailed Lock Out/Tag Out instructions for all
equipment.
Provide lightning protection meeting UL96 and
NFPA780.
The design must meet the local, State and Federal
criteria for wind, snow, and seismic loads.
PV Modules must be UL Listed and must be properly
installed according to manufacturer’s instructions,
NFPA 70, and as specified herein.
6.5.14.7 PV System Approval
Before PV system installation, the GSA project
manager must ensure the proposed PV system design
and layout is acceptable to all parties:
• GSA Property Manager
• GSA Fire Protection Engineer
• GSA Safety Specialist
• GSA or contract structural engineer
• GSA electrical engineer
• Local fire officials
• The A/E must verify PV placement with the
local authorities.
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CHAPTER 7: FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE SAFETY
Chapter 7 ∙ Fire Protection and Life Safety
7.1 Goals and Objectives
The goal of GSA’s fire protection program is to
incorporate into all projects fire protection and life
safety systems that are effective in detecting,
extinguishing, or controlling a fire event, thereby
improving overall building safety to an acceptable
level. The primary goal is to protect human life from
fire and products of combustion. The secondary goals
are to reduce Federal Government and taxpayers’
potential losses from fire (i.e., protect Federal real
and personal property, maintain client agency mission
continuity, and control environmental impact).
7.1.1 Scope
This chapter provides the fire protection and life
safety requirements for GSA facilities to meet the
goals identified above. Areas where GSA’s
requirements differ from the referenced national
codes and standards are delineated in Chapter 1. The
provisions located in the introduction and in Chapter
1 within this document also apply to this chapter. All
other text is mandatory.
7.1.2 Applicability
Where work areas consist of portions of a building,
the requirements within this chapter must be limited
to the work area in which work is being performed,
unless specified otherwise by the GSA regional fire
protection engineer.
7.1.3 Responsibilities
7.1.3.1 Design Team Fire Protection
Engineer
A fire protection engineer must be a full participant of
the design team for each phase of the project from
concept through design, construction, and occupancy.
The design team fire protection engineer must be
licensed and have at least six years’ experience, of
which at least three consecutive years are directly
involved in fire protection engineering and life safety
applicable to the specific project as determined by
the GSA regional fire protection engineer, and which
can be verified by documentation. (Please note that
GSA does not require the design professional to be
licensed in the State where the project is being
constructed, so the design team fire protection
engineer may be licensed in any State that formally
recognizes a professional fire protection engineer.)
The design team fire protection engineer must
perform the following:
Analysis of:
• Building construction
• Occupancy classification
• Means of egress
• Water-based fire extinguishing system(s)
• Non-water-based fire extinguishing system(s)
• Smoke control system(s)
Calculations for:
• Egress
• Water supply
• Smoke control (fire dynamics) and timed
egress
• Audibility for fire alarm system
Design of all fire protection and life safety systems,
including, but not limited to:
• Water-based fire extinguishing system(s)
• Smoke control systems and stair
pressurization systems
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The design team fire protection engineer must also
establish and maintain a dialog with the GSA regional
fire protection engineer to ensure that all fire
protection and life safety issues are addressed
throughout each phase of the project.
See the Appendices for New Construction and
Modernizations and for Alteration Projects for specific
submission requirements.
7.3.1.2 GSA Regional Fire Protection
Engineer
The GSA regional fire protection engineer will
participate in each phase of the project from concept
through design, construction, final acceptance, and
occupancy to ensure fire protection and life safety
requirements are incorporated into the project. The
GSA regional fire protection engineer will review
design plans, specifications, and related information;
review contractors’ submittals for compliance with
contract documents; witness acceptance testing and
commissioning of fire protection and life safety
systems; and upon successful completion of
commissioning and acceptance of tested systems, will
issue certificates of occupancy (or temporary
certificates of occupancy) before occupancy.
The GSA regional fire protection engineer is the
authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) for technical
requirements in this chapter, including all fire
protection and life safety code interpretations and
code enforcement requirements. As the AHJ, the GSA
regional fire protection engineer has the right to
revise the specific requirements within this chapter
based on a technical evaluation and analysis and the
project’s specific needs.
7.3.1.3 Alternative Designs
The design team fire protection engineer may
propose alternative designs to that prescribed herein,
but the GSA regional fire protection engineer must
approve the alternative design. Such review must
determine if the proposed alternative is deemed
equivalent or superior to the intent of the prescribed
requirements in this chapter. See Chapter 1 for
additional information.
7.3.1.4 Certificate of Occupancy
No portion of a project may be occupied until the GSA
regional fire protection engineer has issued a
certificate of occupancy to the GSA project manager.
Issuance of a certificate of occupancy must not be
construed as an approval of any violation of a national
code or GSA design standard or criterion.
The GSA regional fire protection engineer is required
to issue a certificate of occupancy to the GSA project
manager once the GSA regional fire protection
engineer has determined that to the best of his or her
knowledge all fire protection and life safety systems
have been completed, inspected, successfully tested,
and approved, and all outstanding fire and life safety
deficiencies have been corrected to afford a
reasonable degree of safety to the building occupants
from fire and similar emergencies.
The GSA regional fire protection engineer is
authorized to issue a temporary certificate of
occupancy that allows partial occupancy of the
building in a specific area(s) before completion of the
project. The temporary certificate of occupancy
identifies the specific area(s) of the project where
occupancy is permitted and will be issued only if all
life safety and fire protection systems serving the
areas proposed for occupancy and all the floors below
it have been completed, inspected, successfully
tested, and approved by the GSA regional fire
protection engineer. Following the issuance of a
temporary certificate of occupancy, the GSA regional
fire protection engineer is required to set a time
frame for the completion of all remaining life safety
and fire protection systems and the correction of any
outstanding life safety and fire protection
deficiencies. The GSA regional fire protection
engineer will issue a (final) certificate of occupancy to
the GSA project manager once the GSA regional fire
protection engineer has determined that to the best
of his or her knowledge all fire protection and life
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safety systems have been completed, inspected,
successfully tested, and approved, and all outstanding
fire and life safety deficiencies have been corrected.
7.2 References
The national codes and standards adopted by GSA are
discussed in Chapter 1. Additional codes and
standards for the design of fire protection and life
safety systems are included in the text of this chapter
and listed in Appendix B, References.
7.3 General Design
Requirements
7.3.1 Fire Safety During Construction
and Renovation Projects
Fire safety during construction must comply with the
requirements in the IBC, IFC, and NFPA 241.
7.2.3.1 Fire Protection Systems
Disruptions to fire alarm and sprinkler systems must
be kept to a minimum or avoided. The design team
fire protection engineer must delineate phasing of
construction to ensure that installations of new
systems are expedited and existing systems are kept
in service until the replacement system is operational.
If fire protection systems are to be disrupted,
procedures must be incorporated into the design to
maintain equivalent levels of fire protection and
provide formal notification to the facility while
systems are down.
The GSA regional fire protection engineer must make
the final determination of the adequacy of proposed
equivalent levels of fire protection before the
disruption of any fire protection system. For example,
the provision of a 24-hour fire watch by qualified
individuals may provide an equivalent level of fire
protection during system disruption in some
circumstances.
7.3.2 Building Construction
For each construction type, fire-resistive ratings of
structural members, building height, area, separation,
and requirements for rated exterior walls and
openings for protection from exposure by adjacent
buildings or hazards must comply with the
7.3.3 Occupancy Classifications
Occupancy classifications must meet the
7.4 Means of Egress
The means of egress requirements for the building
must meet the requirements in NFPA 101. The
technical egress requirements in NFPA 101 must be
used in place of the technical egress requirements in
the IBC.
7.4.1 Special Requirements
requirements in NFPA 101:
• In buildings that are protected throughout by
an automatic sprinkler system, one-hour fire-
rated corridors are not required.
• Interlocking (scissor) stairs must count as
only one exit stair. A minimum of two exit
stairs are required for any multistory
building.
• For common paths of travel and dead-end
corridors, GSA permits the NFPA 101
exceptions for sprinkler protection to apply
to individual floors protected through-out by
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sprinklers, even if the other floors of the
building do not have sprinkler protection.
• Fire escapes, as defined in the NFPA 101, are
not considered approved exits.
• In addition to meeting the arrangement of
egress requirements, where the building has
an occupied floor surface located more than
22.8 m (75 ft.) above the lowest level of fire
department vehicle access, the exit stair
enclosures must be separated by a distance
not less than 9.1 m (30 ft.) or not less than
one fourth of the length of the overall
diagonal dimension of the building or area
served, whichever is less. The distance must
be measured in a straight line between the
nearest point of the exit stair enclosure.
• Where the building has an occupied floor
surface located more than 22.8 m (75 ft.)
above the lowest level of fire department
vehicle access, or more than 9.1 m (30 ft.)
below the level of exit discharge serving such
floor levels, exit stairways must be
pressurized in accordance with the
7.4.2 Exit Stair Path Markings and
Stairway Identification Signage
Where the building has an occupied floor surface
located more than 22.8 m (75 ft.) above the lowest
level of fire department vehicle access, exit
enclosures must be equipped with exit stairway
identification signage meeting the requirements in
NFPA 101 and made of a material having a
luminescent background.
7.5 Interior Finishes
The interior finish requirements for walls, ceilings,
floors, draperies, curtains, and movable partitions
must meet the requirements in the IBC.
Special Requirements
requirements in the IBC:
• Adhesives and other materials used for the
installation of carpets must be limited to
those having a flash point of 60° C (140° F)
or higher.
• Wood used in construction that is required
to be fire retardant must be treated with
fire retardant chemicals by a pressure
impregnation process or other method that
treats the materials throughout (as
opposed to surface treatment).
7.6 Fire Alarm and Emergency
Communication Systems
Fire alarm and emergency communication systems
must be installed in accordance with the
requirements in NFPA 72, the IBC, and the
appropriate GSA fire alarm system specification.
requirements in NFPA 72 and the IBC:
• All fire alarm systems installed in buildings
must be an emergency communication
system when any one of the following
conditions exists:
o The building is two or more stories in
height above the level of exit discharge.
o The total calculated occupant load of the
building is 300 or more occupants.
o The building is subject to 100 or more
occupants above or below the level of
exit discharge.
• The emergency communication system must
provide an automatic voice message in
response to the receipt of a signal indicative
of a fire emergency. Manual control with the
capability of making live voice
announcements must also be furnished to
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provide occupants notification on either a
selective or all-call basis.
• With the exception of mass notification, a
fire alarm and emergency communication
system are not permitted to be integrated
with other building systems such as building
automation, energy management, security,
and so on. Fire alarm and emergency
communication systems must be self-
contained, standalone systems able to
function independently of other building
systems.
• Fire alarm and emergency communication
system control equipment that is installed in
non-high-rise buildings must be located
within a room separated from the remainder
of the building by not less than a one-hour
fire resistance-rated fire barrier. The room
must be provided in a location approved by
the GSA fire protection engineer after
consultation with the local fire department.
The room must be a minimum of 9.3 m
2
(100
sq. ft.) with a minimum dimension of 2.4 m
(8 ft.).
• Fire alarm and emergency communication
system control equipment that is installed in
U.S. Courthouses must include redundant
functionality installed within the U.S.
Marshals Service (USMS) Command and
Control Center. The redundant controls must
have the same capabilities and operation as
the main fire alarm and emergency
communication system control unit,
including annunciation, except there must be
no capability to initiate “Signal Silence”
(turning notification appliances off),
“Acknowledge” (of any signal), and “Reset”
(resetting the system to normal) operations.
In addition, the control unit’s alarm,
supervisory, and trouble audible signals must
be capable of being silenced. Subsequent
alarm, supervisory, and trouble conditions
must cause the local audible signal to
resound. The master microphone located at
the main fire alarm and emergency
communication system control unit must be
arranged to take priority over the redundant
microphone located in the USMS Command
and Control Center.
• All fire alarm signals (i.e., alarm, supervisory,
and trouble signals) must be automatically
transmitted to a supervising station
evaluated by Underwriters Laboratories (UL)
to UL Standard 827, Central Station Alarm
Services (UUFX Category Code). The
communication methods used to transmit
signals to the supervising station shall meet
the requirements in NFPA 72. Two different
communication paths are required to be
provided.
• Operation of a duct smoke detector must
initiate a supervisory signal.
• All fire alarm wiring shall be solid copper and
installed in conduit. Stranded wiring must
not be used.
• Conduit must be rigid metal or electrical
metallic tubing, with a minimum inside
diameter of 19 mm (3/4 inch) that utilizes
compression type fittings and couplings.
7.6.1 Manual Fire Alarm Boxes
Manual fire alarm boxes must be installed in
accordance with the requirements in NFPA 72 and the
IBC.
The following requirement takes precedence over the
• Manual fire alarm boxes must be installed in
all new fire alarm system projects in
accordance with the spacing and location
7.6.2 Waterflow Switches
Waterflow switch(es) must be installed in accordance
with the requirements in NFPA 13, NFPA 72, and the
IBC.
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requirements in NFPA 13, NFPA 72, and the IBC:
• Waterflow switch(es) must be installed on
each floor or fire area protected by sprinkler
systems.
• Each waterflow switch must be separately
annunciated at the main fire alarm control
unit and all required annunciators.
7.6.3 Smoke Detectors
Smoke detectors must be installed in accordance with
the requirements in NFPA 72 and the IBC
• Area smoke detectors must not be installed in
any of the following rooms: mechanical
equipment rooms, electrical closets,
telephone closets, and emergency generator
rooms.
• Smoke detectors specifically for the
protection of the fire control unit(s),
notification appliance circuit power
extenders, and supervising station
transmitting equipment must not be installed
in a building protected throughout by an
automatic sprinkler system.
• Smoke detection appropriate for the
application must be installed in each of the
following: uninterruptible power service
rooms, electrical switch gear rooms,
transformer vaults, telephone exchanges, and
information technology equipment as
specified in this chapter. When smoke
detection is installed in rooms having high
voltage equipment, the smoke detection must
not be installed directly above the high
voltage equipment.
• Duct smoke detectors must meet the
requirements in NFPA 90A.
7.6.4 Audible Notification Appliances
Performance, location, and mounting of audible
notification appliances must be in accordance with
the requirements in NFPA 72.
• The design for achieving the required
minimum dBA levels must take into
consideration all building construction
materials such as carpeting, hard surfaces,
walls, doors, etc., and any other materials that
can cause sound level attenuation and/or
clarity problems in the placement and
location of all audible notification appliances.
• Where emergency communication systems
are provided, fire alarm speakers must be
installed in elevator cars and exit stairways;
however, they must only be activated to
broadcast live voice messages (e.g., manual
announcements). The automatic voice
messages must be broadcast through the fire
alarm speakers on the appropriate floors, but
not in stairs or elevator cars.
• To prevent external tapping of the
audio/speaker circuit(s) serving a sensitive
compartmented information facility, any of
the following methods are permitted to be
used:
o Self-amplified speakers
o Remote dedicated amplification
o Remote signal modules
7.6.5 Visible Notification Appliances
Placement and spacing of visible notification
appliances must be in accordance with the
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• Unless the project includes a new fire alarm
system or a complete replacement of an
existing fire alarm system, visible notification
appliances are not required to be installed in
areas where visible notification appliances do
not currently exist or where noncompliant
existing visible notification appliances
currently exist. This requirement does not
preclude the addition of new visible
notification appliances to existing fire alarm
systems that contain existing compliant visible
notification appliances.
• Visible notification appliances must be
installed only in public and common areas. For
the purposes of this requirement, visible
notification appliances are not required to be
installed in individual offices. Public and
common areas include public rest rooms,
reception areas, building core areas,
conference rooms, open office areas, and so
on.
• Visible notification appliances are not
permitted to be installed in exit enclosures
(e.g., exit stairs).
7.6.6 Occupant Notification
Transmission of an alarm signal from any fire alarm
system initiation device to notify the occupants
throughout the building must be in accordance with
the requirements in NFPA 72 and the IBC.
• All alarm signals transmitted from any fire
alarm system initiation device must activate
the respective building audible and visible
notification appliances to notify the
occupants.
• Duct smoke detectors must not activate the
fire alarm system notification appliances.
7.6.7 Fire Alarm Notification
Strategies for High-Rise Buildings
In high-rise buildings, the fire alarm and emergency
communication system must be designed for selective
evacuation, unless specifically approved otherwise by
the GSA regional fire protection engineer. The GSA
regional fire protection engineer must establish a
dialogue with the design team fire protection
engineer to determine specific evacuation strategies
for the building and subsequent operational features
of the fire alarm system. This includes, but is not
limited to, determining how and where the “fire
zone” and “safe area zone” messages are used. The
visible alarm notification appliance circuits must not
be activated on floors designated as safe area zones.
7.6.8 Survivability
The fire alarm and emergency communication system
must meet the survivability requirements in NFPA 72.
• Two vertical risers (e.g., supply and return
inter-connected network circuits Style 7–Class
X) must be installed as far from each other as
practicable so that a single fire does not
impact both risers.
• The two vertical risers must be protected by a
minimum two-hour rated enclosure or an
approved two-hour rated cable or system that
is not common to both vertical risers.
(Pathway Survivability Level 2 or 3).
• The horizontal interconnection between the
two vertical risers at the top and bottom must
be protected by a minimum two-hour rated
enclosure, or an approved two-hour rated
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cable or system, or an approved construction
material having a two-hour fire resistance
rating. (Pathway Survivability Level 2 or 3).
• All circuits (speaker/audio, SLC, network,
and/or power) necessary for the operation of
the notification appliances must be protected
until they enter the evacuation signaling zone
(usually a floor) by a minimum two-hour rated
enclosure, or an approved two-hour cable or
system, or an approved construction material
having a two-hour fire resistance rating.
(Pathway Survivability Level 2 or 3)
• A minimum of two distinct fire alarm audible
notification appliance circuits and a minimum
of two distinct visible notification appliance
circuits must be provided on each floor.
• Circuit integrity cable, if used, must be
installed in EMT, IMT, or rigid metal conduit
for mechanical protection.
• Provide a minimum of three Class B Signaling
Line Circuits (SLC) per floor if the gross floor
area is greater than 2,415 m2 (26,000 sq. ft.)
but less than 4,830 m2 (52,000 sq. ft.) gross
area. Provide a minimum of four Class B
Signaling Line Circuits (SLC) for all floors
where the aforementioned areas are
exceeded. The floor SLC’s must be isolated
from the SLC risers and network. The system
must be designed and installed so that a
single wire to wire short or any other single
Style 4 (Class B) impairment on an SLC does
not affect more than one half of the area of
the floor or 1,207 m
2
(13,000 sq. ft.),
whichever is less.
7.6.9 Fire Command Center
The fire command center must meet the
• Each fire command center must be provided
in a location approved by the GSA regional fire
protection engineer after consultation with
the local fire department.
• Each fire command center must be provided
with appropriate lighting, ventilation, and
emergency lighting.
• Each fire command center must have a way to
provide the responding fire department with
the ability to operate the building’s lighting
system from the fire command center.
7.6.10 Annunciator
All fire alarm systems must have at least one
annunciator located in plain view within 7.6 m (25 ft.)
of the primary fire department entrance to the
building.
7.7 Water Supply for Fire
Protection
The design team fire protection engineer must assess
the adequacy of the existing water supply. The design
team fire protection engineer must perform water
supply flow testing of fire hydrants and/or fire pumps.
If the hydraulic data is less than one year old and is
available from the local jurisdiction, the design team
fire protection engineer must verify the locations
involved as well as the quality and accuracy of the
data. The required fire water flows and pressures for
buildings must comply with the requirements in NFPA
13, 14, and 20. In addition, a secondary on-site water
supply equal to the hydraulically calculated sprinkler
demand must be provided for high-rise buildings
assigned to Seismic Design Category C, D, E, or F as
determined by the IBC.
7.7.1 Fire Pumps
When a fire pump is necessary to supplement fire
water flow and pressure, the size and the installation
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of the fire pump must be in accordance with the
requirements of NFPA 13, 14, and 20.
requirements in NFPA 13, 14, and 20:
• The building’s fire pump must be sized for the
sprinkler system requirements only if the local
responding fire department can provide the
necessary flow and pressure for manual fire
fighting operations (i.e., hose stations),
through fire department Siamese
connections. Where fire pumps are provided
to supply other fire suppression activities,
they must be sized in accordance with the
appropriate NFPA standard.
• A fire pump must start automatically at 69 kPa
(10 psi) below pressure maintenance pump
(jockey pump) start pressure. The fire pump
must be manually shut down.
• The fire pump installation must include a test
header and a flow meter.
• Emergency power must be provided in
accordance with the requirements in Chapter
6.
• The power transfer switch and the fire pump
controller must be factory assembled and
packaged as a single unit. Separate transfer
switches are not permitted. The fire pump
controller must be monitored by the fire
alarm system.
7.7.2 Pressure Maintenance Pump
(Jockey Pump)
A pressure maintenance pump must be used to
maintain a uniform or relatively high pressure on the
fire protection system. A jockey pump must be sized
to make up the allowable leakage rate within 10
minutes or 3.8 lpm (1 gpm), whichever is larger. The
pressure maintenance pump must be equipped with
emergency power.
7.7.3 Fire Hydrants
New fire hydrants must be installed in accordance
with the requirements in NFPA 24 and the IFC unless
the locations of the existing fire hydrants provide
adequate coverage for the subject project. The local
fire department must be consulted with regard to the
location of the fire hydrants and thread types for
hydrant outlets.
7.7.4 Post Indicator Valve
In a campus setting a post indicator valve is required
on the fire protection service for each building.
7.8 Automatic Sprinkler and
Standpipe Systems
Automatic sprinkler systems must be installed in
accordance with the requirements in NFPA 13, the
IBC, and the appropriate GSA sprinkler system
specification.
• Automatic sprinklers must be installed
throughout all new construction and
renovation projects where the building has a
sufficient municipal water supply system for
the design and installation of a sprinkler
system at the site.
• Automatic sprinklers must be installed
throughout the designated work area for all
alteration projects where the building has a
sufficient municipal water supply system for
the design and installation of a sprinkler
system at the site.
• Where project sites are located in remote or
isolated areas having insufficient or
nonexistent water supplies in close proximity,
design the fire sprinkler system in accordance
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with NFPA 13. See Automatic Sprinkler
Systems for Remote or Isolated Facilities for
additional information regarding automatic
sprinkler system requirements.
• Where automatic sprinklers are required to be
installed, they must be installed throughout
all locations unless the subject locations are
specifically exempted by NFPA 13 or the IBC.
Where sprinklers are exempted from rooms
or areas, such rooms or areas must be
separated from adjacent sprinklered rooms or
areas by fire barriers having a two-hour fire-
resistance rating.
• All sprinkler systems must be wet-pipe
sprinkler systems, unless installed in areas
subject to freezing.
• In areas subject to freezing, dry-pipe sprinkler
systems, dry pendent sprinklers, heating the
space, or rerouting sprinkler piping to heated
areas is required. Heat tape is not permitted
on sprinkler piping.
• Seismic protection must be installed where
required in the IBC.
• Sprinkler systems must be designed using a
minimum system design area of 139 m
2
(1,500
sq. ft.). No decreases are permitted.
• Where floor openings are not classified as
atriums, the sprinklers at the ceiling must be
zoned with the lower level if it is enclosed on
the upper level (the enclosure is effectively
creating a high ceiling). Otherwise, sprinklers
must be zoned with the upper level.
• Sprinkler system control valves must be
located in accessible spaces. Sprinkler system
control valves are not permitted in above-
ceiling spaces.
• Antifreeze sprinkler systems are not
permitted to be installed.
• Pre-action-type sprinkler systems are not
• Sprinkler guards must be provided in the
following locations:
o Sprinklers installed less than 2.1 m (7 ft.)
above the floor
o Sprinklers installed within elevator
machine rooms and elevator pits
o Sprinklers installed within electrical
closets
o Sprinklers installed within electrical
equipment rooms
• Sprinklers installed in electrical switchgear
rooms and transformer vaults must be provided
with separate manual isolation valves and a
separate water flow switch located outside the
room in an accessible location. Tamper switches
must be provided on all such valves.
7.8.1 Types of Sprinklers
Sprinklers must be selected based on the associated
hazards within the occupancy to be protected in
accordance with the requirements in NFPA 13 and the
IBC.
• Sprinklers equipped with “O-ring” water seals
are not permitted to be installed.
7.8.2 Sprinkler Piping
Sprinkler piping, fittings, control valves, check valves,
and drain assemblies must meet the requirements in
NFPA 13.
• Black steel piping and copper tubing must be
used for all wet-pipe sprinkler piping.
Chlorinated polyvinyl chloride sprinkler piping is
not to be installed unless specifically approved
for installation by the GSA regional fire
• Galvanized (internal and external) sprinkler
piping is not permitted to be used for dry-pipe
sprinkler systems.
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• Steel pipe sizes 51 mm (2 in.) and smaller must
be Schedule 40 and must be threaded.
• Steel pipe sizes larger than 51 mm (2 in.) must
be minimum Schedule 10. Piping less than
Schedule 40 must be roll grooved.
• Threadable lightwall pipe is not permitted be
installed.
• Steel piping having a corrosion-resistant ratio
less than 1 is not permitted to be installed.
• Plain-end fittings are not permitted to be
installed.
7.8.3 Automatic Sprinkler Systems for
Remote or Isolated Facilities
The requirements below apply to facilities located in
remote or isolated areas having insufficient or
nonexistent water supply sources for the design and
installation of a fire sprinkler system in accordance
with the requirements in NFPA 13. These facilities
must also meet the criteria set forth below to
determine when it is not economically feasible to
install automatic fire sprinkler protection in
accordance with NFPA 13.
If the following conditions exist, the sprinkler system
must be designed in accordance with the
requirements in NFPA 13D:
• The costs associated with the installation of
the interior NFPA 13 fire sprinkler system
(which include all costs such as labor,
materials, the adequate water supply source,
pumps, etc.) exceed $10.00 per square foot;
and
• The costs associated with connecting the
interior NFPA 13 fire sprinkler system to the
adequate water supply source (which include
all costs such as labor, materials, the
adequate water supply source, pumps, etc.)
are greater than 50 percent of the cost for
the installation of the interior NFPA 13 fire
sprinkler system.
requirements in NFPA 13D:
• The water supply source for the sprinkler
system must be a minimum of 3,785.4 liters
(1,000 gallons) and must be capable of
meeting system demands for at least 30
minutes.
• Antifreeze sprinkler systems are not
7.8.4 Fire Department Connections
Fire department connections must meet the
• UL-listed locking fire department connection
caps must be installed on all fire department
connections where the local fire department
has a program and the hardware to
accommodate locking fire department caps.
7.8.5 Standpipes
Standpipes must be installed in buildings where
required in the IBC.
• All standpipes must be connected to the fire
protection water supply, permanently
pressurized, and installed in accordance with
the requirements in NFPA 14. The standpipe
water supply must be in accordance with the
requirements specified within this chapter.
• Dry standpipes must be permitted to be
installed only in spaces subject to freezing.
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• Where standpipe and sprinkler systems are
required, a combination sprinkler/standpipe
system design must be provided.
7.8.6 Fire Department Hose Outlets
Fire department hose outlets must be installed in
buildings where required in the IBC.
• Each fire main riser must be provided with 63 mm
(2 1/2 in.) fire department hose outlets.
• Each outlet must be located in the stair shaft and
have a removable 38 mm (1 1/2 in.) adapter and cap.
Threads and valves must be compatible with the local
fire department requirements.
7.9 Non-Water-Based Fire
Extinguishing Systems
7.9.1 Wet Chemical Extinguishing
Systems
Wet chemical extinguishing systems must be installed
to protect commercial food heat-processing
appliances required to have a Type 1 hood in
accordance with the requirements in NFPA 17A.
7.9.2 Dry Chemical Extinguishing
Systems
Dry chemical extinguishing systems are not permitted
to be installed to protect any commercial cooking
equipment installations.
7.9.3 Clean Agent Extinguishing
Systems
Clean agent extinguishing systems are not permitted
to be installed, unless specifically approved for
installation by the GSA regional fire protection
engineer. The approved clean agent extinguishing
system is considered a supplemental fire
extinguishing system and is not to be installed in
place of a wet-pipe sprinkler system.
7.9.4 Carbon Dioxide Fire
Extinguishing Systems
Carbon dioxide fire extinguishing systems are not
7.9.5 Portable Fire Extinguishers and
Cabinets
Portable fire extinguishers and cabinets must be
installed in accordance with the requirements of the
IBC.
• In office buildings protected throughout with
quick- response sprinklers, portable fire
extinguishers must only be installed in areas
such as mechanical and elevator equipment
areas, computer rooms, UPS rooms,
generator rooms, kitchen areas, and special
hazard areas.
7.10 Elevator Systems
Elevator systems must be designed and installed in
accordance with the requirements in ASME Standard
A17.1/CSA B44 and the IBC.
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• In sprinklered buildings, each elevator
machine room must be protected by a wet-
pipe sprinkler system using standard
response sprinklers having an intermediate-
temperature rating, unless the GSA regional
fire protection engineer permits the
elimination of the sprinklers in the elevator
machine room.
• The sprinkler system for the elevator
machine room must be provided with
separate manual isolation valves and a
separate water flow switch located outside
the room in an accessible location. Tamper
switches must be provided on all such valves.
• Sprinkler protected elevator machine rooms
containing elevator control equipment must
be provided with a means to disconnect
automatically the main line power supply to
the affected elevator immediately upon or
prior to the discharge of water from
sprinklers in accordance with the
• Except for enclosed lobbies required for fire
service access elevators and occupant
evacuation elevators, enclosed elevator
lobbies are not required to be provided in
buildings protected throughout by an
automatic sprinkler system unless the total
height of any hoistway(s) sharing a common
atmosphere exceeds 420 feet (128 m).
• The height of elevator hoistways sharing a
common atmosphere by elevator door
openings at a common floor or by openings
between hoistways shall be measured from
the top of the lowest finished floor to the top
of the highest finished floor of the floors
served by the non separated hoistways.
• Fire service access elevators and occupant
evacuation elevators can share a common
lobby. Access to not more than one of the
two required exits can be provided through
enclosed elevator lobbies.
7.10.1 Fire Service Access Elevators
Fire service access elevators must be designed and
installed in accordance with the requirements in the
IBC and ASME Standard A17.1/CSA B44.
requirements in the IBC and ASME Standard
A17.1/CSA B44:
General
Where fire service access elevators are required, a
minimum of two elevators each having a minimum
1,588 kilograms (3,500 pounds) capacity serving every
floor must be provided. At least one fire service
access elevator must be sized to accommodate a
stretcher in accordance with the requirements in the
IBC. These fire service access elevators are not
intended to be for exclusive use of the fire
department and may be available for public use under
nonemergency conditions.
Water Protection
An approved method to prevent water from
infiltrating into the hoistway enclosure from the
operation of the automatic sprinkler system outside
the enclosed fire service access elevator lobby shall
be provided. The performance-based language
permits alternate design options to prevent water
from and operating sprinkler system outside the
enclosed fire service access elevator lobby from
infiltrating the hoistway enclosure.
Standby Power
Sufficient standby power (Type 60/Class X/Level 1)
must be provided to operate all designated fire
service access elevators along with their associated
controllers and the cooling and ventilation equipment
serving their machinery rooms and machinery spaces,
simultaneously. The design team fire protection
engineer must evaluate and conduct an analysis to
determine the appropriate minimum time, in hours,
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that standby power must be provided following loss
or failure of the normal power supply for the fire
service access elevators to operate for the specific
building and application.
7.10.1.4 Occupant Evacuation
Elevators
Occupant evacuation elevators must be designed and
installed in accordance with the requirements in the
IBC and ASME Standard A17.1.
requirements in the IBC and ASME Standard A17.1:
General
In any new construction project, when the building
has an occupied floor more than 36.5 m (120 ft.)
above the lowest level of fire department vehicle
access, occupant evacuation elevators must be
installed. All passenger elevators for general public
use, except for those designated as fire service access
elevators, must be designated as occupant evacuation
elevators in accordance with this section.
Water Protection
An approved method to prevent water from
infiltrating into the hoistway enclosure from the
operation of the automatic sprinkler system outside
the enclosed occupant evacuation elevator lobby shall
be provided. The performance-based language
permits alternate design options to prevent water
from an operating sprinkler system outside the
enclosed occupant evacuation elevator lobby from
infiltrating the hoistway enclosure.
Standby Power
Sufficient standby power (Type 60/Class X/Level 1)
must be provided to operate all designated occupant
evacuation elevators along with their associated
controllers and the cooling and ventilation equipment
serving their machinery rooms and machinery spaces,
simultaneously. The design team fire protection
engineer must evaluate and conduct an analysis to
determine the appropriate minimum time, in hours,
that standby power must be provided following loss
or failure of the normal power supply for the
occupant evacuation elevators to operate for the
specific building and application.
7.11 Special Fire Protection
Requirements
7.11.1 Air Distribution Systems
Fire dampers and smoke dampers installed in air
distribution systems must be installed in accordance
with the requirements in NFPA 90A.
requirements in NFPA 90A:
• In buildings protected throughout by an
automatic sprinkler system, smoke dampers
are not required to be installed at
penetrations of shafts unless smoke dampers
are used as part of a smoke control system.
7.11.2 Information Technology
Equipment Rooms
Information technology equipment rooms containing
high-value or mission-essential electrical equipment
(such as mainframe computers) with the potential for
high dollar loss or business interruption must be
designed in accordance with the requirements in
NFPA 75 and the appropriate GSA computer room fire
alarm system specification.
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• A wet-pipe sprinkler system must be
provided throughout the area, including data
storage areas.
• Quick-response sprinklers must be installed
throughout the area, including data storage
areas.
• The sprinkler system must have a separate
isolation valve and a separate water flow
switch located outside of each protected
area in an accessible location. Each valve
must be provided with a tamper switch that
is connected to the building’s fire alarm
system.
• Activation of the sprinkler water flow switch
must disconnect power to the information
technology equipment and to the HVAC
systems with no time delay.
• The activation of one intelligent
analog/addressable photoelectric smoke
detector utilizing early warning smoke
detection technology (e.g., smoke detectors
having enhanced algorithms, fire alarm
control panel having capability to program
individual smoke detector response
parameters, or smoke detectors using air
sampling technology for use in information
technology equipment rooms) within a single
protected area must disconnect power to
the information technology equipment and
to the HVAC system after a preset time
delay.
• Clean agent fire extinguishing systems are
not permitted to be installed in information
technology equipment rooms, unless
warranted by risk and specifically approved
by the GSA regional fire protection engineer.
• Underfloor spaces within information
technology equipment rooms must be
protected with a fire suppression system
only where the risk warrants this protection
and when approved by the GSA regional fire
protection engineer. If underfloor fire
suppression is to be installed in an
underfloor space that is 457 mm (18 in.) or
greater in height, an automatic sprinkler
system must be installed. If underfloor fire
suppression is to be installed in an
underfloor space that is less than 457 mm
(18 in.) in height, use of a clean agent
extinguishing system is permitted provided
the design is specifically approved by the
GSA regional fire protection engineer.
7.11.3 Places of Confinement
(Holding Areas)
Places of confinement must be designed in
accordance with the IBC.
The following requirements pertaining to places of
confinement take precedence over the requirements
in the IBC when the aggregate number of detainees
within each holding area is not more than 50
detainees, and where no individual is detained for
more than 24 hours.
• Places of confinement must be designed in
accordance with the requirements in NFPA
101 for lock-ups.
• Sprinklers must be installed within all places
of confinement, including, but not limited to,
prisoner holding cells, the main prisoner
detention cell block, and prisoner attorney
interview rooms.
• The sprinklers installed must be institutional
quick-response flush pendent sprinklers
designed for standard and extended
coverage applications.
• The institutional sprinklers must have a
solder-link-type fusible element, a tamper-
resistant escutcheon, and a retaining flange
that prevents sprinkler movement away
from walls and ceilings.
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7.11.4 Atriums
Atriums must be designed in accordance with the
• The atrium sprinkler system must be
designed as a separate sprinkler zone. In
addition, a separate manual isolation valve
and a separate water flow switch must be
located in an accessible location. A tamper
switch must be provided on all such valves.
• Atrium smoke control systems must be
installed using the exhaust method in
accordance with the requirements in the IBC.
7.11.5 Cooling Towers
Cooling towers must meet the requirements in NFPA
214.
• Cooling towers that are more than 57 m
3
(2,000 cu. ft.) in size and have combustible
fill must be protected with an automatic
deluge sprinkler system.
• Automatic sprinkler protection is not
required to be installed in cooling towers
that are over 57 m
3
(2,000 cu. ft.) in size,
constructed of noncombustible materials,
and have noncombustible components
(including piping) and noncombustible decks.
• Automatic sprinkler protection must be
installed in cooling towers that are
constructed of combustible materials, have
combustible components (such as PVC fill,
louvers, drift eliminators, etc.), or have a
combustible deck.
7.11.6 Residential Housing Units
Residential housing units must meet the
requirements in the International Residential Code
(IRC).
requirements in the IRC:
• Stairways in residential housing units must
have a maximum riser height of 178 mm (7
in.) and a minimum tread depth of 279 mm
(11 in.).
• Residential housing units are required to be
protected by an automatic sprinkler system.
The design of the automatic sprinkler system
for the residential housing unit must be
based on the design and installation
requirements in NFPA 13D. Each residential
housing unit must be provided with a local
waterflow switch that will initiate a local
alarm. The sprinkler waterflow alarm must
be arranged so that the operation of the
waterflow switch must produce an alarm
signal that is audible throughout all inhabited
areas of the individual housing unit. The
sprinkler system waterflow switch and
control valve must be monitored for alarm,
supervisory, and trouble conditions.
• Residential housing units must be provided
with approved multiple-station smoke
alarms in all of the following locations:
o In all sleeping rooms
o Outside of each separate sleeping area
in the immediate vicinity of the sleeping
rooms
o On each level of the dwelling unit,
including basements
• All smoke alarms must be designed and
installed in accordance with the
requirements in the NFPA 72. All smoke
alarms within the residential housing
unit must be interconnected in such a
manner that the activation of any single
smoke alarm will activate all the smoke
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alarms within the individual residential
housing unit and produce an alarm
signal that is audible throughout all
inhabited areas of the individual
residential housing unit.
• Manual fire alarm stations must not be
installed in the residential housing unit.
7.11.7 Chemical Laboratories
Laboratories must meet the design requirements in
NFPA 45 and the IBC.
• Laboratories handling or storing hazardous
chemicals, flammable gases, flammable
liquids, explosives, and biological
laboratories must not be expanded in
existing office buildings.
• All chemical laboratories must be equipped
with sprinklers, regardless of size. Sprinkler
protection must be calculated to provide a
density of 6.1 (L/min)/m
2
(0.15 gpm/ft.
2
)
over 279 m
2
(3,000 ft.
2
).
7.11.8 Record Storage Facilities
Record storage facilities that have a storage volume
of records exceeding 1,416 m
3
(50,000 cu. ft.) must
meet the requirements in NFPA 232.
• Record storage facilities that store Federal
records must meet the requirements in the
National Archives and Records
Administration (NARA) guidelines published
in the NARA Code of Federal Regulations—36
CFR Part 1234, Appendix B—Alternative
Certified Fire-safety Detection and
Suppression System(s) and, when specified
by NARA, the archival storage standards
published in NARA Directive 1571.
7.11.9 Flammable and Combustible
Liquid Storage Arrangements
The storage arrangements and protection of a
flammable and combustible liquid storage area must
meet the requirements in NFPA 30 and the applicable
factory mutual data sheets.
7.11.10 Compact Storage Modules
A type of shelving unit consisting of compact storage
whereby the units move to allow for storage to be
pushed together creating a storage unit with no flues
or minimal spaces between units. Aisles are created
by moving the shelving unit. Compact storage
modules can be manual or electric in operation.
Compact storage modules must meet the following
requirements:
• Compact storage modules must meet the
• For floor loading requirements, refer to
Chapter 4.
7.12 Required Design Guides and
Manuals
7.12.1 U.S. Court Facilities
For special fire protection and life safety
requirements for U.S. Court facilities refer to Chapter
9 and the U.S. Courts Design Guide.
7.12.2 U.S. Marshal Service Space
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requirements for U.S. Marshals Service space, refer to
the USMS Requirements and Specifications for Special
Purpose and Support Space, Volumes I, II, and III.
7.12.3 Land Port of Entry Facilities
requirements for land port of entry facilities, refer to
the Land Port of Entry Design Guide.
7.12.4 GSA Child Care Centers
requirements for GSA child care centers, refer to the
GSA Child Care Center Design Guide (PBS-140).
7.13 Historic Structures
For an overall fire protection plan and to emphasize
the design team’s responsibility to address fire
protection and to preserve the historic integrity of
historic structures, the design team must explore
alternative approaches outlined in State rehabilitation
codes, International Existing Building Code, and
national performance-based codes to resolve conflicts
between prescriptive code requirements and
preservation goals. In addition, the requirements and
recommendations in NFPA 914 must be considered
for rehabilitation projects in historic structures. The
design team must also evaluate the U.S. Department
of Housing and Urban Development Guideline on Fire
Ratings of Archaic Materials and Assemblies, which
provides test data on the fire resistance of a variety of
historic materials, and the GSA publication titled Fire
Safety Retrofitting in Historic Buildings.
7.13.1 Responsibility
The GSA regional fire protection engineer is the AHJ
for all fire protection and life safety requirements
who must exercise professional judgment to assess
the acceptability of alternative compliance solutions.
Early and frequent coordination between the
architects, State historic preservation officer, regional
historic preservation officer, preservation specialists,
external review groups, and the design team’s fire
protection engineer is needed for timely resolution of
conflicts between fire safety and preservation goals.
7.13.2 Impact on Historic Fabric
Before the design development submission for a
project in a historic building, the design team fire
protection engineer must consult with the GSA
regional historic preservation officer and the GSA
regional fire protection engineer regarding the impact
of the fire protection design features as required
within this chapter on the historic fabric.
7.13.3 Fire Protection Alternatives for
Consideration
Listed below are fire protection alternatives for the
design team’s fire protection engineer to consider
when designing a project in a historic building:
• New stair enclosures in historic buildings
should be designed to minimize visual impact
on significant spaces, including historic
lobbies and corridors. Cross-corridor doors
should be designed to provide maximum
height and width clearance and avoid visually
truncating the corridor. Oversized hold-open
doors will achieve this end in most
circumstances. For more ornamental spaces,
accordion-rated doors may be used.
Transparent treatments, such as rated glass
assemblies or historic doors modified to
incorporate rated glass, should be
considered when barriers should be kept
closed to maintain a rated enclosure.
Nonprescriptive compliance solutions, such
as modification of historic door assemblies,
should be approved by GSA’s regional fire
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• New fire-rated doors in preservation zones
should be designed to resemble historic
doors in panel detailing and finish. True-
paneled fire doors are preferred for
replacement of original paneled stair or
corridor doors.
• In historically significant spaces, sprinklers
should be carefully placed to minimize
damage to ornamental materials. Develop
detailed drawings for architecturally
sensitive areas, showing precise sprinkler
locations and finishing notes as necessary to
ensure proper installation. Sprinklers should
be centered and placed symmetrically in
relation to ornamental patterns and
architectural features defining the space,
such as arched openings.
• Sprinklers and escutcheons should match
original architectural surfaces or hardware.
Oxidized brass or bronze heads are
recommended for use in deeply colored
(unpainted) woodwork. In elaborately
decorated ceilings, heads should be
camouflaged by custom coating and omitting
escutcheon plates. In such cases, low-profile,
quick-response sprinklers are preferred.
• In historically significant spaces, smoke
detectors should be placed to minimize
destruction of ornamental surfaces. Where
ceilings are elaborately embellished, explore
alternative detection products and
approaches such as air sampling detection,
projected beams, low-profile spot detectors,
recessed installation, or custom-coating
detector housings to blend with ornamental
finishes. Application of special finish
treatments outside of the standard factory
process should be coordinated with, and
approved in writing by, the manufacturer to
ensure that UL labels and detector
performance are not compromised. Smoke
detector housings should be removed before
application of special finishes.
7.14 Mass Notification Systems
Mass notifications systems are emergency voice
communications systems that can be used to
broadcast nonfire emergencies such as severe
weather, biological/chemical spills, terrorist acts, etc.
to occupants within a single building, to multiple
buildings, or throughout a campus. Mass notification
systems use audible and visible notification
appliances, similar to fire alarm and emergency
communication systems, however, the appliances
may be used to direct occupants to remain in the
building for their safety, rather than evacuate or
relocate as they would normally do in a fire
emergency.
Mass notification systems may merely be simple
extensions to fire alarm and emergency
communication systems, involving additional audible
and visible devices. This would typically be for
systems installed within a single building. Mass
notification systems become more costly and complex
when installed to serve multiple buildings or a
campus, as these installations involve additional
wiring, multiple command centers and the possibility
of exterior audio and visual devices. Because of these
variances, every mass notification system project
needs to be evaluated individually, and involve the
GSA regional fire protection engineer. It should also
be noted that a good time to install a mass
notification system is when a new fire alarm system is
being installed, since mass notification systems
generally use the same equipment contained in a fire
alarm and emergency communication system.
Regardless of the scope, a mass notification system
must be designed in accordance with NFPA 72.
However, the following special requirements take
precedence over the requirements in NFPA 72:
• Mass notification system control equipment
must be integrated with the fire alarm and
emergency communication system control
equipment.
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• Occupant emergency notification must use
fire alarm audio-visual appliances (e.g.,
speakers and strobes).
• Nonfire alarm notification appliances are
permitted to be used for exterior building
broadcasting announcements.
• Mass notification systems must have the
capability of generating both automatic
prerecorded and manual (live voice)
emergency messages via the audible
notification appliances, including speakers
that are installed in elevator cars and exit
stairways.
• Live voice emergency messages must
override any automatic prerecorded
message.
• Mass notification messages are permitted to
over-ride the fire alarm and emergency
communication system if approved by the
GSA regional fire protection engineer.
• Visible notification appliances must be the
same type as used for the fire alarm system
visible notification appliances; however, they
must not be identified by the word “fire.”
• Additional means for notifying occupants of
a nonfire emergency (e.g., such as
emergency message displays, scrolling text
message displays, video displays, or text
messaging, etc.) are permitted provided they
are approved by the GSA regional fire
• The building fire alarm and emergency
communication system must have manual
over-ride capabilities at the main fire alarm
and emergency communication control
equipment and USMS Command and Control
Center where appropriate. Additional
locations are permitted if approved by the
GSA fire protection engineer.
• An abnormal condition of a mass notification
system component must not adversely affect
the performance of the fire alarm and
emergency communication system and vice
versa.
7.15 Performance-Based Design
GSA encourages the use of performance-based design
for new construction and major renovation and
alteration projects. Performance-based design is an
engineering approach to fire protection design based
on established fire safety objectives and functional
statements, analysis of fire scenarios, and assessment
of designs based on those objectives and functional
statements. Performance-based design differs from
traditional prescriptive design in that specific
methods for achieving compliance with the design
intent are established by the design team, subject to
the GSA regional fire protection engineer’s
concurrence, and a life safety solution is developed
that is tailored to the specific building, fire, and
occupant characteristics contained within the building
being assessed. Information on performance-based
designs can be found in the International Code
Council Performance Code, Society of Fire Protection
Engineers (SFPE) Engineering Guide to Performance-
Based Fire Protection Analysis and Design of
Buildings, and the SFPE Handbook of Fire Protection
Engineering.
7.16 Commissioning Fire
Protection and Life Safety
Systems
When total building commissioning is required as part
of the project, the commissioning process must
ensure that the fire protection and life safety systems
and equipment installed in a building are in
compliance with the owner’s project requirements
and design intent documents.
The commissioning team must include a fire
commissioning agent (FCxA) to perform all fire
protection and life safety commissioning activities.
The FCxA must be separate, both by contract and
employment, from the A/E design team.
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The FCxA must prepare a written commissioning plan
that identifies the processes, procedures, methods,
and documentation for each phase of the
commissioning process for all types of active and
passive fire protection and life safety systems from
concept through post-occupancy. The completed
commissioning plan, including all appendixes, must
form the commissioning record turned over at the
end of the construction phase. The commissioning
plan must be continuously updated by the FCxA
throughout the predesign, design, construction, and
occupancy phases of the building life cycle. At a
minimum, the commissioning plan must include:
• Commissioning scope and overview specific
to the project
• General project information
• Commissioning team members, roles, and
responsibilities
• General communication plan and protocol
• Commissioning process tasks and activities
through all phases
• Commissioning schedule
• Required commissioning process
documentation and deliverables
• Required testing procedures
• Recommended training
• The following materials must be added, as
applicable, to the appendix of the completed
commissioning plan:
• Owner’s project requirements
• Basis of design
• Commissioning specifications
• Design review
• Submittal review
• Issues log
• Construction checklists
• Site visit and commissioning meeting
minutes
• Systems manual review
• Training
• Functional performance and seasonal testing
procedures
• Warranty review
• Test data reports
• Sequence of operation (matrix)
The FCxA must assist the design team fire protection
engineer in the development of the construction
contract specifications to align the actions of the
construction contractor with the commissioning plan,
addressing all involved tests, special inspections, and
certifications.
All active and passive fire protection and life safety
systems must be commissioned including, but not
limited to:
• Infrastructure supporting the fire protection
and life safety systems within the boundaries
of the project
• Fixed fire suppression and control systems
• Fire alarm systems
• Emergency communications systems
• Smoke control and management systems
• Normal and emergency power and lighting
systems
• Explosion prevention and control systems
• Fire doors, windows, walls, and other fire-
and smoke-resistant assemblies
• Commercial cooking operations
• Elevator systems
• Fire extinguishers
• Means of egress systems and components
• Other passive and active fire and life safety
systems and equipment
• Other systems or installations integrated or
connected to a fire or life safety system, such
as, but not limited to access control, critical
processes, and hazardous operations.
• Fire and smoke dampers
• Fire and smoke doors
• Through penetration fire stops
• Fire walls, barriers, and partitions
• Smoke barriers and partitions
For more information on commissioning
requirements, see the Building Commissioning Guide,
available at
http://www.wbdg.org/ccb/GSAMAN/building
commissioningguide.pdf.
Page 195

Page 196

CHAPTER 8: DESIGN STANDARDS FOR U.S. COURT FACILITIES
Chapter 8 ∙Design Standards for U.S. Court
Facilities
8.1 Goals and Objectives
This chapter refers to program and design issues in an
effort to relate the design intent directly to the
technical requirements for the building systems and
finishes.
This chapter does not cover issues related to selection
of audiovisual, data, or telecommunications systems.
(These criteria are developed in the U.S. Courts
Courtroom Technology Manual.) Reference is made
to these systems in Chapter 8 only with regard to the
electrical service requirements in the areas where
they are being installed.
The following complementary documents provide
comprehensive programming and design criteria for
U.S. Court facilities.
8.2 Design Guidance
8.2.1 U.S. Courts Design Guide
(USCDG)
This publication focuses on the functional program
requirements, Court and court-related adjacency
relationships, finish materials, and specific
performance criteria for acoustics, environmental
systems, including special heating, cooling, and
lighting requirements. The USCDG also addresses
security, telecommunications, and audio-visual design
requirements.
The USCDG includes a tabular comparison of funding
responsibilities for all components of the courthouse
and court functional space. (This information is
organized into budget requirements for GSA,
judiciary, and the judiciary-related executive branch
agencies.)
The USCDG refers to technical information related to
performance criteria to help illustrate the rationale
for the requirements and to establish the standard for
level of quality.
8.2.2 U.S. Marshals Service Criteria
Criteria for space controlled by the U.S. Marshals
Service (USMS) are found in Requirements and
Specifications for Special Purpose and Support Space
Manual (USMS Publication 64). Use the latest version
including all volumes and addenda. This publication
provides the finish criteria for USMS functional
program requirements, spatial relationships,
electronic and physical security, and hardware
standards and special HVAC requirements within the
U.S. Courts and court-related spaces.
The USCDG and USMS Publication 64 speak directly to
the functional requirements of the user and tenant.
Chapter 8 presents the most cost-effective and
efficient building systems and materials to achieve
the appropriate environment from the perspective of
the building owner (GSA) by reference to applicable
technical standards, security standards, and life safety
and accessibility requirements.
The USMS Publication 64 standards are
complementary documents to both the USCDG and
this chapter. These documents establish, in detail, the
environmental, security, functional, and technical
requirements for the USMS spatial accommodations
within U.S. courthouses. They include information
regarding secure environments for prisoners being
held in preparation for a court appearance, USMS
staff facilities, and general building security
requirements. GSA is responsible for power to the
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electronic security devices, but the design consultants
should understand that the USMS security contractor
provides detailing and environmental requirements
related to security within the functional area
dedicated to the courts. Chapter 8 indicates general
requirements, but the USMS Publication 64 is the
standard the A/E must follow.
8.3 General Requirements
8.3.1 Planning for Future
Requirements
The master plan for each courthouse facility is
intended to accommodate 30 years of growth, and
the design of the initial phase of construction must
provide the spatial requirements for 10 years.
The conversion of general office or other support
spaces to courtroom use will potentially put greater
demands on the HVAC, electrical, and
communications systems. These systems will require
expansion capacity and space for additional
equipment related to the future courts in the initial
building design. Historic courthouses require special
considerations. For guidance on renovation of historic
courthouses, consult with the regional historic
preservation officer. Accessibility ramps should be
installed in historic buildings, unless such ramps will
result in substantial loss of historic material. Under
exceptional conditions, an application for a waiver
may be made for a temporary ramp.
8.3.2 Planning for Accessibility
All U.S. Court facilities must be accessible to persons
with physical challenges.
The detailed functional aspects of each courtroom
component include an integrated reference to
accessibility accommodation within the description of
Courtroom Requirements in chapter 4 of the USCDG.
The following information is intended only as a
summary of the basic circulation, change in elevation,
and spatial requirements that must be addressed at
each respective component with regard to
accessibility for individuals with physical challenges.
Design for accessibility must comply with the
requirements of the Architectural Barriers Act
Accessibility Standard (ABAAS).
GSA and judiciary policy requires all Federal
courtrooms have the lectern, counsel tables, witness
stands, and jury boxes accessible in the original
design, and the judge’s bench, clerk’s station, and
other court personnel workstations adaptable for
accessibility, regardless of local or State code.
ABAAS requires a totally accessible interior route
from the point of entry to all areas of a building used
by the public. The design elements affected by this
requirement include:
• Vestibule configuration
• Door sizes and pressure of operation
• Corridor widths
• Elevator access and control
• Toilet room and stall dimensions
• Telephone and TTY (text telephone)
provisions
• Drinking fountain location and dimensions
• Visual and audible alarm accommodations
• Signage design and location
• Quantity of accessible seating
• Ramps or platform lift access to all raised
seating
Access to all raised areas in courtrooms must be by
platform lifts or permanent ramps. If platform lifts are
provided, they must be an integral part of the
architecture of the courtroom. Bench areas must be
designed to accommodate this equipment, including
structural slabs with a shallow pit for the lift platform.
U.S. Court facilities have several conditions that are
unique to Federal building planning and design. There
are provisions within the courtroom for fixed millwork
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to include elevated platforms for judges, witnesses,
clerk staff, reporters, and jurors. In addition, design of
spectator seating areas must consider visitors with
physical challenges, including individuals with sight
and hearing difficulties. (All areas of the courtrooms
must accommodate listening systems for the hearing
impaired, and translators, note takers, and
interpreters for the visually disabled.)
Table 8-1 outlines the accessible standards that apply
specifically to courts and highlights instances where
policy or preferences developed by GSA, in
conjunction with the Judicial Conference of the
United States, differ from ABAAS. Adaptability
requires that dimensional consideration be included
in the original design to incorporate accessible
elements at a later time. Wherever ramps or platform
lifts are provided for access to a raised area, railings
must be provided as required.
8.3.3 Infrastructure
Electrical outlets, wiring, conduit, or raceways to
support sound and visual communication equipment
for persons with physical challenges will be provided
by GSA. Electrical service may be required for
transcription services, telephone handset amplifiers,
telephones compatible with hearing aids, closed
caption decoders, text telephones (TTYs), or other
devices to assist those with hearing or visual
impairments.
8.3.4 Acoustic Planning Requirements
Acoustical performance is of the utmost importance
in courthouse design. The A/E must include an
acoustic consultant who must develop the
appropriate information at each stage of the design
process to assure the courts and GSA that sound and
vibration issues have been properly addressed.
Chapter 14 of the USCDG has specific guidance and
requirements for the acoustic performance of each
courthouse facility space. The design must provide
these acoustic requirements. The finished space
performance will be tested against these specific
requirements. Where detailed criteria are not
provided in the USCDG the requirements of P100 will
be followed.
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Table 8-1 Accessibility Requirements
SPACE ACCOMMODATION
COURTROOM
Circulation routes Clearance and turning radius for wheelchairs throughout the courtroom.
Public seating Number of wheelchair spaces and location are set by ABAAS
Litigant and
counsel tables
Height clearance at table(s) and circulation space requirements of ABAAS.
Jury box One wheelchair space along the general circulation path at the box. (If located on a tier,
provide a ramp or lift.)
Witness stand Comply with clear floor space and maneuvering requirements of ABAAS. Permanent ramp or
platform lift to provide access. (Adjacent space is required for an interpreter.)
Judge’s bench Comply with clear floor space and maneuvering requirements of ABAAS. Adaptable for future
inclusion of ramp or platform lift. (Electrical service, space, and floor depression must be
included in the initial design for future platform lift.)
Courtroom clerk,
bailiff, and court
reporter stations
Comply with clear floor space and maneuvering requirements of ABAAS. Adaptable for future
inclusion of ramp or platform lift. (Electrical service, space, and floor depression must be
included in the initial design for a future platform lift.)
Lectern Include an adjustable platform with a height variation between 710 mm and 760 mm (28 in.
and 30 in.) above the floor. Knee space at least 685 mm (27 in.) high. The lectern must be at
least 760 mm (30 in.) wide and 480 mm (19 in.) deep.
JURY &
ANCILLARY
FACILITIES
Jury assembly
room
Must be located on accessible route. Refer to ABAAS for number of wheelchair spaces. ABAAS
also determines requirements for listening devices, kitchenette-type service units, and
associated vending and seating areas.
Jury deliberation
rooms
One space at tables. Clearance provided at coat storage and dedicated toilet rooms. Portable
assistive listening system (provided by judiciary) may be used if there is more than one
deliberation room.
Attorney/witness
rooms, attorney
work rooms and
Provide proper clearance for circulation and height at tables for wheelchairs.
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conference rooms
Grand jury suite Refer to ABAAS for the number of wheelchair spaces and listening devices. Clearance
provided at coat storage, service unit, and toilet rooms. Witness stand with wheelchair
turning radius clearance.
USMS FACILITIES
Court holding
areas
Each classification of holding must have one holding cell accommodating wheelchair
clearances and an appropriate toilet plus lavatory in accordance with ABAAS.
Visitor booths and
attorney/prisoner
areas
At least 5 percent, but no less than 1 percent, of booth/areas must provide clear floor space,
maneuvering clearances and counter height dimensions for a wheelchair on both sides in
accordance with ABAAS.
8.3.5 Architectural and Interior
Design
This section addresses technical requirements for
architectural materials and systems in buildings
designed to serve the U.S. Courts. Specific
requirements are presented for all special or unique
court spaces and court-related agencies, including
those to accommodate the U.S. Marshals Service.
General building design concepts for GSA-owned
structures are based on an overall “systems”
approach, utilizing all design elements of the building,
including ceiling cavities, floor cavities created by use
of access flooring, stacked vertical distribution cores,
and centrally located
support areas to increase functionality, improve
flexibility for future modifications, and provide
buildings that are efficient regarding construction,
operation, and maintenance costs.
8.3.6 Building Enclosure Systems
The baseline standard of exterior materials for U.S.
Court facilities is precast concrete with limited stone,
brick, or other durable materials. Fundamental
construction standards for the majority of the
exterior building systems are discussed in Chapter 3.
Specific additional provisions for U.S. Court facilities
include:
• Vehicular sallyport doors that meet USMS
requirements
• Appropriate (ballistic-resistant) glazing at
various levels of a facility
• Physical and electronic security design
features at vulnerable areas that will
decrease risk of attack to occupants or
escape of prisoners
• Level of facility as determined by the ISC
Facility Security Level Determination of
Federal Facilities dated February 21, 2008
8.3.7 Floor Systems
An important issue in the design of GSA-owned
structures has been the evaluation and selection of an
appropriate floor system, especially with
the potential of using the cavity below for the
horizontal distribution of power, data,
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telecommunications, and low-voltage system cabling,
and the flexibility to position connections above the
floor. Accessible flooring systems can be defined as a
suspended floor plane above the structural slab with
relocatable modular components. Raised access floor
systems for Federal facilities must use a minimum of
150 mm (6 in.) above the concrete deck to allow
adequate space for wire management systems and
the crossing of large conduits. The requirement for
raised access flooring in courthouses is described in
Chapter 15 of USCDG.
The height of the accessible floor system must be
included in the determination of floor-to-floor
dimensions.
Select standard floor finishes within each function of
the court facility primarily based on acoustic
enhancement, general durability, and ease of access
to underfloor electrical, telecommunication, and data
distribution systems.
The USCDG contains detailed information on specific
requirements for the use of carpet and other floor
finish materials under each category of functional
space. See Chapter 12 of the USCDG. The USMS
Publication 64 contains very stringent requirements
for the USMS in all detention-related areas of its
facilities.
8.3.8 Interior Wall Systems
Most interior wall partitions will be composed of
gypsum board on metal studs, with the exception of
USMS detention spaces. There may be instances in
the general building construction where concrete
masonry is
used if building elements, including elevator or
plumbing shafts, are stacked systematically floor
upon floor.
8.3.9 Ceiling Systems
The USCDG outlines all of the appropriate interior
finishes for U.S. Court-related spaces.
Chapter 3 of this document outlines the general
parameters for selection of a ceiling system in typical
office spaces. There are several types of spaces with
custom ceiling system requirements, which may
include courtrooms, public spaces, office and
conference spaces of the courts or other agencies,
and detainee areas. In historic buildings, acoustical
requirements should be satisfied using removable
finishes and features so that original ornamental
surfaces may be maintained.
8.3.10 Office and Conference Spaces
In office and conference spaces, flexibility and
durability are also the main considerations in the
selection of a ceiling system that must accommodate
change and accessibility above the ceiling plane. The
ceiling material must absorb sound to provide speech
privacy and control transfer of noise from machines,
computers, light ballasts, and other sources within
adjacent office areas.
The use of a standard 600 mm by 600 mm (2 ft. by 2
ft.) suspension system with a commercial-quality
acoustic ceiling tile is recommended. The use of this
system allows future flexibility in partition
arrangement and corresponding relocation of
mechanical diffusers, lights, sprinklers, and
components of other systems such as speakers and
fire alarm notification appliances.
8.3.11 Courtrooms
In courtrooms, acoustic characteristics and aesthetics
are the main considerations in the selection of a
ceiling system. The ceiling design and materials must
enhance the acoustic performance of the well area.
(Ideal reverberation time in a courtroom is 0.6 to 0.7
seconds. See Chapter 14 of the USCDG.) This will
involve the use of reflective and absorptive materials
in the space. At no point in the ceiling design must the
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highest point exceed the maximum ceiling height
requirements in the USCDG.
8.3.12 Public Spaces
In public spaces, the ceiling system must
accommodate future changes to the layout of the
space and allow access for maintenance of the
building systems above and within the ceiling plane,
including mechanical systems, diffuser locations,
communication devices, lights, and fire protection
systems. Acoustic tile in a suspended ceiling grid is
typically provided in these areas, along with
supplemental use of gypsum wallboard in soffits,
perimeter coves, recesses, and reveals.
8.3.13 Detainee Areas
In detainee areas, security and durability are the main
considerations in the selection of a ceiling system.
Refer to USMS Publication 64 for suggested ceiling
materials in these spaces.
8.3.14 Fixed and Movable Furniture
Components to be provided by GSA in U.S. Court
facilities include fixed and limited movable furniture
and millwork required for the operations of the courts
in courtrooms, grand jury rooms, hearing rooms, jury
assembly rooms, and public transaction counters. See
Chapter 12 of the USCDG.
In general, built-in furniture must be designed with
integral cable raceways plus conduits sized for future
expansion and change. Built-in furnishings must also
include access panels to permit easy cable and wiring
changes. Provisions for power, data, and
telecommunications outlets and inputs, and sound
and other systems must be confirmed during the
design development phase of the project on a
position-by-position basis. Courthouse furniture must
meet a variety of needs, and selection must consider
function, cost, availability, and aesthetic criteria. The
selection and design of fixed and limited movable
furniture must be carefully coordinated to achieve a
consistent image, proper function, and required
clearances.
The movable furniture provided by GSA in the U.S.
Court facilities are lecterns and counsel tables for
courtrooms. Typical provisions for movable
furnishings in U.S. Courts are indicated in tables
provided for each category of space use in the
USCDG. All items to be provided by GSA within the
baseline rent charges are assumed to be included
within the anticipated construction budget.
Refer to USMS Publication 64 for a detailed
description of USMS fixed and movable furniture
requirements in U.S. Court facilities.
Table 8-2 outlines the basic fixed furniture elements
that are provided for all court-related functions.
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Table 8-2 Typical Interior Fixed Furniture Elements
SPACE TYPE OF FURNITURE ELEMENT
Courtroom Judge’s bench (See AO publication U.S. Courts Design Reference Manual 2007)
Deputy clerk desk (Adaptable for computer and printer)
Court reporter / Recorder desk
Witness box
Fixed base chairs for jury and one not fixed
Spectator rail and seating
Jury box
Spectator benches
Grand Jury Room Bench
Witness stand
Jury rails
Judge’s Chambers
Suite
Kitchenette-type serving unit with sink (cabinets above and below) Built in book shelves
Judge’s Robing Room Lockers for robes
Judge’s PrivateToilet
and Judge’s Robing
Room Toilet
Vanity, mirror, and medicine cabinet
Jury Assembly Check-in counter
Coat closet with rods
Kitchenette-type serving unit (cabinets above and below)
Jury Areas Toilets with vanity and mirror
Kitchenette-type serving unit
Coat closet with rods
Library Spaces Standup counter and stacks
Probation and Pretrial
Services Entrance and
Standup counter (break resistant windows)
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Urinalysis Testing
Toilets and Lab
Toilet with mirror
Bankruptcy Appellate
Panel Clerk
Intake counters
District and
Bankruptcy Public
Areas
Public counters and workstation
USMS Detention Cells Benches
Modesty screen
USMS
Prisoner/Attorney
Interview Room
Counter
Stool (Prisoner side)
USMS
Reception/Cashier
Area
Service counter
USMS Staff Locker
Rooms (Men’s and
Women’s)
Lockers and benches
Grooming shelf and mirrors
Metal lockers
Hooks or open closet rod and shelf for coats
USMS and CSO
Work/Mail Room
Base cabinets
Work surface
Shelving
Central Mail Facilities Personal Protection equipment storage, counter sink with eye wash
8. 3.15 Signage and Graphics
Many Federal courthouses are large, complex
structures requiring clear and coordinated systems of
signage and wayfinding that allow first-time users to
locate their destination as quickly and directly as
possible.
A standardized system of signage, with
interchangeable components, must be provided
throughout the courthouse. ABAAS guidelines are
specific about parameters of design, including
location, size, color, and tactile qualities of signage
and use of graphic symbols to assist nonreaders.
In addition to providing all general building
identification and way-finding signage, GSA supplies
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all court-related signs in public corridors of the
building. Signage requirements within the courts’
dedicated space, related to their function, are
provided by the courts. See Chapter 13 of the USCDG.
GSA supplies signs for life safety and public
convenience (restrooms) within the functional areas
of the courts. The A/E is responsible for designing all
GSA- supplied signage and graphics.
For installation of signage in historic buildings, the A/E
must consult with the regional historic preservation
officer regarding the integration of signage in the
historic facility or district.
The following signage must be furnished by GSA
under the A/E design contract, and any remaining
requirements will be determined and provided by the
courts.
8.3.16 Identification and Information
Signage
• Building identification/seal/cornerstone
• Division/department, tenant agency
identification
• Courtroom/room/area identification
• Special function identification—library,
media center, cafeteria, etc.
8.3.17 Directional Signage
• Main directory at building entrance—graphic
plan
• Floor directory on each floor—graphic plan
• Directory of building occupants with suite
locations
• Directional signage for building access by
persons with physical challenges
• Directional signage for parking/restricted
entrances
• Directional signage for service vehicles
8.3.18 Regulatory/Security Signage
• Signage for core functions—restrooms,
stairs, telephones, and other elements on
ABAAS-accessible path to building services
• Signage for controlled access areas—judicial
and staff areas; if admission to controlled
areas is based on acceptable identification,
instructions for operating the call
button/camera must be provided at the
controlled door
• Signage for dedicated systems/facilities—
elevators, stairs, staff restrooms
(identification as dedicated and regulations
for use must be stated)
• Signage for special locking arrangements
8.4 Structural Systems
8.4.1 General Requirements
The selection of the primary structural system for a
new U.S. Court facility must be based on a variety of
functional, technical, and load criteria. Whatever
system is selected, the building must be planned with
the longest logical clear spans (spacing between
columns) consistent with design to prevent
progressive collapse, and simplified structural framing
to provide flexibility for modification/adaptation to
accommodate areas of special use, including future
courtrooms. (If space is dedicated to future courts,
the column layout must not disrupt internal sightlines
of the courtrooms.)
Design of the courtrooms and court-area structural
configuration must respond to the needs for electrical
and data/telecommunications systems and their
related horizontal/vertical distribution network.
An important consideration for a structural design is
the number and size of floor slab penetrations
required in court areas for initial and future
renovation.
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8.4.2 Other Structural Design
Requirements
Floor-to-floor heights must provide adequate space
under raised access floors to allow for all systems
within the floor cavity to be placed without
interference with each other and to have adequate
access for maintenance.
Floor-to-floor heights must be designed to provide
sufficient space above the ceiling assembly to allow
for all systems within the ceiling cavity to be placed
without interference with each other and to have
adequate access for maintenance.
Floor-loading capacities must be planned to
accommodate initial and planned future loads,
particularly in areas near building cores that can serve
as special high-service zones.
Adequate floor structural capacity must be provided
to accommodate the secure, solid-filled, reinforced
security walls wherever they may occur in the
dedicated USMS space.
Adequate roof structure must be provided to carry
general personnel and equipment loads, and to
accommodate additional loads for antennas, satellite
dishes, and window washing equipment.
Special structural capacity must also be provided in
the following areas of U.S. Court facilities:
• Court library stack areas (headquarters,
satellite, and unstaffed): 7.2 kPa (150 lb/sf)
live load capacity.
• Moveable shelving live loads must be
determined by reference to International
Building Code requirements in the location
where construction is taking place. The
minimum loading for these areas is 14.4 kPa
(300 lbs/sf).
• Design floor loads of the USMS space as
required by USMS Publication 64.
• Clerk of the Court file storage area must be
designed to accommodate high-density file
storage as identified by the court.
8.5 Mechanical Systems
This section focuses on technical requirements for the
mechanical engineering systems that should be
provided in buildings designed to serve the U.S.
Courts. Specific requirements are presented for all
special or unique spaces used by the U.S. Courts and
court-related agencies, including spaces designed to
accommodate the U.S. Marshals Service.
Federal court facilities must be designed to take
advantage of integrated systems and controls to
provide better building performance through energy
conservation, economy of operations, maintenance,
and flexibility for changes. Opportunities for system
integration must be evaluated throughout the design
process.
U.S. Court facilities require a variety of space types,
each with its own set of specific requirements. In
addition, court functions require flexibility in the time
of operation and control of dedicated HVAC systems.
See Chapter 15 of the USCDG.
8.5.1 System Selection and Design
All criteria in this section are mandatory.
8.5.1.1 HVAC Specific Design Criteria
Outdoor winter temperature equal to ASHRAE 1-
percent design dry bulb and coincident wet bulb.
Outdoor summer temperatures equal to ASHRAE 99-
percent design dry bulb/97.5 percent wet bulb.
• Indoor air in courtrooms: 24° +/- 1°C (75° +/-
2°F) in summer and 22° +/- 1°C (72° +/- 2°F)
in winter.
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• Maintain 45 to 50 percent relative humidity
for summer conditions and 25 to 35 percent
relative humidity for winter conditions.
• All materials and methods of construction
used to protect through penetrations and
membrane penetrations of horizontal
assemblies and fire-resistance-rated wall
assemblies must meet the requirements of
the International Building Code.
• Do not use duct lining. Ductwork must be
acoustically designed as described in Chapter
5 of the P100 and Chapter 15 of the Courts
Design Guide.
• HVAC systems must be designed to provide
optimum flexibility in scheduling the use of
courtrooms and chamber areas.
8.5.1.2 General Criteria
The selection of the HVAC systems, equipment, and
source of energy must be in accordance with the
guidelines and procedures established in Chapter 5. A
life cycle cost (LCC) analysis must be conducted to
ensure selection of the most cost-effective alternative
environmental considerations.
The HVAC system must be designed to provide 23.4°C
(74°F) in judges’ chambers, courtrooms, and trial jury
suites on average. The courtroom HVAC system must
be designed so that courtroom thermostats can be
reset from the building automation system to precool
the courtrooms to 21.1°C (70°F) before scheduled
occupancy.
Trial jury suites (when located adjacent to a
courtroom), judges’ chamber suites (when located
adjacent to a courtroom), attorney/witness rooms,
attorney work room, and courtrooms must be placed
on the same system with separate zones having
related thermostats and the design must account for
variation in occupancy load.
Humidification must be provided as specified in
Chapter 5. See Chapter 15 of the USCDG.
Mechanical systems will provide 5.7 cubic meters (20
cubic feet) per minute as a minimum per person in all
occupiable areas of U.S. Court facilities.
The HVAC systems must be zoned in such a manner
that the requirements of the special areas can be
satisfied by efficient use of the systems and
equipment.
To allow flexible and efficient use of the HVAC
systems for hours of activity occurring at times other
than standard building operations and to satisfy
specific requirements in a U.S. Court facility, the
central plant equipment (chillers, boilers, cooling
towers, pumps, air handling units (AHUs), etc.) must
be designed using redundant equipment of various
sizes to satisfy the requirements of differing number
and sizes of zones. (The goal is to service no more
than two courtrooms per air handling unit.)
Piping systems must allow arrangements to permit
changing courtroom HVAC systems from primary to
secondary chilled water for off hours.
The HVAC design must allow submetering of utilities
and equipment to permit the facility manager to
allocate cost of operation beyond standard hours of
operation.
The HVAC system design for the courtroom, judge’s
chamber suite, and the jury deliberation room, which
compose a single “court set,” must be designed to
allow the HVAC system to operate after standard
building operations hours in an efficient manner.
The design must include winter humidification for
areas in the building with custom millwork.
8.5.1.3 Courtrooms/Chambers
Temperature and Systems Control
The HVAC system serving judges’ chambers,
courtrooms, and trial jury suites must provide an
average temperature of 23.4° (74°F). The courtroom
system zone must be designed to allow thermostats
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to be reset from the building automation system to
precool to 21.1°C (70°F) before scheduled occupancy.
Air Distribution (See Chapter 15 of the USCDG)
Three HVAC zones must be provided: one for the
judge and attorney areas; a second for the jury areas;
and a third for the spectator area.
The diffusers serving the spectator areas must be
sized to serve the allowable seating capacity, plus 25
percent, to accommodate extra seating. The diffusers
must be selected to meet minimum ventilation
requirements at no loads, with no appreciable
increase in system noise during load changes.
A minimum air exchange per hour: Appellate Judges’
EnBanc and Panel, Special Proceeding Courtrooms 6-
8; District, Magistrate and Bankruptcy Judge’s
courtrooms 8-10 (See Chapter 14 of the USCDG). Six
air changes per hour must be provided for rooms with
a ceiling height up to 4.6 meters (15 ft.) and eight air
changes per hour for rooms with a ceiling height
greater than 4.6 meters (15 ft.). Systems must be
designed to meet these requirements when spaces
are fully occupied, unless otherwise noted.
The maximum percentage of recirculated air must not
exceed 85 percent.
If the courtroom is served by a fan system dedicated
to more than one courtroom, the return air from each
courtroom and its associated areas must be ducted
directly to the unit.
Return air from the chamber suites must be ducted
directly toward the return air shaft for a minimum
distance of 4.5 meters (15 ft.). Ductwork will be
treated to meet the acoustical courtrooms/chambers
design criteria.
8.5.1.4 Jury Facilities
System Description and Control
Trial jury suites should be served from the same
system as the associated courtrooms. A separate
thermostat for each trial jury room is desirable.
Air Distribution
Air distribution systems in the jury facilities must
provide separate temperature control and a high
degree of acoustical isolation, particularly in the
grand jury and trial jury rooms. Ductwork will be
treated to meet the acoustical deliberation room
design criteria.
Air Changes
In the jury assembly suites, trial jury suites, grand jury
suites, and libraries, the system must provide 10 air
changes per hour (ACH) with 80-85 percent return.
Refer to USMS Publication 64 for all detention
requirements.
Expansion Capability
Since U.S. Court facilities should be expected to have
a long, useful life, new construction and renovation
projects must be planned to provide adequate
mechanical and electrical capability to the site and
building(s) to support future additions. It is
particularly important to design the systems for
specialized areas of the building (lobby, food service,
mechanical rooms, electrical rooms) to support the
anticipated 30-year needs of the occupants.
This can be accomplished by building additional space
for future growth of the HVAC systems during initial
construction and temporarily allocating it to building
or tenant storage.
The A/E must locate equipment adjacent to the
building perimeter wall that will abut future
expansion for orderly tie-in to new system
components.
8.5.1.5 Acoustic Performance
Acoustic performance must be a major consideration
in the selection of HVAC equipment. Systems serving
the courtrooms and auxiliary spaces must be
designed with sound attenuation to provide
consistent and acceptable sound levels. This is
particularly critical in the design of court facilities that
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require extensive use of sound and audiovisual
equipment for recording and presentations.
To control noise during all modes of operation and for
all load conditions, the HVAC system should be
provided with one or more of the following:
• Sound traps
• Low-velocity, low static-pressure fan systems
• Special low-noise diffusers
If air is returned by the ceiling plenum, special
attention should be given to the location of any
partitions extending to the floor structure above and
to the acoustical treatment of the required
penetration of these partitions for return air.
HVAC equipment, including AHUs and variable air
volume (VAV) boxes, must not be located in close
proximity to courtrooms, jury rooms, and chambers.
The minimum distance should be 7.6 meters (25 ft.)
between AHU and courtrooms. (Refer to Chapter 5,
Theaters and Auditoriums, for criteria regarding
maximum duct velocity.) General system design must
provide appropriate treatment of mechanical
supply/return ducts to minimize sound and voice
transfer from courtrooms, chambers, jury
deliberation spaces, and witness rooms to
surrounding areas.
Noise criteria (NC) (the limits that the octave band
spectrum of noise source must not exceed) must
range from 25 to 30 in courtrooms. (See Chapter 14
of the USCDG). For sound level maintenance, the
courtroom must be served by constant volume air
supply. The system must also support variable outside
air requirements and variable cooling loads. Air ducts
serving the trial jury and grand jury suites must be
double-walled sound-attenuating ducts for a length of
at least 3.7 meters (12 ft.) from the diffuser or return
air intake.
8.5.1.6 Mechanical System Diffusers and
Vents
Mechanical system diffusers and grills in public and
staff areas must be secure from tampering,
particularly in areas that provide some degree of
seclusion and privacy (restrooms, attorney-client
visitation rooms, etc.). Maximum-security detention-
type grilles, secured with tamper-proof fasteners,
must be provided at all areas accessible to prisoners.
(Refer to USMS Publication 64 for more information.)
8.5.1.7 Changes in Building Envelope to
Meet Energy Guidelines
Due to the energy load requirements of court
facilities, designers must use the alternative design
processes of ASHRAE 90.1R to meet Federal energy
guidelines for overall building energy usage. Increases
in building envelope energy resistance must be used
to compensate for higher-than-average load
requirements resulting from court functions. Total
building energy usage must be established according
to calculations using mandatory design standards
contained in Chapter 5. To demonstrate the same
total energy usage, a new calculation must be done,
incorporating factors for energy reduction strategies
to offset increased lighting, cooling, and heating
energy loads.
8.5.1.8 Information Technology System
Loads
Information technology systems are not the largest
source of heat within the office spaces, but may be
the largest sources in other areas. Information
technology systems may be the most uncertain
source of heat flows during design phases; therefore,
the HVAC system must be planned with capacity and
control to accommodate the need for constant
temperature and humidity environments 24 hours a
day, where systems hardware could be placed.
The design of the HVAC systems must take into
consideration provisions for separate units for critical
areas such as computer rooms, USMS control room,
elevator machine rooms, etc., which generate
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additional heat loads. The HVAC design for these
areas must have redundancy and be connected to the
emergency power system.
8.6 Fire Protection and Security
Systems
Refer to Chapter 7, Fire Protection and Life Safety, for
all fire protection and life safety system
requirements.
All security systems must be connected to emergency
power. In addition, any security hardware (e.g.,
electronic locks, card readers, magnetic locks, etc.)
that is installed on exit doors and exit access doors
must meet the requirements of the National Fire
Protection Association 101, with regard to function,
design, operation, and maintenance. This includes,
but is not limited to, any security hardware being
installed on exit stair doors, building perimeter exit
doors, and elevator lobby enclosure doors, as well as
any door in the means of egress.
8.7 Electrical Systems
GSA will provide emergency and secondary power
distribution as a basic requirement.
Normal building distribution systems must be
designed to comply with Chapter 6. They must
include a special electrical distribution system
consisting of an isolation transformer with associated
branch circuit distribution equipment, and must be
designed to serve the data network system and
associated equipment supporting nonlinear loads.
Uninterruptible power systems (UPS) must be
provided to serve security, emergency smoke
evacuation, and any other critical systems and be
connected to the emergency power distribution
system. Additional systems must be provided by the
tenants for any specific tenant related requirements.
8.7.1 Spare Capacity
General design requirements for office and
courtroom areas must be based on anticipated loads
and requirements as outlined in Chapter 6. The
capacity of the feeders serving all areas of the
building must accommodate growth to the extent
shown in the 30-year long-range plan for the facility.
8.7.2 Number of Outlets
The number of outlets provided in U.S. Court facilities
must be in accordance with Table 8-3, electrical
codes, and good practice.
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Table 8-3 Electrical Power Requirements/Outlets*
LOCATION EQUIPMENT/OUTLET(S) NOTES
COURTROOMS
Judge’s Bench Isolated ground quadruplex receptacle for general
purpose use; Duplex receptacle for computer,
monitor; additional duplex receptacle for video
arraignment.
Courtroom Lobby Duplex outlet with dedicated circuit for portable
magnetometer. Branch circuits will be provided for
additional loads dictated by the courts.
Court Deputy Clerk
Workstation
One isolated ground quadruplex receptacle (general
use) and one duplex receptacle for PC and monitor
per clerk position.
Printers as a group.
Court Reporter/Recorder’s
Workstation
One quadruplex receptacle (general use), one duplex
receptacle for reporter’s computer/CRT
Provide additional
duplex receptacle(s) at
alternate CR position(s)
in the courtroom.
Witness Box One duplex receptacle and one dedicated outlet.
Jury Box One quadruplex receptacle for general purpose use. Mounted on inside of
jury box enclosure.
Attorney Tables One quadruplex receptacle (general use) Recessed
floor box.
Per attorney table
position.
Appellate Judge’s
Courtroom Clerk
One isolated ground quadruplex receptacle (general
use) and one duplex receptacle for PC and monitor.
Printer
Spectator Seating One Isolated ground duplex outlet at front rail (“bar”)
for computer/monitor for CRT or other use.
Mounted on spectator
side Of rail enclosure.
Equipment Room/Area Multiple outlets (as required) for sound, assisted
listening system (ALS), data, telecommunications,
and video recording and presentation equipment.
Other Duplex outlets at 20 ft. intervals along the walls of
courtroom. Duplex outlets at two locations
(minimum.) in front of bench millwork. Additional
outlets at appropriate locations for ceiling-mounted
screen, fixed or movable positions for slide projector,
video monitor, video recorder, interactive white-
The courtroom well will
have a suspended
access floor system for
flexible location of
outlets
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board and image copier, and x-ray viewer equipment.
Locate underfloor boxes for multiple possible
locations of a lectern and alternative locations for
attorney tables. Provide additional outlets for
initial/future location of video cameras. Provide
outlet for wall-mounted clock. Provide outlet(s) for
ALS unit(s). Provide outlets as required for video
conferencing/arraignment equipment, video
monitors/VCR equipment, security, and so on.
COURT SUPPORT
Witness Waiting Rooms Distributed convenience outlets, including provisions
for cleaning and housekeeping.
Attorney/Witness
Conference
Distributed convenience outlets, including provisions
for cleaning and housekeeping, and for audiovisual
equipment (monitor/VCR).
Public Waiting Areas Distributed convenience outlets, including provisions
for cleaning/housekeeping. Provide outlets for clock.
Duplex outlet with dedicated circuit for
magnetometer outside sound lock.
Media Room(s) Distributed convenience outlets, including provisions
for cleaning equipment and motor loads. Provide
separately metered power outlets for news agencies
telecast equipment.
Court Reporter Office One isolated ground quadruplex receptacle (general
use). Duplex outlet(s), two minimum, for PC,
monitor, printer, FAX.
Computer and office
equipment (PC, monitor,
printer) not in FF&E
budget.
Judges Shared
Conference/Reference
Room(s)
Distributed convenience outlets. Provide Isolated
ground outlets as required for video
conferencing/arraignment equipment, video
monitors/DVR equipment, security, sound-system,
ALS and other equipment, based on anticipated
locations of equipment.
Computer and office
budget.
JUDICIAL CHAMBERS
Judge’s Chambers Quadruplex receptacle for general purpose use. Two
duplex receptacles for miscellaneous uses (TV
monitor, slide projector use, etc.). Two isolated
ground duplex receptacles for PC, monitor, printer
Duplex outlets for PC
and monitor positions to
be located in multiple
positions (based on
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and other computer equipment. Additional duplex
receptacle for video arraignment and FAX equipment
where required (initial/future use).
likely furniture
placement). Computer
and office equipment
(PC, monitor, printer)
not in FF&E budget.
Secretary/Judicial Assistant One quadruplex receptacle (general use). Duplex
isolated ground outlets, two minimum, for PC,
Law Clerk Office One quadruplex receptacle general use). Duplex
isolated ground outlet(s), two minimum, for PC,
Computer and office
budget.
Work Area Quadruplex receptacle for general purpose use.
Duplex outlets for coffee machine, microwave unit,
refrigerator, based on equipment/furniture layouts.
Additional outlet(s) for copier.
Equipment not included
in base building budget.
Refrigerator included in
FF&E budget. Other
printer, FAX, copier,
etc.) not in FF&E
budget.
Conference /Reference
General
Provide isolated ground outlets for video
conferencing, TV monitor, projectors. Distributed
convenience outlets in reception/waiting and general
office areas. Provide outlets for floor-cleaning
equipment and motor loads. Provide outlets as
required for video conferencing/arraignment
equipment, security, sound-system, ALS or other
equipment, based on anticipated locations of
equipment.
Computer and office
budget.
Service Unit Distributed convenience outlets Coffee maker,
microwave, refrigerator
TRIAL JURY SUITE(S)
Jury Deliberation Room Distributed convenience outlets, including provisions
for cleaning/housekeeping. Outlets (GFI) on separate
circuit for kitchen type service unit equipment
(microwave, coffee maker). Isolated ground outlets
for film/slide projection equipment, TV monitor and
DVR, audio tape recorder/player. Outlet for wall-
mounted clock
Computer and office
budget.
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Other areas Distributed convenience outlets, including provisions
for cleaning/housekeeping.
GFI in toilet areas, per
codes.
GRAND JURY
Witness Box Duplex receptacle.
Jury Seating Convenience outlets, including provisions for
cleaning equipment and motor loads.
Court Reporter’s
Workstation
One quadruplex receptacle (general use), one
isolated ground duplex receptacle for reporter’s
computer/CRT.
Provide additional
duplex receptacle(s) at
alternate court reporter
position(s), if applicable.
Attorney Tables One quadruplex receptacle (general use). Recessed
floor box, if appropriate. Foreperson: one
quadruplex receptacle (general use).
Recessed floor box, if
appropriate.
Other areas Distributed convenience outlets, including provisions
GFI in toilet areas, per
codes.
General Distributed convenience outlets, including provisions
(microwave, coffee maker). Outlets for film/slide
projection equipment, TV monitor and VCR, audio
tape recorder/player. Outlet for wall-mounted clock.
Power for sound, video system, if any.
Computer and office
budget.
JURY ASSEMBLY
Jury Assembly Room Distributed convenience outlets. Provide isolated
ground outlets as required for video conferencing
equipment, video monitors/DVR equipment, security,
sound-system, ALS and other equipment, based on
anticipated locations. Provide outlets for use at
carrels and tables for jurors for personal use.
Computer and office
budget.
Jury Clerk Workstation(s) Once quadruplex receptacle (general use). Duplex
Computer and office
budget.
Other Area(s) Distributed convenience outlets, including provisions
for cleaning equipment/motor loads.
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LAW LIBRARY
Circulation Desk Isolated ground outlets for PC, other equipment.
Distributed convenience outlets.
Public Waiting Areas Distributed convenience outlets, including provisions
Entry Control Isolated ground outlets for security equipment.
Distributed convenience outlets, including provisions
Recessed floor box, if/as
required.
Staff Offices One quadruplex receptacle (general use). Duplex
isolated ground outlet(s), two minimum (for PC,
monitor, printer, FAX) per workstation.
Computer and office
budget.
Staff Work Areas Distributed convenience outlets; quadruplex
receptacle(s) for general purpose use. Additional
outlet(s) for copier.
Computer and office
budget.
CALR Areas Duplex isolated ground outlet(s), two minimum (for
PC, monitor, printer, FAX) per workstation.
Recessed floor box, if/as
required.
Carrel/Casual Seating Areas Distributed convenience outlets. Provide outlets for
use at carrels and tables.
Conference/Group
Study/Work Rooms
Multiple outlets (as required) for sound, ALS, data,
telecommunication and video recording and
presentation equipment. Duplex outlet for
microfiche machine.
CLERK OF COURT AREAS
Public Counter and
Workstations
One quadruplex receptacle (general use); duplex
monitor, printer, FAX, per workstation. Provide
additional outlet(s) for cash registers, additional
printers, shared-access PCs, printers
Computer and office
budget.
Records Exam Areas Provide duplex outlet(s) for public access PCs,
monitor, printer, and FAX equipment. Provide
outlet(s) on separate circuits for public access
copier(s).
Computer and office
budget.
Other Staff Workstations One quadruplex receptacle (general use). Duplex
Isolated ground outlet(s), two minimum, for PC,
Computer and office
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monitor, printer, FAX. printer) not in FF&E
budget.
Shared Staff Work Areas Distributed convenience outlets; quadruplex
receptacle(s) for general purpose use. Additional
outlet(s) for copier(s), FAX equipment, etc.
Computer and office
budget.
Staff Break Rooms Distributed convenience outlets, including provisions
(microwave, coffee maker).
Equipment not included
in base building or FF&E
budget.
COURT-RELATED
AGENCIES/SPACES
Similar to Court Clerk/Court Administrative areas
above.
NOTE:
(1) For all electrical power and outlet requirements in
USMS dedicated spaces, refer to USMS Publication
64.
(2) The power outlet requirements for each project
should be verified.
* This table is comprehensive, but may not be complete as needs and systems change over time and from court to
court. These requirements are in addition to those in Chapter 6.
8.7.3 Grounding
Provide grounding as indicated in Chapter 6.
8.7.4 Isolated Ground Circuits
Most courthouse computers and
data/telecommunication equipment will not be
connected to the building backup emergency
generators or UPS system. To minimize this type of
equipment operational and performance problem, it
is necessary to mitigate the amount of electrical
disturbance that this type of equipment will be
subjected to. All courthouse desks and work areas
should be provided with regular power receptacles as
well as an isolated ground (IG) power receptacle. IG
power systems are especially designed to minimize
electrical disturbances, thus only computers and
data/telecommunication should be connected. All
other types of equipment including task lighting,
heaters, radios, photocopiers, and vacuum cleaners
should be connected to the regular power
receptacles.
8.7.5 Below-Floor Electrical
Distribution
Most areas of the courthouse incorporate below-floor
horizontal distribution systems. Final horizontal
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distribution plans must be designed considering
potential EMI/RFI sources. (Access floor areas must
comply with Chapter 6.)
8.7.6 Emergency and UPS Power
Systems
In addition to the emergency power systems required
in Chapter 6, provide backup power to systems
described in Chapter 15 of the Courts Design Guide.
8.7.7 Service and Distribution
Emergency and normal electrical panels, conduits,
and switchgear must be installed separately at
different locations. Electrical distribution must also
run at separate locations.
8.7.8 Exterior Connection
Conduit and feeders must be installed on the exterior
of the building to allow use of a trailer-mounted
generator to connect to the building’s electrical
system. This must be regarded as a tertiary source of
power for systems in the building where operational
continuity is critical. (An operational plan must be in
place to provide this service quickly when needed.)
Emergency power must be derived from generators
sized to carry the required loads. Generators must be
synchronized to serve a common distribution board
which, in turn, serves appropriate automatic transfer
switches (ATSs) and the fire pump. Separate ATSs
must be provided for the life safety/security system,
UPS system, and essential systems. Essential systems
will serve the ventilation and equipment loads
required for personnel and building protection in the
event of a commercial power failure or other
catastrophic event.
8.7.9 Coordination with
Telecommunications System Design
Electrical IG power distribution for the various areas
of U.S. Court facilities must be coordinated with the
design of the telecommunications
powering/grounding systems to improve the overall
integrity of the telecommunications utility. See
Chapter 15 of the USCDG.
As technology continues to increase in
speed/performance, better distribution coordination
becomes necessary. If this is not done, the grounding
systems will not operate efficiently at the higher
frequency ground currents, reducing the integrity of
the telecommunications utility, creating errors in
transmission, etc.
A secure, air-conditioned data/telecommunications
closet must be located near the judges’ chambers,
courtrooms, and court offices to contain network
equipment. The use of cable trays rather than
conduits must be considered.
8.7.10 Lighting Systems
Illumination levels, lighting types, and lighting
controls in specific court functional areas are
provided in the USCDG. See Chapter 15 of the USCDG.
In all other spaces, illumination levels and lighting
controls must be provided as specified in Chapter 6.
Task lighting must be variable to 100 FTC (1100 lx).
The lighting system should have good color rendition
and avoid bright spots on the ceiling plane.
Modulation of lighting should be used to distinguish
the courtroom well and spectator areas. The A/E
must provide fixtures with accurate color rendition
and avoid the use of metal halide fixtures. The use of
indirect pendant-mounted fluorescent fixtures
provides good, soft diffuse general lighting in a
courtroom, complemented with recessed
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concentrated light sources at the judge’s bench, the
witness box, and attorneys’ tables. Lighting levels
must consider the impact on courtroom finishes.
An override switch will be located at the judge’s
bench and at the courtroom deputy clerk station to
allow an instantaneous override of all dimming
controls in an emergency.
The following lighting controls can be specified
depending on the size of the courtroom, lighting
arrangements, and lamp types:
• A more complex lighting installation
consisting of local, wall, box-type, electronic,
silicon-controlled rectifier dimmers; or
• Remote electronic dimmers with preset
lighting arrangements, for large courtrooms
with high ceilings.
• Control of lighting is the responsibility of the
courtroom deputy clerk or another
designated court officer and must be
operated with a key. Light switches must not
be accessible from the spectator seating area
or witness box. Provision of integrated
electronic controls must be considered with
preset lighting schemes having integrated
controls for shading devices at windows and
skylights, plus controls for presentation
screens (if provided by the courts). The
controls must allow varying levels of light to
suit the needs and desires of the courtroom
participants.
Electronic ballasts for fluorescent lamps must not be
used in areas that contain sensitive security devices
or special equipment that is sensitive to electronic
interference, such as ALD infrared emitters.
Guidelines for site illumination are specified in
Chapter 6. Lighting in parking areas must allow for
identification of vehicle color, and the design should
avoid the use of low-pressure sodium fixtures.
Emergency lighting for courtrooms and security areas,
to include USMS detention facilities, must have built-
in batteries plus emergency generator service.
8.7.11 Audiovisual Requirements in
U.S. Court Facilities
All audiovisual design and technical infrastructure
requirements are indicated in the Administrative
Office of the United States Courts publication,
Courtroom Technology Manual. These requirements
are provided and funded by the tenant.
8.8 Security Design: Agency
Responsibilities
Courthouse security is the joint responsibility of the
judiciary, Department of Homeland Security, Federal
Protective Service, and USMS. The USMS has the
primary role in security decisions. Decisions regarding
security planning and design are made by individual
agencies and the local Court Security Committee
(CSC), or for multitenant buildings, the Facility
Security Committee (FSC). See Chapter 16 of the
USCDG.
The CSC is responsible for identifying a court’s specific
security requirements and developing a security plan
for judicial facilities and operations throughout the
district.
All security systems and equipment must be
consistent with requirements in ISC Physical Security
Criteria for Federal Facilities and the ISC Security Level
Determination of Federal Facilities dated February 21,
2008; USCDG; and Requirements and Specifications
for Special Purpose and Support Space Manual
Volumes 1-3, USMS Publication 64. The CSC must be
informed about and have the opportunity to review
all security-related design decisions.
The USMS Central Courthouse Management Group’s
(CCMG) facilities management team is responsible for
design considerations involving secure prisoner
movement, holding cell and interview facility
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requirements, and USMS-occupied office and support
space. The Judicial Security Systems Team within the
CCMG is responsible for the planning, design, and
installation of security systems in spaces occupied by
the judiciary. The USMS coordinates the work of the
security system and security construction contractors.
In addition, the CCMG often acts as security engineer
for court buildings, designing and integrating security
systems for building perimeters in conjunction with
GSA and FPS.
Refer to the USCDG and USMS Publication 64 for a
more detailed explanation of security design
responsibilities.
Once the functional planning criteria including
security-related issues, as outlined in the USCDG and
USMS Publication 64, are implemented into the
conceptual design for the new or renovated court
facility, they are intended to help in the development
of the technical drawings, specifications, and other
information to incorporate the security components
into the project.
8.8.1 Areas that require battery
backup to maintain camera and
direct visual surveillance in the event
of power failure include:
• Vehicular sallyports
• Prisoner sallyports and secured circulation
• Detention cell block areas
• Communications centers
• Prisoner processing areas
• Squad rooms
• Public reception rooms
• Prisoner-attorney interview rooms
• Court holding cell areas
• Judges’ chambers
• Interconnecting doors from public corridors
to controlled corridors
• Command and control centers
• Courtrooms
• Witness/Attorney rooms
• Restricted circulation
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APPENDIX
Appendix Submission Requirements and
Resources
Submission Requirements
A.1 General Requirements
A.2 Performance Expectations Matrices
A.3 New Construction and Modernization
A.4 Alteration Projects
A.5 Surveys and Geotechnical Reports
A.6 Energy Analysis Input and Output
Resources
B.1 References
B.2 Acronyms and Abbreviations
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APPENDIX
A.1 General
Requirements
These design submission requirements have been
developed to ensure a rational, well-documented
design process and to facilitate reviews by GSA staff,
tenant agencies, and local regulatory agencies or
review boards as the design develops. The submission
requirements listed here apply to all projects where
design services are performed by architects and
engineers under contract to GSA.
These requirements are the minimum standards and
the specific A/E scope of work will take precedence
on each project.
In each phase of work, project documents must be
submitted to GSA in electronic and hard copy format
as determined by the GSA project manager.
Drawings
Drawing Size
All drawings of a single project must be a uniform
standard size, as designated by the American National
Standards Institute (ANSI) below. International
Organization for Standardization (ISO) or
architectural-sized sheets may also be approved for
use.
Size (in) Size (mm)
ANSI A 8.5 x 11 216 x 279
ANSI B 11 x 17 279 x 432
ANSI C 17 x 22 432 x 559
ANSI D 22 x 34 559 x 864
ANSI E 34 x 44 864 x 1118
Drawing Lettering
Lettering on drawings must be legible when drawings
are reduced to half size. This applies to concept and
design development drawings as well as construction
documents.
Drawing Scale
All drawings are to be created at full scale and plotted
at a selected scale. The drawings or views (such as
details) should include numeric and graphic scales.
The scale selected should be appropriate for high
resolution and legibility to include reduced copies
(such as half-sized).
There are nine preferred metric scales: 1:1 (full size),
1:5, 1:10, 1:20, 1:50, 1:100, 1:200, 1:500, and 1:1000.
Other scales may be used as needed (such as 1:2 half
full size). Floor plan drawings should be plotted at
1:100 (close to 1/8 inch scale).
Architectural floor plans must be dual dimensioned
with English units and contain English scales so that
the Spatial Data Management (SDM) Coordinator can
reconcile the drawings with the program
requirements.
CAD Standards
The PBS CAD Standards must be obtained from
GSA’s www.gsa.gov/cad or
www.gsa.gov/cifm website. These guidelines must be
followed for all CAD deliverables. GSA regions and
other programs, such as Spatial Data Management
(SDM), may have further requirements. These further
requirements are considered supplements to the PBS
CAD Standards, for example, see base scale example
above under Drawing Scale. Check for and obtain any
supplements from the PBS CAD Manager or SDM
Coordinator in the region where the project is
located.
A north arrow must be included on all site drawings
and plan view drawings.
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APPENDIX
Dimensioning
The millimeter is the only unit of measurement to
appear on construction documents for building plans
and details for all disciplines except civil engineering,
which must be stated in meters. However, building
elevation references are stated in meters. Use of
millimeters is consistent with how dimensions are
specified in major codes. No dimension requires the
"mm" label. On the drawings the unit symbol is
eliminated and only an explanatory note such as: "All
dimensions are shown in millimeters" or "All
dimensions are shown in meters," is provided. Whole
numbers always indicate millimeters; decimal
numbers taken to three places always indicate
meters. Centimeters will not be used for
dimensioning.
If dual dimensioning is utilized on drawings, SI units
must be primary, with English units secondary and in
parentheses.
Seals
Each sheet of the construction documents must bear
the seal and signature of the responsible design
professional. (Specification and calculations cover
page only.) Electronic plans may have digital
signatures and seals.
Cover Sheet
Provide code certification statement for compliance
with specified codes and standards by each discipline
with the professional seal and signature. The intent is
to formally recognize the responsibility for
compliance.
Document Security Requirements
All sensitive but unclassified (SBU) building
information must be handled as described in GSA
Order PBS 3490.1A, Document Security for Sensitive
But Unclassified Building Information, 06/01/2009.
Within any electronic or printed document, pages
containing SBU building information must have the
following mark imprinted or affixed:
SENSITIVE BUT UNCLASSIFIED (SBU)
PROPERTY OF THE UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT
FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY
Do not remove this notice
Properly destroy or return documents
when no longer needed
The following mark must be affixed to the cover or
first page of any document (such as the cover page on
a set of construction drawings) containing pages
marked as required by the paragraph above:
SENSITIVE BUT UNCLASSIFIED (SBU)
PROPERTY OF THE UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT,
COPYING, DISSEMINATION, OR DISTRIBUTION OF
THIS DOCUMENT TO UNAUTHORIZED RECIPIENTS
IS PROHIBITED
Do not remove this notice
Properly destroy or return documents
when no longer needed
The previous two statements must be prominently
labeled in bold type in a size appropriate for the
document or portable electronic data storage device
or both, if applicable. On a set of construction
drawings, for example, the statements must be in a
minimum of 14 point bold type or equivalent. The
SBU markings must be used regardless of the medium
through which the information appears or is
conveyed.
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APPENDIX
The construction drawings, plans, and specifications
are to be disseminated only to those requiring the
information necessary for design, construction
bidding, construction coordination, or other GSA
procurement competition processes.
Building Information Model
GSA requires the use of interoperable Building
Information Models (BIM) on all projects over
prospectus throughout the project lifecycle. During
all phases of the project, BIM models must be
included with all existing submission requirements.
BIM models must be delivered in both native and IFC
file formats. For questions or feedback, please
contact your GSA Regional BIM Champion or visit
www.gsa.gov/bim.
BIM Standards
GSA BIM Standards shall be obtained from GSA's BIM
Website (www.gsa.gov/bim). These guidelines shall
be followed for all BIM submissions. The BIM shall be
set up such that 2D CAD drawings should be derived
from the model and meet PBS CAD Standards.
BIM Execution Plan and Scorecard
A BIM Execution Plan and a BIM Scorecard are
required for each project to ensure that BIM
objectives, processes, workflows, technologies,
performances are established and tracked in
alignment with the project requirements. The BIM
Execution Plan and the BIM Scorecard shall be
established in coordination with GSA Project
Managers, GSA Regional BIM Champions and Subject
Matter Experts, and GSA Central Office Subject
Matter Experts. Refer to GSA BIM Guide Series 01
(www.gsa.gov/bim) and contact GSA Regional BIM
Champions and GSA Central Office BIM Subject
Matter Experts to develop a project specific plan and
scorecard. The BIM Execution Plan shall be agreed
upon by all parties prior to the start of design.
Spatial Data Management
Project teams shall provide at each submission stage
2D CAD plans, one for each level of the facility, with
assignment data and space boundaries in compliance
with the National Business Space Assignment Policy.
• Provide space boundaries as MPOLYGON
AutoCAD drawing elements on layer LNK-
NON separately for every room and space
such that all areas within the total level area
are contained in one and only one boundary
and the sum of the areas of the space
boundaries is exactly equal to the total level
area.
• Provide a comma delimited ascii text file
with double quote mark text identifiers and
column headers containing the assignment
data for every boundary in the facility
• Provide assignment data tags for each
boundary as MTEXT Autocad drawing
elements on layer Q_TXT_SPACE placed
within the associated boundary with the
following data as shown below:
o Space ID
o Agency Short Name: Agency Bureau
Code
o Room Name
o Occupancy Agreement number
o ANSI BOMA classification code: PBS
space category code: PBS space type
code
o Area in sq. ft. (2 decimal places)
SDM deliverable requirements can be met by
generating deliverables from a BIM that meets the
GSA BIM Guide Series 02 – Spatial Program Validation
standards. Project teams shall contact the Regional
BIM Champion and SDM Coordinator for additional
guidance to streamline BIM and SDM deliverables.
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APPENDIX
Specifications
Format
Specifications should be produced according to the
2004 edition Construction Specification Institute (CSI)
division format. Each page should be numbered.
Specifications should be bound and include a table of
contents. The specifications must include instructions
to bidders and Division 1, edited to GSA
requirements.
Editing of Specifications
The A/E is responsible for the editing of all
specification sections, including any Government-
furnished guide sections, to reflect the project design
intent, GSA policy requirements, and Federal law.
Technical specifications must be carefully coordinated
with drawings to ensure that everything shown on the
drawings is specified. Specification language that is
not applicable to the project must be deleted.
Dimensioning in Specifications
Domestically produced hard metric products must be
specified when they meet GSA guidelines regarding
cost and availability; see Chapter 1, General
Requirements, Metric Standards, in this document. In
the event a product is not available domestically in
hard metric sizes, a non-metric sized product may be
specified, and its data will be soft converted to a
metric equivalent.
Turnover Documents
Electronic and hard copy documentation on all
building systems should be provided for the guidance
of the building engineering staff and long-term asset
management. Documents should show the actual
elements that have been installed, how they
performed during testing, and how they operate as a
system in the completed facility. Examples are as
follows:
• Contractor "redline" as-built drawings and
specifications (including building/site actual
measurements, changes to details, actual panel
schedules, etc.) as required by the construction
contract.
o Architect/engineer’s final "record"
drawings to include final changes to
design and contractor noted as-built
conditions.
o Operating manuals with a schematic
diagram, sequence of operation, and
system operating criteria for each
system installed. Custom-written
operating manuals; minimum
standard should be submission of
Word documents.
o Training materials and videos.
o Equipment maintenance manuals with
complete information for all major
components.
• In addition, asset data and documentation,
including special data and documentation as
to engineering, calculations, record drawing
information, and visual media, should be
provided to document the configuration,
engineering assumptions, actual
material/sizes installed for future
maintenance, repairs, and improvements.
Prior to acceptance for design completion or
substantial completion, all required
submittals and deliverables must be verified
by a Government representative as received
and complete, such as:
• Drawings: design, redline, and record
drawings
• Submittals, fabrication, and shop drawings,
including:
o Equipment schedules;
o Equipment (or other) data sheets,
product literature, minimum standard
should be submission of PDFs, allows
for regional supplementation;
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APPENDIX
o Equipment inventories, testing,
adjusting, and balancing (TAB) reports,
and Commissioning functional
performance test (FPT) results to be
submitted as electronic data tables
(Excel or Access files are acceptable),
including fields specified in the
specifications;
o BAS point and device data must be
submitted as electronic data tables, to
include necessary unique identification
information such as point numbers,
device ID numbers, network numbers,
etc., as well as English-language
descriptions and location information.
o All test records
o Fire Sprinkler and Alarm Systems:
Calculations (including energy,
structural, lighting, fire alarm system
voltage drops and battery
requirements, fire sprinkler hydraulics,
etc.)
All electronic media must be readable by GSA’s
current software versions and optimum file sizes of
desktop media, such as Acrobat, Microsoft, AutoCAD
DWG format, BIM native and IFC format, video media,
electronic photo (e.g., ".jpg"), and Webcam archive
data. Electronic data should be provided to the
Government via the GSA electronic project
management system (ePM) and on CD-ROM, unless
otherwise specified. As-built BIM files shall be
delivered in accordance with As-Built Documentation
specifications in P100. At a minimum, all Operating
Manuals, Training Videos and Documents, and
Equipment Manuals should be linked to the BIM
according to the BIM execution plan defined by the
project team at the beginning of Construction.
For all software installed in support of installed
equipment, provide backup CDs with all files
necessary to reinstall, all user and programming
support manuals, and all files produced for the
specific installation (e.g., graphics files, DDC program
files, etc.).
Note that specification section 01781, Project Record
Documents, should be edited to reflect Electronic
Final Submittals and Data as noted above.
Design Narratives and
Calculations
Format
Typed, bound narratives should be produced for each
design discipline.
Content
Narratives serve to explain the design intent and to
document decisions made during the design process.
Like drawings and specifications, narratives are an
important permanent record of the building design.
Drawings and specifications are a record of what
systems, materials, and components the building
contains; narratives should record why they were
chosen. The narrative of each submittal may be based
on the previous submittal, but it must be revised and
expanded at each stage to reflect the current state of
the design.
Calculations
Manual and/or computer based calculations should
accompany narratives where required to support
technical analysis. Each set of calculations should
start with a summary sheet, which shows all
assumptions, references applicable codes and
standards, and lists the conclusions. Calculations
should include engineering sketches as an aid to
understanding by reviewers. The calculations for each
submittal should be cumulative, so that the final
submittal contains all calculations for the project.
Calculations submitted at early stages of the project
must be revised later to reflect the final design.
Calculations must refer to code, paragraph of code
used, standards, and text books used for specific
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APPENDIX
portion of calculation. Refer to drawing number
where the results of the calculations have been used.
Example: number and sizes of re-bars used in
reinforced concrete members.
Performance Criteria
As part of the development of concepts through
construction documents there must be a check of
building performance criteria as noted in Section A.2.
Design Quality Reviews
Design Quality Reviews will be performed by an
independent third-party review team at three stages
of project design: Final Concepts (FC), Design
Development (DD), and Construction Documents
(CD). These reviews are sponsored by the Office of
Design and Construction and are diagnostic in nature.
Using a predefined review process and random
sampling techniques, the review teams will evaluate
each project for applications of best practices,
conformance with criteria, building and systems
performance, efficient and effective design, cost
drivers, risk factors for successful execution, and
customer satisfaction, as well as several other
indicators of overall project suitability and readiness
to move to the next phase in execution. At each
design stage, the design A/E will be required to
complete the Design Quality Review Questionnaire
and submit it to GSA Central Office along with one
complete set of design submittal documents including
drawings, specifications, and design narratives. These
submittals may be made in electronic form as agreed
with GSA on a case-by-case basis.
Energy Analysis
In addition to GSA’s goal of USGBC LEED Gold
Certification for all new construction and major
modernizations, the release of Executive Order 13524
on October 5, 2009, increased the importance of
Federal energy goals. An energy analysis must be
submitted at the preconcept phase of design and
updated throughout the development of the project
to continually look for creative ways to reduce energy
use. Many opportunities exist for the reduction,
recycling, or production of new energy in site,
architectural, and building systems design. An energy
analysis as described in Section A.6 and in Section 5.3
(Energy Analysis Criteria) is required for each project.
Cost Management Requirements
Cost estimates and market studies must be provided
at various stages of the design process in compliance
with GSA document P120, Project Estimating
Requirements, and the estimating requirements
outlined below, with the technical clarification from
the GSA estimating staff.
General Requirements
The Government requires that the design team
prepare cost estimates at a minimum for the
following stages of design:
• Preliminary concept design stage with
multiple schemes of design
• Final concept design preceding value
engineering
• Final concept design
• Design development documents preceding
value engineering
• Final design development documents
• 75% Construction documents
• Post-award bid analysis
• The cost management services required by
GSA are summarized in Table A-1.
Independent Cost Estimates
In order to aid in effective project controls and assist
in tracking the budget, GSA will develop two separate
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APPENDIX
independent government estimates (IGE)— one in the
Region and another in the Central Office, at a
minimum for the following phases of design:
• Final concept design
• Final design development
• 90% Construction development
• 100% Construction development
The design team must provide all necessary
documentation for these estimates and be available
to support this activity.
Development of the multiple estimates may include
the requirement for estimate reviews and
reconciliation efforts, as identified in Table A-1.
Cost Estimate Reporting
Cost estimates must be reported in an electronic
spreadsheet format. Each of the cost estimate
submissions must contain the following, at a
minimum:
1 Executive summary
2 Basis of estimate, rationale, assumptions
and market analysis, as required in P120,
3 GSA Report 3474
4 GSA Report 3473
5 Summary Reports (ASTM UNIFORMAT II
and CSI MasterFormat formats as applicable
6 Detailed line item cost reports
Warm Lit Shell and Tenant
Improvements Cost Estimates
The organization of the cost elements must be in
accordance with the GSA pricing policy, which calls for
a separate tenant improvement (TI) breakdown of all
tenant space fit-out identified by the agency.
The estimate must be broken down into 1) Warm Lit
Shell, and 2) Tenant Agency Fit-Out, as defined by the
agency in the housing plan and the supporting floor
plans. The amortized capital security costs, (i.e.,
vehicular barriers, secure doors and locks, progressive
collapse, blast mitigation and window glazing costs)
must be broken down per tenant, as applicable.
Estimates for Campus Development
Projects
Projects that reflect campus developments or
multiple buildings require that cost estimates be
developed for each of the individual building or
campus components, as reflected in the design
documents. The reporting requirements must reflect
the individual estimates, as well as a campus
summary estimate report.
Post-award Bid Analysis
After award of the construction contract, GSA will
provide the A/E 1) the abstract of bids received with
an indication of the award amount, 2) a breakdown or
verification of contractor prices in the course of
contract award, and 3) the contract’s approved
progress payment schedule.
The A/E must perform an analysis of the contractor
planned payment schedule and the independent cost
estimate, which reflects the design upon which the
construction award is based. The A/E must complete
the GSA Form 3472 and submit the form to the GSA
Regional Office and Central Office. The GSA Form
3472 must report the construction costs, as awarded,
based on the UNIFORMAT Level III subsystem
parameters for use in contributing to the GSA, PBS
Construction Cost Database, as spelled out in the PBS
P120.
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Table A-1: Cost Management Matrix
Project Sub-Phase
Estimate Tree Structure
Estimate Methodology Notes
WBS
Detail
Level
Summary
Level
Preliminary Concept
Submission
UNIFORMAT II III II Parameter 1, 2, 3, 4
Draft Final Concept
Submission - Before VE
UNIFORMAT II IV II
Parameter and
Quantification
1, 2, 3, 4
Final Concept Submission –
After VE Implementation
UNIFORMAT II IV II
Parameter and
Quantification
1, 2, 3, 4
Draft Design Development
Submission - Before VE
UNIFORMAT II V III
Parameter and
Quantification
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6,
7CSI MasterFormat V III
Final Design Development
Submission – After VE
Implementation
UNIFORMAT II V III
Quantification and
Parameter
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6,
7, 9CSI MasterFormat V III
75% CD
UNIFORMAT II N/A III
Quantification and
Parameter
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6,
8, 9CSI MasterFormat VI III
90% CD & 100% CD
UNIFORMAT II N/A III
Quantification
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6,
8, 9CSI MasterFormat VI III
Post-Award Bid Analysis UNIFORMAT II III II Parameter 10
Note 1. All UNIFORMAT II classification requirements must be in accordance with the ASTM Standard E-1557-05.
Note 2. Services to be any or all of the following: A) cost estimating, B) market studies, C) estimate reviews, D) cost
estimate reconciliation meetings, and E) cost estimate revision. Cost estimates are required for all submissions, as
dictated by the P120. Estimate reconciliation meetings and estimate revision submissions required when a third-party
estimate is prepared, or an estimate review is conducted.
Note 3. If the project is for a campus development, cost estimates, including summary reports, detail reports, GSA Forms
3473 and 3474, must be prepared for each campus component, building, canopies, and sitework. If a project is phased, a
separate estimate must be prepared for each project phase.
Note 4. The organization of the cost elements must be in accordance with the GSA pricing policy, requiring a separation
between the building core/shell costs, tenant improvement costs for each tenant, and the amortized capital security
costs (i.e., vehicular barriers, secure doors and locks, progressive collapse, blast mitigation and window glazing costs) per
each tenant, as applicable.
Note 5. If the detailed drawings and outline specifications are available, provide the CSI Masterformat cost estimate at
the greatest detail that the drawings and specifications would support.
Note 6. The summary of the cost estimate in CSI Masterformat must correspond with UNIFORMAT Level III as defined in
PBS P120.
Note 7. The level of detail of the cost estimate in CSI Masterformat must correspond with UNIFORMAT Level V as
defined in PBS P120.
Note 8. The level of detail of the cost estimate in CSI Masterformat must correspond with UNIFORMAT Level VI as
defined in PBS P120.
Note 9. Unit prices must be broken down into labor, materials, and equipment, as defined in the P120.
Note 10. After the construction contract is awarded, the A/E will analyze bid cost data, including the planned payment
schedule, and review the IGE. Upon reviews, the A/E must complete the GSA Form 3472, as identified in the PBS P120,
and submit to the Regional and Central Office for use in GSA cost database.
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APPENDIX
A.2 Performance Expectations Matrices
At the beginning of each project, the GSA project
manager, tenants and design A/E need to define the
functional objectives of a project. A functional
objectives matrix, similar to the one shown in Figure
A-1, while not required, may be an effective tool to
define these objectives. (Such a matrix may also exist
within the project’s design programming documents.)
By providing a numeric impact weight (e.g., 1-3,
where 3 is high) at each intercept, a graphic check list
becomes apparent as to which systems/features are
most important in delivering a project’s performance
expectations. The high impact matrix intercepts call
for design solutions that will optimize functional
interests, consistent with the need to integrate
solutions that will support all functional objectives.
High impact intercepts require formal design team
technical discussions to help optimize design
solutions. These technical discussions must take the
form of either a preconcept design charrette and/or a
series of design team technical meetings during the
concept phase. The technical discussion agenda can
be organized by discipline (systems) and/or by
functional objective heading, but should address:
• Functional performance goals
• Integrated solution options
• Heading off what can go wrong
• Inspections/certification requirements
• Coordinating construction and turnover-
phase issues/deliverables
For both the design concept and design development
submissions, the design A/E must identify the
attainment of building functional objectives as
represented by the matrix. This must take the form of
a narrative report that, by system, indicates how the
proposed design supports expected building
performance.
The Functional Objectives Matrix can be further
refined by establishing a matrix for each expectation,
e.g., that provided for sustainability, in Figure A-2.
While not required, these matrices may help ensure a
comprehensive response to functional objectives by
breaking down each major function into its
component principles/objectives. Sample matrices for
productivity, security, and other functional objectives
are available upon request through the Office of
Design and Construction.
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APPENDIX
Figure A-1: Program Goals Matrix
FUNCTIONAL OBJECTIVES
Productivity
Sustainability
Security
Seismic
Fire-ProtectionandLife
Safety
Accessibility
HistoricPreservation
Maintainable
SYSTEMS
Foundations 1 1 1 3 1 1 1 1
On/ Below Grade 1 1 2 3 1 2 1 1
Superstructures 1 1 3 3 2 2 2 1
Enclosure Walls 2 3 3 3 2 1 3 2
Window/ Doors 3 3 3 2 1 3 3 3
Roofing Coverings 1 3 2 1 3 1 3 3
Openings 2 3 2 1 1 1 3 3
Interior
Construction
Partitions/ Doors 2 2 3 2 3 3 3 2
Access Floors 3 1 1 2 2 1 1 1
Interior
Finishes
Walls 3 2 1 1 2 1 1 2
Floors 3 3 1 1 2 1 1 3
Ceiling 3 3 1 2 2 1 1 3
Conveying 2 1 1 2 2 3 1 3
Plumbing 1 3 1 2 2 3 1 3
HVAC Central Plant 3 3 1 2 1 1 1 3
Distribution 3 3 1 2 3 1 1 3
Fire Protection 1 1 2 3 3 1 1 1
Electrical Service/Distribution 2 1 2 3 2 1 1 1
Lighting 3 3 3 2 2 1 1 3
Equipment 1 1 3 1 2 1 1 2
Furnishings 3 3 1 1 2 3 1 2
Special Construction 1 2 1 2 2 1 1 2
Demolition Building Elements 3 3 1 1 1 1 3 1
Hazardous Materials 3 3 1 1 1 1 1 1
Building
Sitework
Site Preparation 1 3 1 1 1 2 1 1
Landscaping 2 3 2 1 1 1 1 3
Utilities 1 1 1 3 2 1 1 2
Sitework 2 3 1 2 1 3 1 2
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APPENDIX
Figure A-2: Sustainability Matrix
PRINCIPLES/ OBJECTIVES
Energy
Water
Materials
IndoorEnv.
Quality
Sitework.
O&M
SYSTEMS
Foundations 1 1 2 1 1 1
On/ Below Grade 1 1 2 1 1 2
Superstructures 1 1 2 1 1 2
Enclosure Walls 3 1 2 2 1 3
Window/ Doors 3 1 1 2 1 3
Roofing Coverings 3 1 2 3 1 3
Openings 3 1 1 2 1 3
Interior Construction Partitions/ Doors 1 1 3 3 1 3
Access Floors 1 1 2 1 1 3
Interior Finishes Walls 2 1 3 2 1 3
Floors 2 1 3 2 1 3
Ceiling 2 1 3 2 1 3
Conveying 2 1 1 1 1 3
Plumbing 3 3 1 1 1 2
HVAC Central Plant 3 3 2 1 1 3
Distribution 3 2 1 1 1 3
Fire Protection 1 1 1 1 1 1
Electrical Service/Distribution 1 1 1 1 1 1
Lighting 3 1 1 2 2 2
Equipment 2 2 1 1 1 1
Furnishings 1 1 2 2 1 2
Special Construction 1 1 1 1 2 1
Demolition Building Elements 1 1 2 2 2 1
Hazardous Materials 1 1 3 3 2 1
Building Sitework Site Preparation 2 1 1 1 3 2
Landscaping 3 3 2 1 2 2
Utilities 1 1 1 1 1 1
Sitework 2 1 1 1 1 1
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APPENDIX
A.3 New Construction and Modernization
The design process and related submission
requirements for new construction and
modernizations are somewhat different than those
for alteration projects. A modernization is defined as
the comprehensive replacement or restoration of
virtually all major systems, tenant-related interior
work (such as ceilings, partitions, doors, floor finishes,
etc.), and building elements and features. The
following flow diagram, Figure A-3, and related
definitions describe this process for New Construction
and Modernization.
Peer Review
The peer review, arranged through the Office of
Design and Construction Programs, is required for all
new construction projects and any modernization
project with significant alterations to the building
aesthetic or systems. Designs must be presented to
the PBS Commissioner, chief architect, chief engineer,
key GSA project team members, and Nationally
Selected Peers for approval. The peer reviews occur
at all phases of the project to review design concepts,
schedule, cost, energy goals, etc.
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APPENDIX
Figure A-3: Design Process and Related Submission Requirements for New Construction and Modernization
STAGES ACTIVITES SUBMISSIONS
CONCEPTS
● Review Space Directive
● Integrate Expectations into Major
Systems and Features
PROGRAM REVIEW
DESIGN CHARRETTE
PRELIMINARY CONCEPTS
(3 or more)
VALUE ENGINEERING
(Systems Level)
COMMISSIONER’S APPROVAL
FINAL CONCEPTS
● Massing Models
(New Construction only)
● Narrative to Include Proposed Building
Systems
● Rendering/ Photos
● Concept Drawings and BIM
Level: Narratives/Studies
Calculations
Cost Estimates
Design Quality Review Questionnaire
● Space Program Statement/Reconciliation
DESIGN DEVELOPMENT
● System/Feature Analyses for
Selection
● Final Selection of All Building
Systems
● Inter System Coordination
PROGRAM REVIEW
VALUE ENGINEERING
(Analysis Stage)
PRODUCTION STAGE
PROJECT DIRECTIVE MEETING
● Architectural Background Drawings
Complete
● Design Drawings and BIM
Development Narratives/Studies
Level: Calculations
Cost Estimates
Design Quality Review
Questionnaire
● Concurrence on Narrative for All
Building Design Characteristics &
Systems
● Space Program Reconciliation
CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS
● Presentation of Design in a Format
Suitable to Parties Unfamiliar with
the Site
PROGRAM REVIEW
75% COMPLETE
90% COMPLETE
100% COMPLETE
POST DESIGN SERVICES
● Progress Drawings
● Draft Specifications
● Narrative Update
● Current Calculations
● Final: Drawings and BIM
Specifications
Narratives
Calculations
Cost Estimate
Design Quality Review Questionnaire
● Incorporation of Review Comments
● Space Program Reconciliation
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APPENDIX
Design Process Definitions
General
These definitions are for new construction.
Some requirements will be eliminated for a
modernization project, such as zoning area, form,
massing, etc.
Program Review
Prior to initiating each phase of design, the design
team (including the GSA, A/E, and customer agency)
must meet to review design program expectations
and to exchange ideas, lessons-learned, and concerns.
Such technical "partnering" sessions allow a clearer
understanding of expectations, a well defined project
scope, and help keep the project on budget and
schedule.
Preliminary Concepts
A submission that demonstrates compliance with the
Building Program (space tabulation of building
program) including all adjacency and functional
requirements.
This submission also shows that the proposed project
is within the zoning area, and that the building and
massing are compatible with the surroundings. The
aesthetics should support the design philosophy of
GSA shown in the general approach to architecture in
the preceding chapters of this document. Building
systems and building envelope appropriate for the
conceptual designs must be defined in order that they
can be evaluated early for effectiveness and efficiency
related to operation, maintenance, and energy
consumption.
Since there are many options to accomplish these
ends with any particular program and site, GSA will
participate in the normal design process of comparing
options by working with the A/E through Preliminary
Concepts. In this phase, the design team should
develop their strategy for achieving LEED Gold
Certification as defined by the U.S. Green Building
Council.
During Preliminary Concepts, three or more concepts
must be presented; these Preliminary Concepts are
intended to be working level and not presentation
documents. They are to be developed only to the
level that allows selection of a concept that will still
be within program operation and budget goals. This
selected concept is to be further refined and
presented as the Final Concept by the A/E.
Value Engineering (Systems Level)
Value engineering (VE) is a process that is somewhat
continuous throughout the project but its greatest
emphasis should be in the early stages of the project
(concepts and design development).
GSA policy is to have an independent VE consultant
facilitate a value engineering study with an
independent team, including participation by the
design A/E and the design A/E estimator throughout
the study and implementation process. The A/E team
must be part of this effort and incorporate the VE
consultant's recommendations that were approved
by the GSA into the design as part of the scope of
work.
Final Concepts
The concept phase study is conducted to focus on the
macro level elements of the design. These elements
include, but are not limited to, siting, building
massing, and environmental and community impacts
and concerns. The conceptual phase study workshop
is generally of two to four days duration.
For major projects, a presentation is made to the
Commissioner of the Public Buildings Service for final
approval.
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APPENDIX
Design Development
This set of submissions reflects a more
comprehensive project design developed from the
selected final concept design. DD finalizes the
selection of all systems with respect to type, size, and
other material characteristics.
Systems are not only structural, mechanical, fire
protection, and electrical, but include all other
building components such as the building envelope
(wall, window, and roof), interior construction
(flooring, ceiling, and partitions), service spaces,
elevators, and so on.
In this phase, the design team should submit a LEED
worksheet or comprehensive plan for how the
architectural and buildings systems will achieve a
LEED Gold Certified building as determined by USGBC.
The design submissions consist of a combination of
drawings, narratives, calculations, specifications, and
cost estimates. Although final design development
plans, sections, and elevations must be to scale,
drawings made in the analysis stage to illustrate
various options may be freehand.
These submissions are not preliminary construction
documents. The approval at the project directive
meeting may require that building layout or size
changes be incorporated into the construction
documents. No design discipline should start work on
construction documents until the project directive
has been approved.
Life-Cycle Cost Analysis
As specified herein and within programming
requirements, life-cycle cost assessments must be
made, leading to system/feature selections. Though
customer agencies might only look at the first costs of
a project, the design team must evaluate life-cycle
costs, especially as they relate to sustainable
technologies and the GSA energy goals for reducing
cost of energy consumption over time. The benefit of
life-cycle costs may far outweigh the first costs of a
project.
Production Stage
The production stage is the development of each
system with supporting calculations and narrative.
Plans, sections, elevations, and details showing
systems must be included.
Value Engineering (Analysis Stage)
GSA policy is to have an independent VE consultant
facilitate a value engineering study with an
independent team, including participation by the
design A/E and the design A/E estimator throughout
the study and implementation process. The A/E team
must be part of this effort and incorporate the VE
consultant’s recommendations that were approved
by the GSA into the design as part of the scope of
work.
The DD phase VE study is conducted to focus on the
subsystem and detail level elements of the design.
These elements include but are not limited to the
following:
• Material selections
• Specific building systems selection and
design
• Proposed design details
• Overall layout options within overall building
shell
• Phasing and scheduling plans
• Structural loads and elements
• Major constructability issues
• Site paving, grading, and utilities
• The DD phase study generally takes three to
five days. The DD phase study is held after
receipt of the draft DD phase submission of
the documents. The final design
development submission is prepared upon
agreement of all implemented VE proposals.
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APPENDIX
• As the project is developed the focus will
shift to detailed aspects of the earlier
decisions during design development.
• Diagrams, narratives, and sketches with
calculations to demonstrate the life-cycle
cost effectiveness of the system must be
prepared and received during this phase.
• This approach requires a diligent effort and
commitment by all project team members
early in the project to systems and materials
that make sense economically and allow
quality and durability.
Project Directive
The report summarizes analysis and design to date at
completion of the DD phase. A meeting among GSA,
the client, and A/E staff, particularly those who will be
working on the construction documents, is held to
review the project directive for concurrence.
Construction Documents
This phase requires a detailed set of documents
coordinated by all disciplines into one coherent
document to become the basis for a construction
contract. The construction documents should include
all levels of detail drawings from site planning to
construction details, as well as specifications, cost
estimates, and calculations.
As-Built Documents
The as-built BIM must be populated with, at a
minimum, all equipment attributes required for
regional or national computerized maintenance
management system (CMMS) use. The content,
format, and classification system of the attributes
shall be provided by GSA and incorporated into the
BIM execution plan at the beginning of the project.
Mechanical, electrical, plumbing and vertical
transportation equipment, roofs, window systems
and all other building equipment with moving parts
must be incorporated in the BIM with links to
electronic copies of product documentation and shop
drawings.
Site Analysis and Preliminary
Concepts
Requirements
The preliminary concepts submittal consists of three
or more distinctly different architectural design
schemes presented in sketch format (single line,
drawn freehand to scale), along with massing models,
site slides and photographs, and sufficient narrative
to allow comparison and selection of a design
direction for preparation of a final design concept.
Site Survey
If a survey is part of the scope of work for the project,
see Appendix Section A.5 for requirements.
The information requested in subparagraphs 1 and 2
may be in progress and not yet complete. Present site
sketches as appropriate.
Drawings
1. Site location plan [at least 2 kilometers (1.25 miles)
around site], showing:
a. Site relative to location of city center, major
landmarks, major parking facilities, major roads, and
airport
b. Location of subway stations and other mass transit
links
c. Location of distinct land use types and districts in
the vicinity of the site (e.g., historic districts, retail
nodes, civic districts, etc.)
2. Existing site plan (at least one block around site),
describing:
a. Site boundaries, approximate topography, existing
buildings, setbacks, and easements
b. Climatic conditions including path of sun
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APPENDIX
c. Description of flood plain issues related to building
location and mechanical and electric equipment
d. Location of on-site and off-site utilities
e. Natural landscape
f. Pedestrian and vehicular circulation (include
direction of traffic on adjoining streets)
g. Neighboring land uses, existing and planned
3. Site plans for each design scheme, showing:
a. Building location and massing
b. Building expansion potential
c. Parking and service area
d. Description of local plans for surrounding area,
relation of each concept to those plans, and summary
of relevant recommendations from local officials
4. Floor plans, showing at a minimum:
a. Entrances, lobbies, corridors, stairways, elevators,
work areas, special spaces, mechanical rooms for
major equipment and air handlers, and service spaces
(with the principal spaces labeled). Dimensions for
critical clearances, such as vehicle access, should be
indicated.
5. Building sections (as necessary), showing:
a. Floor-to-floor heights and other critical dimensions
b. Labeling of most important spaces
c. Labeling of floor and roof elevations
6. Photographs
a. Minimum of six 8 x 10 photographs showing the
site and elevations of existing buildings (or landscape,
as applicable) surrounding the site
7. Models
a. Massing models of each architectural design
scheme on a common base. (No fenestration should
be provided at this stage of design development.)
8. Narrative
a. Site statement, describing:
i. Existing site features
ii. Climatic conditions
iii. Topography and drainage patterns
iv. Any existing erosion conditions
v. Wetlands and locations of flood plains
vi. Surrounding buildings (style, scale)
vii. Circulation patterns around site
b. Site access
i. Noise/visual considerations
ii. Local zoning restrictions
iii. Federal Aviation Administration
requirements
iv. Hazardous waste
v. Pollution
c. Historic preservation considerations, if applicable
i. Site photographs, showing contiguous areas
and affected preservation zones
ii. Existing major site utilities
iii. Potential archeological artifacts
d. Description of each architectural design scheme,
explaining:
i. Organizational concept
ii. Expansion potential
iii. Building efficiency
iv. Energy considerations
v. Advantages and disadvantages
e. Sustainable design considerations
i. Potential for incorporation of renewable
energy systems in the design
ii. Potential use of geothermal systems
f. Mechanical system and strategy to comply with
P100, Chapter 5 and with the assigned energy goal in
Section 1.9.
g. Description of structural design scheme
considerations for each design scheme explaining:
i. design loads
ii foundation system
iii. building framing system
iv. lateral load resisting system
v. advantages and disadvantages
h. Fire protection design considerations
i. Security features
j. Code statement. Provide a brief statement from
each design team discipline member regarding the
code requirements that relate to the site and
occupancy use. For example, items such as, but not
limited to: classification of construction and
occupancy group(s), fire resistance requirements and
general egress requirements, etc., would be prepared
by the design team fire protection engineer.
k. Preliminary concept phase cost estimates
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APPENDIX
i. Provide a UNIFORMAT cost estimate for
each proposed design scheme submitted
ii. Cost estimating must be in accordance with
the P120 and Table A-1 in this document
iii. Provide separate estimate for phased work,
or bid alternates/options
iv. Verify that each design scheme presented
can be constructed within the project budget
l. Space program statement/reconciliation—provide
in metric and imperial units
m. Preliminary energy analysis for compliance with
the assigned energy goals for each architectural
concept in accordance with Section A.6
n. Art in architecture statement. Provide statement of
the lead designer’s architectural design philosophy as
exemplified by past building projects, including those
that featured collaborations with artists, and will
discuss way he or she can envision working with
artists on the GSA project. Provide a summary of
meetings with the Art in Architecture Panel.
o. A description of any deviation from the PBS P100.
A BIM for each preliminary concept is required to a
minimum Level 100 detail (in accordance with AIA
E202 Standards). The contents of the BIM shall be
such that the BIM shall be the source for 2D drawings
and SDM requirements to the greatest extent
possible. When 2D deliverables require a finer level
of detail, the BIM shall be the central source for 2D
details and/or be modeled in greater detail to
accommodate the specific requirements. The BIM
Execution Plan shall also be reviewed and a VDC
Scorecard analysis shall be conducted to ensure all
parties are in compliance.
Final Concept
Site Planning and Landscape Design
The following information must be complete for the
final concept submittal of all buildings. (If materials
produced for the preliminary concepts submittal do
not require modification, such materials are
acceptable for this submission.)
Site Plan
(At least one block around site), describing:
1 Site boundaries, approximate topography,
existing buildings, setbacks, and easements
2 Building orientation with respect to path of
sun
3 Building massing and relationship to
massing of surrounding buildings
4 Future building expansion potential
5 Location of on-site and off-site utilities
6 Grading and drainage
7 General landscape design, showing location
of major features
8 Pedestrian and vehicular circulation
(include direction of traffic on adjoining streets)
9 Parking and service areas
10 Fire protection, water supplies, fire
hydrants, and fire apparatus access roads
Narrative
1 Description of site and landscape design
final concept
2 Demolition, if required
3 Circulation
4 Parking
5 Paving
6 Landscape design
7 Irrigation, if any
8 Utility distribution and collection systems
9 Method for storm water detention or
retention
10 Landscape maintenance concept
11 Fire protection, water supplies, fire
hydrants, and fire apparatus access roads
12 Accessibility path for the physically disabled
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APPENDIX
13 Summary of consultation with local officials
regarding site and architectural design and the
design’s response to relevant recommendations
Architectural
1. Drawings
a. Demolition plans, if required
b. Floor plans, showing at a minimum:
i. Work areas, lobbies, corridors, entrances,
stairways, elevators, special spaces, and service
spaces (with the principal spaces labeled). Dimensions
for critical clearances, such as vehicle access, should
be indicated.
ii. Office areas must show proposed layouts
down to the office level of detail verifying the
integration between the approved program and the
building concept is achievable.
c. Proposed interior layouts showing:
i. Open office plan
ii. Enclosed office plan
iii. Indicate how major mechanical and
electrical equipment can be removed/replaced
d. Elevations of major building facades, showing:
i. Fenestration
ii. Exterior materials
iii. Cast shadows
e. Elevations of major interior spaces, showing:
i. Lobby/atrium
ii. Typical public elevator lobby
iii. Typical courtroom elevations
f. Building sections (as necessary), showing:
i. Adequate space for structural, mechanical
and electrical, telecommunications, and fire
protection systems
ii. Mechanical penthouses
iii. Floor-to-floor and other critical dimensions
iv. Labeling of most important spaces
v. Labeling of floor and roof elevations
2. Color rendering [Minimum size must be 600 mm by
900 mm (24 in. by 36 in.).]
3. Photographs
a. Four 200 mm by 250 mm (8 in. by 10 in.) color
photographs, mounted, identified, and framed of the
rendering or model image (showing at least two
vantage points). In addition, provide for all building
elevations (at least one vantage point per each
elevation).
b. Two of the photographs are to be sent to the GSA
project manager.
c. Provide two additional 600 mm by 900 mm (24 in.
by 36 in.) photographs of the rendering for the GSA
project manager. (For courthouse projects only.)
4. Model
a. Provide a model of the final concept with sufficient
detail to convey the architectural intent of the design.
5. Calculations
a. Acoustical calculations, including noise
transmission through:
i. Envelope
ii. Interior walls, floors (including raised
floors), and ceilings
iii. Mechanical and electrical equipment
b. Heat transfer through and dew point locations in
building envelope
c. Toilet fixture count analysis
d. Illumination, daylighting, and glare analysis
e. Passenger and freight elevator analysis
f. Loading dock analysis
g. Energy analysis in accordance with Section A.6.
6. Narrative
a. Architectural program requirements
i. Show in tabular form how the final concept
meets the program requirements for each critical
function.
ii. A revised description of any deviation from
P100.
iii. Description of final concept, explaining:
(1) Expansion potential
(2) Building floor efficiency
b. Location and sizes of mechanical equipment rooms
for accessibility, maintenance and replacement of
equipment (including cooling towers and emergency
generators)
c. Conveying systems design (passenger and freight
elevators, escalators)
d. Loading docks
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APPENDIX
e. Thermal, air leakage, and operational performance
and maintainability of the building envelope
f. Design strategy to attain the assigned energy goal
g. Treatment of historic zones, if applicable
h. Operations and maintenance goals (exterior and
interior window washing, relamping, etc.)
i. Sustainable design concepts (LEED strategy)
j. Vertical transportation analysis (passenger and
freight elevators and escalators)
k. Code analysis
i. The Code criteria must be reviewed by each
design team discipline member to the degree of detail
necessary to assure that tasks accomplished in this
phase meet all the Code requirements.
ii. A Code/Criteria analysis must be prepared
by each design team discipline member that
documents an investigation of the applicable codes
and agency criteria that will govern the design of a
specific project. This analysis should alert the
Government to any conflicts in the project’s design
criteria so that they can be resolved early. The
analysis should also provide a common perspective
for the design and review of the project. This analysis
is probably most critical in building modernization
and repair/alteration projects.
Historic Preservation
8.5 in. x 11 in. report, signed by qualified preservation
architect, including:
1. Narrative
a. General: Project purpose, scope, groups, and
individuals involved
b. Existing conditions, describing:
i. Overall building size, configuration,
character
ii. Project location
iii. Existing original materials and design,
relevant alterations
c. Preservation design issues and prospective
solutions, including:
i. Location of new work/installation: visibility,
impact on historic finishes
ii. Compare options for preserving/restoring
historic materials and design
iii. Identify further study required to avoid
adverse effects as applicable
2. Photographs
a. General and detail views showing existing
conditions at affected preservation zones, keyed to
plan showing location and orientation of each view
b. Captions identifying location, subject, condition
shown
3. Drawings
a. Reduced to 8.5 in. x 11 in., 11 in. x 17 in. foldout or
placed in cover pocket
b. Site and floor plans, as applicable
c. Sketches or schematic CAD drawings (elevations,
plans) showing preservation design concepts
Structural
1. Drawings
a. Framing and foundation plans of the proposed
structural system showing column locations, bay
sizes, and location of expansion and seismic joints
2. Narrative
a. Identification of unusual local code requirements
b. Code compliance statement
c. Name of model building code followed
d. Building classification
e. Identification of region of seismicity, wind speed,
etc.
f. Identification of special requirements, such as high-
rise
g. For new buildings:
i. Statement certifying that the structural
engineer has reviewed the building configuration for
blast, seismic, progressive collapse, and hurricane
adequacy, and the criteria in PBS P100 have been
met. The structural engineer and the architect must
sign this statement.
Mechanical
For the system approved and selected from the three
concepts, provide the following:
1. Drawings
b. HVAC Systems
i. Floor plan(s):
(1) Identification of equipment spaces for
mechanical equipment
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(2) Location of mechanical equipment,
including size, weight, access to loading docks and
freight elevators, and clearance requirements for
operation, maintenance, and replacement
ii. Flow diagram(s):
(1) Air flow riser diagrams representing
supply, return, outside air, and exhaust systems
(2) Water flow riser diagrams of the main
mechanical systems in the mechanical room(s) and
throughout the building
c. Plumbing Systems
i. Floor plan(s):
(1) Proposed building zoning and major
piping runs
(2) Locations of proposed plumbing fixtures
and equipment
ii. Systems schematics and flow diagrams
2. Narrative
a. HVAC
A written narrative describing the selected
mechanical systems and equipment, including:
i. Indoor and outdoor design conditions for all
spaces under occupied, 24-hour, and unoccupied
conditions
ii. Ventilation rates, dehumidification, and
pressurization criteria for all spaces under occupied,
24-hour, and unoccupied conditions
iii. Equipment capacities, weights, sizes, and
power requirements
iv. Description of heating, cooling, ventilating,
and dehumidification systems for each major
functional space
v. Description of heating, cooling, ventilating,
and dehumidification control strategies for each air
handling system under occupied, 24-hour, and
unoccupied conditions
vi. Fuel and utility requirements
vii. A code compliance statement
b. Plumbing
i. Description of proposed plumbing systems,
including domestic cold and hot water, sanitary and
storm drainage, and irrigation
ii. Evaluation of alternate sources for
preheating of domestic water (solar or heat recovery)
c. Calculations and energy and water analyses
i. Building heating and cooling load
calculations
ii. Psychrometric calculations for HVAC
systems at full load and partial loads. (Partial loads at
50% and 25%, and unoccupied periods)
iii. Energy consumption calculations and
analysis in accordance with Section A.6
iv. Water consumption calculations and
analysis including make-up water for HVAC systems,
domestic water consumption, and water
consumption for irrigation
v. Fuel consumption estimates
3. Specifications
a. Table of contents identifying specifications to be
used on the project
Fire Protection
Fire protection and life safety submission
requirements must be identified as a separate Fire
Protection section as outlined in this document.
1. Drawings
a. Plans showing
i. Equipment spaces for fire protection
systems (e.g., fire pump, fire command center, etc.)
ii. Fire protection water supplies, fire hydrant
locations, fire apparatus access roads, and fire lanes
2. Narrative
a. Description of the building’s proposed fire
protection systems including the egress system
b. Code compliance analysis
i. The design team fire protection engineer
must prepare an analysis of the applicable codes and
agency criteria that will govern the design of the
specific project. For example, items such as, but not
limited to classification of construction and occupancy
group(s), rating of structural components, fire
resistance requirements, interior finish, occupant load
calculations, exit calculations, identification of areas
to receive automatic sprinkler systems and/or
automatic detection systems, smoke control systems,
etc. would be prepared by the design team fire
protection engineer as necessary to provide a
complete fire protection and life safety analysis for
the final concept.
Electrical
1. Drawings
a. Plans showing equipment spaces for all electrical
equipment to include: panels; switchboards;
transformers; uninterruptible power supply (UPS);
and generators
2. Narrative
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a. Description of at least two potential electrical
systems
b. Describe the proposed lighting and lighting control
system
c. Proposed special features of electrical system
d. Code compliance statement
Certification Requirements
The architect/engineer (lead designer) must certify
that the concept design complies with the program
requirements, PBS P100, GSA’s energy goals, Federal
energy goals, and local regulatory agencies and
review boards.
In bullet form, identify how proposed design features
will support performance expectations of the project.
Expectations are identified in the project’s design
program and within the Functional Objectives Matrix,
Figure A-1.
Final concept energy analysis, in accordance with
Section A.6.
Life-Cycle Cost Analysis
A life-cycle cost analysis of three options for the
various building systems under design and evaluation
that have been modeled should be included with this
submittal.
Final Concept Cost Estimate
A cost estimate must be provided, as required in the
P120 and in accordance with the P100.
The final concept estimate submission must include
the following:
• Executive summary
• Basis of estimate, rationale, assumptions, and
market analysis as required in P120
• GSA Report 3474, GSA Report 3473
• Summary reports (ASTM UNIFORMAT II and CSI
MasterFormat formats as applicable)
• Detail line item cost reports
• Core/shell and TI cost estimate, as per GSA
pricing policy. TI estimates must be prepared for
each tenant.
• Provide separate estimates for phased work, or
bid alternates/options.
• To ensure the project is developing on-budget, a
list of cost-saving items that would collectively
reduce the project cost to approximately 10
percent below budget.
• Verify that the final concept can be constructed
within the project budget.
• A life-cycle cost analysis of three options for the
various building systems under design and
evaluation that have been modeled should be
included with this submittal.
A BIM for each final concept is required to a minimum
Level 200 development (in accordance with AIA E202
Standards). The contents of the BIM shall be such
that the BIM shall be the source for 2D drawings and
SDM requirements to the greatest extent possible.
When 2D deliverables require a finer level of detail,
the BIM shall be the central source for 2D details
and/or be modeled in greater detail to accommodate
the specific requirements. The BIM Execution Plan
shall also be reviewed and a VDC Scorecard analysis
shall be conducted to ensure all parties are in
compliance.
Design Development
1. Calculations
a. Site storm drainage combined with building storm
drainage and sanitary sewer calculations
b. Storm water detention calculations, if applicable
c. Parking calculations, if applicable
d. Dewatering calculations
i. Calculations modeling dewatering rates
during dry and wet season excavation. Calculations
must take into account effect of dewatering on
adjacent structures and improvements.
ii. Calculations must assume a specific shoring
system as part of a comprehensive excavation
system.
2. Narrative
a. Site circulation concept, explaining:
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i. Reasons for site circulation design and
number of site entrances
ii. Reasons and/or calculations for number of
parking spaces provided
iii. Reasoning for design of service area(s),
including description of number and sizes of trucks
that can be accommodated
iv. Proposed scheme for waste removal
v. Proposed scheme for fire apparatus access
and fire lanes
b. Site utilities distribution concept
i. Brief description of fire protection water
supplies
ii. Brief description of fire hydrant locations
iii. Drainage design concept
c. Landscape design concept, explaining:
i. Reasoning for landscape design, paving, site
furnishings, and any water features
ii. Reasoning for choice of plant materials
iii. Proposed landscape maintenance plan and
water conservation plan
iv. Brief operating description of irrigation
system
d. Site construction description
i. Brief description of materials proposed for
pavements and utilities
e. Code analysis
i. The code criteria must be reviewed by each
design team discipline member to the degree of detail
necessary to ensure that tasks accomplished in this
phase meet all the code requirements.
ii. Identify local zoning and all building code
requirements and provide a complete analysis as they
pertain to the project.
3. Drawings
a. Demolition drawings, if required
b. Site layout plan, showing:
i. All buildings, roads, walks, parking, and
other paved areas (including type of pavement)
ii. Accessible route from parking areas and
from public street to main facility entrance
iii. Fire apparatus and fire lanes
c. Grading and drainage plan, showing:
i. Site grading and storm drainage inlets,
including storm water detention features
d. Site utilities plan, showing:
i. Sizes and locations of domestic and fire
protection water supply lines, sanitary sewer lines,
steam/condensate lines, and chilled water supply and
return lines, if applicable
e. Landscape design plan, showing:
i. General areas of planting, paving, site
furniture, water features, etc.
ii. Irrigation plan, if applicable
Architectural
1. Calculations
a. Acoustical calculations, including noise
transmission through:
i. Envelope
b. Heat transfer through dew point locations in
building envelope
c. Toilet fixture count
d. Illumination, daylighting, and glare
e. Passenger and freight elevator analysis
f. Loading dock analysis
g. Energy analysis in accordance with Section A.6
2. Narrative
a. Building concept, explaining:
i. Reasons for building massing, entrance
locations, and service locations
ii. Building circulation and arrangement of
major spaces
iii. Interior design
iv. Adherence to the building preservation
plan, if applicable
v. Energy conservation design elements
vi. Water conservation considerations
vii. Explain how all these design considerations are
combined to provide a well integrated cohesive
design concept
viii. Analysis of refuse removal, recycled materials
storage and removal, and maintenance requirements
b. Building construction description, explaining:
i. Structural bay size
ii. Exterior materials, waterproofing, air
barriers/vapor retarders, and insulation elements
iii. Roofing system(s)
iv. Exterior glazing system
v. Interior finishes, with detailed explanation
for public spaces
c. Potential locations for artwork commissioned under
the Art in Architecture program, as a result of
collaboration between the artist, architect, and Art in
Architecture Panel.
d. Use of recycled materials
e. Sustainable design concepts and LEED strategy
f. Review of project for code compliance
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i. Code criteria should be reviewed by each
discipline to the degree of detail necessary to assure
that tasks accomplished in this phase meet the code
requirements.
ii. For major alterations, provide a
determination whether an accessible floor is needed.
g. Building maintenance, explaining:
i. How unique and tall architectural spaces
such as atriums or grand staircases will be cleaned,
have their light fixtures maintained, have interior and
exterior glass surfaces cleaned and typical
maintenance performed.
ii. How courtrooms, dining facilities, and other
assembly spaces with fixed seating, multilevel spaces,
or with sloped floors will have their ceilings, lights,
and other ceiling elements maintained and repaired.
iii. Proposed scheme for window washing
equipment
iv. Consideration and prevention of bird
nesting on exterior surfaces
v. How major mechanical and electrical
equipment can be serviced and/or replaced in future
years giving the necessary dimension clearances
h. Describe the project-specific security design
i. Report verifying the current design’s
compliance with the approved space program. Any
deviations must be clearly reported. Report in metric
and English units.
j. Curtain Wall Report
i. In projects with complex curtain wall
systems, describe size and locations of major
movement joints to accommodate structural drift due
to seismic and/or wind loading. Describe proposed
curtain wall attachment methods to accommodate
these lateral movements.
ii. Describe water migration
iii. Describe exterior fire safety systems, if
applicable
iv. Describe typical interfaces between exterior
wall system and interior finishes
v. Describe interfaces between major
enclosure assemblies such as glass curtain wall to
precast or stone panels
vi. Identification of at least three suppliers that
can provide proposed exterior wall system
vii. Address any requirement for blast resistance in
the context of "Windgard" simulations and/or blast
testing results, as provided by the Office of Design
and Construction
k. Design development energy analysis, in accordance
with Section A.6
l. Building keying: Report must fully define
the keying hierarchy for the entire building
incorporating various levels of access, security, and
fire egress. A/E should coordinate with GSA fire safety
engineer for keying.
m. Signage Report: Signage system and room
numbering system must be integrated with keying
system.
n. Provide two finish boards for both public and
tenant interior areas and two finish boards of exterior
finishes composed of actual material samples and
color coded plans, sections, and elevations of major
space showing their use.
3. Drawings
b. Building floor plans, showing:
i. Spaces individually delineated and labeled
ii. Enlarged layouts of special spaces
iii. Dimensions
iv. Planning module
c. Building reflected ceiling plans, showing:
i. Enlarged layouts of special spaces
ii. Spaces individually delineated
iii. Materials labeled
iv. Ceiling heights labeled
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v. Lighting fixture types indicated and
scheduled
d. Building roof plan, showing:
i. Drainage design, including minimum roof
slope
ii. Dimensions
iii. Membrane and insulation configuration of
the roofing system
iv. Mechanical equipment rooms and their
relationship to freight elevators
e. Elevations, showing:
i. Entrances, window arrangements, doors
ii. Exterior materials with major vertical and
horizontal joints
iii. Roof levels
iv. Raised flooring and suspended ceiling space
v. Dimensions
f. Interior elevations, showing:
i. Lobby, atrium
ii. Public corridors
iii. Jury assembly room
iv. Grand jury
v. Restrooms
vi. Chambers
vii. Typical public elevator lobby
viii. Typical courtroom elevations
ix. Typical tenant corridors
x. Typical conference rooms
g. One longitudinal and one transverse section,
showing:
i. Floor-to-floor dimensions
ii. Stairs and elevators
iii. Typical ceiling heights
iv. General roof construction
h. Exterior wall sections, showing:
i. Materials of exterior wall construction,
including flashing, connections, method of anchoring,
insulation, vapor retarders, and glazing treatments
ii. Vertical arrangement of interior space,
including accommodation of mechanical and
electrical services in the floor and ceiling zones
i. Proposed room finish schedule, showing:
i. Floors, bases, walls, and ceilings
ii. Finish schedule may be bound into
narrative
iii. Perspective sketches, renderings and/or
presentation model, if included in the project scope
j. Proposed site furniture, showing:
i. Site furniture cut sheets or photos
ii. Proposed locations
k. Diagrams illustrating the ability to access, service,
and replace mechanical/electrical equipment showing
the pathway with necessary clearance
l. Location of accessible pathways and
services for the physically disabled
m. Placement of Art in Architecture elements
n. Design of typical building signage, including
wayfinding and room identification, building
directory, exterior building signage, and major interior
building identification
4. Photographs
a. Two sets of 200 mm by 250 mm (8 in. by 10 in.)
photographs for:
i. rendering or model image (if changed from
concept submission),
ii. elevation views for all exposures (if changed
from concept submission)
1. Narrative
a. Cover page: Building name, address, project title,
project control number, author (preservation
architect), preservation architect’s signature, date of
submission
b. General: Project purpose, scope, groups and
individuals involved, substantive changes to approach
described in concept submission
c. Existing conditions, describing:
character
iii. Existing original materials and design, alterations
iv. New findings from testing or analysis in
concept phase
d. Preservation solutions explored, how resolved and
why, including:
i. Location of new work: visual impact,
protection of ornamental finishes
ii. Design of new work/installation: visual and
physical compatibility with existing original materials
and design; materials/finishes chosen
iii. Methods of supporting new
work/installation
iv. Preservation and protection of historic
materials during construction through tenant move-in
e. Effects, describing:
i. How project will affect the building’s
architecturally significant qualities
ii. Measures proposed to mitigate any adverse
effects on historic materials or design
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f. Photographs
i. General and detail views showing existing
plan showing location and orientation of each photo
view
ii. Captions identifying location, subject,
condition shown
2. Drawings
placed in cover pocket:
c. Elevations, plans, and section details showing
preservation design solutions for each issue
identified, as approved by regional preservation
officer
Structural
Design report containing structural design criteria and
the following information:
1. Calculations For any computer-generated results,
submit a program user’s manual, a model of the input
data, and all pertinent program material required to
understand the output. A narrative of the input and
results for computer-generated calculations for the
recommended structural concept should be
contained in the calculations as well.
a. Gravity load and lateral load calculations, with
tabulated results showing framing schedules
b. Foundation calculations
c. Calculations showing that the system is not
vulnerable to progressive collapse
d. Vibration calculations
e. Blast calculations
2. Narrative
a. Code criteria should be reviewed by each discipline
to the degree of detail necessary to ensure that tasks
accomplished in this phase meet the code
requirements.
b. Comparative cost analysis of at least three
potential framing systems
i. The analysis should compare first costs
based on the design of a typical cross-section of the
building, one interior column bay in width, including a
comparison of lateral load-resisting elements.
Nonstructural building systems that have a bearing on
the overall cost of the systems must be included. For
example, in a comparison between steel and concrete
systems, the cost of fireproofing the steel structure
must be considered, if fireproofing is required by
code.
ii. The analysis should include a brief narrative
listing factors that may have a bearing on the final
selection, such as the availability of local labor skilled
in the erection systems, speed of construction, and
other concerns.
c. Description of recommended structural concept,
including:
i. Choice of framing system, including lateral
load-resisting elements, and proposed foundation
design
ii. Verification of adequacy of all assumed
dead and live loads
d. Identify all code requirements and provide a
complete analysis as it pertains to this project
including but not limited to:
i. Required fire-resistance rating of structural
elements
ii. Summary of special requirements resulting
from applicable local codes
e. Proposed methods of corrosion protection, if
applicable
f. Geotechnical engineering report, including boring
logs (if part of scope of work)
i. See Section A.5 for specific requirements
g. Geologic hazard report. See Section A.5 for specific
requirements
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h. Blast consultant’s report and analysis (if part of
scope of work)
i. Progressive collapse, seismic, and wind analysis if
applicable
3. Drawings
a. Framing plans and key details
4. Specifications
a. Provide an index of specification section to be used
on the project
Mechanical
1. Calculations and Energy and Water Analyses
a. Updated building heating and cooling load
calculations
b. Updated psychrometric calculations for HVAC
systems at full and partial loads (partial loads at 50%
and 25%, and unoccupied periods)
c. Updated energy consumption calculations and
analysis in accordance with Section A.6
d. Updated water consumption calculations and
analysis including make-up water for HVAC systems,
domestic water consumption, and water
consumption for irrigation
e. Updated fuel consumption estimates
2. Drawings: HVAC
b. Floor plan(s):
i. Single line piping and ductwork schematic
layout
ii. Show terminal air units
iii. Perimeter terminal units
c. Quarter-inch scale drawings of mechanical
equipment room(s) showing all mechanical
equipment, ductwork, and piping, including
equipment access and service requirements in plan,
elevations, and cross-sections
d. Roof plan showing all roof-mounted equipment
and access to roof
e. Show adequate access from mechanical equipment
room(s) to freight elevators
f. Single line schematic flow and riser diagram(s):
i. Airflow quantities and balancing devices for
all heating/cooling equipment
ii. Water flow quantities and balancing devices
for all heating/cooling equipment
iii. Flow/energy measuring devices for water
and air systems for all cooling, heating, and terminal
equipment
g. Automatic control diagram(s):
i. Control flow diagrams showing all sensors,
valves, and controllers (analog and digital)
ii. Sequence of operations of all the systems
that describes the control sequences during occupied,
24-hour operations, and unoccupied conditions
h. Schedules:
i. Provide schedules of major equipment that
includes chillers, boilers, pumps, air handling units,
and terminal units, cooling towers, and all equipment
required for 24-hour operations
i. Air terminal devices
j. Air balance relationships between spaces
3. Drawings: Plumbing
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b. Floor plan(s):
i. Proposed building zoning and major piping
runs
ii. Locations of proposed plumbing fixtures
and equipment
c. Systems schematics and flow diagrams
4. Narrative: HVAC
A written narrative describing the final mechanical
system and equipment selection including:
a. Updated indoor and outdoor design conditions for
all spaces under occupied, 24-hour, and unoccupied
conditions
b. Provide a dew point analysis
c. Updated ventilation rates, dehumidification, and
pressurization criteria for all spaces under occupied,
24-hour, and unoccupied conditions
d. Updated equipment capacities, weights, sizes, and
power requirements
e. A complete description of the air side and water
side systems and the associated components
including operating characteristics, ranges, and
capacities, spaces served, and special features
f. Descriptions of control strategy and sequence of
operations for all spaces under occupied, 24-hour,
and unoccupied conditions
g. Updated fuel and utility requirements
h. A P100 compliance statement
i. A description of any deviation from the
HVAC system as approved in the Final Concept
submittal, in accordance with P100
5. Narrative: Plumbing
a. Updated description of plumbing system, including
domestic cold and hot water, sanitary and storm
drainage, and irrigation systems
b. Updated evaluation of alternate sources for
reheating of domestic water (solar or heat recovery)
6. Specifications
a. Draft of each specification section to be used on
the project
Fire Protection
1. Calculation
a. Occupant load and egress calculations
b. Fire protection water supply calculations
i. Includes water supply flow testing data
c. Fire pump calculations where applicable
d. Smoke control calculations where applicable (e.g.,
atrium)
e. Stairway pressurization calculations where
applicable
f. Calculations contained in The SFPE Handbook of
Fire Protection Engineering for calculating sound
attenuation through doors and walls for placement
and location of fire alarm system audible notification
appliances
2. Drawings
a. Floor plans showing:
systems (e.g., fire pump, fire command center)
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APPENDIX
ii. Fire protection water supply lines, fire
hydrant locations, fire apparatus access roads, and
fire lanes
iii. Standpipes and sprinkler risers
iv. Remoteness of exit stairways
v. Location of firewalls and smoke partitions
vi. Identification of occupancy type of every
space and room in building
vii. Calculated occupant loads for every space and
room in the building
viii. Location of special fire protection
requirements (e.g., kitchens, computer rooms,
storage)
b. Riser diagrams for sprinkler system
c. Riser diagram for fire alarm system
3. Narrative
a. Building egress description
i. Includes egress calculations and stairway
exit capacities, remoteness, exit discharge, etc.
b. All building fire alarm and suppression systems
c. Smoke control system(s), where applicable
d. Special fire protection systems (e.g., kitchen
extinguishing system), where applicable
e. Fire resistance rating of building structural
elements
i. Coordinate with structural engineer
f. Fire alarm system
i. Interface of fire alarm system with BAS and
security systems
ii. Review of building for compliance with life
safety requirements and building security
requirements
g. Interior finish requirements as they pertain to the
life safety requirements
h. Mass notification system
Electrical
1. Calculations
a. Lighting calculations for a typical 186 m2 (2,000 sq.
ft.) open office plan with system furniture
b. Lighting calculations for a typical one-person
private office
c. Power calculations from building entry to branch
circuit panel
d. Load calculations
e. Life-cycle cost analysis of luminaire/lamp system
and associated controls
f. Power density analysis for lighting of each area
2. Narrative
a. Description of alternative power distribution
schemes
i. Compare the advantages and disadvantages
of each approach. Include the source of power,
potential for on-site generation, most economical
voltage, and primary vs. secondary metering.
b. Proposed power distribution scheme
i. Provide a detailed description and
justification for the selected scheme. Address special
power and reliability requirements, including
emergency power and UPS systems.
c. Proposed lighting systems
i. Discuss typical lighting system features,
including fixture type, layout, and type of controls
ii. Discuss special spaces such as lobbies,
auditoria, dining rooms, and conference rooms
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iii. Discuss exterior lighting scheme
iv. Discuss lighting control systems and
daylighting
v. Describe the energy usage of the lighting
system
vi. Interface with BAS
vii. Methods proposed for energy conservation
and integration with BAS
viii. Engineering analysis for demand limit
controls
d. Description of each proposed signal system
i. Description of proposed security systems’
features and intended mode of operation
ii. Proposed zone schedule
iii. Proposed card access controls, CCTV
assessment and intrusion protection system, if
applicable
e. Proposed telecommunications Infrastructure
i. Systems proposed for infrastructure and
cabling to accommodate the communications
systems. These must be designed and provided in
compliance with EIA/TIA building telecommunications
wiring standards.
f. Code criteria should be reviewed by each discipline
requirements.
3. Drawings
a. Site plan
i. Proposed site distribution for power and
communications, proposed service entrance and
location of transformers, generators, and vaults, etc.
b. Floor plans
i. Proposed major electrical distribution
scheme and locations of electrical rooms and closets
and communication closets
ii. Proposed major routing of major electrical
feeder runs, bus duct, communication backbone
systems, and security systems
iii. Plan layouts of electrical rooms, showing
locations of major equipment, including size
variations by different manufacturers
c. Single line diagram of the building power
distribution system
d. Plan of typical office lighting layout
e. Single line diagram of other signal system including:
telephones, security, public address, and others
f. Security system site plan
i. Proposed locations for CCTV, duress alarm
sensors, and access controls for parking lots. If the
system is not extensive, these locations may be
shown on the electrical site plan.
ii. Security system floor plans
iii. Proposed locations for access controls,
intrusion detection devices, CCTV, and local panels
g. Lightning protection and building grounding
Design Development Cost Estimate
The Design Development Estimate submission must
include the following:
• Basis of estimate, rationale, assumptions and
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• Summary Reports (ASTM UNIFORMAT II and CSI
MasterFormat formats as applicable)
• Core/shell and TI cost estimate, as per GSA pricing
policy. TI estimates must be prepared for each tenant.
• Provide separate estimates for phased work, or bid
alternates/options
• To ensure the project is developing on-budget, a list
of cost-saving items that would collectively reduce
the project cost to approximately 10 percent below
budget,
• Verify that the design development submission can
be constructed within the project budget
Address what value engineering items were
incorporated from the concept VE workshops.
(Document all VE workshop sessions during design
development and show what is to be incorporated
into the final design.)
Specifications
Assemble all project-related construction guide
specifications and mark out all content that does not
apply to the project.
The A/E (lead designer) of record must provide
certification that the project has been designed and is
in compliance with project program requirements,
PBS P100, and GSA’s energy goal.
Assemble material for LEED rating submission,
indicating features and points that ensure desired
LEED rating.
The A/E of record must provide certification that all
VE decisions made during DD are in compliance with
the program requirements and PBS P100, and
approved by the design team and all GSA and client
stakeholders.
In bullet form, identify how selected design features
will support the project’s performance expectations.
All building systems involved with the project must be
discussed, each addressing all performance
expectations as covered in the design program and
Section A.2.
A BIM for design development is required to a
minimum Level 200 development (in accordance with
AIA E202 Standards). The contents of the BIM shall
be such that the BIM shall be the source for 2D
drawings and SDM requirements to the greatest
extent possible. When 2D deliverables require a finer
level of detail, the BIM shall be the central source for
2D details and/or be modeled in greater detail to
The construction documents must be complete,
coordinated between disciplines, biddable, readable,
and buildable, with no room for unreasonable
additional interpretation. The drawings listed below
represent requirements for GSA’s review, and do not
constitute any limitation on the documentation
required to properly contract for the construction of
the project, or limit the professional design liability
for errors and omissions.
Update of code analysis. Each design team discipline
member must review, to the degree of detail
necessary, the design to assure all the code
1. Calculations
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a. Final drainage calculations, including stormwater
detention
b. Final parking calculations, if applicable
c. Pipe sizing calculations for water and sewer pipes
d. Pavement design calculations
2. Drawings, General: The plans listed below, except
the demolition plans, may be combined on small
projects.
b. Site layout plan
i. Location of all buildings, roads, walks,
accessible routes from parking and public street to
building entrance, parking and other paved areas, and
planted areas
ii. Limits of construction
iii. Locations and sizes of fire protection water
supply lines, fire hydrants, fire apparatus access
roads, and fire lanes
iv. Location of floodplains and wetlands
i. Existing and new contours [use 600 mm (2
ft.) interval minimum in area around buildings]
ii. Spot elevations at all entrances and
elsewhere as necessary
iii. Elevations for walls, ramps, terraces, plazas,
and parking lots
iv. All surface drainage structures
v. Water retention and conservation
i. All utilities, including inlets, manholes,
clean-outs, and invert elevations
e. Planting plan, showing:
i. Building outline, circulation, parking, and
major utility runs
ii. Size and location of existing vegetation to
be preserved (include protection measures during
construction)
iii. Location of all new plant material (identify
function, such as windbreak or visual screen where
appropriate)
iv. Erosion control
f. Planting schedule, showing:
i. Quantity of plants, botanical names,
planted size, and final size,
g. Irrigation plan, if applicable
i. Include schematic of irrigation control
system
h. Planting and construction details, profiles, sections,
and notes as necessary to fully describe design intent
i. Construction phasing, if part of project
i. Survey of surrounding buildings, structures, and
improvements in both wet and dry season to
document preconstruction elevations
j. Potential archeological artifacts
Architectural
1. Calculations and Compliance Reports
a. Final acoustical calculations, including noise
transmissions through:
i. Envelope
b. Final heat transfer through and dew point locations
in building envelope
c. Final toilet fixture count
d. Final illumination, daylighting, and glare analysis
2. Drawings
a. Project title sheet, drawing index
b. Demolition plans if required
c. Floor plans
d. Show planning grids and raised access floor grid, if
applicable,
i. Reflected ceiling plans
ii. Show ceiling grid and location of all
elements to be placed in the ceiling
e. Building sections
i. Vertical zoning for electrical and mechanical
utilities must be indicated on sections
f. Roof plans
i. Roof plans must show slopes, low points,
drains and scuppers, equipment, equipment supports,
roof accessories, and specialty items, if applicable
g. Exterior elevations
h. Wall sections
i. Interior elevations
j. Details
k. Schedules. Diagrams illustrating proper clearance
for servicing and replacement of equipment
3. Specifications
a. Room finish, ceiling types, floor finish, color, and
door schedules can be incorporated into either the
specifications or drawings
b. Call for thermographic scans of building envelope
to identify sources of heat transfer
c. Call for assembly of visual and performance mock-
ups for spaces such as courtrooms and sample office
space fit outs
d. Provide lighting fixture type schedule
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Specifications
Competency of bidder and restoration specialist
qualification requirements, Sections 00120 and
009[00], cross-referenced in material specifications.
1. Technical specifications for repair and restoration
of historic materials, including:
a. Specialized materials and procedures for repair and
restoration of historic materials,
b. Procedures for protecting historic materials in
areas being altered,
c. Sample review requirements of repair and
restoration procedures,
d. Sample submittal requirements for replacement
materials and new installations in preservation zones,
Structural
Calculations
For any computer-generated results, submit a model
of the input data and all pertinent program material
required to understand the output. A narrative of the
input and results should be contained in the
calculations as well.
Whenever a figure is obtained from some other page
of the calculations, refer to that page number in
parentheses next to the figure used in the calculation.
Provide sketches showing framing plans with
dimensions and grid lines, free-body/force diagram in
support of the calculations. Refer to drawing numbers
where the calculated items are shown on the
drawing: for example, structural sizes, rebar sizes,
connection details, etc.
Narrative/description must be submitted explaining
the computer program used to perform the
calculation.
1. Final structural calculations, including:
a. Gravity loads
b. Lateral loads (seismic and wind)
c. Foundations
d. Thermal loads where significant
e. Vibration propagation
f. Progressive collapse
g. Supports for nonstructural elements, including
mechanical and electrical equipment on the roof and
in equipment rooms, louvers, and other penetrations
h. Steel connections
i. Blast analysis
2. Drawings
a. Demolition plans (when applicable)
b. Full set of structural construction drawings
i. Drawings must be fully dimensioned, noted
and detailed for accurate bidding and construction
ii. Load criteria for all floor live loads, roof live
load, roof snow load, wind load, earthquake design
data, and special loads must be shown on drawings.
Live load reduction of the uniformly distributed floor
live loads, if used in the design, must be indicated.
iii. Basic wind speed (3-second gust), miles per
hour (km/hr), wind importance factor, I, and building
category, wind exposure, the applicable internal
pressure coefficient must be indicated.
iv. Seismic design criteria, such as seismic use
group, spectral response coefficients SDS and SD1,
site class, basic seismic-force-resisting system, design
base shear, and analytical procedure must be
indicated. Additional information may be required by
the local building official.
v. Soil bearing pressure and lateral earth
pressure must be indicated.
vi. Properties of basic materials must be
indicated
vii. Blast-resistant requirements if applicable
viii. Indicate the codes and standards used to
develop the project.
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APPENDIX
c. Schedules
i. Schedules for foundations, columns, walls,
beams, slabs, and decks, as applicable
d. Structural details. (All typical details must be shown
on the drawings.)
i. Include details for steel connections
ii. Include details for all fire-rated assemblies,
indicating Underwriters Laboratories Inc. or other
nationally recognized testing laboratory fire
resistance directory design numbers
iii. Include details indicating if the assembly is
restrained or unrestrained in accordance with
Appendix X to ASTM E119 (the classification must be
determined by a licensed structural engineer)
iv. Include details for anchorage of building
system equipment and nonstructural building
elements (may be shown on mechanical, electrical, or
architectural drawings, as applicable). The anchorage
details, if shown on other disciplines, must be
referenced on the structural drawings.
Mechanical
1. Drawings HVAC
b. Floor plan(s):
i. Double line piping and ductwork layout
ii. Show terminal air units
iii. Perimeter terminal units
iv. Show locations of automatic control sensors
(e.g., temperature, relative humidity, CO2, room
pressurization)
c. Roof plan showing all roof-mounted equipment and
access to roof,
i. Show adequate access from mechanical
equipment room(s) to freight elevators
d. Mechanical details:
i. Quarter-inch scale drawings of mechanical
equipment room(s) showing all mechanical
equipment, ductwork, and piping including access and
service requirements in plan, elevations, and cross-
sections
ii. All valves must be shown. Indicate locations
where temperature, pressure, flow,
contaminant/combustion gases, or vibration gauges
are required, and if remote sensing is required.
iii. Mechanical room piping and ductwork
layout must be double line.
iv. All dampers—both fire dampers and
volume control dampers—must be shown. Ductwork
ahead of the distribution terminals must be indicated
in true size (double line).
e. Single line schematic flow and riser diagram(s):
i. Airflow quantities and balancing devices for
all heating/cooling equipment
ii. Water flow quantities and balancing devices
for all heating/cooling equipment
iii. Show location of all flow/energy measuring
devices for water and air systems for all cooling,
heating, and terminal equipment, and their interface
with the BAS
f. Automatic control diagrams:
i. Control flow diagrams showing all sensors,
valves, and controllers (analog and digital inputs for
controllers, front end equipment, and system
architecture)
ii. Diagrams to show control signal interfaces,
complete with sequence of operation of all heating,
ventilating, and cooling systems during occupied, 24-
hour, and unoccupied conditions
g. Schedules:
i. Provide schedules of equipment that
includes chillers, boilers, pumps, air handling units,
terminal units, cooling towers, and all equipment
required for 24-hour operations.
ii. Air terminal devices
h. Air balance relationships between spaces
2. Drawings: Plumbing
b. Floor plans
i. Plumbing layout and fixtures, equipment
and piping; large-scale plans should be used where
required for clarity
c. Riser diagrams for waste and vent lines
d. Riser diagrams for domestic cold and hot water
lines
e. Plumbing fixture schedule
3. Narrative HVAC
a. A written narrative describing the final mechanical
system and equipment selection including:
i. Final indoor and outdoor design conditions
for all spaces under occupied, 24-hour, and
unoccupied conditions
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APPENDIX
ii. Final ventilation rates, dehumidification,
and pressurization criteria for all spaces under
occupied, 24-hour, and unoccupied conditions.
iii. Final equipment capacities, weights, sizes,
and power requirements
iv. Final psychrometrics of HVAC systems
v. A final description of the air side and water
side systems and the associated components
including operating characteristics, ranges, and
capacities, spaces served, and special features
vi. Final descriptions of the control strategy
and sequence of operations for all spaces under
occupied, 24-hour, and unoccupied conditions
b. Final fuel and utility requirements
c. A final code compliance statement
d. A final P100 compliance statement
e. A final description of any deviation from the HVAC
system as approved in the Final Concept submittal, in
accordance with P100
4. Narrative: Plumbing
a. A final description of plumbing system, including
domestic cold and hot water, sanitary and storm
drainage, and irrigation systems
b. A final evaluation of alternate sources for
preheating of domestic water (solar or heat recovery)
5. Calculations and Energy and Water Analyses HVAC
a. Final building heating and cooling load calculations
b. Final system pressure static analysis at peak and
minimum block loads for occupied and unoccupied
conditions
c. Building pressurization analysis for peak and
minimum block loads for occupied and unoccupied
conditions
d. Acoustical calculations for peak and minimum block
loads for occupied conditions
e. Flow and head calculations for pumping systems
for peak and minimum block loads for occupied
conditions
f. Final selection of equipment, cut sheets of selected
equipment
g. Final psychrometric calculations for the selected
HVAC systems at full and partial loads (partial loads at
50% and 25%, and unoccupied periods)
h. Final energy consumption calculations and analysis
in accordance with Section A.6
i. Final fuel consumption estimates
j. Sizing of fuel storage and distribution system
k. Sizing of vibration isolators for mechanical
equipment
6. Calculations: Plumbing
a. Include entire building, including roof drainage
calculations and hot water heating calculations
b. Water supply calculations, including pressure
c. Roof drainage calculations
d. Sanitary waste sizing calculations
e. Final water consumption calculations and analysis
including make-up water for HVAC systems, domestic
water consumption, and water consumption for
irrigation
7. Specifications
a. Completely edited version of each specification
section to be used on the project,
Fire Protection
1. Drawings
b. Full set of fire protection construction drawings
i. Drawings must be carefully dimensioned,
noted, and detailed for accurate bidding and
construction
c. Fire protection details (all typical details must be
shown on the drawings)
i. Building construction
(1) Building’s construction type (e.g., 443,
222, etc.)
(2) Firewalls and smoke partition
(3) Panel and curtain walls
(4) Fire-stopping configurations. Include
details of all openings between the exterior walls
(including panel, curtain, and spandrel walls) and
floor slabs, openings in floors, and shaft enclosures
(5) Mass notification system equipment
ii. Life safety
(1) Each stair
(2) Horizontal exits
(3) Each required fire door
(4) Stairway pressurization fans
(5) Security door hardware, including
operation procedures
iii. Water supply
(1) Fire pump configuration
(2) Anchorage of underground fire
protection water supply lines
(3) Standpipe riser
iv. Water-based fire extinguishing systems
(1) Installation of waterflow switches and
tamper switches
(2) Sprinkler floor control valves, sectional
valves, and inspector text assembly
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v. Non-water-based fire extinguisher systems
(1) Special fire extinguishing systems (e.g.,
wet chemical)
vi. Fire alarm system
(1) Fire alarm riser
(2) Typical firefighter telephone station
(3) Typical firefighter telephone jack
(4) Electrical closets for fire alarm system
panels
(5) Fire alarm telephone panel (includes
voice paging microphone and firefighter telephone
system)
(6) Visual indicating device control and
power detail, typical for floors (state location)
(7) Amplifier rack (state location)
(8) Typical location of duct smoke detectors
(9) Outdoor fire alarm speaker
(10) Wall-mounted cone fire alarm speaker
(11) Typical terminal cabinet
(12) Lay-in ceiling-mounted fire alarm
speaker
combination speaker/strobe
(14) Wall-mounted strobe device
(15) Typical manual fire alarm box
installation
(16) Fire alarm system input/output matrix
(17) Graphic annunciator panel
(18) Installation of the graphic annunciator
(19) Fire command center showing the
locations of each panel to be installed
2. Specifications
a. Final specifications
b. Specifications must be based on GSA Fire
Protection Supplements to Masterspec
3. Calculations For any fire modeling generated
results, submit a copy of the input data and all
pertinent program material and assumptions required
to understand the output and the analysis. A
narrative of the input and results must be part of the
calculations.
a. Final occupant load and egress calculations
b. Final fire protection water supply calculations.
Includes water supply flow testing data.
c. Final fire pump calculations where applicable
d. Final smoke control calculations where applicable
(e.g., atrium)
e. Final stairway pressurization calculations
f. Fire modeling
g. Final calculations contained in The SFPE
Handbook of Fire Protection Engineering for
calculating sound attenuation through doors and
walls for placement and location of fire alarm system
audible notification appliances
Electrical
1. Drawings: General Systems must be fully drawn
and sized to permit accurate bidding and
construction.
b. Floor plans
i. Show lighting, power distribution, and
communications raceway distribution, and locations
of fire alarm and annunciator panels
c. Single-line diagram of primary and secondary
power distribution
d. Include normal power, emergency power, and UPS
e. Single-line diagram of fire alarm system
f. Single-line diagram of telecommunications system
g. Circuit layout of lighting control system
h. Details of underfloor distribution system
i. Site plan
i. Indicate service locations, manholes, ductbanks, and
site lighting,
j. Layout of electrical equipment spaces
i. Show all electrical equipment. Include
elevations of substation transformers and disconnect
switches
k. Schedules for switchgear, switchboards, motor
control centers, panelboards, and unit substations
l. Grounding diagram
m. Complete phasing plan (if required) for additions
and alterations
n. Security systems site plan
i. Final locations of all security devices and
conduit runs
o. Security system floor plans
i. Layout of all security systems
p. Storage areas for electrical equipment/spare parts
2. Specifications
a. Final specification
b. Zone schedules may be bound into the
specifications or shown on drawings
3. Calculations
a. Illumination level and lighting power calculations
b. Lighting power densities must be calculated by the
electrical engineer. The illumination levels for all
spaces are to be calculated by the architect, who
must also calculate daylighting and glare.
c. Short circuit calculations
d. Voltage drop calculations
e. Overcurrent coordination study
f. Generator calculations
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APPENDIX
i. Include starter loads
The A/E (lead designer) must provide certification
that the project has been designed and is in
compliance with ASHRAE 90.1 and will meet GSA
energy goal requirements.
Certification will also indicate that the
architectural/engineering design elements have been
integrated with the overall project design, and that
the building can meet the programmed LEED rating.
All VE decisions made during construction
documentation are in compliance with code
requirements, the PBS P100 criteria and
requirements, and have been approved by the GSA
and client stakeholders.
The A/E certification must be signed and sealed by a
principal of the architectural/engineering firm in
charge of the project.
Construction Documents Cost
Estimate
The construction documents estimate submissions
must include the following:
• Basis of estimate, rationale, assumptions,
and market analysis as required in P120
• Summary Reports (ASTM UNIFORMAT II
and CSI MasterFormat formats as
applicable)
• Core/shell and TI cost estimate, as per GSA
pricing policy. TI estimates must be
prepared for each tenant.
• Provide separate estimates for phased
work, or bid alternates/options.
• To ensure the project is developing on-
budget, a list of cost-saving items that
would collectively reduce the project cost
to approximately 10 percent below budget.
• Verify that the construction documents
submissions can be constructed within the
project budget.
Data and Operations Manual
An operations manual must be prepared and training
provided for the building Operations and
Maintenance personnel describing the design
objectives and how to operate the building. The
manual must include: as-built drawings, equipment
data, model numbers for the equipment, parts lists,
equipment options, operating manuals for each piece
of equipment, testing and balancing reports and
certifications, maintenance schedules, videos, and
warranty schedules. The manual must be reviewed
and certified complete by the GSA project manager
before submission to the facilities manager.
A BIM for construction documents is required to a
minimum Level 300 development (in accordance with
AIA E202 Standards). The contents of the BIM shall
be such that the BIM shall be the source for 2D
drawings and SDM requirements to the greatest
extent possible. When 2D deliverables require a finer
level of detail, the BIM shall be the central source for
2D details and/or be modeled in greater detail to
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APPENDIX
A.4 Alteration Projects
The design process and related submission
requirements for alterations are somewhat different
than those for new construction and modernizations.
An alteration is defined as a limited construction
project for an existing building that comprises the
modification or replacement of one or a number of
existing building systems or components. Alterations
are less than total building modernizations. Figure A-4
and the following definitions define the design
process and related submission requirements for
alterations, including renovations.
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APPENDIX
Figure A-4: Design Process and Related Submission Requirements for Renovation
STAGES ACTIVITES SUBMISSIONS
CONCEPTS
● Review Space Directive
● Study
Adjacencies
Circulation
Aesthetics
● System/Features that Integrate
Delivery of Expectations
PROGRAM REVIEW
DESIGN CHARRETTE
CONCEPT
(1 or more)
VALUE ENGINEERING
(Systems Level)
● Drawings
● Narratives
● Rendering/ Photos
● Proposed Systems
● Cost Estimates
DESIGN DEVELOPMENT
● System/Feature Analyses for
Selection
● 30% Complete Documentation
● Final Selection of All Building
Systems
PROGRAM REVIEW
VALUE ENGINEERING
(Analysis Stage)
● Drawings
● Narratives
● Calculations
● Cost Estimates
CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS
● Presentation of Design in a
Format Suitable to Parties
Unfamiliar with the Site
PROGRAM REVIEW
75% COMPLETE
90% COMPLETE
100% COMPLETE
POST DESIGN SERVICES
● Progress Drawings
● Draft Specifications
● Narrative Update
● Current Calculations
● Final: Drawings
Specifications
Narratives
Calculations
Cost Estimate
● Incorporation of Review
Comments
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APPENDIX
Design Process Definitions
Program Review
Prior to initiating each phase of design, the design
team should meet to review design program
expectations and to exchange ideas, lessons-learned,
and concerns. Such technical "partnering" sessions
allow a clearer definition of expectations while
remaining within the project’s scope and budget.
Phases of Construction
Prior to each phase of design, a construction phasing
plan must be prepared to ensure that services such as
power, lighting, HVAC, plumbing, elevators, fire-
safety, building security, telecommunications, and
data are available in the area/spaces which will be
occupied during the phased construction. This
phasing plan must be coordinated with clients,
property managers, and other stakeholders.
Demolition Plan
Prior to each phase of design, a demolition narrative
and drawings must be prepared for each element
(i.e., architectural, site, structural, mechanical,
electrical, fire-safety) to ensure coordination of the
demolition and removal of the elements.
Abandonment-in-place of unused elements is not
permitted.
Concept
A submission that will demonstrate that the space
program has been accomplished, including any
adjacency and functional requirements. This
submission will also show that the proposed project is
compatible with the project authorization and
complies with the criteria and requirements in
Chapters 1-9 of this document. A preliminary analysis
of proposed building systems must be accomplished
to determine the most cost-effective alternatives.
Design Development
A set of submissions and meetings that will finalize
the selection of type, size, and other material
characteristics of all systems. Systems are not only
structural, mechanical, fire protection, and electrical,
but all other building components such as envelope
(wall, window, and roof), interior (flooring, ceiling,
and partitions), toilet and service rooms, elevators,
and so on. The submission will consist of a
combination of drawings, narrative, and calculations.
A set of detailed and coordinated submissions that
become the basis of a construction contract. They
must be produced in a general fashion that any
construction contractor nationwide can understand.
Designs must be illustrated to distinguish between
existing construction and new work, and be clear
enough to result in a single interpretation of a specific
set of data or facts. Language used in the
specifications must be consistent and complementary
to notes on the drawings. The documents must avoid
using terms that the design specialist may know, but
which have nothing to do with the purchase and
installation of a product.
Specifications
Specifications to be organized according to CSI
format, fully edited, typed, and bound.
Code Analysis
Code criteria should be reviewed by each discipline to
the degree of detail necessary to ensure that tasks
accomplished in each phase meet the code
requirements.
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APPENDIX
Concept
A sitework drawing and narrative need to be
submitted only if sitework is a substantial part of the
scope of work for the alteration.
1. Drawings
a. Site plans as described in Section A.3
2. Narrative
a. Existing site features
i. Topography and drainage patterns
ii. Any existing erosion conditions
iii. Wetlands and location of flood plains
iv. Circulation patterns around site
v. Site access
b. Noise/visual considerations
c. Local zoning restrictions
d. Historic preservation considerations, if applicable
i. Potential archeological artifacts
e. Fire protection considerations, if applicable
f. Site analysis of utilities, if utilities are to be changed
g. Description of site and landscape design concept
i. Proposed changes to circulation design
ii. Proposed changes to parking
iii. Proposed method for stormwater detention
or retention
iv. Proposed changes to paving
v. Description of local urban design goals for
surrounding neighborhood and summary of relevant
recommendations from local officials
Architectural
An architectural concept needs to be submitted only
if architectural work is a part of the scope of work for
the alteration.
1. Drawings
a. Demolition plans
b. Floor plans, elevations, and sections as described in
Section A.3
c. Existing and new spaces, circulation, entrances,
stairways, elevators, freight elevators, loading docks,
special spaces and service spaces, and service rooms
and space for mechanical, fire protection, electrical,
and communication equipment. Dimensions for
critical clearances, such as vehicle access, fire
apparatus access, deliveries, and maintenance should
be indicated.
2. Narrative
a. Architectural program requirements
i. Describe how the design meets the project
authorization
b. Design concept, explaining:
i. General layout
ii. Treatment of historic zones, if applicable
3. Calculations
a. Where building renovation involves window or
insulated wall systems, perform a life-cycle cost
assessment to optimize selection
1. Narrative
a. General: Project purpose, scope, groups, and
individuals involved
b. Existing conditions, describing:
character
relevant alterations
c. Preservation design issues and prospective
solutions, including:
i. Location of new work/installation: visibility,
impact on historic finishes
ii. Compare options for preserving/restoring
historic materials and design
iii. Identify further study required to avoid
adverse effects as applicable
2. Photographs
plan showing location and orientation of each view
shown
3. Drawings
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APPENDIX
i. Site and floor plans, as applicable.
ii. Sketches or schematic CAD drawings
(elevations, plans) showing preservation design
concepts.
Structural
Structural drawings and narrative only need to be
submitted if a structural upgrade is part of the scope
of work.
1. Drawings
a. Structural plans as described in Section A.3
2. Narrative
a. Description of current structural systems, state of
repair, variances from present codes and available
spare load capacity. Data may be obtained from
review of original construction drawings and codes or
from an analysis of the actual structure.
i. This report may have been completed as
part of the prospectus development study
b. Identification of governing codes
c. Description of recommended changes to the
structural system, addressing:
i. Structural materials, required selective
demolition or alteration of existing structural
elements, roof and floor framing system, means of
resisting lateral loads, and connections between
existing and new structural systems
d. If a seismic evaluation study exists for the building,
describe any variations taken in design, compared to
the study’s recommendations.
Mechanical
Mechanical drawings, narrative, and calculations
need to be submitted only if the alteration scope of
work involves changes to the mechanical systems.
1. Drawings
a. Demolition plan of all piping, ductwork, equipment,
and controls that are to be removed
b. Drawings for new work must be provided as
described in Section A.3
2. Narrative
a. Description of current mechanical systems, state of
repair, variances from present codes and P100. Data
may be obtained from review of original construction
drawings, P100 requirements and codes, and from an
analysis of the actual facility.
b. Description of changes to existing systems as
authorized and described in the prospectus and the
building evaluation report
c. Describe existing and proposed HVAC and plumbing
systems, including available capacities, compliance
with the criteria and requirements in Chapter 5 of this
document and their operational characteristics
d. Identify how new systems will be integrated with
existing systems
e. Provide analysis of energy conservation
opportunities for the project
3. Calculations and Energy Analysis
a. Calculations and energy analysis for alterations
must show compliance with Chapters 1, 3, 5, and
Sections A.3 and A.6.
Fire Protection
requirements must be identified as a separate fire
protection section as outlined in this document.
1. Drawings
a. Demolition plans
i. Identify existing fire protection systems
(e.g., sprinklers, fire alarm notification appliances)
b. Floor plans, showing a minimum:
i. New fire protection systems (e.g.,
sprinklers, fire alarm notification appliances)
2. Narrative A fire protection narrative needs to be
submitted only if the fire protection work is a
substantial part of the scope of work for the
alteration or involves changes to a fire protection
system.
a. Fire protection program requirements
b. Description of the building’s proposed fire
protection systems including modifications to the
existing egress systems
c. Code statement identifying changes in building
occupancy classification, occupancy group(s), fire
resistance requirements, egress requirements, and so
on.
Electrical
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APPENDIX
An electrical narrative needs to be submitted only if
the alteration scope of work involves changes to the
type or location of major electrical systems.
1. Narrative
a. Description of requested changes to existing
systems.
i. Describe lighting, power, and signal
systems, including available capacity versus criteria in
Chapter 6, and operational characteristics.
ii. Describe code deficiencies. Identify how
new systems will be tied into existing systems.
iii. This report may have been completed as
part of the prospectus development
study.
b. Describe both existing and new distribution
systems within the building
i. Special power and reliability requirements
should be addressed, including emergency power and
UPS systems.
Concept Cost Estimate
The final concept phase estimate submission must
include the following:
1. Executive summary
2. Basis of estimate, rationale, assumptions and
3. GSA Report 3474, GSA Report 3473
4. Summary reports (ASTM UNIFORMAT II, Work
Items and CSI MasterFormat formats as applicable)
5. Detail line item cost reports
6. Core/shell and TI cost estimate, as per GSA pricing
7. Provide separate estimates for phased work, or bid
alternates/options.
8. To ensure the project is developing on-budget, a
list of cost-saving items that would collectively reduce
budget.
9. Verify that the final concept submissions can be
constructed within the project budget.
A life-cycle cost analysis of three options that have
been modeled should be included with this submittal.
Design Development
1. Calculations
a. Storm drainage and sanitary sewer calculations
b. Storm water detention facility calculations, if
applicable
c. Parking calculations, if applicable
2. Narrative
a. Site circulation concept, explaining:
i. Reasons for site circulation design and
number of site entrances
ii. Reasons and/or calculation for number of
parking spaces provided
iii. Reasoning for design of service area(s),
including description of number and sizes of trucks
that can be accommodated
iv. Proposed scheme for waste removal
v. Proposed scheme for fire apparatus access
(including aerial apparatus), roads, and fire lanes
b. Site utilities distribution concept
c. Drainage design concept
d. Landscape design concept, explaining:
i. Reasoning for landscape design, paving, site
furnishings, and any water features
ii. Reasoning for choice of plant materials
iii. Proposed landscape maintenance plan
iv. Brief operating description of irrigation
system
v. Summarize water conservation
opportunities that have been studied
vi. Brief description of fire protection water
supplies
vii. Brief description of fire hydrant locations
viii. Reasoning for urban design choices and their
relation to local urban design goals
e. Site construction description
i. Brief description of materials proposed for
pavements and utilities
f. Code analysis
i. Analysis of applicable local zoning and
building code requirements
3. Drawings
a. Demolition plans (when applicable)
b. Preliminary site layout plan, showing:
i. Roads, walks, parking, and other paved
areas (including type of pavement). Show access
route for the physically disabled from parking and
from public street to main entrance.
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ii. Fire apparatus access (including aerial
apparatus) and fire lanes
c. Preliminary grading and drainage plan, showing:
i. Preliminary site grading, storm drainage
inlets, including detention facilities
d. Preliminary site utilities plan, showing:
i. Sizes, inverts, and locations of domestic and
fire protection water supply lines, sanitary sewer
lines, gas lines, steam/condensate lines and chilled
water supply and return lines, if applicable
e. Preliminary landscape design plan, showing:
i. Preliminary hardscape design, including site
furniture, water features, etc.
ii. Preliminary planting scheme
iii. Preliminary irrigation design
Architectural
1. Narrative
a. Building concept, explaining:
i. Entrance locations and service locations
ii. Building circulation and arrangement of
major spaces
iii. Interior design
iv. Adherence to the historic building
preservation plan, if applicable
b. Building construction description, explaining, if
applicable:
i. Exterior materials, waterproofing, air
barriers/vapor retarders and insulation elements
ii. Roofing system(s)
iii. Exterior glazing system
iv. Interior finishes, with detailed explanation
for public spaces
v. Potential locations for artwork
commissioned under the Art in Architecture program,
if applicable, as determined by the collaboration of
the artist, architect, and Art in Architecture Panel
2. Drawings
a. Demolition plans
b. Building floor plans, showing:
i. Spaces individually delineated and labeled
ii. Enlarged layouts of special spaces
iii. Dimensions
iv. Accessible routes for the physically disabled
as well as other compliance requirements regarding
signage, toilets, etc.
c. Building roof plan, if applicable, showing:
i. Drain
ii. Dimensions
iii. Membrane and insulation configuration of
the roofing system
d. Elevations of major building facades (if changes to
the exterior are proposed), showing:
i. Existing and new fenestration
ii. Existing and new exterior materials
iii. Cast shadows
e. Two building sections (of renovated areas only),
showing:
i. Accommodation of structural systems
ii. Mechanical penthouses, if any
iii. Floor to floor and other critical dimensions
iv. Labeling of most important spaces
f. Exterior wall sections, showing:
i. Materials of exterior wall construction,
including flashing, connections, and method of
anchoring
ii. Vertical arrangement of interior space,
including accommodation of mechanical, fire
protection, and electrical services in the floor and
ceiling zones
g. Proposed room finish schedule, showing:
i. Floors, base, walls, and ceilings
ii. Finish schedule may be bound into
narrative
1. Narrative
a. Cover
i. Building name, address, project title,
project control number, author (preservation
architect), preservation architect’s signature, date of
submission
b. General: Project purpose, scope, groups, and
individuals involved, substantive changes to approach
described in concept submission
c. Existing conditions, describing:
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character
alterations
iv. New findings from testing or analysis in
concept phase
d. Preservation solutions explored, how resolved, and
why, including:
i. Location of new work: visual impact,
protection of ornamental finishes
ii. Design of new work/installation: visual and
physical compatibility with existing original materials
and design; materials/finishes proposed (as specified)
iii. Methods of supporting new
work/installation
iv. Preservation and protection of historic
materials during construction through tenant move-in
e. Effects, describing:
i. How project will affect the building’s
architecturally significant qualities
ii. Measures proposed to mitigate any adverse
effects on historic materials or design
2. Photographs
plan showing location and orientation of each photo
view
shown
3. Drawings
c. Elevations, plans, and section details showing
preservation design solutions for each issue
identified, as approved by Regional Preservation
Officer
Structural
submit a model of the input data and all pertinent
program material required to understand the output.
A narrative of the input and results should be
a. Gravity load calculations
b. Lateral load calculation
c. Foundation calculations
d. Calculations showing that system is not vulnerable
to progressive collapse
e. Vibration calculations
f. Results of any other studies necessary for
the project design
2. Narrative
a. Description of structural concept, including:
i. Choice of framing system, including lateral
load resisting elements
ii. Proposed foundation design
iii. Verification of adequacy of all assumed
dead and live loads
b. Code analysis
i. Building classification, required fire
resistance of structural elements, identification of
seismic zone, wind speed, etc.
ii. Identification of special requirements, such
as high-rise
iii. Summary of special requirements resulting
from applicable local codes
c. Proposed methods of corrosion protection, if
applicable
d. Geotechnical engineering report, including boring
logs (if part of scope of work). See Section A.5 for
specific requirements.
e. Geologic hazard report
3. Drawings
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APPENDIX
a. Demolition plans (where applicable)
b. Preliminary framing plans and key details
i. Include column locations, bay sizes, and
location of expansion and seismic joints
c. Preliminary schedules, including:
i. Column, beam, slab, metal deck, and wood
framing schedules, as applicable
ii. Preliminary seismic details
Mechanical
In addition to the design development submission of
the demolition plan, drawings, narrative, and
calculations and analysis must be provided as
described in Chapters 1, 3, 5 and Sections A.3 and A.6.
Fire Protection
1. Calculations
a. Occupant load and egress calculations
b. Fire protection water supply calculations
c. Fire pump calculations where applicable
d. Smoke control calculations where applicable (e.g.,
atrium)
e. Stairway pressurization calculations where
applicable
f. Calculations contained in The SFPE
Handbook of Fire Protection Engineering for
calculating sound attenuation through doors and
walls for placement and location of fire alarm system
audible notification appliances
2. Narrative
a. Building egress system
i. Includes egress calculations and stairway
exit capacities, remoteness, exit discharge, etc.
b. All building fire alarm and suppression systems
c. Smoke control system(s), where applicable
d. Special fire protection systems (e.g., kitchen
extinguishing system), where applicable
e. Fire resistance rating of building structural
elements
i. Coordinate with structural engineer
f. Fire alarm system
g. Interface of fire alarm system with BAS and
security systems
h. Review of building for compliance with life safety
requirements and building security requirements
i. Interior finish requirements as they pertain
to the life safety requirements
3. Drawings
a. Floor Plans showing:
systems (e.g., fire pump, fire alarm)
ii. Fire protection water supply lines, fire
hydrant locations, fire apparatus access roads, and
fire lanes
iii. Standpipes and sprinkler risers
iv. Riser diagrams for sprinkler system
v. Riser diagram for fire alarm system
vi. Remoteness of exit stairways
vii. Location of firewalls and smoke partitions
viii. Identification of occupancy type of every space
and room in building
ix. Calculated occupant loads for every space
and room in the building
x. Location of special fire protection
requirements (e.g., kitchens, computer rooms,
storage)
Electrical
1. Calculations
a. Lighting calculations for a typical 186 m
2
(2,000 sq.
ft.) open plan office with system furniture
b. Lighting calculations for a typical one person
private office
c. Power calculations from building entry to branch
circuit panel
d. Load calculations
e. Life cycle cost analysis of luminaire/lamp system
f. Life cycle cost study on the options to integrate
related building systems
2. Narrative
a. Proposed power distribution scheme
i. Provide a detailed description and
justification for the selected scheme
b. Interface with BAS
i. Methods proposed for energy conservation
and integration with BAS
c. Engineering analysis for demand limit controls
d. Description of each proposed signal system
e. Description of proposed security systems features
and intended mode of operation
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APPENDIX
i. Proposed zone schedule
ii. Proposed card access controls, CCTV
assessment and intrusion protection system, if
applicable
3. Drawings
a. Demolition plans
b. Site plan
i. Proposed site distribution for power and
communications, proposed service entrance and
location of transformers, generators, and vaults, etc.
c. Floor plans
i. Proposed major electrical distribution
scheme and locations of electrical closets
d. Floor plans
i. Major routing of communications system,
communications equipment rooms, and closets
e. Underfloor distribution system
i. Show typical detail for power and
communications services
f. One-line diagram
g. Typical lighting layout
i. Include lighting for special areas
h. Exterior lighting scheme
i. Layout of electrical room
i. Show locations of major equipment
j. One-line diagrams of other signal systems
k. Security system site plan
i. Location for CCTV, duress alarm sensors and
access control locations for parking lots shown. If the
system is not extensive, these locations may be
shown on the electrical site plan.
l. Security system floor plans
i. Access controls, intrusion detection devices,
and CCTV locations shown. Preliminary local panel
locations shown.
Design Development Cost Estimate
The Design Development Phase Estimate submissions
must include the following:
1. Executive Summary
2. Basis of Estimate, Rationale, Assumptions and
Market Analysis as required in P120
4. Summary Reports (ASTM UNIFORMAT II, Work Item
and CSI MasterFormat formats as applicable)
5. Detail Line Item Cost Reports
6. Core/Shell and Tenant Improvement Cost Estimate,
as per GSA Pricing Policy. TI estimates must be
prepared for each tenant.
7. Provide separate estimates for phased work, or bid
alternates/options
8. To ensure the project is developing on-budget,
a list of cost-saving items that would collectively
reduce the project cost to approximately 10 percent
below budget.
9. Verify that the Design Development Phase
Submissions can be constructed within the project
budget.
The construction documents must be complete,
coordinated between disciplines, biddable, readable
and buildable, with no room for unreasonable
additional interpretation.
The A/E firm must provide a signed and dated
professional seal on all final contract documents. The
cover sheet should also include a statement by the
design A/E, certifying the design meets the listed
design criteria. Exceptions and waivers to the design
criteria should also be listed on the cover sheet of the
contract documents, including the name and date of
the individual providing authorization.
1. Cover Sheet
a. Provide code clarification statement for compliance
with specified codes and standards by each discipline
with professional seals and signatures. In addition,
include a drawing index.
2. Drawings, General: The plans listed below, except
the demolition plans, may be combined on small
projects.
a. Demolition plans
b. Site layout plan
i. Location of all buildings, roads, walks,
accessible routes, parking, and other paved areas and
planted areas
ii. Limits of construction
iii. Locations of fire protection water supply
lines, fire hydrants, fire apparatus access roads, and
fire lanes
i. Existing and new contours [use 500 mm (2
ft.) interval minimum in area around buildings]
ii. Spot elevations at all entrances and
elsewhere as necessary
iii. Elevations for walls, ramps, terraces, and
plazas
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iv. All surface drainage structures
i. All underground utilities, including inlets,
manholes, clean-outs, and invert elevations
e. Planting plan, showing:
i. Building outline, circulation, parking, and
major utility runs
ii. Size and location of existing vegetation to
be preserved (include protection measures during
construction)
iii. Location of all new plant material (identify
function, such as windbreak or visual screen where
appropriate)
f. Planting schedule, showing:
i. Quantity of plants, botanical names,
planted size, and final size
g. Irrigation plan, if applicable
i. Include schematic of irrigation control
system
h. Construction details, profiles, and sections and
notes as necessary to fully describe design intent
i. Construction phasing, if part of project
3. Calculations
a. Final drainage calculations, including stormwater
detention
b. Final parking calculations, if applicable
c. Pipe sizing calculations for water and sewer pipes
d. Pavement design calculations
Architectural
1. Drawings
a. Demolition plans
b. Floor plans
i. Show planning grids and raised access floor
grid, if applicable
c. Reflected ceiling plans
i. Show ceiling grid and location of all
elements to be placed in the ceiling
d. Building sections
i. Vertical zoning for electrical and mechanical
utilities must be indicated on sections
e. Roof plans
i. Roof plans must show slopes, low points,
drains, and scuppers, if applicable
f. Exterior elevations
g. Wall sections
h. Interior elevations
i. Details
j. Schedules
2. Specifications
a. Instructions to bidders
b. Division 1, edited to suit specific GSA requirements
c. Room finish, color, and door schedules can be
incorporated into either the specifications or
drawings
1. Specifications Division 1
a. Competency of bidder and restoration specialist
qualification requirements, cross referenced in
material specifications
2. Technical specifications for repair and restoration
of historic materials, including:
a. Specialized materials and procedures for repair and
restoration of historic materials
b. Procedures for protecting historic materials in
areas being altered
c. Sample review requirements of repair and
restoration procedures
d. Sample submittal requirements for replacement
materials and new installations in preservation zones
Structural
1. Drawings
a. Demolition plans (where applicable)
b. Full set of structural construction drawings
i. Drawings must be fully dimensioned, noted
and detailed for accurate bidding and construction.
ii. Load criteria for all floor live load, roof live
load, roof snow load, wind load, earthquake design
data, and special loads must be shown on drawings.
Live load reduction of the uniformly distributed floor
live loads, if used in the design, must be indicated.
iii. Basic wind speed (3-second gust), miles per
hour (km/hr), wind importance factor, I, and building
category, wind exposure, and the applicable internal
pressure coefficient must be indicated.
iv. Seismic design criteria, such as seismic use
group, spectral response coefficients SDS and SD1,
site class, basic seismic-force-resisting system, design
base shear, and analytical procedure must be
indicated. Additional information may be required by
the local building official.
v. Soil bearing pressure and lateral earth
pressure must be indicated
c. Schedules
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i. Schedules for foundations, columns, walls,
beams, slabs, and decks, as applicable
d. Structural details. (All typical details must be shown
on the drawings.)
i. Include details for steel connections
ii. Include details for all fire-rated assemblies,
indicating Underwriters Laboratories Inc. or other
nationally recognized testing laboratory fire
resistance directory design numbers
iii. Include details indicating if the assembly is
restrained or unrestrained in accordance with
Appendix X to ASTM E119 (the classification must be
determined by a licensed structural engineer)
iv. Include details for anchorage of
nonstructural building elements
submit a model of the input data and all pertinent
program material required to understand the output.
A narrative of the input and results should be
a. Final structural calculations, including:
i. Gravity loads
ii. Lateral loads
iii. Foundations
iv. Thermal loads where significant
v. Vibration propagation
vi. Progressive collapse
vii. Supports for nonstructural elements, including
mechanical and electrical equipment
viii. Steel connections
Mechanical
In addition to the construction documentation
submittal for the demolition plan, drawings,
narrative, and calculations and analysis must be
provided as described in Chapters 1, 3, 5 and Sections
A.3 and A.6.
Fire Protection
requirements must be identified as a separate fire
protection section as outlined in this document.
1. Drawings
a. Demolition plans
b. Full set of fire protection construction drawings
i. Drawings must be carefully dimensioned
noted and detailed for accurate bidding and
construction
c. Fire protection details (all typical details must be
shown on the drawings)
i. Building construction
(1) Building’s construction type (e.g., 443,
222)
(2) Firewalls and smoke partitions
(3) Panel and curtain walls
(4) Fire-stopping configurations. Include
details of all openings between the exterior walls
(including panel, curtain, and spandrel walls) and
floor slabs, openings in floors, and shaft enclosures.
ii. Life safety
(1) Each stair
(2) Horizontal exits
(3) Each required fire door
(4) Stairway pressurization fans
(5) Security door hardware, including
operation procedures
iii. Water supply
(1) Fire pump configuration
(2) Anchorage of underground fire
protection water supply line
(3) Standpipe riser
iv. Water-based fire extinguishing systems
(1) Installation of waterflow switches and
tamper switches
(2) Sprinkler floor control valves, sectional
valves, and inspector text assembly
v. Non-water-based fire extinguisher systems
(1) Special fire extinguishing systems (e.g.,
wet chemical)
vi. Fire Alarm System
(1) Fire alarm riser
(2) Typical firefighter telephone station
(3) Typical firefighter telephone jack
(4) Electrical closets for fire alarm system
panels
(5) Fire alarm telephone panel (includes
voice paging microphone and firefighter telephone
system)
(6) Visual indicating device control and
power detail, typical for floors (state location)
(7) Amplifier rack (state location)
(8) Typical location of duct smoke detectors
(9) Outdoor fire alarm speaker
(10) Wall-mounted cone fire alarm speaker
(11) Typical terminal cabinet
speaker
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combination speaker/strobe
(14) Wall-mounted strobe device
(15) Typical manual fire alarm box
installation
(16) Fire alarm system input/output matrix
(17) Graphic annunciator panel
(18) Installation of the graphic annunciator
(19) Fire command center showing the
locations of each panel to be installed
2. Calculations For any fire modeling generated
results, submit a copy of the input data and all
pertinent program material and assumptions required
to understand the output and the analysis. A
narrative of the input and results must be part of the
calculations.
a. Final occupant load and egress calculations
b. Final fire protection water supply calculations
c. Includes water supply flow testing data
d. Final fire pump calculations where applicable
e. Final smoke control calculations where applicable
(e.g., atrium)
f. Final stairway pressurization calculations
g. Fire modeling
h. Final calculations contained in The SFPE Handbook
of Fire Protection Engineering for calculating sound
attenuation through doors and walls for placement
and location of fire alarm system audible notification
appliances
Electrical
1. Drawings
a. Demolition plans
b. Floor plans
i. Show lighting, power distribution, and
communications raceway distribution
c. Single-line diagram of primary and secondary
power distribution
i. Include normal power, emergency power,
and UPS
d. Single-line diagram of fire alarm system
e. Single-line diagram of telecommunications system
f. Circuit layout of lighting control system
g. Details of underfloor distribution system
h. Site plan
i. Indicate service locations, manholes,
ductbanks, and site lighting
i. Layout of electrical equipment spaces
i. Show all electrical equipment. Include
elevations of substation transformers and disconnect
switches
j. Schedules for switchgear, switchboards, motor
control centers, panelboards, and unit substations
k. Grounding diagram
l. Complete phasing plan (if required) for additions
and alterations
m. Security systems site plan
i. Final locations of all security devices and
conduit runs
n. Security system floor plans
i. Layout of all security systems
o. Storage areas for electrical equipment/spare parts
2. Calculations
a. Illumination level calculations
b. Short circuit calculations
c. Voltage drop calculations
d. Overcurrent coordination study
e. Generator calculations
f. Include starter loads
g. UPS calculation (if UPS provided)
3. Code criteria should be reviewed by each discipline
requirements.
Specifications
1. Instructions to bidders
2. Division 1, edited to suit specific GSA requirements
3. Technical specifications sections, organized
according to CSI format
4. Specifications must be fully edited, typed, and
bound. Room finish, color, and door schedules can be
incorporated into either the specifications or
drawings.
Construction Documents Cost Estimate
The construction documents cost estimate
submissions must include the following:
1. Executive summary
2. Basis of estimate, rationale, assumptions, and
4. Summary reports (ASTM UNIFORMAT II, Work
Items and CSI MasterFormat formats as applicable)
5. Detail line item cost reports
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APPENDIX
6. Core/shell and TI cost estimate, as per GSA pricing
7. Provide separate estimate for phased work, or bid
alternates/options
8. To ensure the project is developing on-budget, a
list of cost-saving items that would collectively reduce
budget
9. Verify that the construction documents
submissions can be constructed within the project
budget
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A.5 Surveys and Geotechnical Reports
Site Survey
Site surveys are generally prepared for GSA projects
involving sitework. The survey may be contracted
separately by GSA or may be included in the scope of
the A/E for the project. The guidelines given here
apply in either case. In cases where GSA contracts for
the survey directly, the A/E may be requested to
review the scope of work for the survey and
recommend modifications to the technical
requirements to suit the specific project site. The
geotechnical report must be available to all
contractors so that there will be a common reference
on which to base their bids. Also, the report would
subsequently function as the basic reference for
evaluating "changed conditions" or "differing site
conditions" during construction and, therefore, need
be of sufficient detail, number of borings,
groundwater, and contamination evaluations to
support the design and mitigate large changed
conditions issues.
The criteria listed here are not absolute; they should
be modified by the civil engineer to suit the particular
conditions of the project. All surveys should be
prepared and sealed by a surveyor licensed in the
state where the project is located.
Surveys should generally contain the following
information:
• Locations of all permanent features within limits
of work, such as buildings, structures, fences,
walls, concrete slabs and foundations, above-
ground tanks, cooling towers, transformers,
sidewalks, steps, power and light poles, traffic
control devices, manholes, fire hydrants, valves,
culverts, headwalls, catch basins or inlets,
property corner markers, benchmarks, etc.
• Location of all adjacent and abounding roads or
streets and street curbs within limits of work,
including driveways and entrances. Type of
surfacing and limits should be shown. For public
streets, right-of-way widths and centerlines
should also be shown.
• Location of all trees, shrubs, and other plants
within limits of work. For trees, caliper size
should be shown; dead trees should be
indicated.
• Location of all overhead telephone and power
lines within the limits of work and their related
easements.
• Based on existing records, location of
underground utilities, such as gas, water, steam,
chilled water, electric power, sanitary, storm,
combined sewers, telephone, etc., should be
shown. Sizes of pipes (I.D.), invert elevations,
inlet, or manhole rim elevations should be
indicated. Where appropriate, information
should be verified in the field.
• Based on existing records, location of
underground storage tanks or other subsurface
structures.
• Topography field criteria should include such
items as 300 millimeter or 600 millimeter (1 to 2
ft.) contour intervals plotted on a grid system
appropriate to the scale of the survey;
elevations at top and bottom of ditches and at
any abrupt changes in grade; periodic top-of-
curb and gutter elevations, as well as street
centerline elevations; elevations at all
permanent features within the limits of work;
ground floor elevations for all existing buildings.
Bearings and distances for all property lines within
the limits of work.
Official datum upon which elevations are based and
the benchmark on or adjacent to the site to be used
as a starting point.
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Official datum upon which horizontal control points
are based.
If there are not already two benchmarks on the site,
establish two permanent benchmarks.
Elevations of key data points of all building structures
and improvements directly adjacent and across the
street from the project site during both wet and dry
season.
Delineate location of any wetlands or floodplains,
underground streams, or water sources.
Geotechnical Investigation and
Engineering Report
On most GSA projects geotechnical investigations will
take place at three separate stages: during site
selection, during building design, and during
construction. The requirements for geotechnical work
during site selection and during construction are
described in other GSA documents. The requirements
for geotechnical work for the building design are
defined here. They apply whether GSA contracts for
geotechnical work separately or includes the
geotechnical investigation in the scope of the A/E
services.
Purpose
The purpose of the geotechnical investigation during
building design is to determine the character and
physical properties of soil deposits and evaluate their
potential as foundations for the structure or as
material for earthwork construction. The investigation
must also determine the hydrological capacities of the
soil. The type of structure to be built and anticipated
geologic and field conditions has a significant bearing
on the type of investigation to be conducted.
The investigation must therefore be planned with
knowledge of the intended project size and
anticipated column loads, land utilization, and a
broad knowledge of the geological history of the area.
The guidelines given here are not to be considered as
rigid. Planning of the exploration, sampling and
testing programs, and close supervision must be
vested in a competent geotechnical engineer and/or
engineering geologist with experience in this type of
work and licensed to practice engineering in the
jurisdiction where the project is located.
1. Analysis of Existing Conditions The report should
address the following:
a. Description of terrain
b. Brief geological history
c. Brief seismic history
d. Surface drainage conditions
e. Groundwater conditions and associated design or
construction problems
f. Description of exploration and sampling methods
and outline of testing methods
g. Narrative of soil identification and classification, by
stratum
h. Narrative of difficulties and/or obstructions
encountered during previous explorations of existing
construction on or adjacent to the site
i. Description of laboratory test borings and results
j. Plot plan, drawn to scale, showing test borings or
pits
k. Radon tests in areas of building location
l. Soils resistivity test, identifying resistivity of soil for
corrosion protection of underground metals and
electrical grounding design
m. Boring logs, which identify:
i. Sample number and sampling method
ii. Other pertinent data deemed necessary by the
geotechnical engineer for design recommendations,
such as:
(1) Unconfined compressive strength
(2) Standard penetration test values
(3) Subgrade modulus
(4) Location of water table
(5) Water tests for condition of
groundwater
(6) Location and classification of rock
(7) Location of obstructions
(8) Atterberg tests
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(9) Compaction tests
(10) Consolidation tests
(11) Triaxial compression test
(12) Chemical test (pH) of the soil
(13) Contamination
2. Engineering Recommendations Engineering
recommendations based on borings and laboratory
testing should be provided for the following:
a. Recommendations for foundation design, with
discussion of alternate solutions, if applicable,
include:
i. Allowable soil bearing values
ii. Feasible deep foundation types
and allowable capacities, where applicable, including
allowable tension (pull-out) and lateral subgrade
modulus
iii. Feasibility of slab on grade versus
structurally supported floor construction, including
recommended bearing capacities and recommended
subgrade modulus (k)
b. Discussion of evidence of expansive soils and
recommended solutions
c. Lateral earth design pressures on retaining
walls or basement walls, including dynamic pressures
d. Design frost depth, if applicable
e. Removal or treatment of contaminated soil
f. Discussion of potential for consolidation
and/or differential settlements of substrata, with
design recommendations for total settlement and
maximum angular distortion
g. Use and treatment of in-situ materials for
use as engineered fill
h. Recommendations for future sampling and testing
i. Recommendations for pavement designs,
including base and sub-base thickness and subdrains
j. Recommendations for foundation and
subdrainage, including appropriate details
k. Discussion of soil resistivity values
l. Discussion of soil hydrological capabilities
m. Discussion of radon values and recommendation
for mitigating measures, if required
Geologic Hazard Report
A geologic hazard report must be prepared for all new
building construction in regions of low, moderate, and
high seismicity, except for structures located in
regions of low seismicity designed to the life safety
performance level. Geologic hazard reports are not
required for minor or relatively unimportant facilities
for which earthquake damage would not pose a
significant risk to either life or property.
Required Investigation
When required by the project scope, a geologic
hazard investigation that addresses the hazards
indicated below should be performed. Whenever
possible, a preliminary investigation should be
performed in the planning stage of siting a facility, to
provide reasonable assurance that geologic hazards
do not preclude construction at a site. During a later
stage of geotechnical investigations for a facility at a
selected site, supplemental investigations may be
conducted as needed to define the geologic hazards
in more detail and/or develop mitigating measures.
The scope and complexity of a geologic hazard
investigation depends on the economics of the
project and the level of acceptable risk. In general,
major new building complexes, high-rise buildings,
and other high value or critical facilities must have
thorough geologic hazard investigations. Small,
isolated buildings need not have elaborate
investigations.
Surface Fault Rupture
For purposes of new building construction, a fault is
considered to be an active fault and a potential
location of surface rupture if the fault exhibits any of
the following characteristics:
• Has had documented historical macroseismic
events or is associated with a well-defined
pattern of microseismicity
• Is associated with well-defined geomorphic
features suggestive of recent faulting
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• Has experienced surface rupture (including fault
creep) during approximately the past 10,000
years (Holocene time)
Fault investigations must be directed at locating any
existing faults traversing the site and determining the
recency of their activity. If an active fault is found to
exist at a site and the construction cannot reasonably
be located elsewhere, investigations must be con-
ducted to evaluate the appropriate set-back distance
from the fault and/or design values for displacements
associated with surface fault rupture.
Soil Liquefaction
Recently deposited (geologically) and relatively
unconsolidated soils and artificial fills, without
significant cohesion and located below the water
table, are susceptible to liquefaction. Sands and silty
sands are particularly susceptible. Potential
consequences of liquefaction include foundation
bearing capacity failure, differential settlement,
lateral spreading and flow sliding, flotation of
lightweight embedded structures, and increased
lateral pressures on retaining walls. The investigation
must consider these consequences in determining the
size of the area and the depth below the surface to be
studied. An investigation for liquefaction may take
many forms. One acceptable method is to use blow
count data from the standard penetration test
conducted in soil borings. This method is described in
publications by H. B. Seed and I. M. Idriss, (1982),
Ground Motions and Soil Liquefaction During
Earthquakes: Earthquake Engineering Research
Institute, Oakland, CA, Monograph Series, 134 p. and
H.B. Seed et al, (1985) "The Influence of SPT
Procedures in Soil Liquefaction Resistance
Evaluations": Journal of Geotechnical Engineering,
ASCE 111(12): pp. 1425-1445.
Landsliding
New construction must not be sited where it may be
within a zone of seismically induced slope failure or
located below a slope whose failure may send soil and
debris into the structure. Factors that affect slope
stability include slope angle, soil type, bedding,
ground water conditions, and evidence of past
instability. The geologic hazard investigation must
address the potential for seismically induced slope
deformations large enough to adversely affect the
structure.
Differential Settlement
Loosely compacted soils either above or below the
water table can consolidate during earthquake
shaking, producing surface settlement. The potential
for total and differential settlements beneath a
structure must be assessed. If liquefaction is not
expected to occur, then in most cases, differential
settlement would not pose a significant problem to
construction.
Flooding
Earthquake-inducing flooding can be caused by
tsunamis, seiches, and dam and levee failures. The
possibility of flooding must be addressed for new
construction located near bodies of water.
Duration of Strong Ground Shaking
Estimates of the duration of strong ground shaking at
a site are defined by earthquake magnitude and must
be used to assess geologic hazards such as
liquefaction and slope failure. Strong motion duration
is strongly dependent on earthquake magnitude.
Estimates of the duration of strong ground shaking
must be based on the assumption of the occurrence
of a maximum considered earthquake generally
accepted by the engineering and geologic community
as appropriate to the region and to the subsurface
conditions at the site.
Mitigative Measures
A site found to have one or more geologic hazards
may be used, provided the hazards are removed,
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APPENDIX
abated, or otherwise mitigated in the design, or if the
risk is judged to be acceptable. Examples of mitigative
measures include: removal and recompaction of
poorly compacted soils; use of special foundations;
stabilizing slopes; and draining, compaction, or
chemical treatment of liquefiable soils. The geological
hazard report must identify feasible mitigative
measures.
Required Documentation
Investigations of geologic hazards must be
documented. As noted in the paragraph entitled
"Required Investigation" above, a preliminary
geologic hazard investigation must be conducted and
a report issued during the siting phase for a facility.
However, unless the geologic hazard investigations
have been documented in a stand-alone report, they
must be addressed in a section of the geotechnical
engineering report prepared during the design phase
of a project. The geologic hazard report, whether it is
a separate report or a section of the geotechnical
engineering report, must at a minimum contain the
following:
• List of hazards investigated, which must
include the five described earlier in this
section
• Description of the methods used to evaluate
the site for each hazard
• Results of any investigations, borings, etc.
• Summary of findings
• Recommendations for hazard mitigation, if
required
• In some cases, estimates of site ground
motions may be needed for assessment of
geologic hazards such as liquefaction and
slope failure.
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APPENDIX
A.6 Energy Analysis Input and Output
This Appendix defines the procedures to achieve
compliance with the requirements in Section 5.3
(Energy Analysis Criteria).
Procedures
The Architectural/Engineering Design Team (A/E)
must reference and utilize the following format for
building input parameters, schedules of building
operations, and categories for reporting results for
the baseline and alternate building models. These
procedures must be consistent throughout the design
process. Input parameters and output data must be
provided in all document submissions (see Section
5.3).
At each phase of the design process (i.e., conceptual
design, design development, and construction
documentation), the A/E must provide inputs as
indicated in this appendix, if they are not otherwise
defined in the program requirements (see P100
Section 5.3). The A/E must refer to ASHRAE Standard
90.1-2007 (including addenda) documents for climate
zone and other pertinent information as may be
required. If any changes are required to these input
values due to special field conditions, the A/E must
adjust the inputs giving an explanation in the
beginning of the energy analysis report.
The analysis must document the sources of input data
and all assumptions.
Conceptual Design
The A/E must conduct an energy analysis for each of
the three preliminary concepts (see Section A.3),
using approved simulation software (See P100 Section
5.3). The primary variables in these analyses are
orientation and massing. For the conceptual design,
the performance parameters for the envelope, which
include glazing, must be equal to the prescriptive
minimum values listed in the applicable sections of
ASHRAE Standard 90.1-2007, as referenced by P100
Input Table A6-1. All other parameters and input
values as may be necessary to complete the model
must be the minimum compliance values obtained
from Input Tables A6-2 through A6-5. For the
conceptual design analyses, glass and wall ratios and
the shape must be configured to achieve the
requirements of Chapters 1, 2, 3, 5 and 6 of P100.
Building site-energy and property site-energy
consumption rates must be calculated for each of the
three concepts, and presented as indicated by Output
Table A6-6. For comparison purposes, all energy
system alternatives for each concept must be
adjusted to equivalent building site-energy
consumption rates.
For the final concept submission, the energy analysis
must provide output data to indicate optimization of
the envelope, massing, and orientation that minimize
the annual building or property site-energy
consumption rates. This energy analysis report must
include a statement summarizing the optimization
findings and comparing the results with the energy
target (see Chapter 1).
Design Development
The A/E must optimize system performance using
simulation software (See P100, Section 5.3) to
minimize annual building site-energy and property
site-energy consumption rates. The primary variables
in these analyses are the internal electrical and
thermal loads imposed by the interior and exterior
lighting, power requirements, other fixed loads (e.g.,
elevators, computer facilities), and schedules in
accordance with P100, Chapters 3, 5, 6, 7 and 8. All
other parameters and input values as may be
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APPENDIX
necessary to complete the model must be obtained
from those used in the final concept simulations and
Input Tables A6-2 through A6-5 in this appendix.
Project-specific envelope construction details must be
applied as determined and detailed on the project
submission drawings by the A/E. These analyses must
be performed for the HVAC system as approved in the
Final Concept submittal, in accordance with P100.
If alternative HVAC systems and components are to
be considered (See Section 5.5), energy analyses must
be conducted and compared to the results from the
analysis of the reference system that has the lowest
first cost of the alternatives being considered, in
accordance with P100, Sections 1.12 and 5.3. These
results must also be used as the input data to the life-
cycle analysis required in P100, Section 1.12. At
completion of the DD phase, the system selection
must be completed from which annual building site-
energy and property site-energy consumption rates
must be calculated. For these analyses, assume pump
heads of 90 feet and fan total static pressures of 4 in.
For the 100 percent DD submission, the energy
analysis must provide output data to indicate
optimization of the baseline reference system and
any cost-effective alternatives that minimize the
annual building or property site-energy consumption.
This energy analysis report must include a statement
summarizing the optimization findings and comparing
the results with the final concept results. Additionally,
this analysis must continue to document the sources
of input data and all assumptions, and refinements to
the assumptions made in the concept phase.
Equipment performance capacities and full- and part-
load efficiencies must be substantiated by including
representative equipment selections from
manufacturers forming the basis of design. At least
two additional simulations must be conducted to
determine this impact of the input assumptions,
which are to be varied to their maximum, or worst-
case minimum, limits.
The A/E must refine the optimized results from the
100 percent DD submission by using the actual input
values rather than the assumed input values for the
envelope, lighting, and power wattage, assumed
pump heads and fan static pressures, HVAC and
thermal zoning criteria, and schedules of operation
(i.e., in lieu of Tables A6-1 through A6-5 in this
appendix).
For the 90 percent construction document (CD)
submission, the energy analyses must provide
updated listings of input values including schedules of
operation, and output data to indicate refinements in
the optimization of the baseline and any cost-
effective alternatives in the 100 percent DD analysis
that minimize the annual building or property site-
energy consumption rate. The 90 percent CD energy
analysis report must include a statement summarizing
the refined optimization findings and comparing the
results with the 100 percent DD results.
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APPENDIX
B.1 References
List of Reference Publications and Web Sites
All references are to the edition in effect at the time of execution of the A/E contract for the project, unless noted
otherwise.
Introduction
The following references apply to all P100 chapters.
Publications
• Guiding Principles of Federal Architecture
• Hallmark of the Productive Workplace
• 42 U.S.C. 4151 et seq., Architectural Barriers Act Accessibility Standard (ABAAS)
Web Sites
• www.gsa.gov/firstimpressions (First Impressions Program)
• www.gsa.gov/workplace (Workplace 20/20 Program)
• www.gsa.gov/bim (3D-4D Building Information Modeling)
• www.wbdg.org/ccb/GSAMAN/buildingcommissioningguide.pdf (Building Commissioning Guide)
Chapter One
The following references apply to all P100 chapters.
Publications—General Federal
• 40 U.S.C. 601a, Public Buildings Cooperative Use Act of 1976
• Energy Policy Act of 2005
• National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 as amended (NHPA)
• 40 CFR, Protection of Environment
• Federal Management Regulation (FMR), based on the Public Buildings Amendments of 1988, Title 40,
Subtitle II, Part A, Chapter 33, Section 3312
• 36 CFR 67, Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation and Guidelines for Rehabilitating Historic
Buildings
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APPENDIX
• 29 CFR 1926, Safety and Health Regulations for Construction, Section 1926.62, Lead (including lead-based
paint)
• 29 CFR 1910 Occupational Safety and Health Standards, Section 1910.146(b)—Definition of “Confined
space”
• EO 13423 Strengthening Federal Environmental, Energy, and Transportation Management (includes
guiding principles of Federal leadership in high-performance and sustainable buildings)
http://www.wbdg.org/sustainableEO
• Executive Order 13502, Use of Project Labor Agreements for Federal Construction Projects, February 6,
2009 http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2009/pdf/E9-3113.pdf
• EO 13514 Federal Leadership in Environment, Energy, and Economic Performance
• EPA Comprehensive Procurement Guidelines (CPG) (recycled products) http://www.epa.gov/cpg
• USDA BioPreferred Program http://www.biopreferred.gov
• DOE Guidance for Electric Metering in Federal Buildings DOE/EE 0312
• Food, Conservation and Energy Act of 2008
• Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002
• Architectural Barriers Act Accessibility Standard (ABAAS)
• FMR Part 102-76 (Design and Construction), Subpart C (Architectural Barriers Act)
• 36 CFR Part 1191 Appendices C and D (ABA Chapters 1-10)
• Publications Related to Specific GSA PBS Programs
• PBS Design Excellence Policies and Procedures
• PBS Pricing Desk Guide
• GSA BIM Guide Series http://www.gsa.gov/bim
• PBS National Business Space Assignment Guide http://www.gsa.gov/sdm
• GSA 3490.1A on Document Security for Sensitive But Unclassified Building Information
Accessible Design
• 42 U.S.C. 4151 et seq., Architectural Barriers Act Accessibility Standard (ABAAS)
• Federal Courthouses
• GSA Courthouse Visitor’s Guide, February 2003
• GSA Courthouse Project Handbook, August 2004
• U.S. Courts Design Guide
• U.S. Marshals Service Judicial Security Systems Requirements and Specifications, Volume 3, Publication 64,
2005
• U.S. Marshals Service Requirements and Specifications for Special Purpose and Support Space, Volume
One: Architectural & Engineering, 2007; Volume Two: Electronic Security & Hardware, 2007
Land Ports of Entry
• United States Border Station Design Guide (PBS-PQ130)
Childcare Centers
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APPENDIX
• Child Care Center Design Guide (PBS-P140)
• Accreditation Criteria and Procedures of the National Association for the Education of Young Children
(NAEYC)
Design Excellence
• GSA PBS Design Excellence Policies and Procedures
• GSA PBS Design Excellence in Leasing
Art in Architecture and Fine Arts
• GSA PBS Art in Architecture Program, Policies and Procedures
• GSA PBS Fine Arts Program Policies and Procedures
• Office of Design and Construction
• GSA PBS Project Management Guide
• GSA PBS Project Planning Guide
• GSA PBS Project Estimating Requirements Guide
• GSA PBS Building Commissioning Guide
• GSA PBS Site Selection Guide
• GSA PBS PQ Z60 Metric Design Guide
Security
• Interagency Security Committee’s Physical Security Criteria for Federal Facilities and the ISC Security Level
Determination of Federal Facilities, dated February 21, 2008 (Official Use Only—request from project
manager)
• GSA PBS Design Notebook for Federal Lobby Security
• Office Facilities Management and Services Programs
• GSA PBS Floodplain Management Desk Guide
• GSA PBS NEPA Desk Guide
• GSA PBS UST Guide
• GSA PBS Universal Waste Guide
Publications from Industry
• American National Standards Institute/American Industrial Hygiene Association (ANSI/AIHA):
• Z10-2005, American National Standard—Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems
• American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE):
• Standard 62.1-2004—Ventilation for Acceptable Indoor Air Quality
• ASHRAE Fundamentals Handbook
• International Code Council (ICC)
• International Building Code (IBC)
Page 282

APPENDIX
• International Fire Code (IFC)
• International Mechanical Code (IMC)
• International Plumbing Code (IPC)
• International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC)
• International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC)
• International Private Sewage Disposal Code (IPSDC)
• International Zoning Code (IZC)
• International Wildland-Urban Interface Code (IWUIC)
• International Energy Conservation Code (IECC)
• International Existing Building Code (IEBC)
• International Residential Code (IRC)
• International Code Council Performance Code (ICCPC)
National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) www.nfpa.org
• NFPA 241: Standard for Safeguarding Construction, Alteration, and Demolition Operations
• NFPA 101: Life Safety Code
• NFPA 70: National Electrical Code
• American Institute of Architects (AIA)
www.aia.org
AIA Document E202 – Building Information Modeling Protocol Exhibit
Additional Web sites
• www.iccsafe.org (International Code Council)
• www.wbdg.org (Whole Building Design Guide)
Chapter 2 Site Engineering and Landscaping
In addition to references cited for the Introduction and Chapter 1, the following are specifically relevant to Chapter
2.
Publications
• 33 U.S.C. 1251 Federal Water Pollution Control Act (Clean Water Act)
• GSA PBS The Site Selection Guide www.gsa.gov/siteselection
• GSA ADM 1095.6, Consideration of Floodplains in Decision Making
• GSA PBS Wetlands Impact Management Desk Guide
• GSA PBS NEPA Desk Guide
• GSA PBS Sustainability Matters www.gsa.gov/sustainabledesign
• U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE)
Wetlands Delineation Manual
• American National Standards Institute (ANSI)
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APPENDIX
• American Standard for Nursery Stock/American National Landscape Association (ANLA) www.anla.org
• EPA Document No. EPA-832-R-92-005
Additional Web Sites
• www.gsa.gov/environmental
• www.access-board.gov
• www.gsa.gov/nepa
• www.epa.gov/owow/nps/lid/lidlit.html
(EPA Low Impact Development (LID) Literature Review and Fact Sheets)
• www.invasivespeciesinfo.gov
• http://www.thecptedpage.wsu.edu/Resources.html(
Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design— CPTED)
Chapter 3 Site and Architectural Planning and Design
3.
Publications
• GSA PBS Concession Management Desk Guide (PMFC-93)
• Fine Arts Policies and Procedures, Appendix F
• PBS Order No. 3490.1, Document Security for Sensitive but Unclassified Paper and Electronic Building
Information, Section 7.d.(1.)
Publications from Industry
• American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA)
• 1502.7, Voluntary Test Method for Condensation Resistance of Windows, Doors, and Glazed Wall Sections
• 101/I.S.2/A440-05, Standard/Specification for Windows, Doors, and Unit Skylights (includes
AAMA/WDMA 101/I.S.2/NAFS)
• 1600 Voluntary Specification for Skylights
• American Society of Heating, Refrigeration, and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE)
• Standard 90.1, Energy Standard for Buildings Except Low-Rise Residential Buildings
• American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)
• A17.1 Safety Code for Elevators and Escalators
• A18.1 Safety Standard for Platform Lifts and Stairway Chairlifts
• American Society of Testing and Materials (ASTM)
• C423, Standard Test Method for Sound Absorption and Sound Absorption Coefficients by the
Reverberation Room Method
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APPENDIX
• C635, Standard Specification for the Manufacture, Performance, and Testing of Metal Suspension Systems
for Acoustical Tile and Lay-In Panel Ceilings
• C636, Standard Practice for Installation of Metal Ceiling Suspension Systems for Acoustical Tile and Lay-In
Panels
• C645, Standard Specification for Nonstructural Steel Framing Members
• C1371, Standard Test Method For Determination of Emittance of Materials Near Room Temperature
Using Portable Emissometers
• C1396, Standard Specification for Gypsum Board
• E90, Standard Method for Laboratory Measurement of Airborne Sound Transmission Loss of Building
• E336, Standard Test Method for Measurement of Airborne Sound Insulation in Buildings
• E903, Test Method for Solar Absorptance, Reflectance, and Transmittance of Materials Using Integrating
Spheres
• E1007, Standard Test Method for Field Measurement of Tapping Machine Impact Sound Transmission
through Floor-Ceiling Assemblies and Associated Support Structures
• E1130, Standard Test Method for Objective Measurement of Speech Privacy in Open Offices Using
Articulation Index
• E1414, Standard Test Method for Airborne Sound Attenuation Between Rooms Sharing a Common Ceiling
Plenum
• E1918, Standard Test Method for Measuring Solar Reflectance of Horizontal and Low-Sloped Surfaces in
the Field
• E1946, Standard Practice for Measuring Cost Risk of Buildings and Building Systems
• E1980, Standard Practice for Calculating Solar Reflectance Index of Horizontal and Low-Sloped Opaque
• E2396, Standard Test Method for Saturated Water Permeability of Granular Drainage Media [Falling-Head
Method] for Green Roof Systems
• E2397, Standard Practice for Determination of Dead Loads and Live Loads Associated with Green Roof
Systems
• E2398, Standard Test Method for Water Capture and Media Retention of Geocomposite Drain Layers for
Green Roof Systems
• E2399, Standard Test Method for Maximum Media Density for Dead Load Analysis of Green Roof Systems
• E2400, Standard Guide for Selection, Installation, and Maintenance of Plants for Green Roof Systems
• ANSI/ASSE Provision of Slip Resistance on Walking/Working Surfaces
• Architectural Woodwork Institute (AWI)
• Architectural Woodwork Quality Standards (for grades of interior architectural woodwork, construction,
finishes, and other requirements)
• Brick Industry Association (BIA)
• Technical Notes on Brick Construction
• Indiana Limestone Institute (ILI)
• ILI Handbook
• Marble Institute of America
• Dimension Stone Design Manual
• National Concrete Masonry Association (NCMA)
• TEK Manual for Concrete Masonry Design and Construction
• Annotated Design and Construction Details for Concrete Masonry
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APPENDIX
• National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA)
• Roofing Manual: Membrane Roof Systems
• Roofing and Waterproofing Manual
• Steep-Slope Roofing Manual
• Architectural Metal and Sheet Metal Roofing Manual
• Precast/Prestressed Concrete Institute
• Architectural Precast Concrete
• Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors’ National Association (SMACNA)
• Architectural Sheet Metal Manual
• Steel Door Institute (SDI)
• SDI 122-99 Installation and Troubleshooting Guide for Standard Steel Doors and Frames
• Telecommunications Industry Association/Electronic Industries Alliance (TIA/EIA)
• TIA/EIA-569-A, Commercial Building Standards for Telecommunications Pathways and Spaces
Chapter 4 Structural Engineering
4.
Publications
• Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA):
• Recommended Seismic Design Criteria for New Steel Moment-Frame Buildings (FEMA 350)
• Recommended Seismic Evaluation and Upgrade Criteria for Existing Welded Steel Moment-Frame Buildings
(FEMA 351)
• Recommended Post-Earthquake Evaluation and Repair Criteria for Welded Steel Moment-Frame Buildings
(FEMA 352)
• Recommended Specifications and Quality Assurance Guidelines for Steel Moment-Frame Construction for
Seismic Applications (FEMA 353)
• Techniques for the Seismic Rehabilitation for Existing Buildings (FEMA 547)
• American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM)
• C 150, Standard Specifications for Portland Cement
• C 311, Standard Methods of Sampling and Testing Fly Ash and Natural Pozzolans for Use as a Mineral
Admixture in Portland Cement Concrete
• C 595, Standard Specification for Blended Hydraulic Cements
• C 618, Standard Specification for Fly Ash and Raw or Calcined Natural Pozzolan for Use as a Mineral
Admixture in Portland Cement Concrete
• C 989, Ground Granulated Blast-Furnace Slag for Use in Concrete Mortars
• Interagency Committee on Seismic Safety in Construction (ICSSC)
• ICSSC RP 6 (NISTIR 6762), Standards of Seismic Safety for Existing Federally Owned Leased Buildings. ICSSC
RP 6 can be downloaded as a PDF at http://fire.nist.gov/bfrlpubs/build01/PDF/b01056.pdf
• American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC) Series
• Steel Design Guides
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APPENDIX
• American Society of Civil Engineers
• ASCE/SEI 31, Seismic Evaluation of Existing Buildings
• ASCE/SEI 41, Seismic Rehabilitation of Existing Buildings
• Telecommunications Industry Association/Electronic Industries Alliance (TIA/EIA)
• TIA/EIA-569-A, Commercial Building Standards for Telecommunications Pathways and Spaces
Web sites
• http://fire.nist.gov/bfrlpubs/build01/PDF/b01056.pdf
• http://nsmp.wr.usgs.gov/celebi/gsa_report_instrumentation.pdf
Chapter 5 Mechanical Engineering
5.
Publications
• American Society of Heating Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE)
• Handbook of Fundamental
• Handbook of Refrigeration
• Handbook of HVAC Applications
• Handbook of HVAC Systems and Equipment
• Standard 15: Safety Code for Mechanical Refrigeration
• Standard 52.2: Method of Testing: General Ventilation Air-Cleaning Devices for Removal Efficiency by
Particle Size
• Standard 55: Thermal Environmental Conditions for Human Occupancy
• Standard 62.1: Ventilation for Acceptable Indoor Air Quality
• Standard 90.1-2004: Energy Standard for Buildings Except Low-Rise Residential Buildings
• Standard 100-2006: Energy Conservation in Existing Buildings
• Standard 105-1999: Standard Method of Measuring and Expressing Building Energy Performance
• Standard 111-1988: Practices for Measurement, Testing, Adjusting and Balancing of Building HVAC
Systems
• Standard 113-2005: Method of Testing for Room Air Diffusion
• Standard 135-2004: BACnet: A Data Communication Protocol for Building Automation and Control
Networks
• Guideline 0-2005: The Commissioning Process
• Guideline #4-1993: Preparation of Operating and Maintenance Documentation for Building Systems
• Guideline #12-2000: Minimizing the Risk of Legionellosis Associated with Building Water Systems
• Guideline #29-2007: Guideline for Risk Management of Public Health and Safety in Buildings
• ANSI Z 223.1., National Fuel Gas Code
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APPENDIX
• American Society of Plumbing Engineers (ASPE)
• ASPE Data Books
• American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM)
• ASTM E-84, Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials
• Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors’ National Association, Inc., (SMACNA)
• HVAC Duct Construction Standards: Metal and Flexible HVAC Air Duct Leakage Test Manual
• Fire, Smoke and Radiation Damper Installation Guide for HVAC Systems
• Seismic Restraint Manual Guidelines for Mechanical Systems
• National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
• EIA/TIA Standard 569
• Commercial Building Standard For Telecommunications Pathways and Spaces (and related bulletins)
• Underwriters Laboratories (UL)
• UL 710
Chapter 6 Electrical Engineering
6.
Publications
• ANSI/ASHRAE/IESNA: Standard 90.1-2004: Energy Standard for Buildings Except Low-Rise Residential
Buildings
• ANSI/UL50, Enclosures for Electrical Equipment for Types 12, 3, 3R, 4, 4X, 5, 6, 6P, 12, 12K, and 13,
• A17.1: Safety Code for Elevators and Escalators
• BICSI
• Telecommunications Distribution Methods Manual
• Wireless Design Reference Manual
• Federal Information Processing Standard 175
• Federal Building Standard for Telecommunication Pathways and Spaces
• Illuminating Engineering Society of North America (IESNA)
• Lighting Handbook
• NFPA 70E, Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace
• NFPA 110, Standard for Emergency and Standby Power Systems
• NFPA 111, Standard on Stored Electrical Energy Emergency and Standby Power Systems
• NFPA 780, Standard for the Installation of Lightning Protection Systems
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APPENDIX
• UL 67 Panelboards
• UL 96
Chapter 7 Fire Protection and Life Safety
7.
Publications
• ASME A17.1, Safety Code for Elevators and Escalators
• American Society for Testing Materials (ASTM)
• ASTM E-2073, Standard Test Method for Photopic Luminance of Photoluminescent (Phosphorescent)
Markings
• Code of Federal Regulations (CFR)
• CFR 36 Part 1228, Subpart K—Facility Standards or Record Storage Facilities
• International Code Council (ICC)
• International Building Code (IBC)
• International Fire Code (IFC)
• International Residential Code (IRC)
• International Code Council Performance Code (ICCPC)
• National Archives and Records Administration (NARA)
• NARA Directive 1571
• NFPA 13, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems
• NFPA 13D, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems in One- and Two-Family Dwellings and
Manufactured Homes
• NFPA 14, Standard for the Installation of Standpipe and Hose Systems
• NFPA 17A, Standard for Wet Chemical Extinguishing Systems
• NFPA 20, Standard for the Installation of Stationary Pumps for Fire Protection
• NFPA 24, Standard for the Installation of Private Fire Service Mains and Their Appurtenances
• NFPA 30, Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code
• NFPA 45, Standard on Fire Protection for Laboratories Using Chemicals
• NFPA 72, National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code
• NFPA 75, Standard for the Protection of Information Technology Equipment
• NFPA 90A, Standard for the Installation of Air-Conditioning and Ventilating Systems
• NFPA 170, Standard for Fire Safety Symbols
• NFPA 214, Standard on Water-Cooling Towers
• NFPA 232, Standard for the Protection of Records
Page 289

APPENDIX
• NFPA 241, Standard for Safeguarding Construction, Alteration, and Demolition Operations
• NFPA 914, Code for Fire Protection of Historic Structures
• Society of Fire Protection Engineers (SFPE)
• SFPE Engineering Guide to Performance-Based Fire Protection Analysis and Design for Buildings
• SFPE Handbook of Fire Protection Engineering
• UL 1994 Standard for Luminous Egress Path
• Marking Systems
Page 290

APPENDIX
B.2 Acronyms and Abbreviations
A/E architect/engineer
AABC Associated Air Balance Council
AAMA American Architectural Manufacturers
Association
ABA Architectural Barriers Act of 1968
ABAAS Architectural Barriers Act Accessibility
Standard
ACH air changes per hour
ACM asbestos-containing material
ADP automated data processing
ADPI air diffusion performance index
AEDG Advanced Energy Design Guide
AHJ Authority having jurisdiction
AHU air-handling unit
AIHA American Industrial Hygiene Association
AISC American Institute of Steel Construction
ALS assisted listening system
ANLA American National Landscape Association
ANSI American National Standards Institute
AOC Administrative Office of the United States
Courts
AOUSC Administrative Office of the United States
Courts
ASD allowable stress design
ASHRAE American Society of Heating, Refrigerating,
and Air-Conditioning Engineers
ASME American Society of Mechanical Engineers
ASPE American Society of Plumbing Engineers
ASTM American Society of Testing and Materials
ATS automatic transfer switch
AWI Architectural Woodwork Institute
BAS building automation system
BF ballast factor
BIA Brick Institute of America
BICSI Building Industry Consulting Service
International
BIM building information modeling
BIM building information models
BLCC building life-cycle cost
BOMA Building Owners and Managers Association
International
BPP Building Preservation Plan
BSO basic safety objective
CATV cable television
CAV constant air volume
CCMG Central Courthouse Management Group
CCR Criteria Change Request
CD construction drawings
CD construction documentation
CDC Centers for Disease Control
CFC chlorofluorocarbon
Page 291

APPENDIX
CFL compact fluorescent lamps
CFR Code of Federal Regulations
CHP combined heat and power plant
CPG Comprehensive Procurement Guidelines
CPI Consumer Price Index
CPTED Crime Prevention through Environmental
Design
CPVC chlorinated polyvinyl chloride
CRF condensation resistance factor
CRI color rendering index
CSC Court Security Committee
DC direct current
DD design development
DDC direct digital control
DHS Department of Homeland Security
DNL day-night average noise level
EA environmental assessment
ECS emergency communications systems
EIA Electronic Industries Alliance
EIS environmental impact statement
EISA 2007 Energy Independence and Security
Act of 2007
EPAct 2005 Energy Policy Act of 2005
EPO emergency power off
EPPS emergency power supply system
EPR ethylene propylene rubber
ETS environmental tobacco smoke
FAR Federal Acquisition Regulation
FAS Federal Acquisition Service
FC final concepts
FCxA fire commissioning agent
FEMA Federal Emergency Management Agency
FIIC field impact isolation class
FMR Federal Management Regulation
FPS Federal Protective Service
FPT functional performance test
FSC Forest Stewardship Council
FSC Facility Security Committee
FTE full-time equivalent
GFI ground fault interrupt
GSA General Services Administration
Gsf gross square feet
HB heat balance
HET high efficiency toilet
HEU high efficiency urinal
HGL hydraulic grade line
HID high intensity discharge
HMT harmonic mitigating transformers
HUD Department of Housing and Urban
Development
HVAC heating, ventilating, and air conditioning
IBC International Building Code
ICC International Code Council
ICSSC Interagency Committee on Seismic Safety in
Construction
IEBC International Existing Building Code
Page 292

APPENDIX
IESNA Illuminating Engineering Society of North
America
IG isolated ground
IGE independent government estimate
ILI Indiana Limestone Institute
IMC intermediate metallic conduit
IRC international residential code
IRI International risk insurance
IRMA inverted membrane roof assembly
ISC Interagency Security Committee
ISC Interagency Security Criteria
ISO International Organization for
Standardization
JSST Judicial Security Systems Team
LCC life-cycle costing
LCS luminaire classification system
LED light emitting diode
LEED Leadership in Energy and Environmental
Design
LID Low impact development
LLD lamp lumen depreciation
LPD lighting power density
LPOE Land Ports of Entry
LPW lumen per watt
LRFD load resistance factor design
MCC motor control center
MERV minimum efficiency reporting value
MOA memorandum of agreement
MRL machine roomless
NAEYC National Association for the Education of
Young Children
NARA National Archives and Records
Administration
NC noise criteria
NC-B balanced noise criteria
NCMA National Concrete Masonry Association
NEBB National Environmental Balance Bureau
NEII National Elevator Industries, Inc.
NEPA National Environmental Policy Act
NESHAP National Emission Standards for Hazardous
Air Pollutants
NFPA National Fire Protection Association
NHPA National Historic Preservation Act
NIC noise isolation class
NIST National Institute of Standards and
Technology,
NRCA National Roofing Contractors Association
OAVS outdoor air ventilation system
ODCP Office of Design and Construction Programs
OMB Office of Management and Budget
OSHA Occupational Health and Safety
Administration
P100 Public Buildings Service PBS 100
PBAX telephone exchange
PBS Public Buildings Service
PBS -P140 Child Care Center Design Guide
Page 293

APPENDIX
PBS -PQ130 United States Border Station
Design Guide
PBS -PQ260 Metric Design Guide
PBT persistent bio-accumulative toxin
PCC point of common coupling
PCI Precast Concrete Institute
PDA personal digital assistant
PDI Plumbing and Drainage Institute
PDU power distribution unit
PER project estimating requirements
PF power factor,
PMFC Concession Management
93 Desk Guide
POE post occupancy evaluation
PV photovoltaic system
PWM pulse width modulation
R&A repairs and alterations
RAF raised access floor
RC room criteria
RD requirements development
RGS rigid galvanized steel
RH relative humidity
RHPO Regional Historic Preservation Officer
ROD record of decision
RTS radiant time series
SAA sound absorption average
SBU sensitive but unclassified
SCAQMD South Coast Air Quality Management
District
SCIF sensitive compartmented information
facility
SDI Steel Door Institute
SDM Spatial Data Management
SFI Sustainable Forestry Initiative
SFO solicitation for offers
SFPE Society of Fire Protection Engineers
SI international system
SIR savings to investment ratio
SLC signaling line circuits
SMACNA Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning
Contractors’ National Association
STC sound transmission class
SWAT smart water application technology
TAB testing, adjusting, and balancing
TABB Testing, Adjusting, and Balancing Bureau
TBC Total Building Commissioning
TCLP toxicity characteristic leaching procedure
TDS total dissolved solid
TFM transfer function method
THD total harmonic distortion
TI tenant improvement
TIA Telecommunications Industry Association
TM training manual
TTY text telephone
USACE U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Page 294

APPENDIX
UFAD underfloor air distribution
UL Underwriters Laboratory
UPS uninterruptible power supply
USCDG U.S. Courts Design Guide
USMS U.S. Marshals Service
UST underground fuel oil storage tank
UV ultraviolet
VAV variable air volume
VE value engineering
VFD variable frequency drive
VOC volatile organic compound
XLP cross-linked polyethylene
Page 295

P100 version 2014

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P100 version 2014