1 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
1.1 PURPOSE
The purpose of this publication is to serve as the master reference manual
for architects, which includes the architectural requirements and criteria
that they are expected to follow in the design and renovation of medical
facilities for the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
1.2 VA ARCHITECTURAL STANDARDS AND CRITERIA
This manual and the current editions of the following documents, also found
in VA's Technical Information Library, comprise VA's architectural standards
and criteria:
A. Design Guides (for key functional areas) -- functional and space criteria
integrated with architectural, equipment, and environmental requirements into
"guide plates", detailed, illustrative plans for each space.
B. Design and Construction Procedures (PG-18-3) - a collection of VA
requirements and guidance on various construction-related topics. Many of
them were formerly VA "Construction Standards".
C. Equipment Guide List (PG-7610) -- list of equipment, furnishings, and
utility requirements for each space in a functional area.
D. Equipment Reference Manual (PG-18-6) -- graphic representations of each
piece of equipment to be purchased and installed by the construction
contractor.
E. Room Finishes, Door and Hardware Schedule (PG-18-14) -- room-by-room
standards for interior finishes, doors, and door hardware.
F. Space Planning Criteria (Handbook 7610) -- approved space criteria for
each room in a functional area, plus "design considerations" for that area,
space relationship diagrams, and interfunctional relationship matrices.
G. Standard Details (PG-18-4) -- scale drawings of many specific items and
conditions to be used as a guide only, except for
1. Standard details specifically stipulated by PG-18-3, VA Design and
2. Standard Detail 08100-1 and 08100-2, VA Door Schedule, which must be used
unless VA's project manager specifically approves use of another system.
H. Master Construction Specifications (PG-18-1)
I. Infection-Control Standards although no architectural standards
explicitly address infection control, it is a basic hospital function and a
consideration underlying most of VA's standards and criteria:
1. Basic separation of clean and soiled material and activities is guided by
the Space Planning Criteria, particularly by their Design Considerations and
Relationship Matrixes and Diagrams.
2. Frequent hand washing is promoted by adequate and appropriately located
lavatories and sinks, as per Space Planning Criteria and the Equipment Guide
List.
ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN MANUAL
1-1
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
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