REGIONAL OFFICE REQUIREMENTS
ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING
May 2006
GENERAL: Electrical systems shall be designed to comply with the current
1.
editions of the National Electrical Code (NEC) and National Fire
Protection Association (NFPA) publications. If state or local codes are
more stringent, contact the VACO for specific instructions.
ELECTRICAL SERVICE: For sites located remote from VA Medical Centers,
2.
contact the local electric utility company for the type and availability
of service. Either 3-phase, 480/277volt or 208/120volt secondary system
are acceptable. A utility owned, padmounted transformer is preferred for
these services when the facility is located off campus. For co-location
sites at VAMC's expand the VAMC distribution system to serve the new
facility.
3.
packs can adequately handle the Life Safety requirements of NFPA No. 101
and the lowering of elevators in case of a power outage. If there are
any other unusual emergency loads, cost considerations should determine
whether an emergency generator would be cost effective.
FIRE ALARM SYSTEM: Provide a non-coded general evacuation and alarm
4.
system to meet the requirements of NFPA 72 and/or the local codes. A
central station service tie-in to the city fire department should be
considered for remote sites.
ELECTRICAL AND TELEPHONE/SIGNAL CLOSETS: Provide separate electrical and
5.
telephone/signal closets with clearances in accordance with the
requirements of the NEC.
RACEWAYS AND WIRING: All wiring shall be insulated copper conductors,
6.
installed in metallic raceways. Cellular floors or underfloor ducts
should be used for the office areas.
SECURITY SYSTEM: When required, provide an empty conduit system and 120
7.
volt circuits/receptacles for a future security system.
LIGHTING AND RECEPTACLES: Provide lighting in accordance with the latest
8.
Illuminating Engineering Society (IES) requirements. Use the energy
efficient fluorescent lamps with electronic ballasts. Receptacles and
switches shall be NEMA, heavy duty type.
9.
to determine whether lighting protection is required. Local practices
should also be considered.
10. SITE LIGHTING: Provide minimal exterior lighting to provide adequate
safety and security to personnel and buildings.
11. MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS: VA Program Guide 7610, Equipment Guide List must
be followed in the design.
12. VA MASTER SPECIFICATIONS: Use VA Master Specifications and edit to
reflect these design requirements.
Additional information is available from the
13. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
Project Team.
- - - - - END - - - - -
Previous Page
