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DESIGN GUIDE ITEMS

SECTION 16761
AUDIO VISUAL NURSE CALL AND CODE ONE SYSTEMS AND EQUIPMENT

THIS DESIGN GUIDE IS INTENDED AS AN AID TO THE DESIGNER IN EDITING THE

REFERENCED SPECIFICATION SECTION AND AS AN AID IN LAYING OUT THE SYSTEM
OR COMPONENTS ON THE DRAWINGS IN CONFORMANCE WITH THE REQUIREMENTS AND
EXPECTATIONS OF THE VA. IT IS NOT INTENDED TO BECOME A PART OF THE
CONTRACT DOCUMENTS AND SHOULD NOT BE INCLUDED IN EITHER REVIEW OR
CONSTRUCTION SUBMITTALS.
PARAGRAPH NUMBERS INDICATED BELOW REFLECT CORRESPONDING PARAGRAPH
LOCATIONS IN THE BODY OF THE SUBJECT SPECIFICATION.
1.5 SUBMITTALS
A. The RE shall retain one (1) copy and forward three (3) copies of the
submittal to TSS-197, Suite 850, 8403 Colesville Road, Silver Spring, MD
for technical evaluation and approval.
1. If the submittal is approved the Resident Engineer shall retain one
copy for Official Records and return three (3) copies to the
Contractor.
2. If the submittal is disapproved, three (3) copies will be returned to
the Contractor with written explanation attached indicating the areas
the submittal deviated from the system specifications. The Resident
Engineer shall retain one (1) copy for Official Records.
E. Certifications
1. The RE shall submit one copy of the measurements to TSS-197 for
review 15 working days prior to the test.
F. Equipment Manuals
1. The RE shall submit one copy of each manual to TSS-197 for review ten
working days prior to the test.
G. Record Wiring Diagrams
2. The RE shall submit one hard copy of each record drawing to TSS-197
for review fifteen (15) working days prior to the acceptance test.
PART 2 – PRODUCTS
2.1 EQUIPMENT AND MATERIALS
A. System Requirements
5. The System shall be capable of interfacing with the two-way radio
system and networking more than one nurse call control unit. The RE
shall submit these proposed functions and connections for approval by

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TSS-197 during the specification and technical submittal approval

process.
5. The System shall be capable of interfacing with the facility’s
telephone system and networking more than one nurse call control
unit. The RE shall submit these proposed functions and connections
for approval by TSS-197 during the specification and technical
submittal approval process.
D. General:
20. The RE shall contact TSS-197 for technical review and approval for
this requirement in case of system redesign or change of technical
approved system equipment that may require substitution.
2.4 EQUIPMENT SPECIFICATIONS
H. Cordsets: Cordset shall be designed for medical gas environments.
1. General:
b. The RE shall ensure the PBPU OEM directions are carried out in
order not to void the PBPU UL certification.
I. Pillow Speaker
5. The RE shall ensure the PBPU OEM directions are carried out in order
not to void the PBPU UL certification.
PART 3 – EXECUTION
3.2 PROOF OF PERFORMANCE TESTS
B. Pretesting:
3. The RE will forward three (3) copies of these measurements to the
TSS-197 for evaluation no later than 10 working days prior to the
scheduled acceptance test.

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SECTION 16761
AUDIO VISUAL NURSE CALL AND CODE ONE SYSTEMS AND EQUIPMENT

SPEC WRITER NOTES:

1. Edit between //---// Delete if not
applicable to project. Also delete any
other item or paragraph not applicable
in the section and renumber the
remaining paragraphs. Defer to VHA TSS
(197B) for technical assistance.
2. Included throughout this specification
are references to the Two-Way Radio
Paging System interface capability and
various related features. These various
capabilities and features are only
valid if there is a Two-Way radio
Paging System that is part of the
project, or is provided by the Medical
Facility. The system designer should
verify availability of this system and
coordinate associated requirements and
subsequent interface. If this system is
not a part of the project, or not
available from the Medical Facility,
then the Two-Way Radio Paging System
capabilities and performance should be
deleted throughout the specification.

PART 1 - GENERAL
1.1 DESCRIPTION
A. This document specifies the furnishing, installing, and testing of a
complete and operating Audio - Visual, // Visual only, // //, and Code
One (Blue) // Nurse Call here-in-after referred to as “the System”, and
associated equipment to be installed in the VA // Medical Center //, //
Out Patient Clinic //, // Nursing Home Care Unit //, or //Domiciliary //
here-in-after referred to as “the Facility”. The System shall be capable
of interfacing with // the two-way radio paging system // and/or // the
telephone system. The System shall be microprocessor based and include,
but not be limited to: central terminal assemblies; nurse control master
station; psychiatric, bedside patient, staff, staff/duty, duty, and
emergency stations; dome lights; combiners, traps and filters; audio
distribution amplifiers; uninterruptible power supplies (UPS); conduit,
cable duct, and/or cable tray; and necessary passive devices such as,
cable, wire, and connectors, cordsets, push-buttons, pillow speakers,
and specialized bed connection outlets and connector cables.

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B. The System shall be delivered free of engineering, manufacturing,

installation, and operating defects. It shall be engineered and
installed for ease of operation, maintenance, and testing.
C. The total System shall be designed and installed so that the
installation, interfacing, integration, combining, and/or consolidation
of equipment actually employed does not produce any undesirable visual
or aural effects such as signal distortions, noise pulses, glitches,
audio or video hum bars, transients, ghosting, etc.
D. The System is defined as an Emergency Critical Care Communication System
//and, the Code One (Blue) System is defined as an Emergency Critical
Care Life Support Communication System// by the National Fire Protection
Association (NFPA). Therefore, its installation and operation shall
adhere to all appropriate National and/or Government Local Life Safety
and/or Support Codes, whichever are the more stringent for this
Facility. Additionally, the original equipment manufacturer's (OEM)
recommendations and guidelines shall be followed. The OEM and Contractor
shall ensure that all management, sales, engineering, and installation
personnel have read and understand the requirements of this
specification before the System is designed, engineered, delivered, and
provided.
E. The VA Project Manager (PM) and/or if delegated Resident Engineer (RE)
are the approving authority for all contractual and operational changes
to the System. The Contractor is cautioned to obtain in writing,
approvals for System changes relating to the published contract
specifications and drawings, from the PM and/or the RE before proceeding
with any proposed change.
F. Equipment Standards and Product Testing:
1. All equipment and materials (other than specific nurse call or code
one (blue) equipment items) used in providing the System shall be
listed, labeled and certified by UL or a nationally recognized
testing laboratory where such standards have been established for the
utilized items. Such listing and labeling shall warrant that the
equipment has been tested in accordance with, and conforms to the
specified standards.
2. The provided active and passive nurse call and code one (blue)
equipment required by the system design and approved technical
submittal must conform with each UL standard in effect for the
equipment, as of the date the technical submittal (or the date when

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the RE approved system equipment necessary to be replaced) was

technically reviewed and approved by the VA. Where a UL standard is
in existence for equipment to be used in completion of this contract,
a test must be conducted to certify the equipment meet the published
UL standard. This test must be conducted by UL that makes periodic
inspections of the production of nurse call equipment. The
Contractor’s technical submittal shall include UL certification
and/or documents supplied by the testing laboratory that indicate
each piece of equipment to be furnished conforms to UL standards,
where such standards exist:
1. Each item of equipment to be provided under this contract must bear
the approved UL seal or the seal of the testing laboratory that
warrants the equipment has been tested in accordance with, and
conforms to the specified standards.
2. At a minimum, the entire system shall meet or exceed UL 1069 Standard
and be listed so in UL’s published literature. The Contractor shall
provide a copy of the entire UL 1069 published listing as a part of
the technical submittal.
G. System Performance: The total system shall meet the following
performance standards:

Function Characteristics
Audio Gain 10 decibel (dB) minimum,
Sound Pressure Level (SPL)
Signal to Noise (S/N) 35 dB minimum
Ratio

1.2 RELATED WORK

A. Specification Section 01340, SAMPLES AND SHOP DRAWINGS.
B. Specification Section 16050, BASIC METHODS AND REQUIREMENTS
(ELECTRICAL).
C. Specification Section 16111, CONDUIT SYSTEMS.
D. Specification Section 16127, CABLES, LOW VOLTAGE (600 VOLTS AND BELOW).
E. Specification Section 16140, WIRING DEVICES.
F. Specification Section 16450, GROUNDING.
G. Specification Section 16670, LIGHTNING PROTECTION SYSTEMS.
H. Specification Section 16685, PATIENT WALL SYSTEM.
//I. Specification Section 16735, TWO-WAY RADIO EQUIPMENT AND SYSTEMS. //

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J. Specification Section 16742, VOICE AND DIGITAL // AND ANALOG //

TELECOMMUNICATION DISTRIBUTION CABLE EQUIPMENT AND SYSTEMS.
//K. Specification Section 16781, MASTER ANTENNA TV EQUIPMENT (MATV) AND
SYSTEMS //.
//L. Specification Section 16782, MASTER ANTENNA TV EQUIPMENT (MATV) AND
SYSTEMS - EXTENSION//.
//M. Specification Section 16771, RADIO ENTERTAINMENT DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM.//
//N. Specification Section 16772, RADIO ENTERTAINMENT EXTENSION SYSTEM.//
1.3 APPLICABLE PUBLICATIONS
A. The publications listed below form a part of this specification to the
extent referenced. The publications are referenced in text by basic
designation only. Except for a specific date given the issue in effect
(including amendments, addenda, revisions, supplements, and errata) on
the date of the System’s submittal is technically approved by the VA,
shall be enforced.
B. National Fire Protection Association (NFPA):

70 National Electrical Code (NEC)

77 RECOMMENDED PRACTICE ON STATIC
ELECTRICITY
99 Standard for Health Care
Facilities
101 Life Safety Code

C. Underwriters Laboratories, Inc. (UL):

65 Standard for Wired Cabinets

467 Standard for Grounding and Bonding
Equipment
1069 Standard for Hospital Signaling and
Nurse Call Equipment
1410 Standard for Television Receivers and
Video Products
1778 Standard for Uninterruptable Power
Supply

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D. U.S. National Archives and Records Administration (NARA):

47 CFR 15 Radio Frequency Devices

E. Electronic Industries/Telecommunications Industries Associations

(EIA/TIA):

568 Commercial Building Telecommunica-

tions Wiring Standard
569 Commercial Building
Telecommunications Pathways and
Spaces Standard
606 Administration Standard for the
Telecommunications Infrastructure
of Commercial Buildings
607 Commercial Building Grounding
(Earthing) and Bonding
Requirements for
Telecommunications
RS-270 Tools, Crimping, Solderless Wiring
Devices Recommended Procedures for
User Certification

F. Joint Commission on Accreditation of Health Care Organization (JCAHCO):

Comprehensive Accreditation Manual for Hospitals
G. National and/or Government Life Safety Codes(s): The more stringent of
each listed code.
1.4 QUALITY ASSURANCE
A. The authorized representative of the System’s OEM shall be responsible
for the design, satisfactory total operation of the System, and its
certification.
B. The OEM shall meet the minimum requirements identified in paragraph
2.1.A. Additionally, the OEM shall have had experience with three or
more installations of systems of comparable size and complexity as
regards to coordinating, engineering, testing, certifying, supervising,
training, and documentation. Each of these installations shall have been
in successful operation for at least three years after final acceptance
by the user. These installations shall be provided as a part of the
submittal identified in paragraph 1.5.
C. The System Contractor shall submit certified documentation that they
have been an authorized distributor and service organization for the OEM

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for a minimum of three (3) years. The System Contractor shall be

authorized by the OEM to certify and warranty the installed equipment.
In addition, the OEM and System Contractor shall accept complete
responsibility for the design, installation, certification, operation,
and physical support for the System. This documentation, along with the
System Contractor and OEM certifications must be provided in writing as
part of the Contractor’s Technical submittal.
D. The Contractor’s Communications Technicians assigned to the System shall
be fully trained, qualified, and certified by the OEM on the
engineering, installation, operation, and testing of the System. The
Contractor shall provide formal written evidence of current OEM
certification(s) for the installer(s) as a part of the submittal or to
the RE before being allowed to commence work on the System.
1.5 SUBMITTALS
A. Provide submittals in accordance with Specification Section 01340,
SAMPLES AND SHOP DRAWINGS. The RE shall retain one copy for review and
approval.
1. If the submittal is approved the RE shall retain one copy for
Official Records and return three (3) copies to the Contractor.
2. If the submittal is disapproved, three (3) copies will be returned to
the Contractor with written explanation attached indicating the areas
the submittal deviated from the System specifications. The RE shall
retain one copy for Official Records.
B. Documents: The submittal shall be separated into sections for each sub-
system and shall contain the following:
1. Title page to include:
a. Facility name
a. VA Project Name
c. Contractor’s name, address, and telephone (including FAX) numbers
d. Date of Submittal
e. VA Project Number
2. A list containing a minimum of three locations of installations of
similar size and complexity as identified herein. These locations
shall contain the following:
a. Facility location and name
b. Owner’s or User’s name, address, and telephone (including FAX)
numbers
c. Date of Project Start and Date of Final Acceptance by Owner

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d. System Project Number

e. Brief (three paragraphs minimum) description of each system’s
function, operation and installation
3. Narrative Description of the system as it is expected to be
installed.
4. A list of the equipment to be furnished. The quantity, make and model
number of each item is required. Select the required equipment items
quantities that will satisfy the needs of the System and edit between
the // - //. Delete equipment items that are not required, add
additional items required, and renumber section as per system design.
List format shall be as follows:
SPEC WRITER NOTE: Select the required
equipment items quantities that will
satisfy the needs of the System and edit
between the // - //. Delete equipment
items that are not required and renumber
section as per system design.

The following are the minimum equipment required by the System:

QUANTITY UNIT
//As required// Central Terminal Equipment and Cabinet
//As required// Power Amplifiers
//As required// Nurse Control Master Station
//As required// Staff Station
//As required// Duty Station
//As required// Single Patient Station
//As required// Dual Patient Station
//As required// Corridor Dome Lights
//As required// Intersectional Dome Lights
//As required// Code One Patient Station
//As required// Code One Master Station
//As required// Remote Annunciator Panel
//As required// Wires and Cables
//As required// General Station Connectors
//As required// Special Bed Wall Connectors
//As required// Bath Emergency Station
//As required// Emergency Station
//As required// Pillow Speakers

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//As required// Push-button Cordsets

//As required// Geriatric Cordsets
//As required// Push-buttons
1 ea. Installation Kit
//As identified// Separate List of each Equipment
Spare(s)

5. Central terminal cabinet layout drawing, as it is expected to be

installed.
6. Equipment technical literature detailing the electrical and technical
characteristics of each item of equipment to be furnished.
7. Engineering drawings of the System, with information to determine
compliance with contract drawings and specifications.
8. List of test equipment per paragraph 1.5.C.
9. Letter certifying that the Contractor understands the requirements of
the SAMPLES paragraph 1.5.D.
10. Letter certifying that the Contractor understands the requirements of
Section 3.2 concerning tests.
C. Test Equipment List:
1. The Contractor is responsible for furnishing all test equipment
required to test the System in accordance with the parameters
specified. Unless otherwise stated, the test equipment shall not be
considered part of the System. The Contractor shall furnish test
equipment of accuracy better than the parameters to be tested.
2. The test equipment furnished by the Contractor shall have a
calibration tag of an acceptable calibration service dated not more
than 12 months prior to the test. As part of the submittal, a test
equipment list shall be furnished that includes the make and model
number of the following type of equipment as a minimum:
a. Spectrum Analyzer
b. Signal Level Meter
c. Volt-Ohm Meter
d. Sound Pressure Level (SPL) Meter
e. Sound Pressure Level (SPL) Calibrator
f. Random Noise Generator
g. Audio Amplifier with External Speaker
h. Pillow Speaker Test Set (Pillow Speaker with appropriate load and
cross connections in lieu of the set is acceptable)

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D. Samples: A sample of each of the following items shall be furnished to

the RE for approval prior to installation.
1. 610 mm (2 foot) section of each cable to be used with connectors
installed and OEM cable sweep compliance and/or certification tags as
specified in paragraph 2.3.F.
2. Back boxes for the nurse call patient stations, dome lights, staff
stations, duty stations, annunciator panels, and junction boxes.
3. Cover plates used for patient stations, staff stations duty stations,
annunciator panels, emergency stations // , and code one (blue) //.
4. UPS equipment (if required by system design).
//5. Electrical supervision panels for code one (blue) sub-systems. //
E. Certifications
1. Submit written certification from the OEM indicating that the
proposed supervisor of the installation and the proposed provider of
the contract maintenance are authorized representatives of the OEM.
Include the individual's exact name and address and OEM credentials
in the certification.
2. Submit written certification from the OEM that the wiring and
connection diagrams meet National and/or Government Life Safety
Guidelines, NFPA, NEC, UL 1066, this specification, and JCAHCO
requirements and the instructions, requirements, recommendations, and
guidance set forth by the OEM for the proper performance of the
System as described herein. The VA will not approve any submittal
without this certification.
3. Preacceptance Certification: This certification shall be made in
accordance with the test procedure paragraph 3.2.B.
F. Equipment Manuals: Ten (10) working days prior to the scheduled
acceptance test, the Contractor shall deliver four (4) complete sets of
commercial operation and maintenance manuals for each item of equipment
furnished as part of the System to the RE. The manuals shall detail the
theory of operation and shall include narrative descriptions, pictorial
illustrations, block and schematic diagrams, and parts list.
G. Record Wiring Diagrams:
1. Ten (10) working days prior to the acceptance test, the Contractor
shall four (4) complete sets of the record wiring diagrams of the
System to the RE. The diagrams shall show all inputs and outputs of
electronic and passive equipment correctly identified according to

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the markers installed on the interconnecting cables, equipment and

room/area locations.
2. The record wiring diagrams shall be in hard copy and two compact disk
(CD) copies properly formatted to match the Facility's current
operating version of Computer Aided Drafting (AutoCAD) system. The RE
shall verify and inform the Contractor of the current version of
AutoCAD being used by the Facility.
H. Ten (10) days prior to the start of the intermediate test, provide a
typewritten detailed description of the System testing plan that meets
this specification’s performance standards as indicated in paragraph
2.1.C including illustrations and utilizes the test equipment specified
in paragraph 1.5.C. The test plan will need to be evaluated and approved
by the RE before intermediate testing begins.
I. Provide two (2) copies of a OEM developed training video tape
presentation (reference paragraph 3.3.B) for evaluation and approval by
the RE.
J. Provide a typewritten document that details the complete record program
in memory for all associated station assignments. PART 2 - PRODUCTS
2.1 EQUIPMENT AND MATERIALS
A. System Requirements:
SPEC WRITER NOTE: Confer with the
Facilities Chiefs of Nursing, Surgery,
Medical Media, IRM, and Engineering in
order to select and insert the following
paragraph(s) required by system design.
Edit between the // ------- // and
renumber the remaining paragraphs, as
required.

1. The System shall receive the specified system signals and shall
process and distribute them to the designated outlet, control and/or
remote locations shown on the drawings. The System shall be designed
to minimize cross talk, background processor noise and other signal
interference.
2. The central control equipment shall be provided in the central
equipment terminal cabinet ensuring that test port(s) is provided for
access to each system function without the need to disconnect
distribution cables or equipment.
3. The System shall be connected to the community antenna television
(CATV) cable ready television (TV) receivers in each patient room.
The receivers shall be controlled remotely from the nurse call pillow

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speaker units in all patient rooms, as designated on the drawings.

The TV Contractor will provide the proper outlets and multiconductor
cables required to interface the Audio Visual Nurse Call and Code One
system with the TV receivers.
4. The Nurse Call Contractor shall provide the connection from the nurse
call pillow speaker remote control system to the TV remote control
jack // and Radio Entertainment Distribution (RED) system audio
channels //. Refer to MATV Specification Section 16781 or
16782 // //, RED Specification Section 16771 or 16772.
5. The System shall be capable of interfacing with the two way radio
system and networking more than one nurse call control units. These
functions and connections must be specifically approved, in writing,
by the RE during the specification, and technical submittal approval
processes.
6. //The System shall be capable of interfacing with the telephone
system and networking more than one nurse call control unit. These
functions and connections must be specifically approved in writing by
the RE during the technical submittal approval process. //
7. The Contractor is responsible for interfacing the RED, refer to
Specification Section 16771 or 16772 and MATV (refer to Specification
Section 16781 or 16782) // and public address (PA - refer to
Specification Section 16770 or 16771 //; systems with the System).
8. Each floor or ward distribution system shall be a “buss” design where
each room’s nurse call equipment is fed from centrally located
lateral trunk line cables. Each signal closet mounted terminal
cabinet shall be capable of connection to vertical trunk line riser
cables in the associated signal closet and as shown on the drawings
and recommended by the OEM.
9. Each floor or ward distribution system shall be installed in conduit.
10. The Contractor shall provide verification in writing that the type
wire/cable being furnished and installed is recommended and approved
by the OEM and will provide a total system free of defects.
11. Central Terminal Cabinet Location: The cabinet shall be provided,
protected, and located at the most central distribution system signal
closet location to insure optimum origination, reception and control
of all system signals. Each cabinet shall be provided with a internal
active 120 Volts Alternating Current (VAC) quad receptacles connected
by conduit to the Facility's Critical Branch Emergency Power

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Distribution Panel as shown on plans or if not shown on plans consult

with RE regarding a suitable circuit location, prior to bidding. Each
cabinet shall be installed to allow working clearances per NEC
Article 110, paragraph 110.26 and as recommended by the equipment
manufacturer. Each cabinet shall be provided, as required to meet the
single audio and data channel requirements, and system performance
standards.
12. Central Terminal Cabinet and Master Control Station Selection:
a. The cabinet(s) shall be provided and protected in signal
closets // _____, _____, // and as shown on the drawings.
b. The master control station(s) shall be provided and protected in
the nurses stations // ______, ______, // and as shown on the
drawings.
//B. Visual Nurse Call System:
1. A System shall be provided, protected and located in the Radiology
Clinic and Day Hospital area // _____________ //. The System shall
include a push-button emergency station (pull cord in Day Hospital
area) with an associated corridor dome light in each dressing room
(Radiology) and toilet (Radiology and Day Hospital) // and ________
in the ________ //.
2. The System shall also include a power supply and a visual display
panel in the Radiology receptionist/secretary's office and the Day
Hospital // __________ // area and as shown on the drawings. The
visual display panel shall generate audible and visual emergency
signals to indicate the location of a placed call. //
//C. Code One (Blue) System:
1. Each Recovery Room, Intensive Care Unit (ICU), Cardiac Care Unit
(CCU), Step Down Room, Life Support Room, and Dialysis Area shall be
provided with a separate code one (blue) system. This code one (blue)
system shall be totally independent and separate from the nurse call
system as described herein.
2. The code one (blue) system shall consist of a code one (blue) master
control station with associated alarm and control units, bedside
stations, duty stations, dome lights, central equipment cabinet(s),
and remote annunciator panels in the "on-call" room(s) and the
telephone switchboard // , and _________ // room. Local code one
(blue) annunciation shall be provided at the associated nurses
station, duty room(s), staff room(s) // and __________ //.

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3. Each code one (blue) system shall be designed to provide continuous

electrical supervision of the complete and entire system (i.e. dome
light bulbs [each light will be considered supervised if they use any
one or a combination of Underwriters Laboratory, Inc. (UL) approved
electrical supervision alternates, as identified in UL-1069, 1992
revision], wires, contact switch connections, circuit boards, data,
audio, and communication busses, main and UPS power, etc.). All alarm
initiating and signaling circuits shall be supervised for open
circuits, short circuits, and system grounds. Main and UPS power
circuits shall be supervised for a change in state (i.e. primary to
backup, low battery, UPS on line, etc.). When an open, short or
ground occurs in any system circuit, an audible and visual fault
alarm signal shall be initiated at the nurse control station and all
remote locations.
4. Provide the System with the following minimum equipment:
a. Code one (blue) alarm unit with push-button/switch reset device,
code one amber (or other like Life Safety approved) lamp,
silencing device, test/fault alarm push-button/switch with an
alarm lamp. The unit is to be installed at the nurse or master
control station.
b. Local and remote annunciator panels with visual annunciators which
will visually identify each unit placing a call, and a silencing
device.
c. Code one (blue) nurse call master stations, local, and remote
annunciator panels shall be capable of displaying each area that
has a code one (blue) system.
d. Duty stations with an amber (or other like Life Safety approved)
lamp, and silencing device.
e. Bedside stations with a push-button, amber (or other like Life
Safety approved) lamp, and reset button.
f. Provide one single code one (blue) bedside station for each bed in
the Recovery, Life Support, ICU, CCU, and Dialysis areas plus two
spare stations.
g. A code one (blue) dome light for each bedside station equipped
with an amber (or other like Life Safety approved) lamp, minimum,
to identify code one bedside calls.
h. A code one (blue) dome light for each bedside station equipped
with an amber (or other like Life Safety approved) lamp, at the

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foot of each bed in the Recovery Area, Life Support, CCU, ICU
units, plus one spare.
i. A code one (blue) corridor dome light for the Life Support and/or
Step-down Bedroom.
j. One push-button cordset for each bed in the Recovery Room, plus
one spare cordset.
k. One push-button cordset for each bed in the ICU, CCU and Dialysis,
plus one spare cordset.
5. The System shall provide the following minimum operational functions
that compliments and operates in conjunction with the minimum
electrical or electronic supervision requirements identified in
paragraph 2.H.3:
a. Code one (blue) calls shall be cancelable at the calling station
only. The code one (blue) or nurse call master station shall not
have the ability to cancel code one (blue) calls.
b. Each code one (blue) system shall be able to receive audio calls
from all bedside stations simultaneously.
c. Calls placed from any code one (blue) station shall generate
emergency type audible and visual signals at each associated nurse
control and duty station, and all local and remote annunciator
panels. Calls placed from a bedside station shall generate
emergency type visual signals at the bedside station and
associated dome light(s) in addition to the previous stated
stations and panels.
d. Activating the silencing device at any location, while a code one
(blue) call or system fault is occurring shall mute the audible
signals at the alarm location. The audible alarm shall regenerate
at the end of the selected time-out period until the call or fault
is corrected. The visual signals shall continue until the call is
canceled and/or a fault is corrected. When the fault is corrected,
all signals generated by the fault shall automatically cease,
returning the System to a standby status. Audible signals shall be
regenerated in any local or remote annunciator panel that is in
the silence mode, in the event an additional code (blue) one call
is placed in any code one (blue) system. The additional code one
(blue) call shall also generate visual signals at all annunciators
to identify the location of the call.

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6. It is permissible to utilize an audio visual microprocessor nurse

call system for code one (blue) functions providing the System is
designed and UL approved to function as an integrated nurse call and
code one (blue) system that employs code one (blue) operational
qualities as described herein for all system locations, and equipped
with the following functions and capabilities, at a minimum:
a. A bedside station must be able to place a code one (blue) call in
addition to, and at the same time, a regular nurse call is placed,
or be provided with a code one (blue) station separate from the
nurse call bedside station.
b. Must be able to generate audible and visual signals to code one
(blue) duty stations, local and remote annunciating panels as
specified herein for code one (blue) placed calls.
c. Possess built-in diagnostics to locate and service components.
d. Perform continuous electrical supervision circuitry as defined in herein
for code one (blue) and associated nurses call functions.
D. General:
1. All equipment to be supplied under this specification shall be new
and the current model of a standard product of an OEM of record. An
OEM of record shall be defined as a company whose main occupation is
the manufacture for sale of the items of equipment supplied and
which:
a. Maintains a stock of replacement parts for the item submitted.
b. Maintains engineering drawings, specifications, and operating
manuals for the items submitted.
c. Has published and distributed descriptive literature and equipment
specifications on the items of equipment submitted at least 30
days prior to the Invitation for Bid.
2. Specifications of equipment as set forth in this document are minimum
requirements, unless otherwise stated, and shall not be construed as
limiting the overall quality, quantity or performance characteristics
of items furnished in the System. When the Contractor furnishes an
item of equipment for which there is a specification contained
herein, that item of equipment shall meet or exceed the specification
for that item of equipment.
3. The Contractor shall provide written verification, to the RE that
the type of wire/cable being provided is recommended and approved by
the OEM. Cabling shall meet the interconnecting wiring requirements

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of UL 1069; and the requirements of NFPA 70 (NEC). The Contractor is

responsible for providing the proper size and type of cable duct
and/or conduit and wiring even though the actual installation may be
by another subcontractor.
4. The Nurse Call Contractor is responsible for interfacing the // RED
and MATV, // Two-Way Radio Paging, // // Telephone, // and,
__________ // systems with the nurse call system. The Contractor
shall continually employ interfacing methods that are approved by the
OEM and VA. At a minimum, an acceptable interfacing method, requires
not only a physical and mechanical connection but, a matching of
signal, voltage and processing levels, with regard to signal quality
and impedance. The interface point must adhere to all standards
described herein for the full separation of Critical Care and Life
Safety systems. The audio interface must be accomplished utilizing
solid state switching. It is not acceptable to utilize the MATV/cable
system for distribution and control of RED and nurse call system
signals and equipment.
5. The TV multi-pin jack shall be the interface point for connection of
the nurse call cabling from the bedside station. The multi-pin jack
and MATV outlet with cover plate shall be furnished and installed by
the MATV Contractor. The Nurse Call Contractor shall provide and
interface the nurse call pillow speaker TV remote control functions
to the MATV multi-pin jack.
6. Active electronic component equipment shall consist of solid state
components and be rated for continuous duty service in the areas
where provided.
7. All passive distribution equipment and cables shall meet or exceed -
80 dB radiation shielding specifications.
8. All signaling and communication circuits shall be solid state except
for audio switching relays.
9. The System shall utilize microprocessor components for all signaling
and programming circuits and functions. Program memory shall be non-
volatile or protected from erasure from power outages for a minimum
of five minutes.
10. The System shall provide the continuous polling (not to be
substituted for electrical supervision) of each station sequentially
to determine change of status and to assist in trouble shooting
faults.

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11. All voltages, except for the primary power to the power supply
circuits, shall not exceed 30 VAC Root Mean Squared (RMS) or 41.2 V
direct current (DC).
12. Color code all distribution wiring to conform to the Nurse Call
Industry standard, EIA/TIA, and this document, whichever is the more
stringent. At a minimum, all equipment, cable duct and/or conduit,
enclosures, wiring, terminals, and cables shall be clearly and
permanently labeled according to and using the provided record
drawings, to facilitate installation and maintenance. Reference
Specification Section 16127, CABLES LOW VOLTAGE 600 VOLTS AND BELOW
and Section 16742, VOICE AND DIGITAL // AND ANALOG //
TELECOMMUNICATION DISTRIBUTION CABLE EQUIPMENT AND SYSTEMS.
13. Connect the System’s primary input AC power to the Facility's
Critical Branch of the Emergency AC Power Distribution System as
shown on plans or if not shown on plans consult with RE regarding a
suitable circuit location, prior to bidding.
14. Provide a UPS for the System to operate and function normally (as if
there was no AC power failure) in the event of an AC power failure
for a minimum of 15 minutes.
15. All equipment shall function and operate normally from the furnished
power source, and also, during input power fluctuations or loss of
power for a minimum of 15 minutes.
16. Plug-in connectors shall be provided to connect all stations, except
emergency stations and corridor lights. Emergency stations and
corridor lights shall utilize barrier terminal screw type connectors,
at a minimum. Crimp type connectors installed with a ratchet type
installation tool are an acceptable alternate as long as the cable
dress, pairs, shielding, grounding, and connections and labeling are
provided the same as the barrier terminal strip connectors. Tape of
any type, wire nuts or solder type connections are unacceptable and
will not be approved.
17. All equipment face plates utilized in the System shall be stainless
steel, anodized aluminum or UL approved cycolac plastic that matches
the equipment item it is installed. All faceplates shall be
constructed of the same material throughout the facility.
18. All equipment trim plates utilized in the System shall be stainless
steel, anodized aluminum or UL approved cycolac plastic that matches
the equipment item and the areas where provided. Trim plates are not

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authorized to bear the UL label for the station unless specifically

approved by UL. All trim plates shall be constructed of the same
material throughout the facility.
19. Noise filters and surge protectors shall be provided for each
equipment control cabinet, nurse call master station, local, and
remote locations to ensure protection from input primary AC power
surges and noise glitches are not induced into low voltage data
circuits.
20. Passive and electronic components and cabling shall be provided under
the OEM’s recommendations and guidance, to prevent damage to any
system equipment from electrostatic discharges of a minimum of 25,000
Volts, at a relative humidity of a maximum of 20 percent (%) or less.
The Contractor shall detail in the technical submittal the method and
equipment to be utilized to protect the system components from a
minimum 25,000 Volt electrostatic discharge.
E. Patient Bedwall Equipment shall include, but not be limited to, the
following:
1. One pillow speaker and cordset shall be provided for each patient bed
in // Nursing Home Care Unit, // Medical, Surgical, and Observation
and Treatment Nursing Units. Provide one spare for each 40 beds or
portion thereof.
2. Provide one dummy plug for each bedside station. Provide 10% spare
dummy plugs.
3. Provide ten geriatric cordsets, plus one additional geriatric cordset
for every two bedside stations in Spinal Cord Injury Units. Provide
10% spare cordsets.
4. One single or dual audio-visual bedside station shall be provided for
each bed in the nursing units listed in paragraph 1.1.E // and Mental
Health and Behavior Nursing Units //. Provide one spare for each 40
single bedside station and portion thereof. Plus, provide one spare
for each 40 dual bedside stations, and portion thereof.
//5. One visual bedside station shall be provided for each ICU and
Recovery Room bed. Provide two spare stations. //
//6. One specialized wall connector and interface cable shall be provided
to connect each special hospital treatment bed used by the Facility
at each patient bed location and as shown on the drawings. Provide
one spare connector and interface cable for each 40 bedside
locations, and portion thereof. Note: Contact the Facility’s

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Engineering, Nursing and Contracting Services to determine proper

type of connector to be used (i.e. Stryker, Hill Rohm, etc.). //
//7. One staff station shall be provided for each bed in Mental Health and
Behavior Units as shown on the drawings. Provide one spare station
for each 40 bedside locations, and portion thereof. //
F. Master Station Nurse Call // and Code One (Blue) // Equipment shall
include, but not be limited to, the following:
1. Provide one station, including cathode ray tube (CRT), computer
processing unit (CPU), keyboard, mouse, and UPS when used, per nurse
station // or _______ location //. Provide two complete spare
stations that at a minimum include CRTs, CPUs, keyboards, mouse, and
UPS’s when used.
2. One telephone type handset shall be provided per station. Provide two
spare handsets.
3. Provide one current (as of the technical acceptance date of the
System by the VA) operational copy of system software (VA to retain
right of ownership and to be provided future software upgrades at a
negotiated cost). Provide one complete spare software copy including
published and unpublished upgraded.
G. Dome Lights:
1. Corridor dome lights shall be provided as shown on the drawings and
identified in the equipment list. Provide one spare dome light for
each 40 locations, and portion thereof.
2. Room dome lights shall be provided as shown on the drawings and
identified in the equipment list. Provide one spare dome light for
each 40 locations, and portion thereof.
3. Code one (blue) dome lights shall be provided as shown on the
drawings and identified in the equipment list. Provide one spare dome
light for each 40 locations, and portion thereof.
H. Local and Remote Annunciator Panel Equipment shall be provided in the
locations shown on the drawings and identified in the equipment list.
Provide one spare panel.
I. Equipment Functional Characteristics:

FUNCTIONS CHARACTERISTICS
Input Voltage 105 to 130 VAC
Power Line Frequency 60 Hertz (Hz), ±2.0 Hz

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Operating Temperature O to 50 degrees (°)

Centigrade (C)
Humidity 80 %, minimum rating

2.2 CENTRAL TERMINAL ASSEMBLIES

A. Equipment Cabinet:
1. The provided equipment cabinet shall be lockable, fabricated of heavy
gauge steel with baked on paint finish. The color shall conform to
the area in which it is installed and approved by the RE. It shall be
wall mounted with knockout holes for cable entrance and conduit
connection, contain ventilation ports and quiet fan with non-
disposable air filter for equipment cooling. Two keys shall be
provided to the RE for each lock when the VA accepts the System.
2. AC Power Surge Protector Strip(s):
a. The strip may be provided, in lieu of the required internal
cabinet mounted quad AC outlet(s), with an outlet for each item of
equipment and a minimum of four spare AC power outlets. Each strip
shall be mounted inside and at the rear of each equipment cabinet.
The strip shall be self-contained in a metal enclosure with a
maximum of 1.8 m (6 feet) connecting wire with three-prong plug.
It is acceptable to connect it to one of the service outlets for
the AC power line filter. Extension or “pig tail” non-protected
cords from the system cabinet or rack to a system wall outlet is
not authorized and shall not be allowed and if discovered shall be
grounds to declare the entire system unacceptable and terminate
all acceptance testing.
b. Technical Characteristics:

Power Capacity 20 Ampere (AMP), 120 VAC

continuous duty
Wire Gauge Three conductor, #12
American Wire Gauge (AWG)
solid copper

3. AC Power Line Surge Protector and Filter:

a. Provide each cabinet containing active electronic equipment shall
be with a AC surge protector and filter. The protector and filter
shall be housed in one single enclosure. The protector and filter
shall provide instantaneous regulation of the AC input voltage and

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isolate and filter any noise present on the AC input line. It

shall be mounted inside the cabinet and the cabinet’s AC power
strip (two strips maximum) may be connected to it.
b. Technical Characteristics:

Input Voltage Range 120 VAC + 15%

Power Capacity 20 Amperes (AMP), 120 VAC
Voltage Output +3.0%
Regulation
Circuit Breaker 15 AMP, may be self
contain
Noise Filtering Greater than 45 dB
AC Outlets Four duplex grounded
types, minimum
Response Time 5 Nano Seconds (nS)
Surge Suppression 10,000 AMPS
Noise Suppression:
Common -40 dB
Differential -45 dB

B. Central Terminal Equipment:

1. Each sub-system (ward) shall be provided with separate central
terminal equipment that will service no more than two nursing units
or wards. Components of the central equipment shall be mounted on
panels or standard EIA rack dimensions.
2. The provided sub-systems shall be balanced so that when the system
volume level is adjusted to maximum, no pulsating noise or data noise
is audible, when communicating between the nurse control station and
the most distant patient bedside station.
3. Each power amplifier unit shall be provided with separate power
overload protection circuits and shall provide self-limiting audio
compression without distortion. The amplifiers shall have a common
volume control for regulation of intercom audio for all associated
stations. The amplifiers shall be adjusted/balanced to provide normal
system audio levels between the master station and all remote
locations when system audio levels are adjusted to approximately mid-
range. Provide one spare amplifier circuit board and/or module.

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4. Each provided cabinet shall conform to the spaces designated for

installation. The width, height and depth dimensions of the central
equipment cabinet shall be included with the equipment submittals.
2.3 EQUIPMENT SPECIFICATIONS
A. Nurse Call Bedside Station:
1. Each single bedside station shall be provided with a
microphone/speaker, call answered/monitor lamp, call placed
annunciator lamp, reset/cancel button and a receptacle for cordset.
2. Each single and dual bedside station microphone/speaker audio output
shall be muted when the pillow speaker is plugged into the bedside
station. Single bedside stations shall be mounted on a four-gang back
box, minimum. A trim plate constructed of stainless steel or a
material similar to the bedside station shall be provided to cover
the back box opening and frame the cover plate.
3. Where dual bedside stations are required, each station shall be
provided with two cordset receptacles, two call place annunciator
lamps, and at least one of all the other single station features
enumerated in the preceding paragraph concerning single bedside
stations. Dual bedside stations shall be mounted on a six-gang back
box, minimum. A trim plate constructed of stainless steel or a
material similar to the bedside station shall be provided to cover
the back box opening and frame the cover plate.
4. Two beds on a common bedroom wall shall be provided with one staff
station. Each staff station shall be mounted on a six-gang back box,
minimum. A trim plate constructed of stainless steel or a material
similar to the staff station shall be provided to cover the back box
opening and frame the cover plate.
5. Placement of a call at the bedside station shall generate routine
placed call visual signals in the corridor dome light.
6. Each bed in non-secure bedrooms in Mental Health and Behavior Nursing
Units shall be provided with a staff station, equipped with a device
to place calls, a microphone/speaker, call placed annunciator, call
answered/monitor lamp and reset/cancel device.
B. Staff Station: Each staff station shall be provided with:
1. Two-way voice communication with the nurse control master station.
2. A call origination device, cancel device, placed call annunciator,
and an incoming call/privacy annunciator indicator.

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3. A connection from the on-call room to the nurse control master

station.
4. A location in the nearest nurse station to an ICU, CCU, Recovery,
and/or Dialysis ward. Connect the staff station to the ICU, CCU,
Recovery, or Dialysis nurse call system.
5. Each staff station shall be mounted on a six-gang back box, minimum.
A trim plate constructed of stainless steel or a material similar to
the staff station shall be provided to cover the back box opening and
frame the cover plate.
C. Staff/Duty Station: Each staff/duty station shall be provided with:
1. Two-way voice communications with the nurse control master station.
2. A call placed annunciator and a device to generate audible signals.
3. A call origination device, call placed annunciator, cancel device,
and incoming call/privacy annunciator indicator.
4. The capability to indicate all patient normal calls placed in the
System with audible and visual signals.
5. The capability to indicate all patient/emergency calls with audible
and visual signals.
6. Each staff/duty station shall be mounted on a six-gang back box,
minimum. A trim plate constructed of stainless steel or a material
similar to the staff/duty station shall be provided to cover the back
box opening and frame the cover plate.
D. Emergency Station:
1. A pullcord emergency station shall be provided in each toilet stall
and each shower/bath stall, one per shower head. Shower emergency
stations shall be provided inside the shower stall at the shower
headend. They shall be provided approximately 460 mm (18 inches) from
the shower head itself and/or 1830 mm (72 inches) above finished
floor (AFF). Each station inside shower and toilet areas shall be
equipped with a rubber gasket between the face plate and wall or be
rated by UL as waterproof.
2. The gasket shall cover and water seal the entire back box opening and
not extend beyond the sides of the associated face plate by 6.4 mm
(1/4 inch) maximum. If the wall is tile or other uneven type material
the gasket and associated face plate shall be provided to completely
seal the opening and uneven material surface.
3. Each emergency station shall be mounted on a double-gang back box,
minimum. A trim plate constructed of stainless steel or a material

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similar to the emergency station shall be provided to cover the back

box opening and frame the cover plate.
4. Emergency stations shall be provided with:
a. A ten-pound test pull cord and pendant which shall be connected to
a positive action on/off switch at the emergency station. The cord
with pendant shall terminate 150 mm (6 inches) AFF.
b. A minimum of one pound pull to activate the switch.
c. A reset/cancel function on the face plate of the emergency
station.
d. "EMERGENCY NURSE CALL" or similar approved wording stamped or
permanently affixed on the face plate. The emergency wording
letters shall be a minimum of 3.2 mm (1/8 inch) high.
e. A red lamp which shall flash at a rate of one second on and one
second off upon initiation of a call from the emergency station.
The lamp shall continue to flash until the station is reset.
5. A push-button emergency stations shall be provided in //
Dayrooms // , and Dining Room// // , and Exam and/or Treatment Rooms
of GM&S Nursing Units //and in all non-bedroom patient use areas in
Nursing Home Care Units.
SPEC WRITER NOTE: Verify that VA Standard
Detail titled "Self-Care Toilet for Spinal
Cord Injury Use - Plan & Detail" is
included in the details on the contract
drawings.

6. In all Spinal Cord Injury Unit toilets, provide an emergency station

with a plastic vinyl covered pressure activated touch pad. The
installation shall be in accordance with the waterproof guidelines
herein and as shown on the drawings.
E. Corridor Door Dome Lights:
1. Provide light covers that are translucent and shall not deform,
discolor or craze from heat or use of normal hospital cleaning
agents.
2. Corridor door dome lights shall be provided for patient bedrooms and
shall contain sufficient lamps to permit distinguishing the following
type placed calls:
a. Routine placed calls from bedside stations
b. Emergency placed calls from bath/toilet emergency stations, if the
bedroom has such facilities

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c. Emergency placed calls from bedside stations that are programmed

in the emergency/priority mode
d. The visual signals for routine and emergency/priority placed calls
shall be distinctly different from each other
//e. Calls placed in the reminder/nurse aide function //
3. Corridor dome lights shall be provided for congregate bath/toilet
areas and shall contain one red lamp.
4. Each dome light shall be mounted on a dual-gang back box, minimum. A
trim plate constructed of stainless steel or a material similar to
the dome light shall be provided to cover the back box opening and
frame the cover plate.
F. Corridor Intersectional Dome Lights:
1. Provide corridor intersectional lights that contain a minimum of two
lamps to identify any placed call in the System. The visual signals
for routine and emergency placed calls shall be distinctly different
from each other.
2. Provide the light at each intersecting point of corridors that
display visual signals simultaneously at all corridor intersectional
lights for calls placed in the System.
3. Each light shall be mounted on a dual-gang back box, minimum. A trim
plate constructed of stainless steel or a material similar to the
light shall be provided to cover the back box opening and frame the
cover plate.
G. Nurse Control Master Station: Each nurse control station shall be
provided:
1. As an audiovisual type, except for the Radiology Clinic and Day
Hospital nurse call system.
2. As desk mounted: With 1.2 meters (4 feet) of interconnecting cable
(from the central equipment to the master station) to allow for
convenient placement of the nurse control station on the desktop.
3. With the following features:
a. Microphone/speaker and telephone handset with a 910 mm (3 foot)
coiled cord. The handset shall be able to conduct two-way voice
communication between the nurse and the selected calling station.
Lifting the handset shall mute the microphone/speaker.
b. Digital readout touch screen to visually announce the location of
incoming calls placed in the System including room and bed number
and priority of the call. Identify each calling station with an

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individual display, including separate displays for each patient

sharing a dual bedside station. // If a digital readout touch
screen standard is not submitted or approved by the Facility
during the project design phase, an alpha - numeric scheme shall
be provided that identifies the: ward, room and bed (i.e. Ward 2a,
Room 201, Bed A (or 1) shall read 2A201A -or- 2A201-1. Equivalent
readouts are acceptable as long as the Facility approves the
readout) //.
1) Calls placed at emergency stations located in toilets and baths
inside bedrooms shall be displayed for the bed closest to the
nurse control station. Beds in multi-bed bedrooms shall be
identified in a clock-wise pattern upon entering the bedroom.
2) It shall display a minimum of four incoming calls. Additional
placed calls shall be stored in order of placement and
priority.
c. Nurse follower function. All calls placed in the System shall be
visually or audibly announced at the selected bedside stations
when selecting the nurse follower mode of operation and the
bedside stations to be visited. It is acceptable for the nurse
follower mode to be activated inside rooms containing bedside
stations.
d. Automatic answering function or selective answering device.
e. Incoming call priority function. The visual or audible signals
shall indicate if a routine or emergency (and/or code) call has
been placed and shall continue until the call is canceled. The
emergency calls shall be capable of being canceled only at the
originating station. Provide for the programming to two levels of
priority, minimum, for incoming calls from each associated bedside
station.
f. Reminder function. Shall temporarily store a placed call and
generate visual signals in the corridor dome light associated with
the calling bedside station by activating the reminder
function/circuitry. The visual signals shall terminate and the
stored call is eliminated from memory when the call is canceled at
the originating station.
g. The ability to generate visual and audible signals to indicate
incoming calls from associated stations which:

16761-26
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l) Shall silence or attenuate the audible signals through

muting/attenuation circuits while the control station is being
used to answer or place a call. The audible signals for
incoming calls not answered shall be automatically reenergized
when the nurse control station is returned to the standby mode.
2) The visual signals for incoming calls shall remain displayed at
all times until each call is answered or canceled at the
calling station.
3) The visual and audible signals for routine and emergency calls
shall be distinctly different. The audible signals shall be
generated at the same rate as the corresponding visual signals
for each emergency calls. Audible signals for routine calls
shall be generated at the same rate as the visual signals, or
by repeating an audible signal every five to ten seconds until
the call is answered or canceled.
4) The visual display to indicate the location of a placed call
shall appear on the control station within two seconds,
maximum, after initiation of a call.
h. Touch pad, or equal, to permit the nurse to selectively place
calls to and conduct two-way voice communication with, all system
bedside, staff and duty stations and associated nurse stations.
The touch pad shall also provide for the programming of priority
status and any other function capable of being programmed from the
nurse control station.
i. The ability to monitor a bedside station. The wiring and/or
equipment used shall assure that, when a station is being
monitored or called by the nurse control station, the call
answered/monitor lamp station shall be lighted.
j. The capability of paging a minimum of 10 bedside stations
simultaneously.
k. The ability to receive calls from a minimum of 10 associated
stations simultaneously.
l. The ability for answering placed calls by either:
1) Picking up the handset or by activating an answer next call
function, which will automatically permit the nurse to
communicate with the station that is next in sequence of placed
calls by priority and time of placement, or

16761-27
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2) By being able to selectively answer any placed call displayed

in the order of priority and time of placement.
m. Accommodate a minimum of 10 percent expansion of additional
patient, emergency, staff and duty stations within each master
nurse control station as installed without any additions to the
central equipment.
n. Nurse control master stations that require AC power and/or have
video type (or CRT) display units associated with them, shall be
connected to the same Emergency Critical Care Distribution System
AC power panel that supplies AC power to its associated central
terminal cabinet. A UPS shall be provided at the nurse station
location to supply battery back up power to the station and CRT
equipment if they are not powered from the central terminal
equipment battery backup system.
H. Cordsets: Cordsets shall be designed for medical gas environments.
1. General - each cordset cable shall be provided with:
a. 1.8 m or 2.4 m (6 or 8 foot) long, heavy-duty, flexible cable.
b. A non-corrosive, non-tarnishing metal or molded composition clip.
The clip shall be used to fasten the cordset to sheets or blankets
without tearing or damage to the sheet/blanket material. Do not
attach the clip to a PBPU unless the RE has received written
permission from the PBPU OEM directing the acceptable method of
attachment.
c. When a cordset is disconnected, an emergency call shall
automatically be initiated to the nurse control and duty stations.
The audible and visual signals shall remain activated until the
cordset is reinserted or a dummy plug or other technically
approved devices shall be provided that will deactivate the
automatic call feature when pillow speakers are removed. It is
acceptable that dummy plugs be equipped with a push-button or
other device to place calls when substituted for a pillow speaker
or cordset.
d. The ability to place a call by applying a minimum of one pound of
pressure on the envelope.
e. Shall not discolor as a result of exposure to medical or
sterilization gas.
2. Cordsets with Momentary Action Push-buttons: Each cordset shall be
provided:

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a. And designed for connection to the bedside station cordset

receptacle.
b. With and contain a momentary action call originating button on the
end of the cordset.
3. Geriatric Cordsets: Each cord shall be provided with a soft, molded
plastic or rubber envelope, attached on the end of the cordset.
I. Pillow Speaker: Each pillow speaker shall be designed for non-medical
gas environments (unless specific technical approval is granted by the
RE on a case by case basis) and provided with the following features:
1. A momentary action push-button for signaling the nurse and permitting
two-way voice communication between the patient and the nurse,
through the pillow microphone/speaker.
2. Constructed of a high impact molded composition, bear the UL label
either molded into the outside of the unit or a separate UL label
affixed inside the unit, and be contain a plug which shall permit
only one method of connection to the bedside station receptacle.
3. Shall not discolor as a result of exposure to medical or
sterilization gas.
4. When a pillow speaker is disconnected, an emergency call shall
automatically be initiated to the nurse control and duty stations.
The audible and visual signals shall remain activated until the
pillow speaker is reinserted or a dummy plug or other technically
approved devices shall be provided that will deactivate the automatic
call feature when pillow speakers are removed. Dummy plugs shall be
equipped with a push-button or other device to place calls.
5. Contain a holder for storage of each pillow speaker when speaker is
not in use. The use of a magnet or cordset clip to store the pillow
speaker on the bedside station instead of a holder is not acceptable.
Do not attach the holder to a PBPU unless the RE has received written
permission from the PBPU OEM directing the acceptable method of
attachment.
6. Shall have a control for selecting four channels of radio
entertainment and television audio, with an on/off selection and
volume control associated with the entertainment systems. The
microphone/speaker shall have a minimum frequency response of 500-
4500 Hz.

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7. The controls for placing nurse calls and selection of TV and radio
channels shall be provided on the face of the pillow speaker
microphone and shall be clearly labeled.
a. Shall have a control for changing television channels.
b. Shall have a separate control, including separate volume stepper,
for selection of RED audio for each pillow speaker. The control
shall have a function point for each active audio channel (four
channels minimum) and one off function point.
c. Shall permit radio and television audio to be heard through the
pillow microphone/speaker.
d. Shall automatically mute entertainment audio when calls are placed
or answered at the nurse control station.
e. Shall mute entertainment audio when the master control station is
placed on the monitor position for an individual bedside station.
8. Shall withstand a drop of 1520 mm (5 feet) to a hard surfaced floor
without damage to any internal component or housing.
9. The ability to place a call by applying a minimum of one pound of
pressure on the envelope.
//J. Psychiatric Stations
1. A push-button emergency station shall be provided in each toilet
stall and each shower/bath facility in psychiatric nursing units.
Shower emergency stations shall be installed inside the shower stall
at the shower headend. They shall be installed approximately 460 mm
(18 inches) from the showerhead itself and 1.8 meters (72 inches)
above finished floor. Each station inside shower and toilet areas
shall be equipped with a rubber gasket between the face plate and
wall or be rated by UL as waterproof. The gasket shall cover and
water seal the entire back box opening and not extend beyond the
sides of the associated face plate by 6.35 mm (1/4 inch) maximum. If
the wall is tile or other uneven type material the gasket and
associated face plate shall be provided to completely seal the
opening and uneven material surface.
2. Fasten emergency station face plates to the back boxes with
tamperproof screws.
3. Provide security rooms in psychiatric nursing units with a hall
station containing a key activated switch, four emergency push-button
stations and a 100 mm (4 inch) flush mounted ceiling
microphone/speaker. All equipment shall utilize tamperproof screws.

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4. Activating the switch shall energize each emergency station in the

security room.
5. Selection of the security room station at the nurse control station
shall permit two-way voice communication within the room and nurse
control station, through the ceiling microphone/speaker.
6. Pressing the push-button on any security room emergency station shall
generate emergency visual signals in the corridor dome light and
emergency audible and visual signals at the nurse control station.
7. Provide six keys for each psychiatric unit. //
2.5 DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM
Refer to Specification Section 16742 for additional VHA wire and cable
standards and installation requirements. Each wire and cable used in the
System shall be specifically OEM certified by tags on each reel and
recommended and approved for installation in the Facility. The Contractor
shall provide the RE a 610 mm (2 foot) sample of each wire and/or cable
actually employed in the System and each certification tag for approval
before continuing with the installation as described herein.
2.6 INSTALLATION KIT
The kit shall be provided that at a minimum, includes all connectors and
terminals, labeling systems, audio spade lugs, barrier strips, punch blocks
or wire wrap terminals, heat shrink tubing, cable ties, solder, hangers,
clamps, bolts, etc., required to accomplish a neat and secure installation.
All wires shall terminate in a spade lug and barrier strip, wire wrap
terminal or wiring block. Unfinished or unlabeled wire connections shall
not be allowed. Turn over to the RE all unused and partially opened
installation kit boxes, coaxial cable reels, conduit, cable tray, and/or
cable duct bundles, wire rolls, physical installation hardware. This is an
acceptable alternate to the individual spare equipment requirement as long
as the minimum spare items are provided in this count. The following are
the minimum required installation sub-kits:
A. System Grounding
1. The grounding kit shall include all cable and installation hardware
required. All A/V nurse call equipment shall be connected to earth
ground via internal building wiring, according to the NEC.
2. This includes, but is not limited to:
a. Coaxial Cable Shields
b. Control Cable Shields
c. Data Cable Shields

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d. Equipment Racks
e. Equipment Cabinets
f. Conduits
g. Cable Duct
h. Cable Trays
i. Power Panels
j. Connector Panels
B. Coaxial Cable (MATV Interconnections): The coaxial cable kit shall
include all coaxial connectors, cable tying straps, heat shrink tabbing,
hangers, clamps, etc., required to accomplish a neat and secure
installation.
C. Wire and Cable: The wire and cable kit shall include all connectors and
terminals, audio spade lugs, barrier straps, wiring blocks, wire wrap
strips, heat shrink tubing, tie wraps, solder, hangers, clamps, labels
etc., required to accomplish a neat and orderly installation.
D. Conduit, Cable Duct, and Cable Tray: The kit shall include all conduit,
duct, trays, junction boxes, back boxes, cover plates, feed through
nipples, hangers, clamps, other hardware required to accomplish a neat
and secure conduit, cable duct, and/or cable tray installation in
accordance with the NEC and this document.
E. Equipment Interface: The equipment kit shall include any item or
quantity of equipment, cable, mounting hardware and materials needed to
interface Systems and sub-systems according to the OEM requirements and
this document.
F. Labels: The labeling kit shall include any item or quantity of labels,
tools, stencils, and materials needed to completely and correctly label
each sub-system according to the OEM requirements, record drawings, and
this document.
G. Documentation: The documentation kit shall include any item or quantity
of items, computer discs, as installed drawings, equipment, maintenance,
and operation manuals, and OEM materials needed to completely and
correctly provide the system documentation as required by this document
and explained herein.
PART 3 - EXECUTION
3.1 INSTALLATION
A. Product Delivery, Storage and Handling
1. Delivery: Deliver materials to the job site in OEM's original
unopened containers, clearly labeled with the OEM's name, equipment

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model and serial identification numbers, and UL logo. The RE may

inventory the nurse call equipment at the time of delivery and reject
items that do not conform to this requirement.
2. Storage and Handling: Store and protect equipment in a manner that
will preclude damage as directed by the RE.
B. System Installation
1. Do not install nurse call and fire alarm systems in the same conduit,
raceway or cable trays.
2. For VA Facilities, it is permissible to include non-powered RED and
MATV cables with nurse call cables provided each signal is directly
controlled by its system and each cable is 100% shielded and bundled
as described herein.
3. The Contractor shall provide suitable filters, traps and pads for
minimizing interference and for balancing the amplifiers and
distribution system(s). Items used for balancing and minimizing
interference shall be able to pass audio, data and control signals in
the speeds and frequency bands selected, in the directions specified,
with low loss, and high isolation and with minimum delay of the
system poling or subcarrier frequency(s).
4. Back up power supplies (e.g., batteries, UPS) shall be installed in
the central equipment cabinet or in a separate metal cabinet equipped
with a hinged door and lock. If a separate cabinet is installed, it
shall be provided adjacent to the central equipment cabinet. Where
the backup power supply is already self-contained in a housing, the
unit can be mounted adjacent to the respective equipment cabinet. In
all cases, backup power supplies must be permanently mounted. Each
UPS and/or backup power supply shall be provided with full electrical
supervision as described herein.
5. When prefabricated bedside units (PBPU) are used in the System, the
Contractor shall contact the RE who in turn will contact the PBPU OEM
to obtain proper authorizations and written certifications to attach
system components to the PBPU in locations where standard PBPU
access, port knockouts or routes have not been provided.
Additionally, if the patient pillow speaker or cordset hanger does
not have a standard place or mode of attachment to the PBPU, the
Contractor shall obtain the aforementioned guidance from the PBPU OEM
for attaching the hanger. Under no circumstance shall the Contractor

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modify, drill, punch, or proceed with installation of the System in

PBPU’s without the required approvals.
6. In those areas where special beds are to be used, such as Hill Rom,
Striker, etc., and the communications connected to the PBPU or to the
headwall, the PBPU, nurse call, and the bed OEMs shall be contacted
by the RE to secure the proper authorizations and guidance for
interfacing the bed’s communications systems with the System.
7. All passive equipment shall be connected according to the OEM's
specifications to insure correct termination, isolation, impedance
match, and signal level balance at each speaker.
8. Install all equipment for each location specified herein and as
identified on the drawings.
9. All trunk, distribution and interconnecting lines shall be terminated
in a suitable manner to facilitate future expansion of the System by
adding center terminal equipment only.
10. All vertical and horizontal lines shall be terminated so that
subsequent expansion for additional audio channels shall require
modifications of the System central terminal equipment only.
11. Terminating resistors shall be used to terminate all unused branches,
outlets, unused equipment ports of the System and shall be devices
designed for the purpose of terminating audio cables carrying audio
signals in nurse call systems.
B. Conduit and Signal Ducts:
1. Conduit:
a. The Contractor shall employ the latest installation practices and
materials. The minimum conduit size shall be 25 mm (1 inch) in
diameter for primary signal distribution and 19 mm (3/4 inch) for
remote connections (i.e. dome lights, emergency station, TV
control, RED control, etc.).
b. All cables shall be installed in separate conduit and/or signal
ducts (exception from the separate conduit requirement to allow
nurse call cables to be installed in partitioned cable tray with
RED and MATV cables, shall be granted in writing by the RE if
requested.) The mixing of nurse call and fire alarm cables and/or
systems is not authorized and will not be approved. (See caution
identified in paragraph 3-1b.3.e.). Conduit shall be provided in
accordance with Specification Section 16111, CONDUIT SYSTEMS, at a
minimum.

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c. Conduit fill shall not exceed 40 percent.

d. Cable runs shall be splice free between conduit junction and
interface boxes and equipment locations.
2. Signal Duct, Cable Duct, or Cable Tray:
a. The Contractor shall use existing signal duct, cable duct and/or
cable tray, when identified and approved by the RE.
b. Approved signal and/or cable duct shall be a minimum size of 100
mm x 100 mm (4 inch x 4 inch) inside diameter with removable tops
or sides, as appropriate. Protective sleeves, guides, or barriers
are required on all sharp corners, openings, anchors, bolts, or
screw ends, junction, interface and connection points.
c. Approved cable tray shall be fully covered, mechanically and
physically partitioned for multiple electronic circuit use, and UL
certified and labeled for use with telecommunication circuits
and/or systems. The RE shall approve width and height dimensions.
d. Do not pull wire or cable through any box, fitting or enclosure
where change of approved conduit, cable tray, signal, or cable
duct alignment or direction occurs. Ensure the proper bend radius
is maintained for each wire or cable as specified by it's OEM.
e. Employ temporary guides, sheaves, rollers, and other necessary
items to protect the wire or cable from excess tension or damaging
bending during installation. Abrasion to wire or cable jackets is
not acceptable and will not be allowed. Replace all cables whose
jackets has been abraded the discovery of any abraded and/or
damaged cables during the proof of performance test shall be
grounds for declaring the entire system unacceptable and the
termination of the proof of performance test. Completely cover
edges of wire or cable passing through holes in chassis, cabinets
or racks, enclosures, pull or junction boxes, conduit, etc., with
plastic or nylon grommetting.
f. All cable junctions and taps shall be accessible. Do not install
junction blocks, multi distribution connections or other
distribution equipment (active or passive) items inside signal
ducts. Use a 150 mm x 150 mm x 100 mm (6 inch x 6 inch x 4 inch)
minimum covered junction box attached to the signal duct fixed
side for distribution system passive equipment installation.
Ensure all equipment and connection assembly junctions are
accessible.

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C. Distribution System Signal Wires and Cables

1. Wires and cables shall be provided in the same manner and use like
construction practices as Fire Protective and other Emergency Systems
that are identified and outlined in NFPA 101, Life Safety Code,
Chapters 7, 12, and/or 13, NFPA 70, National Electrical Code, Chapter
7, Special Conditions. The wires and cables shall be able to
withstand adverse environmental conditions location without
deterioration. Wires and cables shall enter each equipment enclosure,
console, cabinet, or rack in such a manner that all doors or access
panels can be opened and closed without removal or disruption of the
cables.
2. Routing and Interconnection:
a. Wires or cables routed between consoles, cabinets, racks, and
other equipment shall be installed in an approved conduit, signal
duct, cable duct, or cable tray that is secured to building
structure.
b. Wires and cables shall be insulated to prevent contact with signal
or current carrying conductors and be 100% shielded. Wires or
cables used in assembling consoles, panels, equipment cabinets and
racks shall be formed into harnesses that are bundled and tied.
Harnessed wires or cables shall be combed straight, formed and
dressed in either a vertical or horizontal relationship to
equipment, controls, components or terminations.
c. Harnesses with intertwined members are not acceptable. Each wire
or cable that breaks out from a harness for connection or
termination shall have been tied off at that harness or bundle
point, and provided with a neatly formed service loop.
d. Wires and cables shall be grouped according to service (i.e.: AC,
grounds, signal, DC, control, etc.). DC, control and signal cables
may be included with any group. Wires and cables shall be neatly
formed and shall not change position in the group throughout the
conduit run. Wires and cables in approved signal duct, conduit,
cable ducts, or cable trays shall be neatly formed, bundled and
tied off in 600 mm to 900 mm (24 to 36 inch) lengths and shall not
change position in the group throughout the run. Concealed splices
are not allowed.
SPEC WRITER NOTE: Open wire-ways or open
cable ladders are not authorized and will
not be approved.

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e. Separate, organize, bundle, and route wires or cables to restrict

channel crosstalk or feedback oscillation inside any enclosure.
Looking at any enclosure from the rear (wall mounted enclosures,
junction, pull or interface boxes from the front), locate AC
power, DC, and speaker wires or cables on the left; coaxial,
control, microphone, and line level audio and data wires or
cables, on the right. This installation shall be accomplished with
ties and/or fasteners that will not damage or distort the wires or
cables. Limit spacing between tied off points to a maximum of 150
mm (6 inches).
f. Distribution cables shall be installed and fastened without
causing sharp bends or rubbing of the cables against sharp edges.
Cables shall be fastened with hardware that will not damage or
distort them.
g. Cables shall be labeled with permanent markers at the terminals of
the electronic and passive equipment and at each junction point in
the System. The lettering on the cables shall correspond with the
lettering on the record diagrams.
h. Completely test all of the cables after installation and replace
any defective cables.
i. Provide system input and output polarity as recommended by the
OEM. Insure each color coded wire or cable is connected and
terminated to maintain system polarity to be at least the same
quality of professional audio systems. Reflect all color codes,
wire and cable terminations on the System’s record drawings as
required herein.
D. Outlet Boxes, Back Boxes, and Face Plates
1. Outlet Boxes: Signal, power, interface, connection, distribution, and
junction boxes shall be provided as required by the system design,
on-site inspection, and review of the contract drawings.
2. Back Boxes: Back boxes shall be provided as directed by the OEM as
required by the approved system design, on-site inspection, and
review of the contract drawings.
3. Face Plates (or Cover Plates): Face plates shall be of a standard
type, stainless steel, anodized aluminum or UL approved cycolac
plastic construction and provided by the Contractor for each

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identified system location. Connectors and jacks appearing on the

face plate shall be clearly and permanently marked.
E. Connectors: Circuits, transmission lines and signal extensions shall
have continuity, correct connection, and polarity. Polarity shall be
maintained between all points in the System.
1. Wires:
a. Wire ends shall be neatly formed and where insulation has been
cut, heat shrink tubing shall be employed to secure the insulation
on each wire. Tape of any type is not acceptable and will not be
approved.
b. Audio spade lugs shall be installed on each wire (including spare
or unused) end and connect to screw terminals of appropriate size
barrier strips. AC barrier strips shall be provided with a
protective cover to prevent accidental contact with wires carrying
live AC current. Wiring blocks are approved for signal, not AC
wires. Wire Nut or "Scotch Lock" connectors are not acceptable for
signal wire installation.
2. Cables: Each connector shall be designed for the specific size cable
being used and installed with the OEM's approved installation tool.
Typical system cable connectors include; but, are not limited to:
Audio spade lug, wiring block, wirewrap, etc.
F. AC Power: AC power wiring shall be run separately from signal cable.
G. Grounding
1. General: The Contractor shall ground all Contractor installed
equipment to eliminate all shock hazard and to minimize, to the
maximum extent possible, all ground loops, common mode returns, noise
pickup, crosstalk, etc. The total ground resistance shall be 0.1 Ohm
or less:
a. Under no conditions shall the AC neutral, either in a power panel
or in a receptacle outlet, be used for system control, subcarrier
or audio reference ground.
b. The use of conduit, signal duct, or cable trays as system or
electrical ground is not acceptable and will not be permitted.
These items may be used only for the dissipation of internally
generated static charges [not to be confused with externally
generated lightning] that may be applied or generated outside the
mechanical and/or physical confines of the System to earth ground.
The discovery of improper system grounding shall be grounds to

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declare the System unacceptable and the termination of all system

acceptance testing.
3. Cabinet Buss: A common ground buss of at least #10 AWG solid copper
wire shall extend throughout each equipment cabinet and be connected
to the system ground. Provide a separate isolated ground connection
from each equipment cabinet ground buss to the system ground. Do not
tie equipment ground busses together.
4. Equipment: Equipment shall be bonded to the cabinet ground bus with
copper braid equivalent to at least #12 AWG. Self grounding equipment
enclosures, racks or cabinets, that provides OEM certified functional
ground connections through physical contact with installed equipment,
are acceptable alternates.
5. Cable Shields: Cable shields shall be bonded to the cabinet ground
buss with #12 AWG minimum stranded copper wire at only one end of the
cable run. Cable shields shall be insulated from each other, face
plates, equipment racks, consoles, enclosures or cabinets; except, at
the system common ground point. Coaxial and audio cables, shall have
one ground connection at the source; in all cases, cable shield
ground connections shall be kept to a minimum.
H. Equipment Assembly:
1. Cabinets:
a. Each enclosure shall be: floor or wall mounted with standard
knockout holes for conduit connection or cable entrance; provide
for ventilation of the equipment; have front and rear locking
doors (except wall mounted cabinets that require only a front
locking door); power outlet strip(s) and bulkhead connector
panel(s).
b. Each cabinet shall be equipped with a quiet fan and nondisposable
air filter.
c. Enclosures shall be installed plumb and square. Each shall be
permanently attached to the building structure and held firmly in
place as approved by the RE.
d. Signal equipment, patch or bulkhead connector panels (i.e.: audio,
data, control, etc.) shall be connected so that output for from
each source, device or system component shall enter the panel at
the top row of jacks, beginning left to right as viewed from the
front, which will be called "input". Each connection to a load,
device or system component shall exit the panel at the bottom row

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of jacks, beginning left to right as viewed from the front, which

will be called "output".
I. Labeling: Abbreviations may be used as long as they are symbol(s) or
acronyms designated for the System or equipment by accepted industry
standards and each abbreviation is used on the appropriate system and
sub-system "record” drawing.
1. Cable and Wires (Hereinafter referred to as "Cable"): The Contractor
shall install labels on all cables at each side of all connections.
The labeling shall be permanent, with contrasting identification
alpha or numeric, identifying each cable according to the System "as
record" drawings. Labels shall be installed adjacent to each
mechanical connector, pull box or break in the cable run.
2. Equipment: The Main Nurse Call Control Panel, amplifying, control,
switching, and routing equipment inputs and outputs shall be
permanently labeled with contrasting plastic laminate or bakelite
material. System equipment shall be permanently labeled on the face
of the unit corresponding to its source. Remote control equipment
shall be labeled according to the unit or system being controlled.
Equipment labels shall be permanently affixed to the equipment with
metal screws, permanent mounting devices or cement.
3. AC Power: The AC Power Panel Directory shall identify which equipment
console, cabinet or enclosure that it serves. Each equipment console,
cabinet or enclosure shall be labeled to identify which AC power
panel provides power to it. These labels shall be permanently affixed
to the equipment with metal screws, permanent mounting devices or
cement.
4. Conduit, Cable Duct, and/or Cable Tray: The Contractor shall label
all conduit, duct, and tray, including utilized GFE, with permanent
marking devices or spray painted stenciling a minimum every 3 meters
10 feet) identifying it as the System. Also, each enclosure shall be
labeled according to this standard.
3.2 PROOF OF PERFORMANCE TESTS
A. Intermediate Testing
1. After completion of the installation of a central control cabinet and
equipment, nurse control master station, local and remote enunciation
stations (code one [blue] systems only), the first ward (maximum of
two wards), and prior to any further work, this portion of the System
must be pretested, inspected, and certified. Each item of installed

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equipment shall be checked to ensure appropriate UL certification

labels are affixed, NFPA, Life Safety, and JCAHCO guidelines are
followed, and proper installation practices are followed. The
intermediate test shall include a full operational test.
2. The inspection and test will be conducted by a factory-certified
representative and witnessed by a Government Representative. The
results of the inspection will be officially recorded by the
Government Representative and maintained on file by the RE, until
completion of the entire project. The results will be compared to the
Acceptance Test results. An identical inspection may be conducted
between the 65 - 80% point of the system construction phase, at the
direction of the RE.
B. Pretesting:
1. Upon completing installation of the System, the Contractor shall
align, balance, and completely pretest the entire system under full
operating conditions.
2. Pretesting Procedure:
a. During the System pretest the Contractor shall verify (utilizing
approved spectrum analyzer and test equipment) that the System is
fully operational and meets all the System performance
requirements of this standard.
b. The Contractor shall pretest and verify that all system functions
and specification requirements are met and operational, no
unwanted aural effects, such as signal distortion, noise pulses,
glitches, audio hum, poling noise, etc. are present. At a minimum,
each of the following locations shall be fully pretested:
1) Central Control Cabinets
2) Nurse Control Stations
3) Patient Stations
4) Staff Stations
5) Local and Remote Enunciation Panels (code one [blue] only)
6) All Networked locations
7) System interface locations (i.e. two way radio, PA, etc.)
8) System trouble reporting
9) System supervision
10) UPS operation

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3. The Contractor shall provide four (4) copies of the recorded system
pretest measurements and the written certification that the System is
ready for the formal acceptance test shall be submitted to the RE.
C. Acceptance Test:
1. After the System has been pretested and the Contractor has submitted
the pretest results and certification to the RE, then the Contractor
shall schedule an acceptance test date and give the RE 30 days
written notice prior to the date the acceptance test is expected to
begin. The System shall be tested in the presence of a Government
Representative and an OEM certified representative. The System shall
be tested utilizing the approved test equipment to certify proof of
performance and Life Safety compliance. The test shall verify that
the total System meets all the requirements of this specification.
The notification of the acceptance test shall include the expected
length (in time) of the test.
2. The acceptance test shall be performed on a "go-no-go" basis. Only
those operator adjustments required to show proof of performance
shall be allowed. The test shall demonstrate and verify that the
installed System does comply with all requirements of this
specification under operating conditions. The System shall be rated
as either acceptable or unacceptable at the conclusion of the test.
Failure of any part of the System that precludes completion of system
testing, and which cannot be repaired in four (4) hours, shall be
cause for terminating the acceptance test of the System. Repeated
failures that result in a cumulative time of eight (8) hours to
effect repairs, shall cause the entire System to be declared
unacceptable. Retesting of the entire System shall be rescheduled at
the convenience of the Government.
D. Acceptance Test Procedure:
1. Physical and Mechanical Inspection:
a. The Government Representative will tour all major areas where the
System is and all sub-systems are completely and properly
installed to insure they are operationally ready for proof of
performance testing. A system inventory including available spare
parts will be taken at this time. Each item of installed equipment
shall be checked to ensure appropriate UL certification labels are
affixed.

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b. The System diagrams, record drawings, equipment manuals, Auto CAD

Disks, intermediate, and pretest results shall be formally
inventoried and reviewed.
c. Failure of the System to meet the installation requirements of
this specification shall be grounds for terminating all testing.
2. Operational Test:
a. After the Physical and Mechanical Inspection, the central
terminating and nurse call master control equipment shall be
checked to verify that it meets all performance requirements
outlined herein. A spectrum analyzer and sound level meter may be
utilized to accomplish this requirement.
b. Following the central equipment test, a pillow speaker (or on
board speaker) shall be connected to the central terminating and
nurse call master control equipment’s output tap to ensure there
are no signal distortions such as intermodulation, data noise,
popping sounds, erratic system functions, on any function.
c. The distribution system shall be checked at each interface,
junction, and distribution point, first, middle, and last
intersectional, room, and bed dome light in each leg to verify
that the nurse call distribution system meets all system
performance standards.
d. Each MATV outlet that is controlled by a nurse call pillow speaker
shall be functionally tested at the same time utilizing the
Contractor’s approved hospital grade TV receiver and TV remote
control cable.
e. The RED system and volume stepper switches shall be checked to
insure proper operation of the pillow speaker, the volume stepper
and the RED system.
f. Additionally, each installed emergency, patient, staff, duty,
panic station, intersectional, room, and bed dome light, power
supply, code one, and remote annunciator panels shall be checked
insuring they meet the requirements of this specification.
g. Once these tests have been completed, each installed sub-system
function shall be tested as a unified, functioning and fully
operating system. The typical functions are: nurse follower, three
levels of emergency signaling (i.e. flashing red emergency,
flashing white patient emergency, flashing white or combination
lights for staff emergency, separate flashing code blue), minimum

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of ten minutes of UPS operation, memory saving, minimum of ten

station audio paging, canceling emergency calls at each
originating station only, and storage and prioritizing of calls.
h. Individual Item Test: The Government Representative will select
individual items of equipment for detailed proof of performance
testing until 100% of the System has been tested and found to meet
the contents of this specification. Each item shall meet or exceed
the minimum requirements of this document.
3. Test Conclusion:
a. At the conclusion of the Acceptance Test, using the generated
punch list (or discrepancy list) the VA and the Contractor shall
jointly agree to the results of the test, and reschedule testing
on deficiencies and shortages with the RE. Any retesting to comply
with these specifications will be done at the Contractor's
expense.
b. If the System is declared unacceptable without conditions, all
rescheduled testing expenses will be born by the Contractor.
3.3 TRAINING
A. Furnish the services of a factory-trained engineer or technician for
four eight-hour periods to instruct the Facility’s maintenance
personnel. Instruction shall include corrective and preventive
maintenance of the nurse call equipment. Training shall be accomplished
before the VA can accept the System. Additionally, training will be
scheduled at the convenience of the Facility’s, Chief Engineering
Service.
B. Furnish the services of a representative of the nurse call and code one
OEM, familiar with the functions and operation of the equipment, for two
eight-hour periods to train nursing personnel. Instructions shall be
provided for staff personnel in each ward where new nurse call and code
one (blue) equipment is provided under this contract. When multiple
wards are involved, classes will be grouped. Periods of training shall
be coordinated with the Chief of Nursing Service for the Facility to
ensure all nursing shifts receive the required training. Each session
shall include instructions utilizing a factory prepared and RE approved
vertical - horizontal system (VHS) format video tape presentation and
"hands-on" operation of the nurse call //and code one (blue)// equipment
on a hospital ward. The tape presentation shall be sufficient in detail
to stand-alone as a training aid for initial utilization and

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familiarization of the System. Additionally, the Contractor shall

provide two (2) copies of the video presentation to the Chief of Nursing
Service.
3.4 GUARANTEE PERIOD OF SERVICE
A. Contractor’s Responsibility:
1. The Contractor shall guarantee that all provided material and
equipment will be free from defects, workmanship and will remain so
for a period of one year from date of final acceptance of the System
by the VA. The Contractor shall provide OEM’s equipment warranty
documents, to the RE (or Facility Contracting Officer if the Facility
has taken procession of the building), that certifies each item of
equipment installed conforms to OEM published specifications.
2. The Contractor's maintenance personnel shall have the ability to
contact the Contractor and OEM for emergency maintenance and logistic
assistance, remote diagnostic testing, and assistance in resolving
technical problems at any time. This contact capability shall be
provided by the Contractor and OEM at no additional cost to the VA.
3. All Contractor maintenance and supervisor personnel shall be fully
qualified by the OEM and must provide two (2) copies of current and
qualified OEM training certificates and OEM certification upon
request.
4. Additionally, the Contractor shall accomplish the following minimum
requirements during the one year guaranty period.
B. Response Time During the One Year Guaranty Period:
1. The RE or Facility Contracting Officer is the Contractor’s reporting
and contact official for nurse call system trouble calls, during the
guaranty period.
2. A standard work week is considered 8:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M., Monday
through Friday exclusive of Federal Holidays.
3. The Contractor shall respond and correct on-site trouble calls,
during the standard work week to:
a. A routine trouble call within one working day of its report. A
routine trouble is considered a trouble which causes a pillow
speaker or cordset, master nurse control station, patient station,
emergency station, or dome light to be inoperable.
b. An emergency trouble call within four hours of its report. An
emergency trouble is considered a trouble which causes a

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sub-system (ward), distribution point, terminal cabinet, or code

one system to be inoperable at anytime.
4. If a nurse call // and/or code one (blue) // component failure cannot
be corrected within four hours (exclusive of the standard work time
limits), the Contractor shall be responsible for providing alternate
nurse call equipment. The alternate equipment/system shall be
operational within a maximum of four hours after the four hour
trouble shooting time and restore the effected location operation to
meet the System performance standards. If any sub-system or major
system trouble cannot be corrected within one working day, the
Contractor shall furnish and install compatible substitute equipment
returning the System or sub-system to full operational capability, as
described herein, until repairs are complete.
SPEC WRITER NOTE: Delete the following
paragraph if not applicable to the
project.

//5. Routine trouble calls in critical emergency health care facilities

(i.e., cardiac arrest, intensive care units, etc.) shall also be
deemed as an emergency trouble call. The RE or Facility Contracting
Officer shall notify the Contractor of this type of trouble call.//
C. Required On-Site Visits During the One Year Guaranty Period
1. The Contractor shall visit, on-site, for a minimum of eight hours,
once every 12 weeks, during the guaranty period, to perform system
preventive maintenance, equipment cleaning, and operational
adjustments to maintain the System according the descriptions
identified in this document.
2. The Contractor shall arrange all Facility visits with the RE or
Facility Contracting Officer prior to performing the required
maintenance visits.
3. Preventive maintenance shall be performed by the Contractor in
accordance with the OEM's recommended practice and service intervals
during non-busy time agreed to by the RE or Facility Contracting
Officer and Contractor.
4. The preventive maintenance schedule, functions and reports shall be
provided to and approved by the RE or Facility Contracting Officer.
5. The Contractor shall provide the RE or Facility Contracting Officer a
type written report itemizing each deficiency found and the
corrective action performed during each required visit or official

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reported trouble call. The Contractor shall provide the RE with

sample copies of these reports for review and approval at the
beginning of the Acceptance Test. The following reports are the
minimum required:
a. The Contractor shall provide a monthly summary all equipment and
sub-systems serviced during this guarantee period to RE or
Facility Contracting Officer by the fifth working day after the
end of each month. The report shall clearly and concisely describe
the services rendered, parts replaced and repairs performed. The
report shall prescribe anticipated future needs of the equipment
and systems for preventive and predictive maintenance.
b. The Contractor shall maintain a separate log entry for each item
of equipment and each sub-system of the System. The log shall list
dates and times of all scheduled, routine, and emergency calls.
Each emergency call shall be described with details of the nature
and causes of emergency steps taken to rectify the situation and
specific recommendations to avoid such conditions in the future.
6. The RE or Facility Contracting Officer shall convey to the Facility
Engineering Officer, two (2) copies of actual reports for evaluation.
a. The RE or Facility Contracting Officer shall ensure a copy of
these reports is entered into the System’s official acquisition
documents.
b. The Facility Chief Engineer shall ensure a copy of these reports
is entered into the System’s official technical record documents.
D. Work Not Included: Maintenance and repair service shall not include the
performance of any work due to improper use; accidents; other vendor,
contractor, or owner tampering or negligence, for which the Contractor
is not directly responsible and does not control. The Contractor shall
immediately notify the RE or Facility Contracting Officer in writing
upon the discovery of these incidents. The RE or Facility Contracting
Officer will investigate all reported incidents and render findings
concerning any Contractor's responsibility.
- - - END - - -

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