This manual is intended as a guide for electrical engineers and designers (hereafter referred as the A/E) for the planning and design of the electrical power distribution and related systems (hereinafter referred to as systems) at Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) facilities which are designed and constructed with VA construction budget, as well as owned, operated and maintained by VA.

VA requires the A/E to read, understand, and use this manual in the planning and design of the systems in VA owned construction projects – major, minor and non-recurring-maintenance (NRM).

This manual is a directive for Architecture and Engineering design professionals for the planning and design of the drainage, waste, vent, water distribution, storm drainage, natural gas and fuel gas, medical gas, medical vacuum, and specialty systems at U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) facilities. VA facilities have a wide range of occupants including patients, employees, volunteers, and visitors. An important mission of VA is to provide healthcare to Veterans who, in some cases, have severe disabilities, including sight, hearing, and mobility.