Upon conducting a City facility safety walk-through with a TOSHA inspector in 2017, one key recommendation was that we take steps to eliminate trip and slip hazards within the fire apparatus bays. The apparatus area is an environment often exposed to water from filling and washing apparatus, as well as small fluid leaks from coolant and oil from engines, hydraulic lines, transmissions, and power tools. While we are very proactive in maintaining our equipment routinely, these intermittent issues are common and inevitable.
A flooring vendor was contracted to repair cracks, large chips, and uneven joints and floor drains that may present a trip hazard. These repairs have now been completed. Next, the concrete surfaces in Fire Stations #1 (Municipal Center) and #2 (Wilson Pike) were reconditioned and a non-slip resinous coating was applied. This has provided additional traction while creating a surface that is resistant to impact and more easily cleaned and decontaminated. The first two stations were completed with FY2019 funds, and funds to complete this process for the remaining two stations were provided in the FY 2020 budget process.
Bids were solicited for a contractor to provide the product and perform the application of a non-slip resinous or modified urethane flooring system. Staff research indicated that a product manufactured by the Tnemec Company provided the highest quality product available on the market. Fire & Rescue Department staff visited sites within Williamson County, including the Franklin fire station in Westhaven and the new Williamson County Fire facility on Peytonsville Road, to view the installed product first hand and talk with those who work around it every day. Our experience indicated that Tnemec met or exceeded all expectations. This has also been our experience with Stations 1 and 2 as well.
Bidders were given the option of providing two proposals; a “Base Bid” for a gray surface containing a quartz broadcast coat, and an “Alternate Bid” that would include the base bid plus red apparatus drive lanes. The quartz broadcast system provides an aggressive non-skid surface and somewhat greater abrasion resistance that is also more visually appealing. The red drive lanes provide aesthetic value, but also come with a slight reduction in traction.
An invitation to bid was mailed directly to six (6) potential contractors and notice of the solicitation of bids was published in the Tennessean as well as on the City’s website. A total of two (2) bids were received. Both bids complied with no exceptions. Quotes from the two qualifying bidders for the Base Bid ranged from $76,235 to $80,639. Quotes that included the Alternate red drive lane ranged from $85,864 to $89,570. The FY 2020 Capital Projects Fund budget includes $85,000 to cover these projects. After review, it was determined that Fuller Industries, Inc. out of Nashville, Tennessee provided the lowest and best bid of $32,810.00 for Station 3 and $43,425.00 for Station 4 for a total project price of $76,235.00 for the quartz broadcast system. It was determined to forego the red drive lane option as our personnel report having slightly less traction using this process.
Upon reviewing the bid specs with our Tnemic supplier, it was determined that Fuller Industries is qualified and competent to complete this project. With more than 30 years of experience, Fuller Industries has completed similar flooring projects for customers including the Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital, Nashville Convention Center, Opryland Hotel, and the Tennessee Titans’ Training Facility. Please contact the Fire Chief with any questions you may have.
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