Objectives

The primary objective of this tender is to procure manual preparation services for thinning operations, specifically to fell, debranch, log scale, crosscut marked trees into various products, and stack processed logs according to SAFCOL’s specifications. The service aims to support forestry operations within specified geographical areas, ensuring compliance with industry standards and safety regulations.

Scope

The scope of work includes:

• Manual thinning of 3,000 m³ of timber per geographical area, specifically in Roburnia and surrounding areas near Amsterdam.
• Felling, debranching, log scaling, and crosscutting of marked trees into products for various clients.
• Stacking processed logs in designated areas next to extraction routes, adhering to SAFCOL’s Integrated Management System and Best Operating Practices.
• Execution of operations in steep terrain areas, with flexibility for operational demands and geographical changes.

Technical Requirements

The technical requirements include:

• Execution of work according to accepted industry norms and standards, including guidelines by Forest Engineering of South Africa (FESA).
• Compliance with safety legislation such as the Safety Act and Basic Conditions of Employment Act.
• Provision of necessary equipment, including manual tools, safety gear, and ancillary equipment like fire beaters, rake hoes, and first aid kits.
• Use of vehicles that meet legal and safety standards, including current Certificates of Fitness, licenses, enclosed canopies with rollover protection, and safety harnesses.
• Employment of trained personnel, including supervisors, chainsaw operators with valid certificates (not older than 2 years), and safety officers.
• Implementation of safety, health, environmental, and quality management systems, including trained first aiders, SHE representatives, and safety officers.
• Legal compliance, including public liability insurance with extensions relevant to forestry operations.

Skills Requirements

The skills and personnel requirements include:

• Competent supervisors on-site with relevant experience.
• Chainsaw operators trained and certified by SAQA, equipped with appropriate PPE such as chainsaw trousers, gloves, shin guards, and helmets.
• Workers equipped with PPE as per standards, including gloves, PPE for chainsaw operators, and safety gear for all personnel.
• Drivers with valid Public Driver Permits (PrDP), current Certificates of Fitness, and compliance with traffic legislation.
• First aiders (Level 2) and SHE representatives with valid certifications.
• Personnel capable of adhering to safety, health, environmental, and quality standards throughout the operation.