Objectives

To secure a reliable, once-off supply of high-quality peripheral nerve block needles to support regional anaesthesia procedures. The procurement aims to ensure strict compliance with national health supply chain regulations, maintain clinical safety standards, and apply the government’s preferential procurement framework.

Scope

The contract covers the supply of two categories of peripheral nerve block needles:

• Short needles: 21G–22G × 50mm (3 boxes)
• Intermediate needles: 21G–22G × 90–100mm (3 boxes)

The engagement is a single-delivery contract with a 90-day quotation validity period. Evaluation follows a five-stage process: administrative compliance, delivery capacity, specification adherence, pricing and preference points, and post-award sample verification. Expired, second-hand, or non-compliant products will be rejected.

Technical Requirements

• Ergonomic, easy-grip needle hub
• Insulated shaft with a stimulating tip compatible with nerve stimulators and ultrasound guidance
• Distance markers at 1cm intervals; fully echogenic surface for clear ultrasound visibility
• Short bevel tip angled at 20–30 degrees for optimal tactile feedback
• Long flexible tubing connecting to syringe; long, interchangeable electrical lead for nerve stimulation
• Single-use construction from high-grade stainless steel
• Pyrogen-free and latex-free; individually sealed in peel pouches
• Full compliance with ISO 20698 and ISO 9626 standards
• Packaged in boxes of 50 units
• Must meet the highest quality standards; samples may be requested post-award for verification

Skills Requirements

As this is a goods-supply tender, formal professional or clinical skills are not required. Bidders must demonstrate operational competence in medical device logistics, regulatory compliance, and timely delivery. Mandatory administrative capabilities include:

• Maintaining a valid SAHPRA licence for medical device distribution
• Active Central Supplier Database (CSD) registration and SARS tax compliance
• Accurate completion of preferential procurement documentation (SBD forms)
• Familiarity with public sector contracting, delivery scheduling, warranty management, and penalty clauses for delayed performance

Key Terminology & Compliance Notes

• Peripheral nerve block needles: Specialised anaesthetic needles used to deliver local anaesthetics near specific nerves for targeted pain control during surgery or procedures.
• Echogenic: Surface treatment allowing the needle to appear clearly under ultrasound imaging.
• Insulated shaft/stimulating tip: Design feature enabling precise nerve location via electrical stimulation before needle insertion.
• ISO 20698 / ISO 9626: International standards governing safety, performance, and sterility of hypodermic needles.
• SAHPRA Licence: Regulatory authorisation required in South Africa to legally manufacture, wholesale, or distribute medical devices.
• 80/20 Preference System: Procurement evaluation model allocating 80 points to competitive pricing and 20 points to socio-economic goals (here, full points awarded for South African-owned enterprises).
• GCC & SCC: Standardised legal frameworks governing delivery, warranties, penalties for delay, dispute resolution, and termination rights. SCC overrides GCC where conflicts arise.