Objectives

The primary objective is to procure a reliable supplier for the provision of single vision spectacles utilizing CR39 organic plastic lenses for patients at McCord Provincial Eye Hospital. The contract aims to ensure consistent, high-quality optical care through standardized, compliant products, strict regulatory adherence, and efficient service delivery.

Scope

The procurement covers a once-off supply of complete single vision spectacle sets, including:

• CR39 lenses (stock and surfaced) with clear and fixed/gradient tint options across defined prescription allocations.
• Spectacle frames (metal and plastic) suitable for all ages, face shapes, and pupillary distances (40–80mm).
• Essential accessories: soft spectacle cases (small, standard, large), cleaning cloths, and head straps for children.
• Replacement components (nose pads, screws) and optional accessories.

The supplier must deliver completed spectacles within two weeks of official order receipt, with a commitment to same-day turnaround upon prescription submission. All deliveries, returns, logistics, and patient notifications must be managed by the supplier.

Technical Requirements

Bidders must comply with the following technical specifications:

• Lens Specifications: CR39 organic plastic lenses. Standard allocations cover spherical powers up to ±8.00D. Prescriptions exceeding ±8.00D require high refractive index lenses (1.58 or 1.67) to minimize edge thickness and weight.
• Frame Requirements: SABS-approved, flexible temples, spring-back mechanism, current designs, available in multiple colors and sizes, accommodating pediatric to adult users.
• Quality & Compliance: Products must be new, unused, and valid for a minimum of six months. All items must meet SABS/SANS standards. Lenses must be verted and verified at the laboratory prior to dispatch.
• Service & Logistics: Supplier must provide daily statistical reports in Microsoft Word format, notify patients via SMS/WhatsApp/phone when spectacles are ready, and maintain an efficient collection/return system.
• Samples: Physical samples of frames, cases, and cleaning cloths must be submitted during the bidding phase. Successful bidders must provide two complimentary sample sets matching the exact products supplied.

Clarification of Technical Terms:

• Verting/Verification: The process of measuring finished lenses with a focimeter to confirm prescription accuracy and optical alignment before delivery.
• Aphakic Ready-mades: Pre-fabricated lenses designed for patients who have undergone cataract extraction without intraocular lens implantation.
• High Refractive Index Lenses: Thinner, lighter optical materials required for strong prescriptions to improve comfort, aesthetics, and peripheral vision.

Skills and Experience Requirements

Suppliers must demonstrate the following capabilities and qualifications:

• Minimum five (5) years of proven experience supplying optical devices.
• Valid SAHPRA (South African Health Products Regulatory Authority) licence authorizing the manufacture, wholesale, or distribution of medical devices.
• Physical presence and operational base in Durban to facilitate same-day service delivery.
• Employment of a currently HPCSA-registered optometrist or dispensing optician to provide technical oversight and advisory support.
• Robust logistical capacity to manage inventory, frame replacements, low-vision devices, and prompt delivery/collection cycles.

All quotations must adhere to the 80/20 preference point system, with twenty points allocated specifically for South African-owned enterprises. Non-compliance with administrative, mandatory, or specification requirements will result in disqualification.