Tender Summary: Remedial Works for ELIDZ Factories Automatic Fire Sprinkler System

Objectives

The primary objective is to execute comprehensive remedial, maintenance, and compliance works for existing automatic fire sprinkler systems across multiple factory facilities within the East London Industrial Development Zone (ELIDZ). The project aims to restore system functionality, rectify non-compliances identified during inspections, ensure adherence to national fire protection standards, and establish a structured two-year maintenance framework with defined emergency response protocols.

Scope of Work

• Remedial & Maintenance Activities: Draining, making safe, repairing, refilling, and commissioning sprinkler systems across designated factory zones. Tasks include installing pressure relief valves, alarm gongs, water shields under translucent roofing, pipe supports, and replacing corroded or non-compliant pipework.
• Design & Approval: Conduct hydraulic calculations for system duty, flows, and pressures, then submit designs to the relevant authority for approval before manufacturing or installation.
• Maintenance Framework: Develop and implement a detailed maintenance plan covering scheduled inspections, monthly work scheduling, and reporting. Unscheduled call-outs must be categorised and addressed within strict timeframes.
• Compliance & Reporting: Adhere to occupational health and safety legislation, environmental management plans, and industry specifications. Submit detailed inspection reports, method statements, and final documentation including as-installed drawings and manuals.

Technical Requirements

• Regulatory Compliance: All works must comply with ASIB 12th Edition Rules & Regulations, SANS 10827, SANS 10400-W, SANS-15614-1, and SANS10252-1.
• Materials & Equipment: Hot-dipped galvanized steel pipework, UL/FM-approved sprinklers, bronze/stainless steel valves, glycerine-filled pressure gauges, centrifugal false alarm prevention pumps, and direct-reading flow meters. All materials must meet specified quality standards and receive prior approval.
• Testing & Commissioning: Hydrostatic testing at 2000 kPa for one hour. All welds require visual, dye penetrant, and hydrostatic testing. Systems must be independently commissioned upon completion.
• Submission Format: Two-envelope procedure (Technical and Financial proposals submitted separately). Online submission via the designated portal in PDF format (max 30 MB per file). Financial proposals only evaluated if technical score meets the minimum threshold.
• Financial & Contractual Terms: 10% retention money applies, released in halves at completion and after the 12-month defects liability period. Contract duration is maximum two years, terminable early if the awarded value is achieved. Annual escalation adjustments apply.

Skills and Personnel Requirements

• Corporate Registration: CIDB contractor grading of 6SF or higher (Specialist Works – Fire Prevention and Protection Infrastructure). Joint ventures must meet equivalent combined grading requirements.
• Key Personnel:
  • A competent person holding a valid ASIB certificate.
  • Senior Technician/Supervisor with a minimum of seven years’ experience in ASIB automatic fire sprinkler projects.
  • Coded Welder with at least four years’ demonstrated experience in welding steel fire sprinkler distribution pipework and fittings.
• Company Experience: Demonstrated track record in similar ASIB fire sprinkler remedial or maintenance projects valued at R5 million or more, supported by completed reference forms.
• Financial Capacity: Proof of a banking financial rating of Category C or better. Valid tax clearance, B-BBEE certification, Central Supplier Database (CSD) registration, and Compensation Commissioner good standing are mandatory.

Key Terms and Clarifications

• ASIB (Automatic Sprinkler Installation Board): South Africa’s statutory regulatory body responsible for approving, inspecting, and certifying fire sprinkler installations. Design validation and installer certification are mandatory throughout the project lifecycle.
• CIDB 6SF Grading: A specialist contractor classification denoting competence in fire prevention and protection infrastructure works. Joint ventures must calculate combined capacity using official guidelines.
• Two-Envelope Evaluation: Technical proposals are assessed first against a 100-point functionality threshold (minimum 70 points required). Only compliant bidders proceed to financial evaluation, which uses an 80/20 preference point system (80% price, 20% socio-economic goals).
• Call-Out Response Categories: Emergency Response requires action within two hours to prevent harm or service disruption. Urgent Response requires action within twenty-four hours to address failures that could significantly impact operations or safety.