Objectives

The primary objective of this tender is to engage a qualified contractor to procure, deliver, and install an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) unit for the National Health Laboratory Services. The initiative aims to guarantee uninterrupted power continuity for critical laboratory infrastructure, thereby protecting sensitive diagnostic equipment, preserving experimental data, and maintaining operational resilience during grid failures.

Scope

The scope covers the complete lifecycle provision of a single UPS system. This includes sourcing the equipment, transporting it to the designated NHLS facility, and executing all physical installation, electrical integration, testing, and commissioning activities. The contractor is responsible for delivering a fully operational unit ready for immediate service, along with any necessary documentation confirming successful handover.

Technical Requirements

• Contractor Grading: Tenderers must hold a minimum Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) contractor grading of 1ME. Only applicants meeting or exceeding this threshold are eligible.
• Compliance Standards: All installation and electrical works must comply with applicable South African national standards, occupational health and safety regulations, and NHLS site-specific operational protocols.
• Submission Protocols: Tenders must strictly adhere to the prescribed documentation format, including correct sealing, addressing, and delivery procedures. Late submissions or deviations from the official tender template will be automatically disqualified.

Skills Requirements

Although not explicitly itemised, the mandatory CIDB 1ME grading inherently requires the contractor to demonstrate proven competency in the following areas:

• Qualified electrical technicians capable of safe mains integration and backup power routing
• Skilled installers experienced in mechanical mounting, vibration isolation, and structural securing of power equipment
• Project supervision and site management personnel to coordinate logistics, safety compliance, and minimal disruption to laboratory operations
• Testing and commissioning expertise to verify load capacity, transfer switching, and battery performance prior to handover

Explanation of Key Terms

• CIDB 1ME Grading: The Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) grading system evaluates contractors based on financial turnover, project experience, and technical capacity. The “1ME” classification denotes a Grade 1 contractor specialising in Mechanical and Electrical works, authorised to execute low-complexity projects with a contract value typically up to R1 million. This requirement ensures the supplier possesses baseline administrative, financial, and technical capability to manage the supply and installation safely.
• UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply): A standalone power protection device that provides immediate battery-backed electricity to connected equipment when the primary grid supply fails. In laboratory environments, UPS units prevent hardware damage, data corruption, and procedural interruptions during short-term outages or power fluctuations.