Objectives

The primary objective of this tender is to secure a contractor for a 6-month period to provide porter and messenger services at Victoria Mxenge Hospital (VMH). The aim is to ensure efficient patient transport, specimen transfer, document handling, and general support within the hospital environment, thereby enhancing operational efficiency and patient care.

Scope

The scope encompasses the provision of porter and messenger services over a 6-month contract at VMH, including:

• Transporting patients in wheelchairs and stretchers within the hospital.
• Assisting with ambulance stretcher movements.
• Handling hospital documents, specimens, and reports.
• Transporting linen, waste, and other hospital materials.
• Providing support during emergencies and assisting medical staff as required.
• Covering operational times as specified, including weekends and public holidays.
• Ensuring staff are uniformly dressed, identifiable, and respectful.

Technical Requirements

The technical requirements include:

• Provision of adequately trained and medically fit porters/messengers.
• Supply of uniforms, safety shoes, and ID badges for staff.
• Adherence to health and safety protocols, including PPE usage and hazard reporting.
• Implementation of a comprehensive health and safety plan compliant with Occupational Health & Safety regulations.
• Provision of valid medical surveillance certificates, competency accreditation, and compliance certificates (COIDA, UIF, etc.).
• Proper documentation, including safety files, risk assessments, and incident reports.
• Availability of sufficient staff to cover all shifts, including leave and absenteeism.

Skills Requirements

The skills and qualifications required for bidders include:

• Registered and compliant with the Department of Labour, including valid Good Standing certificates.
• Experience in hospital porter and messenger services or similar environments.
• Knowledge of health and safety regulations and proper handling of hospital equipment and documents.
• Ability to provide in-service training to staff on safety procedures.
• Capability to manage staff schedules, conduct supervision, and ensure service quality.
• Proven track record of compliance with legal and safety standards relevant to hospital support services.