Objectives

The primary objective is to procure a single CO₂ bench-top incubator specifically engineered for cell culture applications. The tender seeks a qualified supplier capable of delivering a high-performance, contamination-resistant unit alongside comprehensive installation, user training, and validation services. The procurement also aims to align with national socio-economic transformation goals through a structured preferential scoring system.

Scope

The scope covers the end-to-end supply chain and implementation lifecycle for one CO₂ bench-top incubator. It includes physical delivery to the designated site, professional installation, hands-on operator training, and execution of formal qualification protocols. Suppliers must submit an authorized distributor or OEM partnership letter, proof of prior supply for identical or similar products within the past 48 months, and detailed technical catalogues. All bids must comply with standard supply chain management disclosures, anti-collusion declarations, and the General Conditions of Contract (July 2010).

Technical Requirements

• Capacity: 190–240 litres
• Internal Circulation: Automated controlled circulation fan
• CO₂ Monitoring: Infrared (IR) sensor with a 0–19.0% measurement range
• Filtration: ULPA filter achieving 99.99% particulate removal efficiency
• Chamber Interior: Pure solid copper construction for enhanced antimicrobial properties
• Temperature Range: +5°C to 60°C
• Humidity Control: Maintained between 85% and 90% relative humidity
• Interface: LCD digital display
• Shelving: Six internal shelves accommodating three to five removable trays
• Power Supply: 220–240 V AC, 50/60 Hz
• Dimensions: 750 mm (W) × 770 mm (D) × 900 mm (H)
• Weight: 155–170 kg
• Safety Features: Temperature and CO₂ limit alarms, door-open alarm, and UV sterilisation status reminder

Skills and Service Requirements

• Certified installation and operational training tailored to laboratory personnel
• Execution of Installation Qualification (IQ) and Operational Qualification (OQ) protocols to verify performance and regulatory compliance
• Provision of OEM authorization or authorized distributor certification, including guaranteed ongoing technical support
• Demonstrated commercial experience supplying equivalent cell culture incubators within the preceding 48 months
• Compliance with preferential procurement criteria, requiring valid BBBEE documentation reflecting at least 51% black ownership, 30% women ownership, or verified disability status
• Strict adherence to statutory bidding disclosures, conflict-of-interest declarations, and contract validity commitments

Key Terms and Concepts

IQ/OQ (Installation and Operational Qualification): Standardised validation procedures used in regulated scientific and medical environments to formally verify that equipment is correctly installed, calibrated, and operates consistently within predefined safety and performance parameters before routine experimental use.

ULPA Filter: Ultra-Low Particulate Air filtration system capable of capturing 99.99% of airborne microorganisms and particles, ensuring a sterile chamber environment essential for sensitive cell culture workflows.

80/20 Preferential Procurement System: A South African public procurement evaluation model where 80% of the total score is allocated to competitive pricing and 20% to socio-economic transformation goals, including black economic empowerment, gender equity, and disability inclusion.

SBD Forms: Standard Bidding Documents mandated by South African government procurement frameworks, requiring bidders to disclose financial standing, corporate ownership structures, related-party interests, and preference point claims to ensure transparency and ethical competition.