Objectives

The primary objective is to ensure the standby generator at Townhill Office Park remains fully operational during power failures through comprehensive preventive servicing, maintenance, and diagnostic testing. The contract aims to restore optimal performance, extend equipment lifespan, and guarantee compliance with provincial health department standards.

Scope of Work

The contract covers a major service for a Cummins 128kVA standby generator. The scope encompasses:

• Engine Maintenance: Oil sampling and laboratory analysis, complete oil and filter changes, coolant drain and refill, and replacement of drive and fan belts.
• Fuel System Servicing: Replacement of fuel filters, strainer cartridges, and non-return valves; inspection of fuel tanks, electric/manual pumps, and low-level/alarm cut-out systems.
• Electrical & Control Systems: Verification of earthling, changeover switches, battery chargers, alternator windings, protection equipment, alarm sensors, and control panel connections, terminals, and fuses.
• Alternator Overhaul: Frame cleaning, torque verification of all connections, bearing inspection/greasing, brush and slip ring assessment, and diode/hardware checks.
• Documentation & Compliance: Submission of detailed post-service inspection reports, provision of a three-month warranty, daily site clearance, and strict adherence to the Occupational Health and Safety Act 85/1993.
• Logistics: A mandatory seven-day preparation lead time begins only upon issuance of the Site Handover Certificate. All pricing must be fully inclusive of labour, materials, transport, VAT, and profit.

Technical Requirements

Bidders must satisfy the following mandatory technical and administrative criteria:

• Hold a valid CIDB registration with a minimum grading of 1ME (Mechanical Engineering).
• Provide a certified letter of good standing from the Department of Labour.
• Submit a certified trade test certificate confirming qualification as a Diesel Mechanic.
• Demonstrate relevant experience by providing one award/order letter and its corresponding completion certificate for a similar generator servicing project.
• Ensure all spare parts and materials are SABS approved or carry equivalent BS/DIN markings, subject to maintenance supervisor approval before installation.
• Obtain an oil analysis report from an ISO-registered laboratory and provide legally compliant disposal certificates for all used oils, coolants, and bund cavity waste.
• Execute all workmanship in accordance with the Department of Health Standard Preambles to all trades (Rev 3).

Skills Requirements

The successful bidder must demonstrate:

• A trade-tested Diesel Mechanic capable of performing complex mechanical, electrical, and fuel system diagnostics, overhauls, and recalibrations.
• Proven expertise in large-scale standby generator maintenance, including alternator servicing, control panel troubleshooting, and protective relay testing.
• Competence in interpreting OEM specifications, conducting wear-metal oil analysis, and implementing regulated hazardous waste disposal protocols.
• Strong working knowledge of South African occupational health and safety legislation to ensure risk-free execution of all on-site activities.

Notes on Unusual or Complicated Terms

• CIDB 1ME Grading: Refers to the Construction Industry Development Board’s classification for Mechanical Engineering contractors. It certifies the contractor’s financial turnover and technical capacity to execute medium-scale mechanical construction and maintenance projects.
• 80/20 Preference Point System: A government procurement evaluation model where 80% of scoring is based on price competitiveness and 20% is allocated to socio-economic goals. Full points are awarded exclusively to companies that are 100% owned by historically disadvantaged persons (Black Africans).
• Site Handover Certificate: A formal written authorization issued by the client before any physical work begins. Contractors are strictly prohibited from commencing tasks or claiming lead times until this certificate is officially granted.
• WearCheck/Oil Analysis: A specialized diagnostic procedure where engine oil samples are sent to an ISO-accredited laboratory to detect metal particles, indicating internal engine wear, contamination, or lubricant degradation.
• SBD Forms (4 & 6.1): Standard government bidding documents requiring bidders to formally declare conflicts of interest and claim preference points based on verified ownership structures and socio-economic status.