Objectives

The primary objective of this tender is to procure a Plethysmography Body system, including all necessary software and attachments, for lung volume testing at the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health. The system aims to facilitate accurate measurement of lung volumes such as FRC, RV, TLC, airway resistance, and thoracic gas volumes, supporting clinical assessments and research within the health facility.

Scope

The scope encompasses the supply, delivery, installation, calibration, testing, and commissioning of a body plethysmography system compliant with specified technical standards. It includes providing training, spare parts, optional accessories, and maintenance support for the equipment's lifecycle. The procurement is a once-off requirement with a warranty and subsequent maintenance agreement, targeting the Health Technology Services at Dr Pixley Ka Isaka Seme Memorial Hospital and other relevant health facilities in KwaZulu-Natal.

Technical Requirements

• The system must be a body plethysmography unit capable of measuring lung volumes, airway resistance, and thoracic gas volumes, including slow and forced spirometry.
• Mounted on a mobile, compact trolley with integrated isolating transformer.
• Demand valve unit with pneumotach for precise flow/volume measurement on an adjustable support arm.
• Sensors must operate without re-calibration for at least 5 hours and meet ATS/ERS standards.
• Signal processing with bi-directional differential pressure pneumotachograph, accuracy, resolution, and resistance specifications to be stated.
• Computer system specifications: minimum 4-core CPU, 2GB RAM, 500GB HDD, 23" LCD monitor, colour inkjet printer, external 1TB hard drive, and appropriate software for data management and analysis.
• Equipment must be CE Certified, comply with IEC 60601 standards, and operate off 220V, 50Hz mains with hospital-grade plug.
• Includes calibration syringe (3L), UPS, and all necessary cables and accessories for immediate operation.
• Software must support data entry, predicted standards calculation, report generation, data storage, and easy deletion of patient records.
• Guarantee period of at least 24 months, with maintenance and support services for 5 years post-warranty.
• Optional accessories and spare parts must be listed with prices, and the supplier must guarantee availability for 10 years.

Skills Requirements

• Proven technical expertise in the installation, calibration, and maintenance of plethysmography systems and related pulmonary function equipment.
• Qualified technicians with manufacturer-certified training in electronics, calibration, and servicing of the specific equipment offered.
• Capability to provide comprehensive training to Health Technology Services staff, including calibration, troubleshooting, and repairs down to PCB level.
• Establishment of a local service and repair facility in KwaZulu-Natal, with qualified personnel available within 24 hours for maintenance and repairs.
• Ability to supply and support software updates, modifications, and recalls, ensuring system upgradeability and compliance with latest standards.
• Experience in handling hazardous substances licenses and radiation control licenses where applicable.