Objectives

The primary objective of this tender is to engage reputable service providers to supply trained silviculture personnel capable of performing firebreak preparation duties, including hoeing, slashing, and burning internal and external tracer belts, as well as burning firebreaks in accordance with the National Veld and Forest Fire Act of 1998. The aim is to ensure effective firebreak management to prevent and control forest fires at SAFCOL Uitsoek plantation.

Scope

The scope of work includes:

• Provision of approximately twenty (20) employees daily for a period of two (2) months to carry out silviculture operations.
• Activities such as firebreak preparation (slash and rake, burning) and burning of firebreaks.
• Use of equipment and tools including hoes, fire beaters, knapsacks, and other silviculture tools as required.
• Compliance with safety, health, environmental, and quality standards, including BOP, FSC, FESA, and SHEQ guidelines.
• Adherence to legal and environmental requirements, including PPE and operational licenses.

Technical Requirements

The technical specifications for the service providers include:

• Provision of silviculture personnel trained and qualified to perform firebreak activities.
• Personnel must hold Pest Control Operator (PCO) licenses in relevant categories (Agriculture and Forestry or Industrial Vegetation and Noxious Weeds).
• Use of appropriate PPE such as hardhats, fire retardant overalls, flame-resistant balaclavas, boots, heat-resistant gloves, safety goggles, dust masks, and rain suits.
• Tools required include rakes, hoes, fire beaters, knapsacks, and other silviculture equipment.
• Vehicles used must be roadworthy and inspected by SAFCOL management; no transportation of personnel on the rear of LDVs is permitted.
• Compliance with environmental and safety standards during operations.

Skills Requirements

Service providers must demonstrate:

• Experience in conducting silviculture operations such as planting, weeding, pruning, and firefighting, supported by contactable reference letters indicating at least 1-2 years of experience.
• Qualified supervision, including a forester with a minimum of a National Diploma in Forestry or equivalent, verified through SAQA or foreign qualification verification.
• Relevant operational experience of 3-4 years or more in silviculture activities within the forestry sector.
• Resources to execute the project, including registered vehicles and equipment, with proof of registration and leasing agreements if applicable.
• Personnel must possess valid licenses and certifications, including PCO licenses and PPE compliance.