Objectives

The primary objective of this tender is for SAFCOL to engage reputable service providers to supply trained lookout personnel who can perform fire detection on lookout towers in areas lacking camera detection, over a period of six months. The service aims to mitigate the risk of wildfires, which constitute SAFCOL's biggest threat, particularly in the Jessievale Plantation area.

Scope

The scope of work includes:

• Provision of lookout guards for a six-month period, from July to October (winter) and November to December (summer).
• Manning of lookout towers with personnel working 8-hour shifts, with two lookouts during winter and one during summer.
• Deployment of personnel to monitor and detect fires, including patrolling neighboring properties within 5 km of SAFCOL boundaries.
• Provision of necessary PPE, training, tools, and operational duties as specified.
• Adherence to operational procedures such as reporting suspicious activity, radio communication, and emergency response.

Technical Requirements

The technical specifications for the service include:

• Supply of trained lookout personnel with relevant experience and certifications, including climbing harness or lookout guard training.
• Deployment of personnel to cover specified shifts: 06h00 – 14h00, 14h00 – 22h00, and 22h00 – 06h00.
• Provision of PPE and tools as per minimum guidelines, with the possibility of increased quantities based on operational needs.
• Operational duties such as smoke observation with binoculars, reporting suspicious activity, radio communication, and immediate reporting of radio malfunctions.
• Monitoring and reporting on fire signs, especially after lightning strikes or during fire operations.
• Flexibility to expand the fire detection program with prior notice.
• Repaired or maintained equipment at the service provider’s cost if malfunctioning occurs.

Skills Requirements

The service providers must demonstrate:

• Experience in fire suppression operations, evidenced by reference letters indicating at least 6 months of relevant experience, with some references demonstrating 12 months or more (multiple fire seasons).
• Provision of proof of training for personnel, including certificates in climbing harness or lookout guard training, with a minimum of 1 certificate required and up to 3 certificates for higher points.
• Capability to supply personnel trained in operational procedures, safety, and fire detection techniques.
• Ability to provide qualified personnel who can operate radios, observe and report fire signs, and respond appropriately to emergencies.
• Compliance with PPE, tools, and operational standards as specified in the tender documentation.