Objectives

The primary objective is to replace a damaged 11kV PILC cable supplying power from the Western Substation to the Rooipump Station. The existing cable traverses a challenging environment, including a riverbed and beneath a gas pipeline in a muddy area, rendering it highly susceptible to damage and difficult to maintain. This project aims to restore reliable electrical infrastructure through safe, compliant, and durable underground cable replacement.

Scope of Work

The successful bidder will execute a comprehensive civil and electrical installation project encompassing approximately 800 meters of trenching at a minimum depth of 1.8 meters. The scope includes vegetation clearance using heavy machinery, installation of water crossing pipe supports, laying and terminating new medium voltage cables, and conducting full testing and commissioning. Upon completion, all excavation sites must be backfilled, compacted, and restored to a neat condition with no open trenches remaining.

Technical Requirements

Strict quality assurance and testing protocols are mandatory throughout the project lifecycle:

• Insulation resistance tests must be performed before and after completing every cable joint and termination.
• A full pressure test of the installed cable system is required upon completion, with hard-copy results submitted to the project manager.
• All work must adhere to municipal safety, environmental, and restoration standards.
• A twelve-month warranty applies to all joints; any failures occurring within this period must be repaired at the service provider’s sole expense.

Skills and Qualification Requirements

Bidders must demonstrate proven expertise in medium voltage electrical installations and strict regulatory compliance. Mandatory requirements include:

• CIDB engineering grading of EB1 or higher.
• Registration with the Department of Labour as an electrical contractor.
• Valid Occupational Health Risk Verification Scheme (OHRVS) certificate.
• Electrical trade test certificate and certified MV cable joining/termination qualification.
• Documentation proving three successfully completed similar projects, accompanied by client completion letters.
• Fall arrest working certificate and a comprehensive Safety, Health, and Environment (SHE) risk management file.
• Letter of Good Standing for electrical works and verified proof of business premises.
• Active Central Suppliers Database (CSD) registration and current tax compliance clearance.
• Completed preferential procurement claim forms substantiating ownership, youth, female, disabled, or rural township participation targets.

Explanation of Specialized Terms

• PILC Cable: Paper Insulated Lead Covered cable, a legacy high-voltage underground cable type requiring specialized handling, drying, and termination techniques due to its hygroscopic paper insulation and protective lead sheath.
• CIDB EB1: A South African National Construction Industry Development Board grading specifically for electrical engineering contractors, certifying competency in low to medium voltage infrastructure projects.
• OHRVS: Occupational Health Risk Verification Scheme, a municipal compliance program verifying that contractors maintain adequate health and safety insurance and risk management practices.
• TLB: Tree/Large Bush Clearing, referring to the use of tracked excavators fitted with mulching or grapple attachments to clear dense vegetation along the proposed trench alignment.