Tender Summary: Service Borehole at Pholela CHC and Clinics

Objectives

The primary objective is to procure an annual maintenance and servicing contract for borehole water supply systems across six public health facilities in the KwaZulu-Natal province. The goal is to restore, maintain, and verify the operational efficiency and water safety of these critical infrastructure assets to support uninterrupted clinical services.

Scope of Work

The contract encompasses comprehensive mechanical, electrical, and hydrological servicing for boreholes located at the following six facilities:

• Pholela Community Health Centre
• Tsatsi Clinic
• Mnyamana Clinic
• Gqumeni Clinic
• Gwala Clinic
• Sandanezwe Clinic

The scope is structured as a single annual service cycle covering all six sites, requiring standardized testing, pump maintenance, electrical diagnostics, and independent water quality verification.

Technical Requirements

Bidders must execute the following technical procedures for each borehole installation:

• Electrical Diagnostics: Inspect and test electrical control boxes, secure all connections, measure phase current pre- and post-service, and conduct cable continuity and insulation resistance tests between windings and earth.
• Pump & Motor Overhaul: Extract, service, and reinstall submersible pumps. Strip motors to evaluate shaft alignment, spline condition, and coupling wear. Perform acid washing and proper lubrication. Document borehole depth and assess whether the installed motor is appropriately sized for the water yield.
• Flow Rate Verification: Measure and record pump output before and after servicing, cross-referencing results against manufacturer or design specifications.
• Water Quality Testing: Collect water samples after a minimum three-hour continuous pump run, prior to entry into storage tanks. Conduct full microbiological and chemical analysis via a SANAS-accredited laboratory. Submit comprehensive lab reports, treatment recommendations, and documented proof of laboratory accreditation.
• Controller Upgrade (Tsatsi Clinic): Replace the legacy borehole controller with a Wilo trifase unit rated 0.75–4 kW (400 V).
• Compliance Standards: All workmanship, materials, and water outputs must strictly adhere to SABS/SANS 825 quality benchmarks.

Skills & Qualification Requirements

Contractors must submit the following mandatory documentation to prove technical competence and regulatory compliance:

• CIDB registration certificate for Electrical Engineering Works (minimum EB 1 or ME 1 grading).
• A valid letter of good standing from relevant industry or regulatory bodies.
• Two verifiable reference contracts for similar borehole or water system maintenance projects, supported by completion certificates.
• Official qualification certificates for the lead artisan who will perform the electrical and mechanical work.
• Formal arrangement or partnership with a SANAS-accredited laboratory capable of conducting SANS 241+ microbiological water testing.

Explanation of Unusual or Complicated Terms

• SANAS Accreditation: Certification granted by the South African National Accreditation System, confirming that a testing laboratory operates in compliance with ISO/IEC 17025. This ensures water test results are scientifically accurate, internationally recognized, and legally defensible.
• SANS 825: The South African National Standard for drinking water quality. It sets mandatory limits for microbial pathogens, chemical contaminants, and physical parameters to guarantee water is safe for human consumption.
• CIDB Grading (EB/ME): The Construction Industry Development Board classifies contractors based on financial turnover, technical expertise, and project history. EB (Electrical Building) and ME (Mechanical Engineering) grades indicate the contractor's authorized capacity to safely execute complex utility installations and maintenance contracts.