Objectives

To secure an accredited service provider for a six-month maintenance contract focused on conducting statutory quarterly servicing, functional safety testing, and operational certification of existing gaseous fire suppression systems. The primary aim is to ensure continuous system reliability, regulatory compliance, and optimal protection of critical server room infrastructure at the SANSA Hermanus facility.

Scope of Work

The appointed provider will execute bi-annual maintenance visits (quarterly over a six-month period) strictly adhering to SANS 10139:2021 principles. Core responsibilities include:

• Conducting comprehensive pre-service inspections of cylinders, valves, burst discs, pressure gauges, discharge hoses, cylinder mountings, and nozzle orientation.
• Performing integrated functional testing across all linked building systems, including door releases, access control overrides, Building Management Systems (BMS), HVAC units, electrical cut-offs, and aspirating smoke detection networks.
• Simulating fire conditions to verify exact operational sequencing and countdown timer accuracy.
• Executing a strict no-live-gas-discharge protocol during routine servicing.
• Restoring both server room systems to full AUTO readiness post-testing.
• Sourcing, supplying, and installing OEM-approved spare parts (e.g., backup batteries, detectors, key switches, end-of-line devices, seal kits) and performing all necessary corrective repairs.
• Delivering detailed service reports, battery load test values, fault logs, and a Maintenance Compliance certificate within three working days of each visit.

Technical Requirements

• Mandatory SAQCC certification for fire protection services.
• Proven technical capability to service TechnoSwitch TC3000 series fire detection and extinguishing control panels.
• Full compliance with SANS 10139:2021 standards for fire detection, alarm integration, and safety protocols.
• Ability to interface suppression systems with complex building automation, electrical, and security infrastructure.
• Strict adherence to simulated testing methodologies without actual gas deployment.
• CSD registration with a compliant tax status.
• Robust documentation and reporting systems capable of delivering certified compliance records within three working days.

Skills Requirements

• Specialized expertise in gaseous fire suppression system maintenance, diagnostics, and safety validation.
• In-depth knowledge of South African fire protection engineering standards and statutory testing procedures.
• Proficiency in troubleshooting and integrating fire safety systems with BMS, HVAC, and access control networks.
• Technical competency in fault identification, OEM-component replacement, and precision corrective repairs.
• Strong project management, quality assurance, and reporting capabilities to support uninterrupted operations.
• Organizational capacity to deploy qualified technicians and maintain consistent service delivery throughout the contract term.

Specialized Terms & Protocols

• SANS 10139:2021: The South African National Standard governing fire protection engineering. It outlines mandatory design, installation, testing, and maintenance benchmarks for fire detection and alarm systems, ensuring legal and safety compliance.
• SAQCC Certification: Industry accreditation issued by the South African Qualifications Certification Council, verifying that a provider meets national competency, training, and quality standards for fire protection work.
• 80/20 Preference Points System: A procurement evaluation model where 80 points are allocated based on competitive pricing, and 20 points are awarded for meeting specific transformation goals (e.g., black ownership, women-owned enterprises, youth-owned businesses) to advance economic equity.
• No Live Gas Discharge Protocol: A critical safety and conservation measure requiring all system verifications to be conducted via electronic simulation or dry testing rather than actual gas release, preventing unnecessary agent depletion and ensuring personnel safety during maintenance.
• CSD Registration: Mandatory enrollment in the Central Supplier Database, a national procurement registry that verifies supplier legitimacy, business registration, and tax compliance before engaging with public sector entities.