Objectives

The primary objective is to procure a specific type of sterile surgical suture for orthopaedic procedures at Grey’s Hospital. The tender aims to secure a compliant, reliable supplier capable of delivering high-quality medical consumables within a defined timeframe while adhering to South African public procurement regulations and transformation goals.

Scope

The scope covers a one-off supply of eight boxes of specified sutures to be delivered directly to Grey’s Hospital in Pietermaritzburg. Each box must contain twelve sterile units matching the exact technical specification. The contract encompasses strict compliance with four evaluation stages: administrative compliance, specification adherence, sample verification, and a price/preference scoring model. Pricing must remain firm for ninety days, and delivery must occur within the stipulated period. The procurement follows a single-stage quotation process valued below R1 000 000.

Technical Requirements

Bidders must supply 2/0 Monocryl sutures measuring 36mm in length, featuring a half-circle reverse-cutting needle, constructed from poliglecaprone 25, and packaged as sterile units. Each box must contain exactly twelve units. Products must meet sterile quality standards and be suitable for orthopaedic surgery. Suppliers must hold a valid licence from the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) authorising the import, manufacture, or distribution of medical devices. All goods must be new, unused, and valid for a minimum of six months upon delivery. Non-compliant products, expired stock, or second-hand items will result in immediate disqualification.

Skills Requirements

While no explicit technical skills are listed, successful bidders must demonstrate proficiency in public sector supply chain compliance, regulatory adherence for medical devices, and accurate documentation management. This includes maintaining an active Central Supplier Database (CSD) profile, securing tax clearance, completing prescribed Standard Bidding Document (SBD) forms, and understanding preferential procurement frameworks. Suppliers should also possess logistical capabilities for timely delivery, inventory management, and the ability to respond promptly to sample requests and contractual obligations.

Explanation of Unusual or Complicated Terms

• SAHPRA Licence: A mandatory regulatory approval issued by South Africa’s health products authority, confirming the supplier is legally permitted to handle, distribute, or manufacture medical devices.
• 80/20 Preference Point System: A procurement scoring model where eighty points are allocated based on competitive pricing and twenty points are awarded for specific socio-economic goals, primarily black ownership (at least 51%).
• CSD Registration: A National Treasury-mandated database where suppliers must register to verify tax compliance, banking details, and company status before being considered for government contracts.
• SBD Forms: Standardised bidding documents used across South African government entities to declare bidder information, disclosure of interest, tax status, and preference claims.
• Sample Submission: A pre-award verification step where shortlisted bidders must provide physical product samples for quality and specification testing before final contract award.