Tender Summary: Load Testing, Certification and Diagnostic Assessment

Objectives

The primary objective is to ensure the operational safety, regulatory compliance, and fleet readiness of SAAT’s non-aircraft scissor lifts. This is achieved through rigorous load testing and certification of four units, alongside a comprehensive diagnostic assessment of twenty units. The process aims to identify defects, classify safety risks, establish accurate repair estimates, and implement usage controls to prevent recurring failures, all while maintaining strict procurement integrity by separating diagnostic findings from repair execution.

Scope of Work

• Load Testing & Certification (4 Units): Conduct pre-test inspections, perform load testing at rated capacity, issue valid certification for compliant lifts, and submit detailed inspection reports highlighting compliance status and corrective recommendations.
• Comprehensive Diagnostic Assessment (20 Units): Perform visual and functional inspections across structural, mechanical, hydraulic, electrical, and safety systems. Execute controlled functional testing, identify defects, verify equipment identification details, review maintenance records, and assess components against manufacturer and South African OHS standards.
• Reporting & Estimation: Deliver individual diagnostic reports per lift and a consolidated fleet report prioritising units by safety risk, operational importance, repair urgency, and cost. Provide detailed repair estimates (parts, labour, testing, transport, VAT) and recommend preventive maintenance schedules.
• Repair Restrictions: No repair or replacement work may be performed during the diagnostic phase without prior written authorisation from SAAT. Diagnostic appointments do not confer automatic rights to undertake repairs.

Technical Requirements

• All testing and diagnostic equipment must possess valid, verifiable calibration certificates and be maintained in serviceable condition.
• Bidders must submit a documented methodology detailing inspection, testing, and assessment procedures for all lift systems.
• Defects must be classified into four categories: Critical (immediate isolation required), Major (repair before operation), Minor (maintenance required), and Advisory (preventive/future action).
• Reports must include photographic evidence of material defects, operating hours, serial numbers, probable causes of failure, and clear unit status determinations (safe, restricted, repairable, or uneconomical).
• Pricing must be transparent, with diagnostics, transport, labour, parts, VAT, and additional costs clearly separated. Repair quotations must be submitted independently.

Skills and Qualifications Requirements

• Service provider must demonstrate relevant accreditation, registration, or OEM authorisation for scissor lift servicing.
• At least one technician conducting the assessment must provide verified qualifications and competency records.
• Proof of public liability insurance and workers’ compensation registration is mandatory.
• Evidence of prior experience with scissor lift diagnostics, load testing, and fleet assessment is required.
• Personnel must demonstrate technical competence in evaluating mechanical, hydraulic, electrical, and structural systems in accordance with industry standards.

Notes on Unusual or Complicated Terms

• Diagnostic-Repair Separation Protocol: The tender explicitly prevents automatic conversion of a diagnostic contract into a repair contract. This protects procurement fairness and ensures subsequent repairs are competitively sourced based on verified diagnostic findings.
• Probable Cause Analysis Requirement: Bidders must identify root causes for each defect, not just symptoms. This enables SAAT to implement targeted usage controls and operational restrictions to mitigate recurring breakdowns.
• BBBEE Preference Structure: Evaluation applies an 80/20 or 90/10 price/preference weighting system. Specific points are awarded for black ownership, disability ownership, and female ownership across defined percentage thresholds, aligned with national preferential procurement regulations.
• Expedited Arbitration Clause: Disputes will be resolved via expedited arbitration in Johannesburg under AFSA rules. A single arbitrator will be appointed within ten business days if parties cannot reach mutual agreement, ensuring swift commercial resolution.