Objectives

The primary objective of this tender is to obtain quotations for the manual preparation of thinnings, specifically for a forwarder handling a volume of 3,000m³. The work involves felling, debranching, log scaling, crosscutting marked trees into various products according to SAFCOL’s specifications, and stacking processed logs appropriately within designated areas.

Scope

The scope of work includes:

• Felling, debranching, log scaling, and crosscutting of marked trees into specified products.
• Processing logs for multiple clients, with stacking within two rows adjacent to extraction routes, following SAFCOL’s Integrated Management System and Best Operating Practices.
• Processing a volume of 3,000m³ per geographical area, with areas including Witklip, Bergvliet, Brooklands, Tweefontein, Blyde, and Wilgeboom.
• Pricing to be quoted per cubic meter (R/m³) inclusive of VAT.
• Adherence to safety, environmental, and industry standards during operations.

Technical Requirements

The technical requirements encompass:

• Execution of operations in accordance with industry norms and guidelines, including Forest Engineering of South Africa (FESA) standards.
• Compliance with safety legislation such as the Safety Act and Basic Conditions of Employment Act.
• Use of specified equipment for manual thinning operations, including trained chainsaw operators with appropriate protective gear (chainsaw trousers, gloves).
• Availability of suitable vehicles with current Certificates of Fitness, licenses, enclosed canopies with rollover protection, and safety harnesses where possible.
• Provision of management personnel, including a competent supervisor on-site.
• Availability of ancillary equipment such as fire beaters, rake hoes, and other tools as specified.
• Implementation of safety, health, environmental, and quality standards, including trained first aiders, SHE representatives, and safety officers.
• Legal compliance, including public liability insurance with relevant extensions.

Skills Requirements

The skills and qualifications required include:

• Experienced personnel with at least two years of manual or hand roll thinning experience, supported by relevant reference letters from forestry or plantation companies.
• Trained facilitators registered with the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).
• Supervisory staff with competence in forestry operations and safety management.
• Chainsaw operators equipped with certified protective gear (EN 381-5 – B+20 standard).
• Vehicle operators with valid Driver’s Licenses and Public Driver Permits (PrDP).
• Personnel trained in safety, health, and environmental protocols, including first aid and SHE representatives.