Objectives

The primary objective of this tender is to procure maintenance, support, and spare parts for the narrowband infrastructure used by Transnet SOC Ltd at various ports across South Africa. The aim is to ensure continuous, reliable operation of critical communication systems, despite the obsolescence of original hardware, by engaging a certified service provider capable of providing second-level support, remote and onsite repairs, and sourcing refurbished components as needed. The service provider must also ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and legal standards, and facilitate ongoing operational efficiency over a three-year period.

Scope

The scope encompasses:

• Provision of maintenance, support, and spare parts for narrowband infrastructure at the Ports of Cape Town, Durban, Richards Bay, East London, Ngqura, Port Elizabeth, and Saldanha.
• Remote support via Microsoft Teams, including diagnosing and resolving connectivity issues.
• Onsite repairs and reconfiguration of defective devices, including validation, troubleshooting, and replacement with refurbished units.
• Stock management of spare parts and refurbished devices, with stock levels maintained to ensure timely repairs.
• Provision of qualified personnel, adherence to safety and environmental standards, and compliance with railway safety regulations.
• Management of travel, accommodation, and related disbursements for repairs outside the service provider’s local presence.
• Regular incident reporting, performance monitoring, and adherence to service levels over the contract period.

Technical Requirements

The technical scope includes:

• Support for radio data communication devices, including Hand-Held Terminals (HHTs) and Vehicle Mounted Terminals (VMTs), operating on narrowband technology.
• Knowledge of Wireless Radio Frequency Communication and Networks, with proof of certifications or CVs of technical staff.
• Provision of second-level support, remote diagnostics, and onsite repairs, including validation, reconfiguration, and replacement of defective units with refurbished or second-hand devices.
• Supply of refurbished narrowband devices, sourcing from second-hand or refurbished stock, with stock levels maintained for all device types.
• Adherence to safety, health, and environmental standards, including disposal of defective components and compliance with railway safety regulations.
• Guarantees on workmanship, warranties of at least 60 days on repairs and refurbished units, and incident reporting.
• Provision of detailed incident reports, technical assessments, and compliance with service level agreements.

Skills and Skills Requirements

The service provider must demonstrate:

• Certified technical personnel with expertise in wireless radio communication, specifically with Zebra Technologies or Psion Teklogix equipment.
• Proven experience in supporting narrowband radio systems, including maintenance, troubleshooting, and refurbishment of radio modules and terminals.
• Capability to source, test, and supply refurbished or second-hand narrowband devices and components.
• Ability to provide remote support via Microsoft Teams and onsite repairs across multiple locations, with qualified staff supervision.
• Knowledge of railway safety standards and compliance with South African legislation, including the Occupational Health and Safety Act and railway safety regulations.
• Experience in managing stock levels of spare parts and refurbished units, with proper documentation and reporting.
• Ability to produce technical reports, incident documentation, and compliance certificates as required.
• Demonstrated understanding of environmental commitments, waste disposal, and recycling policies.