Objectives

The primary objective of this tender is to procure manual preparation services for thinning operations, specifically to fell, debranch, log scale, crosscut marked trees, and process logs into various products according to SAFCOL’s specifications. The service aims to support forestry operations within specified geographical areas, ensuring efficient and compliant timber thinning and preparation.

Scope

The scope includes:

• Manual thinning of approximately 3,000 m³ of timber per geographical area, notably in Roburnia and surrounding areas near Amsterdam town.
• Felling, debranching, log scaling, crosscutting, and stacking processed logs in designated areas as per SAFCOL’s Integrated Management System and best practices.
• Execution of operations in steep terrain areas, adhering to industry norms and safety standards.
• Provision of necessary equipment, labour, and ancillary tools to facilitate efficient thinning activities.

Technical Requirements

The technical requirements for the service provider include:

• Execution of all operations according to accepted industry norms, guidelines by Forest Engineering of South Africa (FESA), and relevant safety legislation such as the Safety Act and Basic Conditions of Employment Act.
• Provision of suitable equipment, including manual tools and machinery compliant with safety standards.
• Deployment of trained personnel, including facilitators registered with SAQA, competent supervisors, and skilled chainsaw operators with valid certificates (not older than 2 years).
• Use of ancillary equipment such as fire beaters, rake hoes, first aid kits, PPE, and safety gear, including chainsaw trousers and gloves meeting SABS standards.
• Vehicles used must have current Certificates of Fitness, licenses, enclosed canopies with rollover protection, and safety harnesses where applicable.
• Implementation of safety, health, environmental, and quality standards, including at least one trained First Aider, SHE Rep, and Safety Officer per operation.
• Compliance with legal requirements, including Public Liability Cover with relevant extensions.

Skills Requirements

The successful service provider must demonstrate:

• Experience of at least two years in manual or hand roll thinning operations, supported by reference letters from forestry clients.
• Availability of trained facilitators registered with SAQA and competent supervisors on-site.
• Personnel trained in safety and environmental standards, including First Aid and SHE responsibilities.
• Ability to operate and maintain equipment safely and efficiently, ensuring compliance with industry standards and safety legislation.
• Capacity to manage labour resources effectively, including adherence to employment legislation and safety protocols.