Groote Schuur Hospital, a world-renowned academic hospital in Cape Town, has published an open tender for the removal, transport, and storage of deceased patients. This presents a unique and specialised opportunity for established funeral undertakers to secure a three-year contract with a leading healthcare institution.
Key Details and Submission Deadline
The tender, identified as GSH:PT22/2025, is open for submissions until 28 August 2026 at 11:00. Bids can be posted or deposited in the bid box at the Old Main Building, Groote Schuur Hospital, Observatory. A compulsory briefing session will be held on 12 August 2026 at 12:00 at the Small Bennie de Wet Lecture Theatre. Registration commences at 11:30; latecomers will not be allowed entry.
Scope of Work
The successful service provider will be responsible for removing bodies from Groote Schuur Hospital, transporting them to their own mortuary facility, and providing storage. The contractor must have their own refrigeration storage with a minimum capacity of 40 dedicated spaces, maintain temperatures between 2°C and 4°C, and store each body individually on a stainless-steel tray. A 96-hour free storage period is required, with billing commencing only after this period. A designated standby generator with an automatic transfer switch is required for emergency power.
Stage 2: Site Inspection
Bidders who pass Stage 1 compliance will be invited for a site inspection. The storage facility must be on the same premises as the office and reception, with no subletting or outsourcing permitted. The checklist covers premises, vehicles (self-propelled, designed for body removal, and clearly marked), refrigeration equipment, staff, uniforms, and a contingency plan.
Documents Required
Bidders must submit the following documents with their proposals:
- WCBD 1: The Bid – completed and signed (Part A & B)
- WCBD 3.1: Pricing schedule / Specification schedule
- WCBD 4: Declaration of Interest – completed and signed
- WCBD 5: National Industrial Participation Programme (if applicable)
- WCBD 6.1: Preference Points Claim Form
- Sworn Affidavit: For B-BBEE Qualifying Small Enterprise (if applicable)
- Valid B-BBEE Certificate: Original or certified copy
- Designation of Funeral Undertaker: Document from Department of Home Affairs in terms of section 22A(1) of the Births and Deaths Registration Act 1992 (Act 51 of 1992)
- Competency Certificate: Per storage facility, issued by local municipality
- Service History: 12 months of refrigeration equipment service history (or proof of purchase for new equipment)
- Professional Drivers Permits (PDP): Certified copies of staff PDPs dated within 3 months of closing
- Public Liability Insurance: Copy dated within 12 months of closing
- Vehicle Documents: Certified copies of registration and license for all vehicles
- CSD Report: Proof of registration on Central Supplier Database
- Financial Standing Letter: From accredited accountant outlining financial capacity
- Contingency Plan: Detailed plan for emergencies
- Supplier Checklist: Completed and signed
Related opportunity: SAPO Seeks National Linehaul Transport Provider – 4-Month Contract
Evaluation Process
The evaluation will proceed in three phases. After administrative compliance, compliant bidders proceed to a site inspection. Bids that pass the site inspection are then evaluated on the 80/20 preference point system, with 80 points for price and 20 points for specific goals like B-BBEE status. Prices must include VAT and be valid for 60 days.
Tender Documents
Stay Updated
Want to stay informed about more tenders, funding opportunities, and business tips? Follow our updates on the StepApp Network:
- WhatsApp Channel: Follow StepApp Updates
- Facebook Page: Follow us
- WhatsApp Group: Join here
- LinkedIn Profile: Connect with StepApp
- X (Twitter): Follow StepApp SA on X