Description
In quarter 3, we are focusing on Fire Protection – from Start to Finish.
This month, our theme is how to choose the right fire protection company for your project. With the likes of fly-by-night companies opening throughout South Africa, it is important that clients follow due diligence when choosing a company, that you will entrust with your life and safety.
In this case study, we highlight the importance of working with reputable partners to ensure a successful project.
Background
During 2023, Elite Fire Protection was provided the opportunity to tender for a fire protection installation project, including pumps and tanks, in a food processing plant.
Elite Fire Protection is a fire protection company offering full turnkey solutions throughout South Africa and SADC region. A fire protection company that prides itself in providing excellent service to its customers and establishing good working relationships.
The client is a beloved South African food processing company based in Gauteng, which required fire protection in its 10500m2 warehouse. The client distributed an invitation to tender to various companies with the aim to select a contractor to complete a project for fire sprinkler installation, pumps and tanks.
| Project | Fire Protection Systems |
| Size | 10500m2 |
| Scope | Fire Sprinkler Systems |
| Discipline | Design, Supply & Installation |
Tender Process
The client chose to undergo a tender process, not only due to the scope of work and size of the project, but ethically they needed to ensure that not only would they be reviewing all the offers made by companies to suit their budget, but that they would be capable of performing the job regarding knowledge and experience.
All companies were provided with equal opportunities during the tender process. Once all companies submitted their bid, a shortlist took place, and companies were then allowed to showcase their company and capabilities. This process allowed for each team member within the tender committee to get a feel of the company presenting on the day. Thus, the success of the tender award was determined by the Bill of Quantities (BoQ) being completed comprehensively, the offer, and experience and knowledge.
Lessons Learnt and Best Practices
Challenges and Solutions: With the increased number of fire companies and the number of documentations required for bid submission, documentation started getting lost or companies forgot to provide all the information requested by the client.
By ensuring all information is provided, a smoother process follows. You limit the risk of the client becoming frustrated and competitors having to wait longer for the next steps.
Conclusion
Taking the time and the necessary steps to choose the right fire protection company is crucial. Although budgets have got tighter over the last few months, I firmly believe that researching companies, establishing their experience and knowledge, is as important as finance.
It would be absolutely devastating for the client if they do not follow due diligence and choose a company purely based on its offering, because while we have many companies that are fly-by-nights and provide low pricing to secure the job, we also have many good fire protection companies in South Africa with experience, knowledge and accreditations.
No matter who you choose, follow a process to choose the right fire protection carefully. A company that you trust your life and premises with.
