Firefighting equipment

Tender description

West Midlands Fire and Rescue Authority issues this Prior Information Notice on behalf of the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) UK Research and Development (UK R&D). UK R&D has been established to support the UK Fire Services in undertaking market research into suppliers and products available in the market for operational equipment and services. Their aim is to improve market awareness in the sector and thereby reduce the resources, cost and time spent on market research as an overall activity across the UK Fire Sector. UK R&D has determined to research ranges of equipment utilised in firefighting, primarily the use of Positive Pressure Ventilation Fans. The purpose of this PIN is to invite Suppliers to attend product assessment days in August 2017 at Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service's Training Academy. UK R&D will undertake a series of controlled, repeatable and measurable exercises to assess the following drive methods of PPV Fans: 1 — Battery powered PPV fan 2 — Electric powered PPV fan (via a mains extension lead or generator, NOT another battery option) 3 — Engine driven PPV fan 4 — Hydro/Water driven PPV fan The comparison between petrol and alternative driven fans is intended to highlight and demonstrate the benefits, advantages and any limitations of these different drive mechanisms in controlled scenarios using cosmetic smoke. The fans will be compared directly with each other to ascertain the different benefits and any limitations to provide data that can be used for future decision making, identifying future technological advantages and potential procurement opportunities. Each fan will be used and assessed by PPV trained Fire Service personnel with guidance from suitably qualified BA and PPV instructors to maintain best practice and continuity. On completion of the assessments, UK R&D will produce an objective report, detailing the exercises undertaken and the findings from the assessments. The report will include information provided by suppliers, including technical specifications and user feedback from FRS's taking part in the assessments. PPV fans provided for the assessments will be supplied free of charge. Any costs associated with attending, participating or supplying products or staff will be borne by the Supplier. As this exercise will be beneficial to both suppliers and the Fire Sector, Suppliers may be expected to contribute to the costs of the assessments. Details of any costs will be provided to Suppliers who confirm their attendance at the assessments; this will be done by the 1.8.2017. Further information on the assessment is provided on the EU Supply Bluelight portal.