The object of the exercise is to procure replacement equipment for the automated microbial detection system of apheresis platelets, platelets in PAS, buffy coat pooled platelets in plasma, concentrated red cells, PF plasma, FFP and cryoprecipitate.
The Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service (‘SNBTS’); and Welsh Blood Service (‘WBS’), are collaborating together on this procurement, the object of which is to procure replacement equipment for the automated microbial detection system of apheresis platelets, platelets in PAS, buffy coat pooled platelets in plasma, concentrated red cells, PF plasma, FFP and cryoprecipitate.
The bacteriological monitoring process is a measure intended to improve the safety of the platelets produced by the Blood Establishments. Platelets are stored at 22±2oC. This allows many bacterial species to reproduce at a rate sufficient to cause significant contamination of the product risking potential harm to a patient, in some cases, just 2 days. The automated microbial detection system involves taking a sample of the platelet components on day 2 of their life and inoculating it into culture bottles. The bottles are continually monitored using an automated microbial detection system, which will flag positive bottles to the Blood Establishment Computer System (BECS), ePROGESA. Contaminated units will be withdrawn from the blood supply. All apheresis platelets and, buffy coat pooled platelets in plasma and platelets in PAS manufactured by the Blood Establishment will be subject to this monitoring unless exempted on a concessionary basis.
Bidders must confirm that their proposed equipment can meet or exceed the requirements detailed in the Invitation to Tender and any deviations or variances must be clearly highlighted.
Although SNBTS is undertaking this procurement and shall make the award hereunder, it is intended that SNBTS and WBS will enter into an individual contract with the successful Bidder on the basis of the terms and conditions of contract contained in the Invitation to Tender (each a ‘Contract’).