Soils Analysis and Sampling

AI-generated analysis of the documents. Check the official notice and any amendments for current submission details.

1. At a glance

2. Scope of Work

The contract encompasses a comprehensive soil sampling and analysis service, integrated through a digital platform that connects with Teagasc systems. The contractor is expected to deliver a range of services related to soil analysis, including:

• Soil Sampling: Conducting soil sampling across various agricultural sites, with sample areas not exceeding 4 hectares, and up to 5 hectares in cases of specific soil types and cropping history.
• Laboratory Analysis: Performing soil tests in a laboratory accredited to ISO 17025, ensuring compliance with the Modified Mehlich method.
• Data Management: Managing data from sampling and analysis, including the use of GPS location and LPIS Parcel Numbers for accurate tracking.
• Reporting: Providing detailed reports on soil analysis results, including quality control measures and timelines for delivery.
• Sample Storage: Storing soil samples in suitable conditions for a minimum of 3 months post-analysis to prevent contamination or degradation.
• Transfer of Samples: Ensuring samples are transferred at agreed intervals, with a minimum requirement for weekly transfers.
• Retention of Records: Archiving files for a minimum of 5 years from the date of creation.

The contractor must ensure that all activities align with Teagasc's operational standards and regulatory requirements.

3. Background & buyer context

This procurement is initiated by Teagasc to enhance its soil analysis capabilities, aligning with national agricultural policies aimed at improving soil health and sustainability. The initiative is part of broader efforts to support farmers and agricultural stakeholders in Ireland. Teagasc has a history of engaging with various service providers for soil analysis, and the incumbent provider is not specified in the documents. The strategic drivers include the need for accurate soil data to inform agricultural practices and policy decisions.

4. Eligibility & selection criteria

Bidders must meet the following eligibility and selection criteria:

• Turnover requirement: Not specified for this tender.
• Insurance:
• Employer’s Liability - €13 million limit for any one claim or series of claims.
• Public Liability - €6.5 million limit for any one claim or series of claims.
• Product Liability - €6.5 million limit for any one claim or series of claims.
• Professional Indemnity - €1 million limit for any one claim or series of claims.
• Certifications: Laboratories must be accredited to ISO 17025.
• Past experience: Minimum of two comparable projects delivered within the last three years.
• Personnel: Not specified for this tender.
• Geographic / facility constraints: Not specified for this tender.

5. Award criteria & scoring

Bids will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

The overall scoring will follow the Most Economically Advantageous Tender (MEAT) principle.

6. Submission requirements

Bidders must submit the following documentation:

• Method statement / response document: Follow the named template with specified page limits.
• CVs: For key personnel, with a specified page count.
• Pricing schedule: Complete using the named template.
• Case studies: Provide summaries of two relevant projects, including value range.
• Declarations: Include ESPD, Bona Fides, Tax clearance, and Conflict of Interest declarations.
• Mandatory site visit: Not specified for this tender.
• Submission portal: All documents must be submitted via the eTenders platform, adhering to specific format rules.

7. Key dates & process

8. Contract terms that matter

Key contract terms include:

• Term: 5 years, with the possibility of two 12-month extensions.
• Payment terms: Payments will be made in accordance with the Services Contract.
• Key SLAs/KPIs: Not specified in detail.
• Liquidated damages: Not specified.
• Termination clauses: Either party may terminate with 14 days' notice.
• IP ownership: Not specified.
• Sub-contracting rules: Allowed, but the Prime Contractor must be designated.

9. Risks, red flags & unusuals

Potential concerns include:

• The lack of specified turnover requirements may indicate a preference for established firms, potentially disadvantaging smaller bidders.
• The requirement for ISO 17025 accreditation may limit participation to firms with existing laboratory capabilities.
• The absence of a specified incumbent may suggest a competitive environment, but also raises questions about the expectations for service continuity.

10. SME fit assessment

Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) that can credibly bid must have:

• Relevant experience in soil analysis and laboratory services, ideally with ISO 17025 accreditation.
• The capacity to handle the logistical demands of soil sampling and data management.
• The ability to form consortia or subcontract as needed, as the tender allows for collaborative bids.
• An indicative bid-preparation effort of several days, depending on the complexity of the proposal.
• The incumbent's strength is not disclosed, but the competitive nature of the tender may favor established players.

11. Where to dig deeper

• Source RFT filename: C4444 - Soils Analysis and Sampling - RFT.docx
• eTenders CFT ID: Not specified
• Contact email or clarification portal: Queries must be directed through the messaging facility on www.etenders.gov.ie.
• Important attachments:
• Appendix 1: Requirements and Specifications
• Appendix 2: Pricing Schedule
• Appendix 3: Tenderer’s Statement