Medical Gases in Cylinders and Bulk Gases
Introduction
The Medical Gases in Cylinders and Bulk Gases Framework, administered by NHS Shared Business Services, is a procurement route designed to streamline the acquisition of medical gases for healthcare organisations within the UK. This framework, labelled under the reference SBS/21/BH/DYV/10040, remains active until 30 September 2025. It is structured as a framework agreement rather than a Dynamic Purchasing System (DPS), which means it has pre-set terms and conditions and does not accept new suppliers throughout its duration. The primary aim of this framework is to facilitate the cost-effective and efficient procurement of medical gases, ensuring reliable supply and safe storage solutions for healthcare facilities.
Context & Use Case
The use of medical gases is critical in healthcare settings, as they are fundamental to patient care in various medical treatments and procedures. Contracting authorities, particularly within the NHS, rely on this framework to ensure a steady and compliant supply of essential medical gases. This framework is particularly significant for hospitals and healthcare institutions that require both small-scale cylinder gases and large-scale bulk gas supply. It not only focuses on the procurement of gases but also includes the installation and maintenance of necessary storage and handling equipment, ensuring that gases are delivered and stored safely and efficiently.
Scope of Services
The framework is divided into three distinct lots, each tailored to specific needs within the medical gases sector: 1. Lot 1 – Medical Gases in Cylinders: This lot covers the supply of various medical gases in cylinder form, suitable for facilities that require portable and easily accessible gases for patient care. 2. Lot 2 – Bulk Gases: This includes the supply, installation, and commissioning of liquid oxygen storage tanks and ancillary equipment. It also encompasses the provision of medical liquid oxygen and specialist gases, catering to facilities with higher demand for gases in bulk form. 3. Lot 3 – Additional Products: This lot provides access to additional products related to medical gases, potentially including accessories and supplementary equipment that enhance the use of gases within healthcare settings.
Who Can Apply
The framework is primarily targeted at suppliers within the medical gases sector who can meet the stringent requirements of healthcare procurement. This includes manufacturers and distributors of medical gases, as well as companies that specialise in the installation and maintenance of gas storage and handling systems. As it is not a DPS, the application process is closed to new entrants until the framework's end date, and interested suppliers should have been pre-qualified at its inception.
Buyer Benefits
For public sector buyers, this framework offers a robust procurement solution by ensuring compliance with healthcare standards and regulations. It facilitates a faster route to market, allowing healthcare providers to secure essential gases without the delays associated with individual tender processes. Additionally, the framework promotes competitive pricing through pre-negotiated terms, providing cost savings and budget certainty for NHS organisations.
Lots
Lot 1: Medical Gases in cylinders This lot covers the provision of medical gases supplied in cylinders. Lot 2: Bulk Gases This lot includes the supply, installation, and commissioning of liquid oxygen storage tanks, ancillary equipment, and medical liquid oxygen, including specialist gases. Lot 3: Additional Products This lot covers additional products related to the framework.
Next Steps
Suppliers interested in participating or seeking further information should review the framework's specific requirements and contact NHS Shared Business Services directly to discuss potential opportunities and clarify any queries regarding their involvement in ongoing contracts.
How Biddable Can Help
Biddable assists suppliers by providing comprehensive discovery of relevant frameworks and procurement opportunities. We support businesses in preparing for tendering processes and offer insights into maintaining pipeline visibility. Our aim is to equip suppliers with the necessary knowledge and tools to navigate public sector procurement effectively, without promoting specific services or outcomes.