Scope
Reference
DS504-25
Description
Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue is providing an opportunity for suppliers to engage and inform the strategy, procurement and ongoing management of a future NFCC National Framework for Respiratory Protective Equipment, associated equipment and services.
The current NFCC national Framework Agreement relating to Respiratory Protective Equipment and associated equipment/services, which was let by Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service in conjunction with the NFCC Respiratory Protective Equipment Group, is due to expire on 28 February 2026.
Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service has agreed to lead (on behalf of the UK fire sector and wider public sector) in the procurement of the replacement framework and the subsequent, on-going, management of the eventual framework. Members of the NFCC Respiratory Protective Equipment Group will review the User Requirements, documentation and will be involved in the framework tender assessment.
The framework will include capable economic providers who have demonstrated that they are able to supply products and services to meet the requirements of the Fire sector and wider public sector.
The scope and framework lotting structure will be agreed prior to the tender being issued, taking into account both Fire sector and Potential Supplier input through the preliminary customer/market engagement phase, of which this consultation is part.
Indicative timescales for the tender process will be available once consultation is concluded and the procurement strategy is developed and approved. At this early stage, we anticipate the tender to be issued in September 2025.
Commercial tool
Establishes a framework
Contract dates (estimated)
- 1 March 2026 to 28 February 2030
- Possible extension to 28 February 2032
- 5 years, 11 months, 28 days
Main procurement category
Goods
CPV classifications
- 35111100 - Breathing apparatus for firefighting
Contract locations
- UK - United Kingdom
- GG - Guernsey
- IM - Isle of Man
- JE - Jersey
Engagement
Engagement deadline
20 August 2025
Engagement process description
Suppliers are invited to complete and submit a supplier consultation questionnaire. The questionnaire can be accessed via our e-tendering portal which is located at: https://sell2.in-tend.co.uk/blpd/home
To access and submit a preliminary market engagement response, log-in to your Supplier account on the e-tendering portal. Locate the opportunity and click on 'View in Portal'. Then click 'Express Interest'. You should then be able to access and download the questionnaire document to complete. Upload your completed questionnaire via the same area in the e-tendering portal by the closing date and time.
Suppliers can find guidance on using the e-tendering portal via: https://bluelightcommercial.police.uk/media/2284/sell2bluelight-in-tend-full-supplier-guide.pdf
Closing date for responses: Wednesday 20 August 2025 at 11:00 hours GMT
Participation
Particular suitability
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SME)
Submission
Publication date of tender notice (estimated)
15 September 2025
Contracting authority
Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue Authority
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PNLD-1131-HTWN
Service Headquarters
Exeter
EX3 0NW
United Kingdom
Region: UKK43 - Devon CC
Organisation type: Public authority - sub-central government