Guidance on expressing an interest

UKAEA requires suppliers to demonstrate competence through details of capability and capacity.

Capability and capacity are covered by two distinct areas:

Core, in-house competencies of the supplier and its staff;
Management experience of similar requirements, including management of the supply chain.

It is important for a supplier to be clear about their capability and experience. Unclear or ambiguous details will be poorly marked. Where a supplier does not have the in-house expertise to undertake parts of the work, they should clearly state what these are and how they would manage this (eg specialist sub-contractor). Details should also be provided of previous experience where a similar requirement has been managed.

It should be noted that, unless stated as an option, UKAEA would not split up the requirement to suit a supplier who expresses interest in only part of it.

For work with radiological implications, nuclear experience will be an important criterion in the selection process. If a supplier does not have nuclear experience it may be prudent to offer their services to a potential main contractor with experience in the industry. Alternatively, they may wish to joint bid a piece of work with a company with nuclear experience.

Nuclear capability will not be a criterion for all potential contracts with UKAEA. For example, the construction of an office block does not require nuclear capability. However, the procedures for working within the licensed site are applicable and experience in this area is of some benefit. If a supplier has never worked for UKAEA, experience of contracting with similar companies (eg BNFL) will be taken into account. However, UKAEA is also keen to utilise the experience and expertise from suppliers in other industries and recognises that companies can only gain nuclear experience if they are given the opportunity.

In conclusion, a supplier must demonstrate why UKAEA should include them on the tender list and this is the ethos to have when completing an expression of interest.