Medical Gases in Cylinders and Bulk Gases

Framework Agreement Description 

The medical gases in cylinders and bulk gases framework provides a competitive framework to purchase cylinders containing a variety of medical gases. Under the terms of this framework, you can access a bulk supply of medical gases, plus it covers the provision and installation of the vacuum insulated evaporator (VIE) and covers the back-up facility, rental, depreciation and maintenance of the VIE and backup. In addition, this framework agreement covers the supply of liquid oxygen.

Download the Framework Flyer

Medical Gases in Cylinders and Bulk Gases [455KB]

Framework Agreement Information

When does it start?
06 August 2016 until 31 March 2021

Who can take advantage?
All NHS SBS Approved Organisations. This includes any Public Sector Organisation in the UK

Who developed the framework agreement?
A detailed procurement was run by the Health Team at NHS SBS with NHS stakeholder input for specification and supplier evaluation. This was supported by the Health Strategic Sourcing team at NHS SBS.

What does the framework cover?
The agreement provides a competitive framework for clients of NHS SBS to purchase cylinders containing a variety of medical gases. The facility exists to run mini-competitions for bulk gases and the provision and installation of the vacuum insulated evaporator (VIE) and back-up facility, rental, depreciation and maintenance of the VIE and backup; in addition to the supply of liquid oxygen.

What are the benefits of using the framework?
• COMPETITIVE RATES
Competitive prices have been established.
• QUALITY STANDARDS
The experience, expertise and quality commitment of suppliers has been assessed during the tender evaluation. Further performance and Trusts' satisfaction will be monitored on an on-going basis.
• EASE OF PROCUREMENT
This framework agreement affords a faster time to market in comparison with the time and costs associated with a full competitive procurement. Trusts will have the ability to call-off urgent requirements quickly if required or conduct mini-competitions for more complex requirements.
• INFORMATION AND SUPPORT
Guidance on usage can advise further on best practice, ensuring Trusts have a detailed specification of requirement prior to embarking on a mini competition. NHS SBS can facilitate the mini-competition utilising our EU supply. The tendering Portal will afford a faster procurement and transparency.

View the framework agreements View the framework agreements

Supplier Details

For Trust specific pricing from Air Liquide customers will need to supply the following information:

• Rental quantities by product required
• Gas/refill quantities by product required
• Delivery addresses including post codes together with anticipated delivery frequency days

Is assisted delivery required, and if so at which site?
Is there a requirement for loose cylinders and/or manifold supply?
Order method - will a Trust place its own orders or will it require supply to manage the order process?

E: NSBS.contractenquiries@nhs.net

For more framework agreements see our  Framework Agreements Portfolio [569KB]