Rescue Support and Stabilisation Equipment. The equipment will include systems for vehicle stabilisation (including heavy vehicles) and structural shoring. Multiple 'kits' will be required that will be deployed from various Fire and Rescue services across England. The equipment will be additional and used in conjunction with existing equipment, therefore interoperability and standardisation must be maintained.

Procurement Act 2023

Direct award The Authority requires Paratech structural stabilisation equipment as this equipment forms part of the nationally standardised capability utilised by UK Urban Search and Rescue teams. The procurement of alternative manufacturers' equipment would compromise interoperability, operational compatibility, maintenance arrangements, training, and the ability to deploy effectively alongside other UK Urban Search and Rescue teams during national resilience incidents. Vimpex Limited is the sole authorised UK distributor of genuine Paratech equipment. Consequently, competition is absent for the supply of the required equipment and the Authority considers that the contract can only be supplied by a particular supplier.