Five of the UK water companies have put out a tender for a contract for the supply of liquid hexafluorosilicic acid used to fluoridate tap water worth potentially up to £4.8 million.
Northumbrian Water Ltd has issued the tender on behalf of the HFSA Project Committee, which consists of Northumbrian Water, South Staffordshire Water, Anglian Water, United Utilities and Severn Trent Water.
The chemical is used for the fluoridation of tap water. The decision whether to fluoridate water in a particular area lies with the Local Authorities. Currently about 10% of water supplies in England have fluoride content, either naturally occurring or artificially.
Once a decision to fluoridate has been taken this must be implemented by the water company on behalf of and at the expense of the health authority. In addition, the Department of Health must also grant the water company an indemnity against any third party liability that may arise.
Estimated total value of purchases for the entire duration of the framework agreement, which will run for five years, is put at between £3.8 million to £4.8 millio.
Anticipated quantity to be supplied under the framework is approximately 2 100 tonnes per annum across all five water companies.
The contract, which also includes a renewal option, will start on 1st January 2016 and end on 31st December 2020
Time limit for receipt of tenders or requests to participate is 22nd September. Click here to access the tender documentation.