Framework Success for Responsive NDT

Responsive NDT (Non-Destructive Testing), part of Responsive Ltd, has won a framework for new work with LLW Repository Ltd (LLWR) near Drigg, a Tier 1 organisation within the nuclear supply chain.

The framework agreement was issued for Tender in August 2020 and the team at Responsive NDT, based in Lillyhall, put together their winning bid in just a couple of weeks. The agreement covers all of LLW Repository’s quality inspection and testing support for the next 12 months.

“We knew that we would be in tough competition for the work,” says Gareth McNally, MD of Responsive NDT. “The framework will involve provision of supply chain Quality Engineers and QC Inspection resource, including welding, coatings and shipping container inspection for LLWR.”

“We had to explain our prior nuclear experience and compete on value for money and areas such as quality, health and safety and qualification of our resources. This is one of the largest public contracts Responsive have won to date and, given pressures in some of our other markets, it is perfect timing too. We knew that we would be able to deliver a great service and we are located on LLWR’s doorstep in West Cumbria.”

The Company has an established reputation for investment in apprentices and professional qualifications across the broader business and is looking forward to meeting the challenge of providing excellent service delivery to a significant new customer within its community.

“This is a major win for Responsive,” says Lee Grears, the Group MD for Responsive Limited. “Direct supply to a Tier 1 organisation like LLWR shows that we are able to offer services that match the demands of a high-profile organisation. We will be dealing with projects where Responsive’s testing integrity and reliability is crucial – but that’s exactly what we do. This now gives the opportunity for us to increase our staff capacity and will see us add a new member of staff to the team. We are delighted about the framework announcement and are looking forward to working with the team at LLWR, its contractors and suppliers in the coming year.”

Nigel Lister, Executive Director – Safety, Security, Health, Environment & Quality, at LLWR, said: “We are strong supporters of business across West Cumbria and invest heavily in the local supply chain, so it is encouraging to see Responsive NDT go through a competitive tender process with us and emerge with a framework contract.

“It’s also fantastic that in trying times for many industries the contract may lead to fresh recruitment at Responsive NDT. This is another example of our enduring commitment to local SMEs (Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises).

“Our standards are demanding across the board, as exemplified in the tender process, but we are confident that this local business can meet them.”

The framework takes effect immediately and Gareth McNally’s team at Responsive NDT are already working on the initial mobilisation plan with LLWR and the processes and procedures that form the foundations of working together in the coming year.