Overview
This PPN applies to all central government departments, executive agencies and non-departmental public bodies when awarding public contracts for goods, and or services, and or works, other than special regime contracts, where steel is being procured directly or indirectly (collectively referred to as ‘in-scope organisations’).
Other public sector contracting authorities are encouraged to consider applying the approach set out in this PPN and guidance, as appropriate, where they do not have equivalent measures in place. They should do so, in accordance with the relevant instructions in each case and in light of any relevant legal obligations which may apply.
The PPN sets out a number of existing policies, tools and methodologies that in-scope organisations should consider and apply (where appropriate) when designing relevant steel procurements. A relevant steel procurement is a regulated procurement where steel is being procured directly or indirectly.
The PPN also sets out the scope of reporting requirements on steel pipeline and actuals data.
Note: This PPN replaces PPN 02/23 for procurements commencing on or after 24 February 2025.
Objective at this commercial stage
The procurement documents should incorporate clear and appropriate outcome-based technical specifications with obligations on the supplier to provide steel data, including origin data.
Key considerations at this commercial stage
In-scope organisations should:
- develop clear, appropriate outcome-based technical specifications given that these are key to facilitating innovative, cost-effective solutions
- ensure technical specifications do not unnecessarily narrow the competitive pool of suppliers and suppliers are treated equally
- if using a competitive tendering procedure, ensure requirements are not designed in a way that narrows the number of capable suppliers and / or give an unfair advantage to particular suppliers
- ensure obligations to provide steel origin data are included within contractual terms and conditions. An example contract clause is provided in a separate document accompanying this PPN (i.e. PPN 010)
- consider contractual mechanisms which manage and incentivise safe production and delivery of steel
- include relevant and proportionate terms and conditions by reference to the subject-matter of the contract and in accordance with the relevant model form of contract for construction
Legal framework
This content is under development.
