Our Capitals
Our manufactured capital -
SANBS’ infrastructure, processes, systems, services and products
Our Capitals
Our manufactured capital - SANBS’ infrastructure, processes, systems, services and products
Accreditations and recognition
SANBS has worked hard over the past five years to meet high standards of quality, earning several important certifications: ISO 9001, ISO 17043, and ISO 13485.
These accreditations confirm that we follow consistent quality practices across our operations. Alongside our main certification, ISO 15189, and others such as ISO 20387 and the Joint Accreditation Committee for Cellular Therapies (JACIE), we are now fully accredited for all our processes. This demonstrates our commitment to providing the best possible service.
Additionally, we are proudly accredited with EFI certification, a European standard for laboratories involved in stem cell transplants and testing. These achievements are a testimony to the hard work and dedication of our employees, both past and present, in establishing SANBS as a leader in the blood services sector.
Innovative solutions for platelet supply
To tackle the challenges of high costs and limited availability of apheresis platelets (a specific type of blood component), we introduced a new solution called leucocyte reduced pooled platelets in two areas. These pooled platelets have been found to work just as effectively but are cheaper to produce. After successfully piloting this approach, we expanded its use to other regions and ensured our medical staff received training on how to use this new product effectively.
Improving processes and reducing errors
We noticed that some mistakes were happening due to manual paperwork, unsuitable equipment, and employees needing additional training on new processes. To address these issues, we launched a significant effort to improve our equipment, enhance connectivity, and simplify our digital processes. We aimed to reduce manual work wherever possible and put stronger quality checks in place. This initiative involved engaging with employees thoroughly and providing additional training when necessary. As a result of these efforts, we have seen a significant drop in errors.
Challenges and opportunities
Despite our successes, SANBS faces challenges, including the need to maintain and increase our donor base and navigate uncertainties in the supply chain for critical consumables. External factors such as riots, protests, and floods can impact logistics and hinder our ability to efficiently deliver essential blood products.
These challenges also provide opportunities for growth. Optimising logistics and inventory management will enhance our service delivery, while the expansion of smart fridges and mobile blood collection units supports our goal of equitable access. Embracing technology through innovative solutions, such as donor apps and automated processing instruments, will also help us to adapt to the changing dynamics of the healthcare landscape.
Conclusion and looking forward to Strategy 2025–2030
SANBS is positioned well to address both current challenges and seize future opportunities through its strong infrastructure, technological advancements, and steadfast commitment to operational excellence. By continuously investing in our manufactured capital, SANBS reaffirms its mission to be "Trusted to Save Lives" and effectively serve the health needs of the nation.
Looking ahead, our strategy 2025–2030 will prioritise:
Optimising the supply chain:
We will enhance the management, procurement, storage, and distribution of consumables and blood products to ensure efficient use of physical resources.
Logistics improvements:
Investigating direct vendor deliveries, local supply potential, and optimising blood product visibility across the value chain.
Infrastructure enhancements:
Streamlining processes in patient-facing labs and implementing technology platforms such as BECS Phase 2 to digitalise operations.
Cost reduction:
Reducing transport costs, warehouse footprint, and improving stock management.
Through these initiatives, SANBS aims to further enhance the physical and operational systems that support its ability to deliver services effectively and sustainably.