An investigation is currently being conducted into the manufacturing and distribution of steel reinforcement in Fiji. Engineers Fiji has confirmed this “due diligence exercise” following inquiries from SunBiz regarding the quality of locally produced steel.
Engineers Fiji president Terence Erasito stated, “On behalf of the Ministry of Trade, Co-operatives, Small and Medium Enterprises and Communications—which operates under Fiji Standards—Engineers Fiji will provide a more detailed response once this exercise is completed.”
Erasito raised concerns about the potential risks of using substandard reinforcement steel in construction projects. He explained that structures in Fiji are typically designed to meet New Zealand Standards. Using inferior steel could result in structures not complying with the Fiji National Building Code and the New Zealand Standards, making them incapable of performing as intended.
He emphasized the critical need for reinforced concrete structures—such as buildings, bridges, and towers—to endure lateral loads from seismic events, like earthquakes, in a ductile manner. Occupants must be able to safely exit these constructions during such emergencies, which relies on the ductility of the reinforcing steel used.
Erasito noted that the chemical composition of the steel bars must ensure that they maintain strength during deformation. If the steel contains excessive carbon or chemical impurities, it could fail prematurely, leading to catastrophic structural failures. Thus, ensuring the use of compliant, ductile steel is crucial for safety.
Furthermore, Erasito reiterated the need for the government to finalize and endorse the Chartered Professional Engineers of Fiji Act. The government has pointed out that Fiji already has an Engineers Registration Act from 1976. The Attorney-General’s office has yet to address SunBiz inquiries regarding amendments to a Bill from 2020.
He also urged the Ministry for Local Government, which oversees municipal councils, to standardize the requirement for all developments in Fiji to be certified by a Chartered Professional Engineer. This encompasses projects from residential home certifications to the development of key infrastructure, including airfields, ports, roads, jetties, and bridges.
Erasito asserted that professional engineers play a vital role in protecting civil society and that the government should acknowledge this responsibility by fostering an environment that upholds the integrity and professional standards of engineers in Fiji. He highlighted inconsistencies in how development applications are processed by various municipal councils, suggesting that these discrepancies negatively impact developers, investors, and homeowners, which must be rectified.