Discussions are in progress to investigate claims regarding the production of substandard steel within the country. This statement from Shaheen Ali, the permanent secretary of the Ministry of Trade, follows a letter of concern addressed to the government by Engineers Fiji. The letter not only raised the issue but also suggested improvements for the quality of steel mesh reinforcement.
Mr. Ali noted that the Ministry’s Standards team is actively engaging with both Engineers Fiji and the specific manufacturer involved to collect and verify technical information. He emphasized that the minister would be kept informed, and recommendations will be proposed to ensure compliance with Fiji’s standards.
The letter, dated July 31 and signed by civil and structural engineer Krishmal Dutt and Engineers Fiji president Terence Erasito, responded to a ministerial request for feedback on the inclusion of Ø6.3mm Grade 500L steel mesh reinforcement in Fiji’s trade standards. Engineers Fiji concluded after an industry inquiry that there is no need for an amendment to the Trade Standards regarding this inclusion.
Despite this recommendation, Engineers Fiji maintained that it is the engineer’s responsibility to assess project requirements and make informed decisions concerning the type of mesh reinforcement on a project-specific basis. They suggest a gradual transition away from traditional mesh without legislating the change.
Engineers Fiji conducted visits to various local steel manufacturers to gain firsthand insights into the steel mesh production processes. The purpose of these visits was to scrutinize operational details, quality control protocols, and the characteristics of locally produced goods.
The findings revealed a lack of independent quality control to ensure manufacturers consistently meet the AS/NZS 4671 standards, alongside non-compliance in mechanical tests at one of the facilities.
Engineers Fiji’s recommendations aim to guide both the industry and local manufacturers while addressing potential hazards related to the use and export of mesh reinforcements.
In conjunction with these developments, one manufacturer has claimed to maintain certification recognized by Australia.
In response to the government’s inquiry on the standard of mesh steel reinforcement, Engineers Fiji proposed a three-point plan for improvement.
1) Legislation for Independent Product Certification: Engineers Fiji is advocating for laws that mandate steel reinforcement manufacturers to acquire independent product certification from internationally recognized organizations, similar to the Australasian Certification Authority for Reinforcing and Structural Steels (ACRS). This certification would ensure that locally produced steel reinforcements adhere to relevant standards.
2) Adoption of the Current AS/NZS 4671 Standard: The organization is calling for the adoption of the 2019 version of the AS/NZS 4671 standard as the standard for Fiji. This move would align Fiji with modern engineering practices in Australia and New Zealand, as the Fiji National Building Code requires using the latest versions of these standards.
3) Transition from Traditional Mesh to Common Mesh Types in New Zealand: Engineers Fiji pointed out that while Fiji is still using traditional mesh types, the industry has shifted to the newer versions as specified in the AS/NZS 4671 standard from 2001. They suggest it would be beneficial for Fiji to adopt the contemporary mesh types reflected in AS/NZS 4671.
The need for upgrading from the 2001 mesh types to the 2019 version is emphasized due to Fiji’s seismic zone status, where steel ductility is crucial. Engineers Fiji noted that Ductility Class E mesh is readily available and highlights the structural requirements set forth in New Zealand’s building code.
Meanwhile, amid increasing concerns from the industry, it has come to light that a specific steel manufacturer mentioned in an industry report has launched a media campaign to promote its steel production. This manufacturer is also involved in efforts to remove derelict vessels from Suva harbor as a business venture, despite lacking a formal contract for such operations.
The government has reiterated that any adjustments to the manufacturer’s media strategy will depend on recommendations made to Trade Minister Manoa Kamikamica, who has yet to respond to inquiries regarding the matter.