Discussions are underway to evaluate claims regarding the quality of steel produced domestically. The Ministry of Trade’s permanent secretary, Shaheen Ali, provided this update following a letter from Engineers Fiji expressing concerns and suggesting improvements for the quality of steel mesh reinforcement.
According to Mr. Ali, the Standards team from the Ministry is in continuous dialogue with engineers from Engineers Fiji and the implicated manufacturer to gather and verify technical information. “The minister will be updated, and recommendations will be made to ensure compliance with Fiji’s standards,” he remarked.
The letter, dated July 31 and authored by civil and structural engineer Krishmal Dutt along with Engineers Fiji president Terence Erasito, addressed a request for industry feedback on incorporating Ø6.3mm Grade 500L steel mesh reinforcement into Fiji’s trade standards. Following their inquiry, Engineers Fiji stated that an amendment to the Trade Standards was unnecessary.
However, they emphasized that it is the engineer’s duty to evaluate the specific requirements of projects and to make educated decisions regarding the appropriate mesh reinforcement. Engineers Fiji proposed a gradual transition away from traditional mesh without imposing regulatory mandates.
Engineers Fiji conducted site visits to various steel manufacturers to gain insights into the production of steel mesh reinforcement and to understand the operational processes and quality control measures. Their findings revealed a deficiency in independent quality control to ensure compliance with AS/NZS 4671 standards and variations in the locally manufactured steel mesh.
The recommendations from Engineers Fiji aim to enhance industry standards and the practices of local manufacturers, all while addressing potential risks associated with the use and export of mesh reinforcements.
In response to the government’s request for input on steel mesh standards, Engineers Fiji proposed a three-point plan:
1. **Legislation for Independent Product Certification**: Engineers Fiji advocates for regulations that mandate steel reinforcement manufacturers to obtain independent certification from recognized organizations, ensuring compliance with relevant standards.
2. **Adoption of Current AS/NZS 4671 Standard**: Engineers Fiji calls for the latest version of the AS/NZS 4671 standard from 2019 to be adopted in Fiji, aligning local practices with contemporary engineering norms in Australia and New Zealand.
3. **Transition from Traditional to Modern Mesh Types**: While maintaining traditional mesh types, Engineers Fiji suggests moving towards the updated mesh types specified in the AS/NZS 4671 standard, currently being used in Australia and New Zealand since the 2001 version’s implementation.
Engineers Fiji also highlighted the necessity for structural mesh types with adequate ductility, particularly important given Fiji’s seismic activity. They noted that readily available mesh in New Zealand possesses Ductility Class E, suitable for seismic applications.
Amid industry concerns, it was reported that one manufacturer mentioned in the discussions has initiated a media campaign to promote its steel production capabilities. This manufacturer is also involved in a project to remove derelict vessels from Suva Harbour. The government has reiterated that any changes to the manufacturer’s media campaign will depend on the recommendations forwarded to Trade Minister Manoa Kamikamica, who has not responded to inquiries about the matter.