Discussions are currently underway to investigate allegations concerning the quality of steel produced domestically. Shaheen Ali, the permanent secretary of the Ministry of Trade, made this statement following a letter of concern from Engineers Fiji, which has also proposed recommendations for enhancing the quality of steel mesh reinforcement.
Mr. Ali indicated that the Ministry’s Standards team is engaged in ongoing discussions with Engineers Fiji and the manufacturer in question to verify essential technical information. He assured that the minister would be kept informed, and appropriate recommendations would be made to ensure compliance with Fiji’s standards.
The letter, dated July 31 and signed by civil and structural engineer Krishmal Dutt along with Engineers Fiji president Terence Erasito, was a response to a request from the minister for industry feedback regarding the inclusion of Ø6.3mm Grade 500L steel mesh reinforcement in Fiji’s trade standards. Following their inquiry, Engineers Fiji stated that no amendment to the Trade Standards for this inclusion was necessary. They emphasized that it remains the engineer’s responsibility to evaluate project-specific requirements and select suitable mesh reinforcement accordingly.
Engineers Fiji recommends gradually phasing out traditional mesh without enforcing such changes through legislation. The organization visited several local steel manufacturers to gain insights into their production processes and quality control measures. Their findings revealed gaps in independent quality control and inconsistencies in the mechanical properties of steel mesh produced at one of the two facilities tested.
The recommendations put forth by Engineers Fiji aim to enhance the industry’s operations and ensure the safety of using and exporting mesh reinforcements. One manufacturer asserted that they maintain certification standards recognized by Australia.
In response to the government’s solicitation for industry feedback, Engineers Fiji has proposed a three-point plan for improving the standards of mesh steel reinforcement.
The first recommendation is for legislation mandating independent product certification for steel reinforcement manufacturers. Engineers Fiji insists that this certification should come from internationally recognized organizations like the Australasian Certification Authority for Reinforcing and Structural Steels (ACRS).
Secondly, Engineers Fiji advocates for Fiji to adopt the 2019 version of the AS/NZS 4671 standard. They argue that aligning with contemporary engineering practices in Australia and New Zealand is crucial since the Fijian National Building Code requires adherence to the latest versions of these standards.
Lastly, Engineers Fiji suggests transitioning from traditional mesh types to those commonly available in New Zealand, explaining that the existing preference for outdated 2001 standards is not suitable for Fiji’s seismic conditions.
The organization stresses the importance of implementing Ductility Class E steel mesh, which is designed for seismic resilience, and aims for familiarization with materials that the industry already recognizes.
Meanwhile, amid rising concerns in the industry, it has been revealed that a manufacturer linked to recent reports has started a media campaign to promote its steel production. This company is also allegedly involved in efforts to eliminate derelict vessels from Suva harbor, pursuing it as a business opportunity without a formal contract. The government has clarified that any adjustments to this company’s media campaign will depend on feedback to be provided to Trade Minister Manoa Kamikamica, who has not publicly responded to the inquiries.