The Fijian government has issued a new directive mandating the use of earthquake-compliant reinforcement steel bars in construction following growing concerns about the quality and seismic safety of building materials used in the country. Trade Minister Manoa Kamikamica emphasized that deformed and plain steel bars, as well as welded mesh, must adhere to seismic standards. This requirement aligns with the push from the construction industry to utilize the 2019 version of the Fiji Australia New Zealand 4671 code for steel reinforcement materials, ensuring structures are better equipped to withstand seismic events, especially given Fiji’s location in the Ring of Fire.

An industry insider highlighted ongoing issues, stating that some contractors have been caught bypassing regulations by transporting rejected reinforcement bars to sites where oversight is lax, ultimately jeopardizing homeowners’ safety. This concern is particularly relevant following recent earthquakes in Vanuatu, which have served as a wake-up call for regional authorities about the pressing need for seismic-grade materials in construction.

The directive outlines comprehensive regulatory measures under the Trade Standards and Quality Control Act, including strict monitoring for compliance among local manufacturers. Import licenses will now be required for regulated materials, and manufacturers must submit quarterly reports detailing their stock’s quantity and quality. Violations of these regulations could lead to severe penalties: fines up to $10,000 or even imprisonment for repeat offenders.

These changes come amid an ongoing investigation into the prevailing standards of locally manufactured steel, led by Engineers Fiji in response to quality concerns. There have been reports of substandard steel that fails to meet the Fiji National Building Code, which could compromise the safety of critical infrastructure. The organization underscores the importance of using ductile steel to ensure the structural integrity of buildings, bridges, and other infrastructure during earthquakes.

As Fiji moves towards implementing these stringent measures, the hope is that these improvements will enhance the safety of constructions in the country, benefiting both builders and homeowners. By ensuring compliance with international standards and promoting high-quality materials, Fiji aims to foster a safer and more resilient built environment, ready to face inevitable seismic risks.

In summary, the government’s new directive on earthquake-compliant materials aims to enforce higher standards in construction, enhancing both safety and compliance with global practices, while recent investigative efforts by Engineers Fiji signal a comprehensive approach to addressing quality concerns in the local steel industry. Together, these steps reflect a commitment to ensuring that Fiji’s infrastructure can withstand seismic challenges.