An investigation is currently being conducted into the quality of steel reinforcement that is manufactured and distributed in Fiji. Engineers Fiji has confirmed that they are undertaking a due diligence exercise following inquiries from SunBiz regarding local steel manufacturing standards.
Terence Erasito, president of Engineers Fiji, stated that they will provide a more comprehensive response to these concerns once the investigation is concluded. This effort is being conducted in cooperation with the Ministry of Trade, Co-operatives, Small and Medium Enterprises and Communications, which operates under Fiji Standards.
Erasito raised concerns about the use of substandard steel reinforcement in construction, emphasizing that structures designed and built in Fiji typically adhere to New Zealand Standards for seismic design. He warned that using low-quality steel could lead to non-compliance with the Fiji National Building Code, compromising the integrity and safety of buildings, bridges, and other structures.
The ability of a structure to withstand seismic events is crucial. Erasito highlighted that the reinforcing steel used in these constructions must be ductile, meaning its chemical composition should allow it to deform without losing strength during movements like swaying or shear. He pointed out that steel bars with excessive carbon or impurities could fail prematurely, resulting in severe structural failures.
Moreover, Erasito called on the government to finalize and endorse the Chartered Professional Engineers of Fiji Act to ensure uniform endorsement by Chartered Professional Engineers for all developments in Fiji, including residential homes and infrastructure projects. He noted inconsistencies in how municipal councils handle development applications, which negatively affect developers, investors, and homeowners. Addressing these issues is essential to establishing better business practices in Fiji.