An investigation is currently being conducted regarding the steel reinforcement produced and distributed in Fiji. Engineers Fiji has confirmed that they are undertaking a “due diligence exercise” following inquiries from SunBiz concerning the quality of locally manufactured steel.
Terence Erasito, president of Engineers Fiji, stated that further details will be provided once this exercise is concluded, on behalf of the Ministry of Trade, Co-operatives, Small and Medium Enterprises and Communications, which operates under Fiji Standards.
Concerns have been raised about the potential use of substandard reinforcement steel in construction. Erasito explained that structural designs in Fiji typically adhere to New Zealand Standards. The utilization of inferior steel reinforcement could lead to non-compliance with the Fiji National Building Code and New Zealand Standards, affecting the structures’ engineered performance.
He emphasized that structures such as buildings, bridges, towers, and wharves must endure lateral loads induced by seismic events, like earthquakes. It’s crucial for the safety of occupants that these structures allow for safe evacuation during such emergencies. To ensure this, the reinforcing steel employed in construction must possess ductility, meaning its chemical composition should allow it to maintain strength during deformation due to tension and shear forces.
Erasito highlighted the dangers posed by steel reinforcement bars with excessive carbon or harmful chemical impurities, which can lead to premature failure and catastrophic outcomes for the structures.
The importance of utilizing compliant, ductile steel in Fiji was stressed.
Additionally, Erasito reiterated the urgency for the government to finalize and endorse the Chartered Professional Engineers of Fiji Act, despite the existence of the Engineers Registration Act of 1976. The Attorney-General’s office has yet to respond to inquiries regarding a proposed bill from 2020 concerning this matter.
He also called for the Ministry for Local Government, responsible for overseeing 13 municipal councils, to ensure that all developments in Fiji are endorsed by a Chartered Professional Engineer, covering various projects from residential homes to infrastructure developments like airfields, ports, and bridges.
Erasito emphasized the critical role professional engineers play as guardians of civil society, urging the government to acknowledge this responsibility and foster an environment that recognizes the high professional standards and integrity of engineers in Fiji. He pointed out inconsistencies in how development applications are processed within municipal councils, noting that these issues affect developers, investors, and homeowners, and require immediate attention.