An investigation is currently being conducted regarding the steel reinforcement products manufactured and distributed in Fiji. Engineers Fiji has confirmed that they are undertaking a “due diligence exercise” in response to inquiries from SunBiz concerning the quality of locally produced steel.
Terence Erasito, the president of Engineers Fiji, stated that the organization will provide a more detailed response to these concerns once the investigation is complete. This exercise is being conducted on behalf of the Ministry of Trade, Co-operatives, Small and Medium Enterprises and Communications, which operates under Fiji Standards.
Erasito raised alarms about the potential dangers of using substandard steel reinforcement in construction projects. He noted that most structures in Fiji conform to seismic design standards that align with New Zealand regulations. Utilizing inferior reinforcement steel would result in structures that do not meet the Fiji National Building Code and New Zealand Standards, compromising their integrity.
He emphasized that non-compliant structures may not perform as engineered, with their safety depending on the extent of the non-compliance. Structures like buildings, bridges, and towers, which rely on reinforced concrete, must withstand lateral loads from seismic activities, especially earthquakes, in a ductile manner. Ensuring that the reinforcing steel used in construction is ductile is crucial for occupant safety during such events.
Erasito explained that the chemical composition of steel reinforcing bars must be optimal, meaning they should not have excessive carbon or impurities. Such defects can lead to premature failures, resulting in disastrous structural collapses.
He further advocated for the use of compliant, ductile steel in Fiji’s construction sector.
Erasito also called on the government to finalize and endorse the Chartered Professional Engineers of Fiji Act. However, the government refers to the existing Engineers Registration Act of 1976. The Attorney-General’s office has not yet addressed inquiries regarding amendments proposed in a bill from 2020.
He stressed that the Ministry for Local Government, which supervises municipal councils, should ensure that all construction projects are approved by a Chartered Professional Engineer. This requirement would apply to a broad range of developments, from residential homes to critical infrastructure projects like airfields and roads.
Erasito highlighted the important role professional engineers play as guardians of civil society and urged the government to recognize their responsibility, thereby fostering an environment that respects the high professional standards of engineers in Fiji.
He pointed out that inconsistencies in the processing of development applications among municipal councils affect developers, investors, and homeowners, indicating that this issue needs to be urgently addressed.