Discussions are currently taking place to investigate claims regarding the production of substandard steel in the country. This follows a letter of concern addressed to the Government by Engineers Fiji, which has also proposed recommendations for improving the quality of steel mesh reinforcement.
According to Shaheen Ali, the permanent secretary of the Ministry of Trade, the ministry’s Standards team is engaged in ongoing discussions with Engineers Fiji and the manufacturer involved to verify the technical information in question. Ali stated that the minister will be kept informed and recommendations will be made to ensure compliance with Fiji’s standards.
The letter dated July 31, signed by civil and structural engineer Krishmal Dutt and Engineers Fiji president Terence Erasito, was a response to a request from the government for industry input on the inclusion of Ø6.3mm Grade 500L steel mesh reinforcement in Fiji’s trade standards. Engineers Fiji concluded from its industry inquiry that no amendments to the trade standards for this inclusion were necessary. However, the organization emphasized that engineers should independently evaluate project-specific needs when choosing mesh reinforcement.
Engineers Fiji suggested a gradual move away from traditional mesh types without enforcing this change through legislation. The organization conducted visits to various local steel manufacturers to gain insight into steel mesh production processes.
The visits revealed a lack of independent quality control to ensure manufacturers consistently meet AS/NZS 4671 standards, as well as non-compliance concerns with the mechanical properties observed during testing at one of two facilities. There were also reported variations in the types of locally produced steel mesh reinforcement.
As a result, Engineers Fiji’s recommendations aim to advance the industry and safeguard local manufacturers while addressing potential risks associated with using and exporting mesh reinforcements. One manufacturer has claimed that it maintains certification standards acknowledged by Australia.
In response to the government’s request for comments on the steel reinforcement standards, Engineers Fiji outlined a three-point plan:
1) **Legislation for Independent Product Certification:** Engineers Fiji urges that legislation be established mandating steel reinforcement manufacturers, including mesh and bar types, to acquire independent certification from a globally recognized body.
2) **Adoption of Current AS/NZS 4671 Standard:** Engineers Fiji calls for the current version of the AS/NZS 4671 standard (2019) to be adopted in Fiji, aligning the country with contemporary engineering practices in Australia and New Zealand.
3) **Transition to Commonly Available Mesh in New Zealand:** Engineers Fiji promotes a transition from traditional mesh types to those specified in the AS/NZS 4671:2019 standard, as Fiji still utilizes mesh types from the outdated 2001 standard.
The group argued that the upgrade of mesh types from 2001 to 2019 is crucial, especially since Fiji is located in a seismic zone where steel ductility is vital. Implementing Ductility Class E mesh, which is characterized by improved seismic ductility, is also recommended.
Meanwhile, in light of rising industry concerns, reports indicate that one manufacturer, mentioned in an industry report, has initiated a media campaign to promote its steel production. This manufacturer is also involved in efforts to remove abandoned vessels from Suva harbor as a business venture, albeit without a formal contract. The government has stated that any adjustments to the media campaign will depend on recommendations made to Trade Minister Manoa Kamikamica, who did not respond to inquiries. The ministry indicated that recommendations regarding the advertisements would be provided to the minister shortly.