Discussions are currently underway to investigate claims regarding the production of substandard steel within the country. Shaheen Ali, permanent secretary of the Ministry of Trade, acknowledged this ongoing dialogue during a response to a letter from Engineers Fiji, which expressed concerns and suggested improvements for the quality of steel mesh reinforcement.
Mr. Ali stated that the Ministry’s Standards team is actively engaging with Engineers Fiji and the implicated manufacturer to verify the technical details related to these claims. He assured that the minister will be informed, and recommendations will be put forth to ensure compliance with Fiji’s standards.
The letter, dated July 31 and signed by civil and structural engineer Krishmal Dutt alongside Engineers Fiji president Terence Erasito, addressed a ministerial request for industry input regarding the inclusion of Ø6.3mm Grade 500L steel mesh reinforcement within Fiji’s trade standards. Engineers Fiji concluded from their inquiry that no amendment to the Trade Standards is necessary for this specific inclusion. They emphasized that engineers hold the responsibility to evaluate project-specific requirements and make informed choices concerning the type of mesh reinforcement utilized in various projects. They also recommend a gradual phase-out of traditional mesh, rather than imposing a mandate through legislation.
Engineers Fiji conducted visits to several local steel manufacturers to gain practical insights into the manufacturing processes involved in steel mesh reinforcement. These visits aimed to assess operational details, quality control measures, and the local products available. The findings revealed a lack of independent quality control to ensure consistent compliance with AS/NZS 4671 standards, as well as variations in the types of steel mesh reinforcement produced locally.
The recommendations from Engineers Fiji are intended to provide a pathway for improvement in the industry, while also addressing the potential risks associated with the use and export of mesh reinforcements. One manufacturer has claimed adherence to standards recognized in Australia, reinforcing the need for quality assurance in local production.
In response to the government’s request for comments on steel mesh reinforcement standards, Engineers Fiji proposed a three-point plan for enhancing industry practices:
1. **Legislation for Independent Product Certification**: They advocate for laws that mandate steel reinforcement manufacturers to obtain certification from an internationally recognized body, akin to the Australasian Certification Authority for Reinforcing and Structural Steels (ACRS). This independent certification would ensure that locally produced steel reinforcements comply with relevant standards.
2. **Adoption of the Current AS/NZS 4671 Standard**: Engineers Fiji urges the adoption of the 2019 version of the AS/NZS 4671 standard as Fiji’s official standard, aligning with contemporary engineering practices in Australia and New Zealand.
3. **Transition from Traditional Mesh to Modern Alternatives**: Despite the industry using the upgraded 2019 standard, Fiji is still relying on outdated 2001 grades. Engineers Fiji notes that transitioning from traditional mesh types to those specified in AS/NZS 4671 is advisable, given Fiji’s tendency to emulate standards from Australia and New Zealand.
They contend that upgrading from the 2001 to the 2019 standard is necessary, especially since Fiji is situated in a seismic zone where steel ductility is crucial. The implementation of Ductility Class E (seismic ductility) mesh is suggested, as these types are readily available in New Zealand and crucial for structural integrity.
Meanwhile, amid rising concerns in the industry, reports indicate that a manufacturer mentioned in relation to these issues has started a media campaign to promote its steel production. This manufacturer is also involved in efforts to remove abandoned vessels from Suva harbour as a business venture, albeit without a formal agreement.
The government has made it clear that any modifications to the company’s media initiatives will depend on the recommendations provided to Trade Minister Manoa Kamikamica, who has not responded to inquiries regarding this matter. The Ministry has stated that they will present recommendations to the Minister about the ongoing advertisements.