Discussions are in progress regarding allegations about substandard steel produced domestically. The remarks from Shaheen Ali, the permanent secretary of the Ministry of Trade, followed a letter of concern from Engineers Fiji to the Government, which also provided recommendations to enhance the quality of steel mesh reinforcement.
Mr. Ali stated that the Ministry of Trade’s Standards team is actively engaging in discussions with Engineers Fiji and the implicated manufacturer to verify technical information. Updates will be provided to the minister, and recommendations will be made to ensure compliance with Fiji’s standards.
The letter, dated July 31 and signed by civil and structural engineer Krishmal Dutt and Engineers Fiji president Terence Erasito, responded to a request for industry feedback on including Ø6.3mm Grade 500L steel mesh reinforcement in Fiji’s trade standards. Engineers Fiji concluded that there is no need for an amendment to the Trade Standards regarding this inclusion.
Despite this conclusion, Engineers Fiji emphasized that it remains the engineer’s responsibility to evaluate specific project needs and make informed choices concerning the type of mesh reinforcement used. They suggested a gradual phasing out of traditional mesh without enforcing it through legislation.
Engineers Fiji conducted visits to various steel manufacturers within the country to gain firsthand insight into the processes involved in steel mesh reinforcement production. The purpose of these visits was to better understand operational details, quality control measures, and local products.
The investigations revealed several points:
– There is a lack of independent quality control to ensure that manufacturers consistently adhere to AS/NZS 4671, along with non-compliance in mechanical properties during tests at one of the two facilities.
– Variations exist in the types of steel mesh reinforcement produced locally.
The recommendations from Engineers Fiji aim to foster progress within the industry and support local manufacturers while mitigating the risks associated with using and exporting mesh reinforcements. One manufacturer has claimed adherence to a certification standard recognized in Australia.
In response to the Government’s request for comments regarding mesh steel reinforcement standards, Engineers Fiji presented a three-point plan:
1. **Legislation for Independent Product Certification**: Engineers Fiji advocates for laws mandating that steel reinforcement manufacturers obtain certification from independent bodies recognized internationally, similar to the Australasian Certification Authority for Reinforcing and Structural Steels (ACRS). This certification would affirm that locally produced steel reinforcement meets relevant standards and address situations of non-compliance.
2. **Adoption of the Current AS/NZS 4671 Standard**: The organization is pushing for the adoption of the 2019 version of the AS/NZS 4671 standard as the standard for Fiji. This alignment with current engineering practices in Australia and New Zealand is seen as critical, especially since the Fiji National Building Code requires compliance with the latest standards. The 2019 version establishes minimum requirements for demonstrating product conformity.
3. **Transition from Traditional Mesh to Commonly Available Mesh in New Zealand**: Currently, Fiji continues to use traditional mesh types, which have not kept pace with the upgraded standards available since 2019. Engineers Fiji recommends transitioning to the newer mesh types outlined in AS/NZS 4671 to remain consistent with international standards.
Engineers Fiji argues that this upgrade is particularly important given Fiji’s location in a seismic zone, where the use of ductile materials is crucial. They have highlighted that mesh types available in New Zealand come with a Ductility Class E, suitable for seismic applications, while the less ductile types are classified under Class L.
As an industry concern heightens, it has been noted that one mentioned manufacturer has initiated a media campaign to promote its steel production. This same manufacturer is also involved in initiatives to remove derelict vessels from Suva harbor without formal contracts. The Government has indicated that any changes related to this manufacturer’s media activities will depend on the recommendations made to Trade Minister Manoa Kamikamica, who has not responded to inquiries. His ministry stated that recommendations will be presented concerning the advertisements in question.