The Engineering Council of South Africa (Ecsa) has placed an engineer in charge of the construction of the George building, which collapsed, on precautionary suspension.
Also read: Several construction sites closed following George building collapse
Eighty-one people were working in the Victoria Street building when it collapsed on 6 May, killing 34 and injuring many more.
Last week, the Ecsa stated that the decision was made as a preventative measure to protect against any potential or actual harm to public health and safety as a result of engineering-related activities.
‘The precautionary suspension is not a disciplinary action, but a temporary removal of and/or restriction on all of the registered person’s rights, privileges, and/or activities associated with professional registration with the Ecsa,’ a statement read.
According to Ecsa, the suspension will remain in effect until any charges against the engineer are resolved, as well as any further disciplinary action or appeal.
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The engineering company’s name is unknown; however, in the statement, it is referred to as Mitchell and Associates, and within seven calendar days, a comprehensive list of all engineering-related undertakings, projects and services rendered by the registered person in both personal and professional capacities, whether trading under the name and style of Mitchell and Associates or otherwise, must be submitted.
The incident, described as unprecedented, stunned not only the locals, but the entire Western Cape. Ecsa stated that, at a minimum, the projects’ draft design and as-built drawings must be provided.
‘Within three weeks thereafter, the contractor or accountable party for the project is required to provide an independent engineer’s report concerning the structural integrity of the structure.’
‘This report must be compiled by a registered person, specifically a structural engineer, with no less than 10 years of experience, who has actively practised in the field of structural engineering and who is/was not involved as a project team member. The report should address the structural assessment and structural integrity of the engineering-related undertakings,’ Ecsa said.
‘After taking into account these conclusions, the Investigating Committee shall advise the council on any necessary actions pertaining to the council’s responsibilities and/or authority as specified under the Act.’
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