It has been revealed that the alterations to the house which collapsed in Meyersdal Eco Estate on Monday were not legal.

Ekurhuleni Municipal spokesperson Themba Gabebe has said that the alterations to the residence in Johannesburg did not meet the necessary National Building Regulations and Building Standards Act regulations.

Seven people died and eight others were injured when a large slab of concrete on the upper level of the house reportedly collapsed, causing the ground floor structure to give in under its weight. All workers believed to be accounted for, however Gadebe yesterday said, “The search continues to make sure that we have covered all our ground.”

 

Labour department investigating

The Department of Labour has dispatched a team of inspectors to investigate the site after which they will issue a preliminary report on the cause of the accident.

Labour Minister Mildred Oliphant has sent her condolences to the bereaved families and wished a speedy recovery to those in hospital.

The Gauteng MEC for Corporative Governance and Traditional Affairs Jacob Mamabolo has also extended his condolences.

 

Meeting with construction company

Eyewitness News reported that a meeting between the construction company involved in renovations and the families of the workers who died on site is expected to take place today.

 

Problems in the construction industry

The Joint Structural Division of the South African Institution of Civil Engineering (SAICE) and the Institution of Structural Engineers have noted with concern the failure of yet another structure.

Just nine months since the collapse of the Tongaat Shopping Mall, SAICE believes  it is apparent that viewed overall, there are problems in areas of the construction industry that need urgent resolution.

“Incidences such as these are still relatively uncommon in the South African context but they are avoidable,” SAICE said in a statement.

“It is incumbent on all role players within the construction Industry, especially those involved with structures, to focus on ensuring that all structural alterations and stages of the new works are designed and implemented in a manner that is in strict accordance with the very best practice.”

SAICE has expressed its sympathy to those injured and the bereaved families.