Fiji’s construction industry is facing significant challenges regarding the safety standards of imported materials, specifically fire-resistant construction materials. National Fire Authority (NFA) officer Sefanaia Cola raised these concerns at the recent EXTRA Fiji Architecture Conference, held at the Sheraton Fiji Golf Resort and Spa. He pointed out that there is currently no official body to oversee whether the materials brought into Fiji comply with fire safety regulations, particularly those established by the Australia and New Zealand standards under the National Building Code Fiji (NBCF).
Cola emphasized the existing gap between suppliers and the compliance verification process, noting that while a special unit under the Trade Ministry is tasked with monitoring standards, their capability to enforce compliance remains uncertain. He highlighted the need for clear guidelines regarding the fire resistance of materials, particularly when they are sourced from countries like China, questioning how their compliance with the required standards can be assured.
This discussion occurs amidst Fiji’s broader efforts to improve construction safety standards, particularly in response to seismic activity risks given the country’s location in the seismically active Ring of Fire. Recent directives from the Fijian government have mandated the use of earthquake-compliant steel reinforcement materials, further demonstrating a proactive approach to addressing construction safety. Trade Minister Manoa Kamikamica has reiterated the importance of rigorous compliance monitoring and education for stakeholders within the construction sector, particularly regarding the quality of locally manufactured materials.
Cola’s request for the inclusion of stricter material compliance checks in the revised National Building Code reflects a collective concern among industry stakeholders about maintaining high safety standards. The Construction Industry Council has echoed these sentiments, advocating for stricter enforcement of building regulations to ensure quality and safety in construction practices. There is hope that the government will address these challenges proactively, paving the way for a safer built environment that ultimately protects the lives and investments of Fijians.
By ensuring that construction materials adhere to robust safety standards, efforts are underway to foster not just compliance but a commitment to improving the integrity of infrastructure throughout Fiji. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance resilience, safety, and public trust in the construction sector, promising a fortified future for Fiji’s infrastructure.