By Edward Dankwah
Accra, Mar. 30, GNA – The Institution of Engineering and Technology Ghana (IET-GH) have called for a review of engineering standards following the collapse of a four-storey building under construction within the Ayawaso Central Municipality.
In a press statement signed by Mr Wonder Davor, President of IET-GH, the institution expressed deep concern over the incident and urged authorities to undertake a comprehensive investigation to determine the exact cause.
The statement noted that preliminary engineering assessments suggested that such structural failures were often the result of multiple factors, including inadequate structural design.
It added that it included poor construction practices, use of substandard materials, premature removal of formwork, overloading during construction and possible foundation challenges.
The statement highlighted the importance of ensuring the integrity of critical load-bearing elements, particularly ground-level columns, which were essential to the stability of multi-storey buildings.
IET-GH emphasized that the precise cause of the collapse could only be established through an independent technical investigation led by the Engineering Council Ghana and conducted by qualified civil or structural engineers.
The Institution advised contractors to strictly adhere to approved drawings and specifications, ensure quality control in material usage and avoid unsafe practices aimed at cutting costs.
It also urged engineers and consultants to uphold the highest standards of professionalism by ensuring proper design and effective supervision of construction projects.
The statement called on Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies to intensify monitoring and enforcement of building regulations, including strengthening inspection regimes at critical stages of construction.
IET-GH stressed the need for improved emergency response capacity, noting that the availability of modern rescue equipment was crucial to saving lives during such incidents.
The Institution cautioned the public to avoid unsafe or incomplete structures, particularly as the rainy season approaches.
It extended condolences to families affected by the tragedy and wished the injured a speedy recovery, reaffirming its commitment to promoting safety and professionalism in Ghana’s built environment.
GNA
Edited by George-Ramsey Benamba