Poor concrete batch led to Thongathi (Tongaat) mall collapse - engineer told the Department of Labour-appointed commission of inquiry
Consulting Engineer, Dr Vernon Marshal testified before the Thongathi Mall Structural Commission of Inquiry that the concrete strength at the time of the collapse of the Mall were significantly lower than the prescribed specifications.
"All indications at the time of collapse show that the concrete strength was significantly lower than specified. That could be a major reason of the collapse. This is based on core tests done on the columns affected, all these conclusions are also drawn from information provided to me," Marshal said.
The Thongathi Mall Structural Commission of Inquiry was appointed following the collapse of the Mall that led to the death of two workers and injury to 29. This week on Wednesday it will be a year since the Mall collapsed last 19 November.
The Section 32 hearing, was instituted by the Department of Labour in terms of the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Act - to gather evidence on negligence that may have resulted in occupational injuries and death of workers.
The Commission started its work work of gathering evidence on 11 February 2014.
Marshal further testified that the concrete batch was very poor," and this points to a strong case that quality controls were not very good".
The Commission continues tomorrow at the North Coast Town's Municipal Offices in Thongathi.
Enquiries:
Nhlanhla X Khumalo
Tel: 031 366 2018
Cell: 074 589 9682
E-mail: nhlanhlax.khumalo@labour.gov.za
