Inadequate column support responsible for Thongathi Mall collapse: foreman
A foreman at the construction site on the day of the Thongathi Mall accident testified today (February 12), that the small pillars providing support to the concrete structures that caved in and collapsed may have been responsible for the collapse of the Mall.
Testifying during the Thongathi Mall Commission of Inquiry, the foreman, Ronnie Pillay disputed a statement purportedly written and signed by him under oath. He alleged that the said statement was drafted by an official of the Department of Labour and he was asked to sign it. Pillay said the concerned statement was only read to him at the Police Station. He told the commission that he does not agree with some paragraphs in the statement.
“I can safely say to this commission this statement is not mine”, he said.
When cross examined by the presiding officer, it appeared that Ronnie Pillay agree with the content of the statement but has concerns with the language used.
Pillay said although he was a foreman on the construction site without any academic qualification in the construction field, his 14 years of experience in the construction industry compensated for this deficiency. He told the commission that his job included reading of plans and issuing of work to subordinates and general management of staff. He argued that he had previously worked in various ‘high rise’ construction projects under the supervision of experienced people.
Asked by the Thongathi Mall Commission Presiding Officer Phumudzo Maphaha on his knowledge on Construction Regulation that requires that a competent person (person with knowledge, training, experience and qualification) should be appointed to handle projects of the Thongathi Mall level? He told the Commission that he was familiar with Construction Regulation. He could not interpret whether the plans were correct or not, he just followed instructions from the superiors.
Pillay said he was hired to supervise the project by Chief Executive of Gralio Precast (Pty) Ltd, Jay Singh. Pressed on the importance of qualifications to head big construction projects, Pillay acknowledged that in 90% of cases this was imperative, and in instances where he did not understand plans he consulted with his superiors.
Pillay also testified that he had raised concerns about lift shafts and the sagging columns with the engineer of the project and he was assured after an assessment that everything was in order.
According to Pillay on the day of the tragedy in November 2013, there were no deviation from instruction and plans.
“Everything on the construction site was progressing well until late in the afternoon when we heard a deep sound and saw slaps giving way and a part of the Mall caving in and collapsing,” Pillay said.
When cross examined by the Ethekwini Municipality’s legal representatives, Pillay agreed that he was aware of the court orders prohibiting the continuation of the project.
The Thongathi Mall Commission of Inquiry continues tomorrow.
For more information contact:
Nhlanhla X Khumalo
KZN Provincial Spokesperson
Tel: 031 366 2018
Cell: 074 589 9682
Email: nhlanhlax.khumalo@labour.gov.za
