Experts advocate stiffer penalties for Engineers associated with building collapse

From Ene Asuquo, Calabar

A Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineer with specialty in Quality Management and Continuous improvement, Evi Viza, has called for enforcement of draconian measures and stiffer penalties against engineering companies who deviate from standard rules that lead to building collapse and system failure.

Viza made the call during the 2024 International Conference, Exhibition and Annual General (AGM ) which concluded yesterday in Càlabar.

The lead presenter who doubles as member of the Institute of Engineering and Technology (IET) and fellow of Royal Society of Arts stated that stiffer penalties will discourage engineers and companies with intention to engage in Sub-standard jobs to avoid system failure.

Viza who is also a Program Leader, Quality Management University of Scotland and mentor to APWEN, identified causes of system failure and building collapse to include absence of proper risk management, health and safety skills among others.

“There are regulations with no penalties. For example if a building collapsed and you find out why it collapsed, and the person or company is pernalized, no contractor or engineer will evade regulation.

“Having the right skills, right suppliers, and making sure that those responsible for enforcement of the law perform their job without fear or favour will make those awarded contracts sit up.

The lead speaker averred that many of her Nigerian students had investigated cases of failed projects that ought to attract sanctions to erring contractors unfortunately nothing was done to the erring contractors.

Also speaking, chairperson Women Engineers Committee, Nairobi Kenya, Jannifer Gache, urged women engineers to seek leadership positions in government to use the opportunity to contribute to the development and growth of the sector.