Structural failures driven by poor standards compliance, not sudden collapse trends — Engineer

Road and building consultant, Ing. Abdulai Mahama, has stated that the recent spate of building collapses reflects long standing violations of construction standards rather than isolated or sudden structural failures.

He explained that most failures recorded in Accra stem from deviations from approved building plans, substandard materials, and weak enforcement of building regulations.

According to him, while building designs are often properly vetted and approved by relevant local authorities, problems usually emerge during execution when contractors and owners alter specifications on site.

“The assemblies would have their drawings properly approved, but when it comes to the execution of the construction, that is where some of the owners of the buildings decide to shortchange their own designs,” he said.

He cited compromises in reinforcement and concrete mixing as key risks to structural integrity, noting that such practices gradually weaken buildings even if they appear stable in the early stages.

“In terms of the number of iron rods they are supposed to put in the building and then the concrete mix, let's say if I know that one cement bag is supposed to produce 30 blocks… people go and do 60 or 40 blocks with one cement bag,” he explained.

Ing. Mahama also pointed to weak site supervision and limited regulatory inspections as contributing factors, arguing that local assemblies often lack the resources to carry out consistent stage-by-stage monitoring of construction works.

He stressed the importance of soil testing prior to construction, warning that failure to assess ground conditions can compromise the stability of especially multi-storey buildings.

The consultant further cautioned against the change of use of completed structures without proper redesign, noting that converting residential buildings into commercial spaces can significantly increase structural load beyond original design limits.

He said such alterations often result in cracks, stress on columns, and eventual collapse if not professionally reviewed.

His comments come in the wake of the Avenor building collapse at North Kaneshie, where rescue operations are ongoing. Authorities have confirmed one fatality so far as investigations continue.