The Cement & Concrete Institute (C&CI) has expressed concern about the dangerous consequences of ‘sub-standard cement products' that are appearing in the local market.
In a press statement issued on 18 July the C&CI says it is imperative that all infrastructure and buildings built with cement or cement-based products are structurally sound and durable. "However, it has come to our attention that some cements currently being sold in the South African market do not meet the requirements of the compulsory specification, possibly resulting in sub-standard - and even dangerous - structures and buildings.
"South Africa instituted a compulsory standard for cement in 2007. All cement sold in South Africa must meet the requirements of this standard. The responsibility for enforcing the standard lies with the National Regulator of Compulsory Standards (NRCS). In order to sell cement in South Africa, all producers and importers are required to have a Letter of Authority (LoA) from the NRCS for each different cement type being offered for sale. The NRCS will only issue a LoA if it is satisfied that the cement meets the requirements of the compulsory standard. This requirement applies to all cements.
"In the interests of safe buildings and structures, it is important that cement has a LoA. The fact that a LoA appears on a bag is no guarantee that a LoA has actually been issued by the NRCS. Should consumers be in doubt, they should contact the NRCS to determine whether a particular product from a particular producer or supplier has a current LoA issued by the Regulator. The NRCS contact persons are Tando Magolego, MAGOLET@nrcsorg.za, 012-428-6375; and Ida Phalatse, PHALATME@nrcsorg.za , 012-428-6667.
"In addition, it is recommended that only reputable brands and producers/suppliers are used.
"It is also important that the cement used is fit-for-purpose for a particular application. This information is available on a C&CI leaflet ‘Cementitious Materials for Concrete' which can be downloaded from the website (www.cnci.org.za) or by calling 011-315- 0300," the statement adds.
The C&CI says the potential consequences of using cements without a valid LoA and therefore not complying with the compulsory standard include:
- Increased cost of concrete if more cement is needed to achieve the specified strength.
- Low strength mortar or concrete possibly resulting in failures or increased maintenance.
- A lack of durability resulting in increased maintenance and life-cycle costs.
- Failure of coatings to adhere to weak mortar/plaster.
"So, while some cements may be significantly cheaper than others, the consumer needs to determine whether in fact the cement in question has a LoA, and also whether suitable for the intended application.
"In the frame of the Consumer Protection Act, anyone who sells sub-standard cement puts themselves at risk. Forewarned is forearmed," C&CI cautions.
