AVERTING BUILDING COLLAPSE: “SEE SOMETHING, SAY SOMETHING” - LSTML
The General Manager of the Lagos State Materials Testing Laboratory (LSMTL), Engr. Olayinka Abdul, has charged Lagos Residents on the need to report any suspicious dilapidation to structures that could lead to their collapse across the Lagos Metropolis.
Speaking on Traffic Radio. 96.1 FM on a programme tagged: “Materials Testing Mata” aired on Monday, Engr. Abdul informed of the need to “See something, Say something”, in averting episodes of Building Disaster following Non-Compliance on materials testing of structures across the Metropolis
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“Building Collapse will consistently be a recurring issue if materials testing on structures is neglected. The recent structural collapse on Oremeta Street, Ojodu-Berger, was due to non-compliance with the results of a destructive test conducted during the materials testing process. The results at the time showed the need for further professional input from Structural Engineers, having been in the form of an uncompleted building for 10 years," she said.
Engr. Abdul added that the three-floor building came down following non-compliance with Building Codes in Lagos State on actions that contravene building specifications. "The collapse was further aggravated by the fact that the additional construction behind the building at the time was done purportedly at night so that the relevant Authorities of the Government wouldn’t be aware of such development, particularly being a Public Holiday of the Easter Celebrations.
While disclosing that it was while implementing the evil scheme that the building came down, the General Manager stated, “Tthat residents should note that the construction was done at night. Hence, they should have raised an alarm to help keep everyone safe. We need to be deliberate by informing relevant authorities of some happenings around us via WhatsApp: 07058890232”.
She proposed a five-year assessment of all long-standing structures while stressing the need for all the surrounding structures of the Oremeta Collapse to check for the structural integrity of their buildings due to the force induced by the inevitable collapse. Hence, they will be served Non-Destructive Test papers commencing Tuesday, 22nd April.
Speaking further on the unfortunate event, the General Manager reiterated that sanctions will be meted out to the parties concerned as penalty for non-compliance on extant codes of LSMTL on structures, noting that “Without rigorous testing, we risk constructing buildings and infrastructure that are prone to failure, collapse, and ultimately, loss of lives and property”.
“For Lagos State as a megacity with a rapidly growing population and urbanisation, the demand for quality infrastructure is higher than ever. The Lagos State Materials Testing Laboratory (LSMTL) has been at the forefront of ensuring that all construction materials used in the state meet the highest standards of quality and safety. Our mission is to safeguard the lives of Lagos residents and promote sustainable development," she concluded.
Engr. Olayinka Abdul emphasised that Materials testing is not just about safety; it is also about sustainability at ensuring that materials are of high quality, thus reducing the need for frequent repairs and replacements, thereby conserving resources and minimising waste associated with construction costs.
She emphasised further that there is a centralised process of operational safety in the Built Industry under the Lagos State Government, which all residents should access in securing lives and assets, particularly on all information dispersed through help lines, being considered with utmost priority. “All they need to do is to say something if they see something, as it emphasises the importance of citizens’ vigilance and safety”, the General Manager advised.
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