Ghana’s construction industry is increasingly using undersized building materials to cut costs, driven by inflation, exchange rates, supply issues, and profit motives. While this may seem economical, it poses serious safety risks and contributes to structural failures, including multiple building collapses in Accra and Kumasi over the past decade.
Research shows that seven out of eight Ghanaian steel manufacturers produce steel bars below standard sizes, reducing structural strength. For instance, a 10% reduction in diameter leads to a 19% decrease in load-bearing capacity. This mismatch between design specs and actual materials increases long-term risks, including building cracks, water leaks, lower property values, higher insurance costs, and legal liabilities.
Despite clear regulations by the Ghana Standards Authority aligned with global benchmarks, enforcement is weak. Lack of labeling and traceability worsens the issue. A coordinated response is needed—stronger regulation, regular testing, mandatory labeling, industry ethics, public education, and economic incentives for compliance.
Ultimately, using standard-sized, quality materials may cost more upfront but ensures safety, durability, and higher long-term value for individuals and the nation
Source : https://www.knust.edu.gh/news/news-items/prof-emmanuel-adinyira-shrinking-increase-economic-and-structural-risks-decreasing-building-material-sizes
Research shows that seven out of eight Ghanaian steel manufacturers produce steel bars below standard sizes, reducing structural strength. For instance, a 10% reduction in diameter leads to a 19% decrease in load-bearing capacity. This mismatch between design specs and actual materials increases long-term risks, including building cracks, water leaks, lower property values, higher insurance costs, and legal liabilities.
Despite clear regulations by the Ghana Standards Authority aligned with global benchmarks, enforcement is weak. Lack of labeling and traceability worsens the issue. A coordinated response is needed—stronger regulation, regular testing, mandatory labeling, industry ethics, public education, and economic incentives for compliance.
Ultimately, using standard-sized, quality materials may cost more upfront but ensures safety, durability, and higher long-term value for individuals and the nation
Source : https://www.knust.edu.gh/news/news-items/prof-emmanuel-adinyira-shrinking-increase-economic-and-structural-risks-decreasing-building-material-sizes