Government investigations determined that defects were noticeable a year before the collapse, and even a health and safety officer resigned in protest against the project's continued development. Reports indicated that workers had felt vibrations in the building and were instructed to fill gaping holes with sand and low-quality concrete. Following an emotional meeting with survivors and victims' families, Macpherson called for accountability for those responsible. A police inquiry is ongoing, and while no arrests have been made, the minister has vowed to introduce new regulations for construction oversight and modernize existing safety legislation. In the wake of the tragedy, survivors continue to face trauma and financial hardships, including ongoing medical bills and food insecurity.
Failures in Safety Standards Led to Tragic South African Building Collapse, Minister Confirms
Failures in Safety Standards Led to Tragic South African Building Collapse, Minister Confirms
A government report reveals preventable factors behind the devastating building collapse that took 34 lives.
The South African government has termed the recent building collapse in George, Western Cape, which killed 34 construction workers and injured many others, as "entirely preventable." According to the findings of a newly released report, severe safety concerns were previously raised regarding the structure, which was a partially-built five-storey apartment block. Public Works Minister Dean Macpherson expressed deep frustration over the incident, highlighting that critical issues including the use of substandard materials, visible structural defects, and improper repair methods were ignored despite multiple warnings.
