The University of the Free State (UFS) extends its deepest sympathies to the families and loved ones affected by the tragic accident in George, South Africa, on Monday 6 May 2024 – a date marked by profound sorrow. “We mourn the lives lost and the injuries sustained, and our thoughts and prayers are with those enduring the unbearable pain and loss during this difficult time,” says Pierre Oosthuizen, Lecturer in the Department of Quantity Surveying and Construction Management.

On 16 May 2024, the Garden Route District Joint Operation Centre (George Municipality) issued a statement reporting that rescue and recovery efforts are still underway on day ten, following the building collapse at 75 Victoria Street. According to the centre, rescue workers and other role players have been at the site of the collapsed building for 244 hours.

Dedicated humanitarians rescuing those trapped under the rubble are true heroes

In the statement, they reported that there were 81 individuals on site when the incident occurred, of which 62 persons were rescued and recovered. Thirty-three of the individuals were deceased, 12 hospitalised, and 19 unaccounted for. Forty-seven of the victims have been linked to their families.

Eyewitness News reported that 85% of the building collapse site has been cleared of rubble and that search and rescue operations were continuing in the hope of finding those still unaccounted for.

Oosthuizen remarks, “We recognise the efforts of the George Municipality, Fire Department, Emergency Services, the public, and other contractors – these dedicated humanitarians who were working tirelessly to rescue those trapped under the rubble. They are the true heroes of our time, and we are eternally grateful for their service.”

“In these moments, it is hard to comprehend how such a disaster could occur. The media is rife with speculation about the causes of the structural failure, ranging from poor soil conditions and inadequate cement to incorrect concrete mixing and engineering design flaws. However, now is not the time to assign blame. Our focus must remain on supporting the workers and humanitarians at the site. Nevertheless, it is crucial to learn from this tragedy to prevent future occurrences,” says Oosthuizen.

Solution lies in rigorous research, education, and training

He believes that once the reasons for the collapse are identified, it becomes the duty of professionals, managers, public protectors, and educators to disseminate the lessons learned. “By integrating these lessons into our training, teaching, and learning, we can ensure effective implementation of safety measures to prevent similar accidents. The buildings we construct must adhere to the highest standards to safeguard all occupants,” states Oosthuizen.

According to him, the construction industry relies heavily on the dedicated labourers who work tirelessly day in and day out to complete projects. This industry is vital to serving humanity through job creation and product delivery, but it is not without risks, and the consequences can be severe when things go wrong.

Oosthuizen says in the Department of Quantity Surveying and Construction Management they believe that the solution lies in rigorous research, education, and training. “We will honour the lives lost in the horrific George accident by learning from what happened, and we are committed to educating and training our future leaders, managers, and professionals to prevent such tragedies from occurring again,” he concludes.”