Johannesburg – Econo cement, which failed to meet expected standards, has been recalled to ensure that the product does not pose a risk to consumers and the South African economy at large.
The National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications (NRCS) on Monday announced that it was “recalling Econo Cement (PTY) Ltd product identified as the CEM V/A (S-V) 32,5N cement across the country after it was discovered that the product is substandard as it has failed to meet the requirements of VC 9085 (Compulsory Specification for Cement)”.
The NRCS said the move to recall the product followed intensive investigations, which included sampling and testing to ascertain the suitability of the cement to be offered for sale in South Africa.
“Econo Cement CEM V/A (S-V) 32,5N has failed to meet minimum requirements for the prescribed strength as set out in the Compulsory Specification for cement hence the nationwide recall in order to ensure that the product does not pose a risk to consumers and the South African economy at large,” NRCS spokesperson Mirriam Moswaane said.
Cement is one of the high-risk products used in the construction industry and there are set specifications/requirements that must be adhered to. When these requirements are compromised, it could lead to the distribution of substandard cement to unsuspecting consumers and the public.
Section 29 of the National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications Act, 2008 (Act No. 5 of 2008) provides that; the Chief Executive Officer may, if it is necessary in the public interest, reveal:
(i) the fact that a commodity is not in compliance with a Compulsory Specification; or
(ii) the name of a person who does not comply with or does not comply fully with a provision of the NRCS Act or any aspect regulated by the NRCS Act. It is in this premise that it was decided, that it is in the public interest and for the protection of the public to reveal this information.
Following the evidence of non-compliance against the requirements of VC9085:2007, the manufacturer’s Letter of Authority (LOA), which permits the sale of the product, has been withdrawn.
A Directive was issued in terms of Section 15 of NRCS Act No. 5 of 2008 to direct the manufacturer to stop the manufacturing process, sale and supply of the affected cement.
The NRCS said it will be confiscating all stocks found in the chain of trade, also calling on consumers not to buy the Econo Cement CEM V/A 32,5N product and to report it to the NRCS.
All distributors in possession of Econo Cement CEM V/A 32,5N should return it to their suppliers and keep proof of such and inform the NRCS via the email, info@nrcs.org.za.
Although the product has been found in Gauteng, parts of Mbombela, parts of KwaZulu-Natal and some areas in Limpopo, it is possible that it may be available elsewhere in the country.
The NRCS called on all hardware stores selling this product to make urgent contact with the NRCS and stop the sale with immediate effect.
The NRCS urged consumers to look out for NRCS LOA number printed in each bag of cement sold and if not sure, they can call the NRCS on 012 482 8802/8700 or visit the website on www.nrcs.org.za to verify the safety of the products before any transaction takes place.
