Engineer expelled by ECSA over George building collapse

The Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA) has stripped a registered engineer of his professional status and imposed the highest possible fine after he was found guilty of multiple breaches of professional conduct linked to the catastrophic building collapse in George last year.

On 6 May 2024, the structure gave way in what has become one of South Africa’s most devastating construction failures in recent memory, claiming 34 lives and leaving the George community reeling. The engineer was directly implicated after an investigation revealed grave lapses in professional responsibility and legal compliance.

ECSA confirmed yesterday that his registration was officially cancelled following a disciplinary hearing that concluded in late May this year. The hearing proceeded in his absence after he chose not to participate, despite being formally notified through their legal representative.

The Council’s Tribunal found the engineer guilty on all five charges under the Engineering Profession Act and the Code of Conduct. The violations included failing to discharge professional duties with due care and skill, disregarding public safety, and misrepresenting qualifications. Critically, the engineer was also found to have breached national legislation governing occupational health and safety, building standards, environmental management, and employment equity.

This was not the first time that his professional conduct had come under scrutiny. ECSA confirmed that this was the third complaint brought before its Governing Council. A 2019 complaint was closed due to lack of evidence, but a subsequent complaint in December 2023 led to formal disciplinary action, just months before the George tragedy.

The Tribunal, chaired by a senior attorney alongside two qualified engineers, considered expert testimony before handing down the maximum permissible fine under the Adjustment of Fines Act. In addition to the fine, the engineer’s name has now been struck off the national register.

In a move that underscores the seriousness of the case, ECSA has referred its entire investigation and findings to the South African Police Service for possible criminal prosecution under the Criminal Procedure Act.

“The pain and trauma caused by the collapse remain a stark reminder of the critical importance of professional accountability, public safety, and ethical conduct in the built environment,” ECSA said in a statement. “We extend our deepest sympathies to the families who lost loved ones, those injured, and the entire George community.”

The Council has pledged to support any affected families or community members who wish to pursue civil claims against the Respondent. It has also reiterated its commitment to protect the integrity of South Africa’s engineering profession, warning that it will “continue to take all lawful steps necessary” to uphold public trust.