The Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) has suspended the manufacturing permits of Rongtai Steel Company Ltd after uncovering the production and distribution of substandard ribbed bars. These bars, essential in concrete reinforcement for construction, were found to violate EAS 412-2:2019 specifications, posing significant risks to public safety and the structural integrity of buildings.
As part of its enforcement actions, KEBS seized the substandard ribbed bars from Rongtai’s premises and the broader market. It further directed the company to halt production immediately and issued a recall for all distributed non-compliant products. KEBS has also suspended all operations at Rongtai Steel Company until the firm demonstrates full compliance with the mandated standards.
In its statement, KEBS underscored the potential dangers posed by using substandard materials. “The use of substandard construction materials undermines the structural integrity of buildings and endangers public safety,” KEBS noted.
The organization also issued a public advisory urging consumers to avoid purchasing ribbed bars from Rongtai Steel until further notice. Instead, it encouraged the public to verify products by checking for KEBS-certified marks, ensuring compliance with Kenya’s strict quality standards.
“KEBS remains committed to enforcing standards that promote fair trade practices, protect consumers, and support economic growth. We urge the public to safeguard themselves by purchasing only KEBS-certified products,” the agency emphasized.
KEBS further encouraged vigilance through its Wajibika Na KEBS program, which allows the public to report suspected substandard products. Consumers can verify the S-Mark or ISM Mark on products by sending a code via SMS to 20023.
The suspension of Rongtai Steel’s permits sends a strong signal to manufacturers about adherence to quality and safety standards. By acting decisively, KEBS aims to protect construction standards, uphold public safety, and reinforce the integrity of Kenya’s infrastructure.
