Architects association for reforms to enhance building safety after fatal slab collapse
AAK is urging authorities to enforce stricter safety measures and impose harsher penalties for non-compliance to prevent future tragedies.
The Architectural Association of Kenya (AAK) has called for urgent reforms in construction safety standards following the collapse of a slab at a construction site in Parklands, Nairobi on February 11, 2025.
The collapse, caused by poor formwork and inadequate bracing, claimed the life of one worker and exposed severe lapses in supervision and worker safety.
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AAK is urging authorities to enforce stricter safety measures and impose harsher penalties for non-compliance to prevent future tragedies.
As part of its commitment to promoting safer construction practices through the Mulika Mjengo Initiative, AAK dispatched a team to independently investigate the site on February 12.
"Our investigation revealed significant issues with structural integrity, including poorly erected formwork, unstable bracing, and improperly placed props," said the AAK in a statement.
"These factors ultimately led to the collapse, and it is clear that the lack of proper supervision and safety measures played a significant role in the tragedy."
The AAK team also discovered a hybrid system of gum poles and steel jack props that were inadequately secured, lacking proper alignment and horizontal bracing. The scaffolding around the site was incomplete, leaving workers exposed to potential hazards.
No site supervisor
In a concerning revelation, AAK noted that there was no site supervisor present at the time of the incident.
"We urge all developers and contractors to adhere strictly to safety protocols and engage qualified oversight to prevent further tragedies," said the AAK, underscoring the importance of professional supervision at all stages of construction.
The association has called for immediate action from authorities and developers to prevent similar incidents in the future.
AAK emphasised the need for mandated agencies to conduct thorough structural audits to pinpoint the causes of such failures and implement corrective measures.
"It is imperative that structural audits are carried out and corrective actions are put in place to ensure the safety of all construction sites," AAK said.
The association also stressed that construction sites must install complete and continuous scaffolding to create a secure working environment for all workers.
AAK also called on enforcement agencies to conduct routine inspections at construction sites to ensure compliance with safety standards and to impose stricter penalties for non-compliance.
"We must see harsher penalties, including site closures and legal action, for developers who fail to meet safety standards," the AAK stated.
AAK reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that all stakeholders in the construction industry prioritise safety, engage professional oversight, and uphold the integrity of building projects.
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