George building collapse: Disciplinary tribunal underway against structural engineer, says ECSA

Source: EWN Traffic
Author: Ntuthuzelo Nene

CAPE TOWN - The structural engineer appointed to oversee the construction of a collapsed building in George is no stranger to complaints about suspected shoddy work.

Athol Mitchell, of Mitchell and Associates, was the consulting engineer of a partially completed five-storey building that imploded, killing 34 people.

ALSO READ: Suspension against George construction engineer will remain

Sixty-two people were on site when the apartment block caved in, leading to a 10-day rescue and recovery operation.

The Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA) said it received two complaints against Mitchell, one of which was investigated and dismissed in 2019.

Council CEO Dr Bridget Ssamula said that a probe into the second complaint laid in December last year was finalised in April, and a decision to charge Mitchell was taken.

"Currently, the disciplinary tribunal has been set up for this particular individual and the processes are proceeding where the individual's right to be heard will be respected and ECSA will present its evidence as to making the decision to prefer charges on this individual."

Mitchell has since been placed on precautionary suspension pending a decision on the disciplinary process.