By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications (NRCS) is recalling the Econo Cement CEMV/AS-V32.5N product from all distributors and retail outlets across South Africa.
NRCS acting CEO Dr Duncan Mutengwe briefed the media briefing on December 11, saying it has failed to meet the requirements of the compulsory specifications for cement.
Mutengwe, said the move was in the public interest to ensure the product does not pose a risk to South Africans and the economy at large.
He explained: The product failed dismally in terms of what they are selling it to be. It was supposed to be 32.5 N [the most commonly used cement with ordinary early strength], but our tests found the results much lower. Consumers need to know because it does have critical safety risk features attached to it.
He said the NCRS had ordered the company to stop manufacturing the product, and the body will also confiscate all the stocks currently on shelves.
The company received a letter of authority in 2019 after initial tests had found it had met industry requirements. However, Mutengwe’s letter of authority that provides for the product’s sale has been withdrawn with immediate effect.
All distributors in possession of the product have also been urged to return it to their suppliers and to keep proof of this and inform the NRCS via the email info@nrcs.co.za.
Mutengwe said the product was available in three provinces; however, it was possible that it may also be available elsewhere in the country.
The NRCS has therefore called on all hardware stores selling it to urgently contact the organisation and to stop sales, while consumers have been urged to also keep an eye out for it and to contact the NRCS with any enquiries.