Report highlights dangers of imported structural steelwork

Report highlights dangers of imported structural steelwork

Risks attached to using imported fabricated steelwork are highlighted in a new government report.

The WorkSafe Victoria guidance note warns not having the proper quality assurance systems in place to determine reliability of imported steelwork may result in catastrophic structural collapse. 

This may be due to:

  • being fabricated to unknown standards, or
  • being fabricated poorly due to poor quality assurance systems, or
  • being fabricated with improper substitution of materials and welding consumables.

A collapse may result in serious or fatal injuries to workers and others during the construction phase or during the intended use of the building or structure.

Fabricators of locally made steelwork can point to the guidance note when tendering for projects. 

Members wanting more specific information on forensic failures investigations specifically focused on steel structures can book an ASI webinar available to view from 19 Feb 2025 to 19 March 2025.

AS 4100:2020 – Steel Structures mandates the use of steel materials that adhere to specified values in chemical composition, mechanical properties, dimensional tolerances, and manufacturing methods.