Media Release

9 Feb 2012

Professional Engineers Welcome DBH CTV Report

The Institution of Professional Engineers New Zealand (IPENZ) welcomes the report on the technical investigation into the reasons for the collapse of the CTV building commissioned by the Department of Building and Housing (DBH) and the report of an expert panel appointed by DBH on the structural performance of Christchurch CBD buildings collapse of the CTV building in the February 22nd Christchurch earthquake.

'We are confident the investigators have done an exacting job with these reports. Many of the panel come from amongst our Membership, and are internationally recognised experts', says IPENZ Chief Executive Andrew Cleland, 'The collapse of the CTV building was a terrible tragedy, and it is now vital we use this opportunity to identify issues, learn from them and continue to improve engineering practice in New Zealand'.

'The CTV report raises issues with the design and construction of the building with some aspects not complying with the technical standards of the day. We are also aware that family and friends of the victims are seeking accountability for this tragedy'.

'Whilst the DBH report is a technical evaluation and the individuals involved with the design and construction of the CTV building have not been named, IPENZ has a robust and impartial disciplinary process, and should evidence of the individuals involved come to light, then we will be assessing what jurisdiction we have, and measuring the actions of these individuals against the professional standards of the day'.

IPENZ has jurisdiction over members of the wider engineering profession who are currently registered holders of a competence quality mark and/or Members of IPENZ.

An IPENZ report on the standards and regulation for building construction in New Zealand can be found in the Canterbury Earthquakes Royal Commission Document Library.

http://canterbury.royalcommission.govt.nz/documents-by-key/20110930.1

For more information contact:

Rebecca Adams
Communications Manager

DDI: 04 473 2028
Mobile: 021 479 885
Email: comms@ipenz.org.nz