LETTER OF THE DAY - Hurricane-proof laws needed in Jamaica now

THE EDITOR, Sir:

THE PREDICTION by the United States National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) of an 'active to extremely active' hurricane season this year for the Atlantic Basin - which includes the North Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea and Gulf of Mexico - should be of great concern by all members of society, insurance companies and all stakeholders in the construction industry.

There is expected to be at least "three to seven could-be major hurricanes (categories three, four or five, with winds of at least 111mph)", which have the possibility of creating billions of dollars in damage and possible loss of life. This is with a backdrop of antiquated construction laws, inadequate planning, lack of inspections and poorly constructed buildings.

Having looked at a number of buildings in the areas of Manchester, Hanover and St James as a part of my research on planning methods, and being a former construction project manager in an area where there are substantive hurricanes each year, I am very concerned that we have failed to properly protect the consumer.

It is expected that when building a house, suitable engineering, proper construction methods/standards are being met to manage the risk of hurricane damage.

I continue to see the use of hurricane straps which do not meet acceptable standards, the incorrect use of fasteners and fixings for doors and windows. Added to this is the incorrect installation of roofing materials, especially asphaltic shingles without metal drip edges, interlocking metal roofing on improper rafters and the use of wire nails instead of galvanised nails.

Immediate gov't action needed

I have also observed elements of shoddy design to offer greater wind resistance and, as usual, the continuation of buildings in areas prone to flooding and mudslides.

The Government must enact the legislation currently under review to improve on the current building code. Jamaica should not have to face another hurricane with the current code and it does appear that there is neither the political will nor a real push to get this done.

I am asking the powers that be to enact the legislation speedily to ensure that there is a move to bring our standards to acceptable levels.

I am, etc.,

Mario Woode

solutions 696@aol.com