SABS defends itself amid investigation

THE SA Bureau of Standards (SABS) has defended itself as the entity faces an independent investigation into its affairs. The probe is expected to be completed at the end of next month.

- LOYISO SIDIMBA

Economic Industry and Competition Minister Ebrahim Patel commissioned the investigation following serious allegations of deteriorating standards at the entity for which his department is responsible.

The SABS this week explained that its management has been instrumental in investigating instances of malfeasance and corruption.

"This has been evidenced by the numerous investigation reports and status updates provided to management to the investigators," the entity explained.

DA MP Toby Chance said the SABS is the custodian of the country's quality systems.

"What means that products that are cement to car parts to electronic appliances all have to be certified for use not just by South Africans but by people who buy these products if they are being exported.

The concerns that have been raised relate to the breakdown in systems, laboratories, the destruction of material and the loss of accreditation, for example, of the cement lab which still has not been reinstated. Also, computer systems that are not maintained. Last November there was a very serious cyber attack," he said?