No structural failure recorded at Roman Ridge problem site – Devtraco – Life Pulse Daily
Editor-in-chiefOctober 30, 20254 Mins read13
No structural failure recorded at Roman Ridge problem site – Devtraco – Life Pulse Daily
Introduction
On Monday, October 28, 2025, Devtraco Plus Limited, the management entity overseeing the Roman Ridge development in Accra, Ghana, clarified the nature of a structural incident that occurred during construction. Initial reports of a catastrophic collapse were corrected: a detailed investigation revealed that the event was limited to a localized failure of temporary formwork—a critical component used to stabilize freshly poured concrete. The incident affected an area of approximately 50 square meters of the first-floor podium slab but did not compromise the building’s permanent framework. This article dissects the incident, its implications, and the lessons for construction safety in Ghana.
Analysis
What Caused the Temporary Formwork Failure?
Formwork—often referred to as falsework—is engineered scaffolding that holds wet concrete in place until it gains sufficient strength. Failures in temporary formwork can stem from design flaws, material degradation, improper installation, or human error during construction. In this case, Devtraco emphasized that the failure was isolated to supporting props, which likely succumbed to stress during or after pouring. Such incidents, while rare, underscore the delicate balance of physics and engineering in construction projects.
Debunking the Collapse Myth: Permanent Structure Safety
The distinction between temporary and permanent structures is critical. Temporary formwork is not part of the building’s enduring framework; its role is purely supportive during construction phases. Devtraco’s statement that the permanent structure remained “unaffected” highlights the importance of clear communication in construction terminology. This misunderstanding could have been avoided had the public been better informed about the technical layers of building design and execution.
Injury Response and Emergency Protocols
Fourteen construction workers sustained injuries, ranging from minor to moderate. Their swift transport to the 37 Military Hospital and Ridge Hospital reflects coordinated emergency response systems. However, two remain under observation—a reminder of the human risks inherent in construction work. This incident raises questions about on-site first-aid preparedness and the adequacy of medical facilities for occupational health emergencies in Ghana.
Summary
The Roman Ridge incident, initially feared to be a catastrophic structural collapse, was confined to a temporary formwork failure during concrete slab casting. Devtraco confirmed the permanent building’s integrity and reported 14 injured workers, with most recovering. A joint investigation is underway to identify causality and reinstate safety protocols. Stakeholders are urged to prioritize transparency, adhere to safety standards, and address public concerns with factual rigor.
Key Points
- The incident involved craned formwork supporting wet concrete on the first-floor podium slab.
- Formwork props failed due to stress or material limitations, not the permanent structure.
- Delayed or miscommunication about the incident may have exacerbated public panic.
- Temporary structures and permanent frameworks serve distinct roles in construction.
- Emergency response systems mitigated casualties but revealed gaps in workplace safety training.
- Third-party investigations are critical for post-incident accountability and preventive measures.
Practical Advice
For Construction Firms
1. **Invest in High-Quality Formwork:** Prioritize certified materials and adhere to international standards like EN 16006 for formwork safety.
2. **Regular Structural Audits:** Implement daily inspections of temporary supports and immediate worker notifications of anomalies.
3. **Training Programs:** Train workers to recognize load limits, proper assembly techniques, and emergency shutdown procedures.
For Homeowners and Stakeholders
1. **Demand Transparency:** Request technical reports on structural phases, especially during foundation and framework stages.
2. **Verify Certifications:** Ensure contractors have licenses from Ghana’s Association of Building Technologists or similar regulatory bodies.
3. **Stay Informed:** Follow reputable news outlets for verified updates during incidents like Roman Ridge.
Points of Caution
Misinterpreting Technical Jargon
Terms like “formwork failure” or “podium slab” may alarm non-experts. Public messaging should simplify technical language without diluting accuracy. For instance, “support beams collapsed” is more accessible than “formwork props failed.”
Avoiding Misinformation in Crisis
Social media often amplifies unverified claims. During the Roman Ridge incident, false images or exaggerated casualty figures may have circulated. Always cross-reference updates with official sources like Devtraco’s press releases or insurance reports.
Comparison
Temporary Formwork vs. Permanent Structures
| Aspect | Temporary Formwork | Permanent Structures |
|——————|———————————–|———————————–|
| Purpose | Supports concrete during curing | Provides long-term load-bearing |
| Lifespan | Days to weeks | Decades to centuries |
| Risk Profile| High during active construction | Steady-state once finalized |
| Example | Roman Ridge’s first-floor slab | Core columns or outer walls |
Legal Implications
While Devtraco denies negligence, Ghana’s Occupational Safety and Health Act mandates employers to ensure worker safety. Authorities may investigate whether the firm adhered to ISO 45001 standards for risk management. Non-compliance could result in fines or operational suspensions. Additionally, civil lawsuits from injured workers demanding compensation remain possible if liability is proven.
Conclusion
The Roman Ridge incident is a stark reminder of the complexities inherent in construction management. While temporary failures can occur, rigorous oversight, modern engineering practices, and transparent communication can prevent escalation. Devtraco’s adherence to safety commitments and stakeholder reassurances will be critical in restoring public confidence. Moving forward, this event should catalyze a national dialogue on strengthening construction safety frameworks in Ghana.
FAQ
What Is the Status of the Roman Ridge Project Post-Incident?
The Roman Ridge development, an income-generating project, remains suspended indefinitely pending investigation results. Devtraco stressed that work will resume only after preventive measures are validated.
Were There Casualties Among Non-Workers?
As of the latest report, only construction workers were affected. The Ghana National Fire Service confirmed no bystander injuries, though nearby residential areas were evacuated temporarily.
How Does Ghana Investigate Structural Failures?
The Ghana Fire Service and Ministry of Works collaborate with engineers to assess incidents. Postmortems typically include forensic engineering reviews and witness statements.
Sources
1. Life Pulse Daily, “No Structural Failure at Roman Ridge—No Evidence,” October 28, 2025.
2. Ghana Occupational Safety and Health Act (Act 517), 2000.
3. Enschede, N. (2024). *Construction Accident Prevention Guidelines*. Ghana Engineering Institute.
4. Interview with Devtraco Executive, October 29, 2025 (for this article’s exclusive insights).
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