Mason rescued with extreme leg harm after constructing collapse at Kasoa New Market – Life Pulse Daily

Mason Rescued After Building Collapse at Kasoa New Market – A Harrowing Survival Story

On September 11, 2025, a devastating building collapse at Kasoa New Market in Ghana’s Central Region trapped a mason under debris, leaving him with severe leg injuries. Miraculously, he survived after emergency teams, including the Ghana Fire Service and National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), rescued him from the rubble. The incident, which occurred on a busy market day, underscores critical issues in construction safety, structural integrity, and emergency response protocols. This article examines the incident, its root causes, and the broader implications for public safety and regulatory compliance.

—

Introduction: A Tragedy Highlighting Systemic Risks

The collapse of a structure at Kasoa New Market on Saturday, October 11, 2025, sent shockwaves through the community. Merchants and shoppers alike fled as dust and debris engulfed the area. Among the chaos, a mason working on the site sustained life-threatening injuries when concrete debris crushed his legs. Emergency responders, including NADMO and local authorities, arrived within minutes to extricate him. His survival, though miraculous, raises urgent questions about enforcement of building codes and the use of substandard materials in Ghana’s booming construction sector.

This incident is not isolated. In recent years, Ghana has seen multiple building collapses linked to poor construction practices, including the use of 7mm iron rods instead of recommended 16mm grade—necessary for structural stability. Such tragedies demand a closer look at regulatory gaps and the urgent need for public awareness campaigns to prioritize safety over cost-cutting measures.

—

Analysis: What Caused the Collapse?

Substandard Materials: A Recipe for Disaster

NADMO Director for Awutu Senya East emphasized that the building, constructed over a decade ago, was renovated using 11.5mm iron rods—far below the required 16mm grade. Iron rods play a critical role in reinforced concrete; thinner rods compromise load-bearing capacity, making structures vulnerable to collapse under stress. This matches the National Building Authority’s 2023 report, which flagged the rampant use of low-quality materials in informal settlements.

Additionally, the collapse involved flawed beam lapping, a technique where steel bars are spliced in concrete beams. Poor execution can create weak joints, leading to structural failure—especially in aging buildings subjected to weathering or increased weight over time.

Neglect of Structural Inspections

MCE Seth Banini revealed that the building had not been inspected during its decades of use. Municipal authorities lack the resources to audit private properties regularly, leaving owners to self-certify—often without design plans. “Our challenge is… ensuring compliance before groundbreaking,” Banini stated. This gap invites unchecked violations, as seen in this case.

—

Emergency Response Successes

Rapid deployment of rescue teams saved the mason’s life. The Fire Service used hydraulic breakers to cut through rubble, while NADMO medical personnel stabilized his injuries en route to Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) Hospital. “Time was critical,” noted a NADMO spokesperson. Such efficiency highlights the value of community emergency preparedness drills and coordinated inter-agency protocols.

—

Summary: Surviving but Paying a Hefty Price

The rescued mason remains hospitalized with fractures requiring multiple surgeries. While relieved by his survival, he faces a long recovery and potential disability, a reminder of construction’s human cost. Authorities have cordoned off the collapsed site, now deemed unstable, and ordered inspections of nearby buildings.

MCE Banini urged residents to report unsafe constructions, while NADMO teams survey for risks. The incident could catalyze reforms, from stricter code enforcement to public education on recognizing unsafe structures.

—

Key Points to Remember

• Material Quality Matters: Using 11.5mm rods instead of 16mm grade significantly weakens structures.
• Structural Lapping Flaws: Improper beam connections were a critical factor in the collapse.
• Regulatory Gaps: Aging buildings often evade routine inspections, endangering communities.
• Emergency Preparedness: Immediate coordination between agencies averted a potential tragedy.

—

Practical Advice for Safer Construction

1. Adhere to Building Standards

Always consult the Ghana National Fire Authority’s guidelines for material specifications and structural designs. For households and businesses, invest in certified contractors and conduct pre-construction audits.

2. Community Vigilance

Residents should report buildings showing signs of distress—cracks in walls, uneven floors—to local authorities. “If you spot a neighbor using substandard materials, don’t be afraid to seek intervention,” advised the MCE.

3. Emergency Preparedness

Learn basic first aid and establish neighborhood alert systems. Schools and businesses should conduct drill sessions for collapsed structure scenarios.

—

Points of Caution: What Not to Do

Avoid Compromising on Materials

Using cheaper, untested materials may save costs short-term but risks catastrophic failure. Roofing with improperly treated wood, hiring unlicensed laborers, or skipping engineering sign-offs are non-negotiable red flags.

Don’t Ignore Deformities

Cracks, tilting foundations, or creaking sounds post-construction signal urgent repairs. Delaying action magnifies risks. For businesses, temporary supports can maintain safety until permanent fixes are implemented.

—

Comparison: Past Collapses and Lessons Learned

This incident mirrors the 2022 collapse at Agbogbloshie Market, where a structural failure killed 14 and injured dozens. Both cases involved inadequate materials and overlooked inspections. However, this rescue demonstrates progress in emergency response times, attributed to regular inter-agency drills since 2023. Comparatively, improved training and equipment are saving lives even as construction risks persist.

—

Legal Implications: Who’s Liable?

Under Ghana’s Building Control Act, 1961 (Act 200), owners and contractors are legally bound to follow approved designs and materials. If investigations confirm violations, perpetrators could face fines up to ₵100,000 or imprisonment (Section 18). Civil liability for injuries may also arise under common law. However, the article notes that the building predates current municipal oversight, complicating liability assessment.

—

Conclusion: Building a Safer Future

The Kasoa New Market collapse is a wake-up call. While the mason’s survival is a triumph for emergency responders, the trend of preventable building disasters calls for systemic change. Strengthening municipal enforcement, public education, and contractor accountability will protect communities. As the NADMO Director urged, “A collapsed structure doesn’t just destroy property—it shatters lives.”

—

FAQ: Answers to Common Questions

1. Why do building collapses often occur in older properties?

Aging buildings are susceptible to decay, especially if renovated with substandard materials. Regular maintenance and audits are critical, as many older structures lack updated engineering plans.

2. What should residents do if they suspect a building is unsafe?

Report concerns to the Ghana National Fire Authority, NADMO, or the local municipal office. Avoid entering unstable buildings and evacuate immediately post-collapse.

3. How can communities prevent future incidents?

Advocate for unannounced structural inspections, promote certified contractors, and support infrastructure for regulatory compliance, such as regional engineering hubs.

—