Hurricane concerns

The Editor, Sir:

The prediction by the United States National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) for an 'active to extremely active' hurricane season this year for the Atlantic Basin, which includes the North Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico (Gleaner article May 29) should be of great concern to all members of society, insurance companies and stakeholders in the construction industry.

There are expected to be at least 'three to seven major hurricanes (Category 3, 4 or 5, 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 areas of Manchester, Hanover and St James as 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.

Managing the risk of hurricane damage

It is expected that when building a house suitable engineering and proper construction methods are being used to mitigate against the risk of hurricane damage. I continue to see the use of hurricane straps which do not meet acceptable standards, as well as 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.

I have also observed elements of shoddy design to offer greater wind resistance and, as usual, the continued construction 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 either the political will or a real push to get this done.

I am, etc.,

MARIO WOODE

solutions 696@aol.com

Hopewell PO

Hanover