The Malta Chamber of Construction Management (MCCM) is urging government to introduce warrants for construction project managers to instil professional conduct within the industry ove

"Following the recent findings of the magisterial inquiry into the unfortunate fatal accident at Kordin on the 3rd December 2022, a number of concerning professional shortcomings within the construction sector revealing significant deficiencies, mainly which concern management together with health and safety procedures, were brought to light," the MCCM said.

The MCCM said that it has long been proposing a solution which, "if at last accepted, will go a long way towards avoiding such accidents. Since 2021, the MCCM has been proposing a law whereby the Construction Project Manager (CPM) is regulated through a professional warrant, like other professionals operating within this industry. A professional that should possess both comprehensive experience and academic preparation. This would avoid situations such as listed in item 10.11 (of the magisterial inquiry), where particular key experts on the project had no technical qualifications to perform that role."

"Hence, MCCM advocates and indeed has long been advocating, that all persons assuming certain managerial responsibilities on a project must possess the required credentials. As clearly found lacking in item 10.3 (of the magisterial inquiry), an individual taking the managerial role on a project, would act as a pivotal coordinator, fostering effective collaboration among various professionals, including architects, engineers, and contractors. Emphasizing a professional approach, the CPM would ensure that all personnel possess the requisite skills to avoid instances as pointed out in items 10.4, 10.5, 10.11 and 10.12 (of the published magisterial inquiry) and to take all the responsibility to manage the project."

"Additionally, the CPM will be well-versed in international best practices, particularly in instances where local legislation may be ambiguous or non-existent. From a health and safety perspective, the CPM's expertise and experience would empower them (the CPM) to make informed decisions and intervene when necessary to halt work in potentially hazardous situations. Implementing a fundamental site function, an electronic system also overseen by the CPM could be employed, whereby registered employees are equipped with identifiable tags on their visibility vests, granting access to the construction site through a turnstile system based on a comprehensive database. Moreover, the role of CPM would serve as a catalyst for inspiring industry workers to continually enhance their skills by participating in ongoing professional development courses in order to enhance their competencies and employability."

While some may perceive the appointment of a professional and accredited CPM for all the stage of the project's lifecycle as an added expense, MCCM said, "it is essential to emphasize that such an investment is imperative to instil professional conduct within the industry. The ramifications of subpar practices extend far beyond physical injury or structural damage; they unjustly affect building occupants, who endure compromised quality and design when existing laws are not adhered to."

"The CPM as envisaged by the Malta Chamber of Construction Management in the law which it proposed to Government back in 2021, is obliged to adhere and uphold existing laws and standards and where possible to reach even higher standards. It is crucial to recognize that the construction industry remains unique in lacking a comprehensive quality control mechanism that assesses expected performance against actual outcomes. As things are, there is a real risk of having a property market in which quality takes a backseat and authorities' vigilance may appear lax."

"This situation is disconcerting and necessitates the establishment of a controlled framework to avert future tragedies and communicate a strong commitment to public safety and welfare. The Chamber believes that passing the law which it proposed to the respective authorities, thus, embracing the pivotal role of a qualified, professional and warranted Construction Project Manager, is imperative to raise the bar of the construction industry's standards in Malta, fostering professionalism and avoiding future calamities. Hence, MCCM continues to encourage the government to push forward legislation which will provide for the role of a professional warranted CPM on any project, to assume responsibilities and enforce standards during the pre and post construction implementation stage."

"By doing so, the regulators will be sending a powerful message that safety, quality, and accountability are paramount priorities, safeguarding both the interests of those involved in construction and the well-being of the general public."

The Malta Chamber of Construction Management said it represents local Construction Project Managers and other managerial roles working within the construction industry at various supervisory and management levels.