Chamber of Geologists announce new verification system

The Malta Chamber of Geologists (MCG) has announced a new system which will allow developers and citizens to independently verify whether a person conducting a ground investigation is a qualified geologist. 

The MGC said that the current failures in Malta’s construction legislation undermine public safety and the integrity of the building industry, with specific focus on the “critical gap” surrounding ground investigations.

All members within the Professional Geologist (GL) class will now have to include their unique membership number on all official documentation and reports.

The requirement applies to assessments such as geological reports, geotechnical reports, hydrogeological reports, and mineral assessment reports.

They explained that the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) has allowed non-geologists to handle these complex geological assessments, resulting in an increased risk of structural failures posing a direct threat to the public and property.

A ground investigation is a legally required assessment which takes place before construction is allowed to begin. They form an essential part of the process by confirming the stability of new foundations thereby preventing the collapse of nearby structures.

“By ensuring only experts handle these critical assessments, we can mitigate risks and uphold professional standards in the Maltese construction sector,” they said.