SABS lost accreditation due to governance and system failures, MPs hear
The South African Bureau of Standards (SABS) has been the subject of several whistleblower reports which allege serious misconduct and poor governance.
FILE: SABS ISO 9001 approval. Picture: SABS Approved/Facebook
CAPE TOWN - The South African Bureau of Standards (SABS) has told Parliament that it lost its accreditation due to governance and system failures.
Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Parks Tau now wants an investigation into the SABS, a statutory body that plays a critical role in ensuring the safety and quality standards of products in the country.
Tau and the SABS on Tuesday briefed the portfolio committee regarding allegations like irregular recruitment and financial misconduct.
The South African Bureau of Standards has been the subject of several whistleblower reports which allege serious misconduct and poor governance.
Acting CEO Lizo Makele listed some of the issues in question, like the loss of accreditation.
"This means that the SABS cannot issue permits bearing the SANAS logo for new clients or additions of scope or new products and renewals. But effectively the existing clients, nothing changes."
Minister Parks Tau said they’d received the allegations which would be looked into.
"We have corresponded in that regard with the SABS that we would investigate in detail the allegations."
He said some of the issues facing the SABS were as a result of the board having faced a number of resignations.