Construction remains one of the fastest-growing industries in Guyana as the country’s economy continues to expand. Driven primarily by new land ownership, renovations, accommodation and commercial needs, there is also the introduction of innovative construction techniques, advanced building materials, and modern interior and exterior finishes that enhance the appearance of structures. However, aesthetics alone is not enough. The durability, reliability, and overall quality of building materials are equally important to ensure safety, performance, and long-term value. These critical characteristics are achieved and maintained through the application of standards, which help ensure that construction products meet established requirements for quality and safety.
At this year’s International Building Expo set for June 25-28 at the National Stadium, Providence, the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) will be showcasing some of the available standards for the construction sector. The theme for this year is Guyana at 60: Building strong foundation for a sustainable future.
Throughout the four-day exposition, GNBS will showcase several standards which can offer guidance to manufacturers, importers, contractors and the consumers to ensure that construction meets local and international standard requirements, including ASTM requirements, which would result in quality, durability and safety.
To promote resilient and quality buildings, bridges and other structures, stakeholders can acquire standards from GNBS for steel nails, ready mixed concrete, cement, galvanized steel barbed wire, corrugated steel sheets, load bearing and non-load bearing concrete masonry units, concrete sewer, storm drains, culvert pipes and chain link fence fabric, among others. In addition, there are Codes of Practice for buildings in the areas of enforcement, fire safety, use and occupancy, foundations and excavations and access scaffold.
The GNBS is also responsible for promoting and selling the National Building Code of which there are ten sections, focusing on various aspects of building and construction. The sections include the use of Guyanese hardwoods in construction, plumbing, foundation and excavation, high rise buildings, the design and construction of septic tanks and associated secondary treatment and disposal systems.
The upcoming expo provides the ideal opportunity for existing and future homeowners, contractors and other stakeholders to converse with the GNBS team on how standards can guide the selection and use of materials to guarantee sturdy structures and reduced rehabilitation costs.
At the event, GNBS will also promote its testing services which are pivotal to the building and construction sector including the testing of concrete hollow blocks, cubes and concrete structures. The GNBS Industrial Metrology and Testing (IMT) Department provides testing of these products to ensure they meet the requirements of National Standards.
Testing is offered for concrete hollow blocks measuring four, six and eight inches in accordance with the National Standard – GYS 215:2018 – “Specification for Load Bearing Masonry Concrete Units”. Blocks are tested for compressive strength, moisture content and absorption rate. The Bureau also tests concrete cubes and structures to guarantee stronger foundations, beams and other components. Visit the GNBS Booth to learn about the testing requirements, costs, benefits and more.
Finally, GNBS also certifies concrete hollow blocks and PVC Pipes to guarantee quality while monitoring the quality of electrical equipment and fittings imported and offered for sale to ensure consumer safety. Our team will also provide useful tips on the selection, care and use of these products at Building Expo 2026. To learn more, visit the GNBS Building Expo booth or contact us on telephone numbers: 219-0064-66 or WhatsApp 692-4627. You can also visit our website: www.gnbsgy.org and our Facebook page: gnbsgy.
