DPI Plastics, a leading South African manufacturer of water reticulation, drainage and pipe-fitting systems, recently received an award from the South African Bureau of Standards (SABS) in recognition of its 20-year commitment to the quality standards authority and its consistent support for the SABS over this period.
Johannesburg-based DPI Plastics is one of only two plastic pipe manufacturers in the country to reach this milestone. The company was presented with the award at a special function last year which attracted more than 350 guests from across the industry.
DPI Plastics managing director Gerhard Kotzee says, “It is an honour and a privilege to be recognised as one of only two companies in the plastic pipe industry in South Africa that has remained committed to the quality of its products for 20 years. This award comes at a time when the market is under pressure and it is a huge morale booster for the company and its employees.”
Kotzee highlights that DPI Plastics places great emphasis on quality control. “In addition to bearing the SABS mark on its products where a specification exists, DPI Plastics plays an active role in assisting the SABS in writing and developing new specifications, through technical committees, to ensure that consumers are provided with products of the highest quality standards.”
DPI Plastics is also a founding member of the Southern African Plastic Pipe Manufacturers Association (SAPPMA), which was established in 2004 to facilitate high standards of ethics, product quality and technical information. “SAPPMA aims to create absolute quality, trust and integrity throughout the value chain of the Southern African plastic pipe industry,” says Kotzee.
He points out that a number of plastic pipe manufacturers in the country are misleading consumers by carrying the SABS logo on their products without the products actually being in compliance with the relevant specifications.
“This is a growing trend in the local market and DPI Plastics is working closely with the SABS and other leading manufacturers to sample and test all products on the market, before naming and shaming any manufacturer that is not in full compliance,” he continues.
Despite the difficulties faced in 2011, Kotzee is optimistic about the year ahead. “During the past year the entire plastic pipe industry was under pressure as a result of reduced infrastructural development. However, I believe the industry will improve in 2012, as more government tenders are awarded,” he concludes.
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