Come next year, the Barbados National Standards Institution (BNSI) will be housed in a BDS$14.6 million facility.

This was announced today by Minister of Commerce, Industry and Trade, Senator Haynesley Benn, following a familiarisation tour of the BNSI at its Culloden Road location.

??The Minister revealed that Lower Estate, Fairy Valley and the Ministry of Agriculture’s compound in Graeme Hall were being considered as prospective locations and added that he hoped the project could begin early in 2011.

Senator Benn said that he was pleased with the efforts of the BNSI.?? "We pride ourselves, even as a Third World country, to be able to meet international standards.??

We have quality people and…equipment and we’re looking to have a better building," he stated.

Concerning the current work of the department, Minister Benn added: "I must admit that I’m very impressed with what I’ve seen…I’m happy to note that the facility is being used." He also encouraged those involved in the construction industry to put the services to good use.

During the visit, the Commerce Minister took the opportunity to meet members of staff, including Acting Director, Anthea Ishmael; Chief Technical Officer of Specifications Development, Fabian Scott; and Chief Technical Officer of Laboratory Services, Hadyn Rhynd. They outlined the department’s plans to transition into electronic document management and their role with regard to the establishment of standards.

?????????????????? The BNSI is also responsible for standards development, laboratory services, quality management consulting, certification and testing of products and metrological (weights and measures) services.??

Pin It on Pinterest