Corrosion Institute hosts World Corrosion Awareness event
Most people don't know what rust is or how it affects their daily lives, experts in the field decided to explain it to them in an awareness event. They also showed attendants how to prevent it from happening.
The Corrosion Institute honoured World Corrosion Awareness Day on April 24 in President Park, aiming to educate people about the rusting of infrastructure — also known as corrosion.
Students from universities including the University of the Witwatersrand, Tshwane University of Technology, and the University of Pretoria attended to learn more about corrosion and strategies to combat it.
Read more: Industry experts meet for World Corrosion Awareness Day discussion
Corrosion, the rusting of infrastructure and metal caused by chemical reactions with the environment, often results from the type of materials used and poor maintenance. The day featured presentations and exhibitions demonstrating what corrosion is and why it matters.
Musa Shangase, president of the Construction Alliance, stressed the importance of managing corrosion in the industry.
“It is crucial for those working in construction to control corrosion, regardless of whether they are using steel or other materials. If they do not manage it, they will still be affected by it.” Petra Mitchell, executive director of the Corrosion Institute, explained why the event was held annually and why students were invited.
“As the Corrosion Institute, we hold this event annually because we want to teach people about corrosion, especially because not everyone is aware of it.
Also read: Halfway House Clinic leads the way to mental health on Mental Health Awareness Day
This is probably the biggest turnout we’ve had. Seeing more people come means they want to know more, and that helps us prevent it.
“From a student’s point of view, it guides them on corrosion and shows them where to go for research papers during postgrad studies.”
Speakers also highlighted the broader impact of corrosion, noting how it causes financial losses for the economy and poses environmental and safety risks that can harm people. Vice president of the Corrosion Institute and corrosion engineering consultant, Gert Conradie, described corrosion as a hidden danger.
“The thing is that corrosion is such a silent enemy. It’s always lurking in the background, doing its thing.
The biggest problem we face is that people don’t know corrosion can be treated and combatted by working together, especially with the new technologies available.”
The event underscored the need for awareness, collaboration, and innovation to fight this ‘silent enemy’ and protect both infrastructure and communities.
Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates and inspiration!
