In 2022, Dura Block aligned its focus with the Government’s infrastructure developmental agenda with the manufacturing of machine-made, durable concrete hollow blocks and has since gained certification with the standards bureau.
A release yesterday from the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) said that Dura Block was established in 2021 by Chief Executive Officer, Vinash Chand.
After a year of deliberation, investments and extensive research, Dura Block became operational in November 2022, manufacturing machine-made, four-inch and six-inch concrete hollow blocks.
Not so long after production started, the company decided to pursue certification of its six-inch blocks to the Guyana Standard, GYS 215:2003 – “Specification for Load Bearing Masonry Concrete Units” and achieved certification in March 2023. The release from the GNBS said that Chand noted that there was an immediate demand for high-quality blocks and he was determined to meet that demand and at the same time set his business apart from the rest by becoming certified.
“The business idea was birthed in 2021, at a dinner hosted by the GMSA (Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association) where the President highlighted in his speech, the shortage of concrete blocks. At the time, there was no one in Region Three meeting the demand, I capitalized on the opportunity then pursued GNBS Certification to set myself apart from competitors, to add value to my products and acquire accountability and traceability.
Maintaining a standard is important and is something every business should be doing,” Chand stated.
Since his initial certification, Chand said that Dura Block has seen a massive influx of clients. It was this that prompted him to further expand the company’s scope of certification to include its four-inch blocks.
“Many customers, when I tell them my blocks are certified, are always surprised. It adds tremendous value and gives them security and confidence. Once they see the certificate and stickers, they don’t ask further questions. It definitely attracts more customers”, he said.
The release said that Dura Block’s initial certification came at a time when the GNBS began offering Non-Destructive Testing for concrete blocks, structures and cubes; a useful service to homeowners, contractors and engineers.
Chand said that the certification process with the GNBS Officers was smooth and transparent from the very beginning, “a pre-audit, site visits and inspections were conducted. I was surprised with how easy and seamless the process is. The team is very friendly and efficient, and the communication was great. With their help, the certification process was just about two or three months, and it was very smooth and well advised.”
He is urging all local companies to get on board with the GNBS to achieve certification.
Dura Block is one of four other local block-making companies that have been certified by the GNBS. The others are KSM Investments, Gafsons Industries and Robin Hollow Blocks.
For more information on the GNBS Certification, visit our website at gnbsgy.org or call 219-0064-66 or the GNBS Hotline 219-0069 or WhatsApp 692-4627.
