Lower House approves new regulations for architects

By Linda Straker

Architects in Grenada will soon have to register and pay an annual fee to continue to practise in the profession, once he or she is accepted by the Board of Architects to operate.

Parliamentarians in the Lower House last Friday approved a Bill for the registration, practice and discipline of those in the profession. A person will be qualified to be registered as an architect if he or she has been awarded a degree, diploma, or other qualification in architecture granted by a university or school of architecture, which in the opinion of the Board is evidence of satisfactory training in architecture, or has had less than three years practical experience in architecture acquired under
the direct supervision of an architect duly registered by the Board.

However, any person who does not possess the qualification when the law comes into effect, will be provided an opportunity to register if in the opinion of the Board that person is a fit and proper person to be registered as an architect, is a member in good standing of the Grenada Institute of Architects and has had before the commencement of the law, no less than ten years of practice of architecture in a responsible position under an architect with qualifications.

A person registered to practise architecture, according to the law, shall be obligated to ensure that he or she remains current with the ever-changing requirements of the practice of architecture through continuing education in a form or format to be determined by the Board.

Nothing shall prevent a person from engaging in those aspects of architecture that include drafting or supervising any architectural works as owner, contractor, superintendent or clerk of works; performing the architectural work involved in minor alterations or where no authority requires the drawings to bear the stamp or seal of an architect, nor requires any such person to become registered under the law.

Persons registered as an architect shall abide by a code of conduct, which includes avoiding conflict of
interest; shall not engage in corrupt practices; apply high standards of skill, knowledge and care in all work; respect the beliefs and opinions of other people; recognise social diversity and treat everyone fairly; be aware of the environmental impact of their work; and engage in good employment practices. They shall not sign or affix their seal to drawings, specifications, reports or other professional work for which they do not have direct knowledge, supervision or control.

The Bill is expected to be approved by the Senate during today’s session.