The 1994 version of the EN 197 standard was first adopted in South Africa in 1996. This was after a major change in South Africa's political and social landscape. Before the EN standard, South Africa had a few standards for cement. They included SABS 471, 831, 626, and 1466. These standards broadly allowed for only 8 types of cement and 2 strength classes. The EN 197 however, catered for 27 types of cement and 6 strength classes. The EN 197 continues to evolve to expand the types and strength classes of cement with the latest edition being CEM III with “L” strength classes and SR cements to mention some. In 2007, the EN 197 standard was made a compulsory specification by the Minister of Trade and Industry. The National Regulatory of Compulsory Specifications ensures compliance to this specification to ensure fair trade and consumer protection. Was it a prudent decision to switch from the old SABS standard to the EN 197? What are the current challenges with the EN 197 standard?

The paper aims to explore the broad impact of the adoption of EN 197 on the manufacturing industry, construction industry, the government, and the general consumer. It will also address some of the challenges posed by this specification and the readiness of South Africa to keep up with the development path and changes of this particular standard.