The CSIR-BRRI has acquired a new state-of-the-art Universal Testing Machine. The UTM has a capacity of 1500N and used for the testing of concrete and iron rods. This equipment has been acquired to provide support for research activities.

It is also opened to the public especially consultants, contractors and all builders for the testing of concrete and iron rods. Other equipment acquired by the institute include electronic setting time machine (vicatronic), electric furnace having a capacity of 1300^oC, and an electric oven.

Profile of Surv. Ernest Osei-Tutu, Best BRRI Research Scientist, 2011

Surveyor Ernest Osei-Tutu is the Head of the Construction Division and Project Management Section of the CSIR-Building and Road Research Institute. He was born on the 24th of March 1960 in Kumasi to the late Ernest Osei-Tutu of Maase, Kwabere District and Madam Agnes Boakye of Atwima Bedu all of Ashanti Region respectively. Surveyor Ernest Osei-Tutu attended Opoku Ware Secondary School (OWASS with a school number O16) in Kumasi for his GCE “O” Level from 1974 to 1979. He later on completed his GCE “A” Level in 1981 at the same school. In September 1981, he entered the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) to read Bachelor of Science degree in Building Technology and successfully completed in 1986.

Kuntanase (Ash), GNA- The Building and Road Research Institute (BRRI) in conjunction with some district assemblies are to campaign for the use of bricks for construction of projects. The Institute would also sensitise people on market avenues for brick products in some communities throughout the country.