Demolition Methods, Hazards, and Control Measures
What is Demolition?
Demolition is the process of tearing down and removing buildings or other structures. It can be done for a variety of reasons, such as to make way for new construction, to remove a hazardous or condemned structure, or simply to clean up an area. The process can be dangerous and requires specialized equipment and training.
Importance Of Safety During Demolition Work
Working with a professional demolition company is the best way to ensure that your project is completed safely and efficiently. Demolition work can be extremely dangerous, and it is important to have trained professionals on hand to operate the heavy machinery and handle the hazardous materials.
A well-planned demolition project will take into account the safety of workers and bystanders, as well as the surrounding environment. The process should be carefully planned and executed to minimize the risk of injury or damage.
Demolition Methods and Common Types
There are many different ways to demolish a building, and the method used will depend on the size and type of structure, as well as the desired outcome. Some of the most common methods used include:
1. Total Demolition
As the name suggests, total demolition involves completely tearing down a structure. This type of demolition is usually done when the building is too old or in such poor condition that it can’t be safely renovated. It’s also sometimes done to make way for new construction.
Total demolition can be a complex and dangerous process, so it’s important to hire a qualified contractor with the experience and equipment necessary to do the job safely.
2. Selective Demolition
There are many methods of demolition, but selective demolition is a process of removing specific parts or elements of a structure while leaving the rest intact. This can be done for a variety of reasons, such as when an old section of a building is not performing up to par, or when a listed building restricts what can be demolished. Selective demolition can also add value to a current building by performing construction in stages.
3. Interior Demolition
The interior demolition process is one that extracts the building’s structure from within while protecting its exterior. This can include removing partitions, walls, and ceilings as needed to make way for new construction or renovation projects on your property!
Interior demolition can be a great option for creating more space inside of a building or removing troublesome areas. When done correctly, it can help improve the overall look and feel of your property.
4. Dismantling Or Deconstruction
The process of dismantling or deconstruction demolition is the act of carefully taking apart a building or structure in order to preserve certain parts for reuse, refurbishment, or recycling. This method is significantly more labor-intensive than total or explosive demolition.
There are many reasons why someone might choose to dismantle a structure instead of demolishing it entirely. For example, if a building is made of valuable or rare materials, it may be more cost-effective to deconstruct it in order to salvage those materials. Additionally, dismantling a structure allows for a greater degree of control over the process, which can minimize damage to surrounding buildings and infrastructure.
5. Explosive Demolition
Explosive demolition is the process of using explosives to destroy a structure. This method is usually used for larger buildings or structures, such as bridges or skyscrapers. It’s also sometimes used to demolish difficult-to-reach areas, such as the inside of a tunnel or the top of a mountain.
The use of explosives can be very dangerous, so it’s important to hire a qualified contractor with experience in this type of demolition. Additionally, you will need to obtain the proper permits and permissions before proceeding with explosive demolition.
Demolition Accident History
While demolition can be a safe and effective way to remove a structure, there have been a number of accidents throughout history. Some of the most notable demolition accidents include:
The Hartford Circus Fire: On July 6, 1944, a fire broke out at the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus in Hartford, Connecticut. The fire quickly spread through the circus’s big top, resulting in the deaths of 168 people and the injury of 700 more. The fire is believed to have started when a spark from a trapeze artist’s act ignited the circus’s canvas roof.
The Austin Hotel Collapse: On March 6, 2013, a portion of the historic eight-story Austin Hotel in downtown Los Angeles collapsed, killing one construction worker and injuring 17 others. The collapse was caused by the failure of a support beam during demolition work.
The 2015 Tianjin Explosion: On August 12, 2015, a series of explosions occurred at a warehouse in the Chinese city of Tianjin. The explosions killed 173 people and injured nearly 800 others. The cause of the explosions is still under investigation, but it’s believed that they were caused by a combination of hazardous chemicals and an ignition source.
Hazards and Control Measures Of Demolition Work
Working with demolitions can be extremely dangerous. In fact, it’s one of the most hazardous construction operations out there. Every year, demolition accidents cause a significant number of deaths and injuries.
If you’re going to be working with demolitions, it’s important to take safety seriously. Make sure you understand the risks involved and take all the necessary precautions.
The Hazards Associated With Demolition Work Are:
1. Falls From Height Or On The Same Level
One of the most common hazards associated with demolition work is falling from height. This can occur when workers are demolishing a structure that is taller than they are, or when they are working on a structure that has an uneven surface.
Falls are often fatal, so it’s important to take all the necessary precautions to prevent them. This includes using proper fall protection equipment, such as harnesses and lanyards.
2. Falling Debris
Another hazard associated with demolition work is falling debris. This can occur when pieces of the structure being demolished fall and hit workers below. Falling debris can cause serious injuries, so it’s important to be aware of this hazard and take the necessary precautions to avoid it.
Some of the ways you can do this include wearing proper PPE, such as hard hats and safety glasses, and setting up debris netting or catch platforms to prevent debris from falling.
3. Premature Collapse Of The Structure Being Demolished
Another hazard to be aware of is the premature collapse of the structure being demolished. This can happen if the demolition process is not carried out properly, or if the structure is not adequately supported during demolition.
To avoid this, it’s important to follow all the proper procedures for demolishing a structure and to make sure that the structure is properly supported during demolition.
4. Dust and Fumes
Another hazard associated with demolition work is dust and fumes. Dust can be created when workers are using power tools to demolish a structure, and it can be harmful if inhaled. Additionally, some materials that are being demolished, such as asbestos, can release harmful fumes into the air.
To protect yourself from dust and fumes, it’s important to wear proper personal protective equipment, such as a respirator. Additionally, you should try to work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling harmful fumes.
5. The Silting Up Of Drainage Systems By Dust
One of the lesser-known hazards associated with demolition work is the silting up of drainage systems by dust. When workers are demolishing a structure, the dust that is created can get into the drainage system and clog it up. This can cause serious flooding problems if the drainage system is not cleared out in a timely manner.
To avoid this, it’s important to be aware of the hazard and take the necessary precautions to prevent dust from getting into the drainage system. This includes using proper ventilation and keeping the area around the drainage system clear of debris.
6. The Problems Arising From Spilt Fuel Oils
Another hazard associated with demolition work is the problems arising from spilt fuel oils. Fuel oils are often used to power the machinery that is used in demolition work, and if they are spilt, they can cause a fire or an explosion.
To avoid this, it’s important to be aware of the hazard and take the necessary precautions to prevent fuel oils from being spilt. This includes keeping the area around fuel tanks and machinery clean and free of debris and using proper containment methods for storing and transporting fuel oils.
7. Manual Handling
One of the most common hazards associated with demolition work is manual handling. This can occur when workers are lifting or moving heavy objects, such as bricks or pieces of debris. Manual handling can lead to serious injuries, so it’s important to take the necessary precautions to avoid it.
Some of the ways you can do this include using proper lifting techniques, using mechanical aids to help move heavy objects, and taking regular breaks to avoid fatigue.
8. Presence Of Asbestos And Other Hazardous Substances
Another hazard to be aware of is the presence of asbestos and other hazardous substances. Many older buildings contain asbestos, and if it is disturbed, it can release harmful fibers into the air. Additionally, many building materials may contain other hazardous substances, such as lead.
To protect yourself from asbestos and other hazardous substances, it’s important to wear proper personal protective equipment, such as a respirator. Additionally, you should try to work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling harmful fibers. If you suspect that a building contains asbestos or other hazardous substances, you should have it inspected by a qualified professional before starting any demolition work.
9. Noise And Vibration From Heavy Plant And Equipment
Another hazard associated with demolition work is noise and vibration from heavy plants and equipment. The machinery that is used in demolition work can be very loud, and the vibrations it produces can be harmful to your health.
To protect yourself from noise and vibration, it’s important to wear proper hearing protection, such as earplugs or earmuffs. Additionally, you should try to work in a well-ventilated area to reduce the noise level. If the noise level is still too loud, you may need to use sound-blocking earmuffs or earplugs.
10. Electric Shock
One of the most serious hazards associated with demolition work is electric shock. This can occur when workers come into contact with live electrical wires or equipment. Electric shock can lead to serious injuries or even death, so it’s important to take the necessary precautions to avoid it.
Some of the ways you can do this include de-energizing electrical equipment before working on it, wearing proper personal protective equipment, and avoiding areas where there is water or dampness. Additionally, you should always use caution when working near live electrical wires or equipment. If you are not sure how to safely work with electricity, you should consult a qualified electrician.
11. Fires And Explosions From The Use Of Flammable And Explosive Substances
Another hazard associated with demolition work is fires and explosions from the use of flammable and explosive substances. Many of the chemicals and gases used in demolition work are highly flammable and can easily catch fire or explode if they are not handled properly.
To protect yourself from fires and explosions, it’s important to be aware of the hazards of the substances you are using and to take the necessary precautions. Some of the ways you can do this include reading the labels on all containers, keeping flammable substances away from heat or flames, and using proper ventilation when working with volatile substances. Additionally, you should always have a fire extinguisher handy in case of an emergency.
12. Smoke From Burning Waste Timber and Materials
Another hazard associated with demolition work is smoke from burning waste timber and materials. When demolition work is being done, a lot of waste timber and materials are often burned. This can release harmful toxins into the air, which can be dangerous to your health.
To protect yourself from smoke, it’s important to wear a respirator or face mask. Additionally, you should try to work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling harmful toxins. If the smoke is too dense, you may need to leave the area and seek fresh air.
13. Pneumatic Drills and Power Tools
Another hazard associated with demolition work is pneumatic drills and power tools. These tools can generate a lot of noise and vibration, which can be harmful to your health. Additionally, they can also create dust and flying debris, which can be dangerous if inhaled.
To protect yourself from pneumatic drills and power tools, it’s important to wear proper hearing protection, such as earplugs or earmuffs. Additionally, you should wear a dust mask or respirator to avoid inhaling harmful particles. Additionally, you should try to work in a well-ventilated area to reduce the risk of exposure to harmful toxins.
14. The Existence Of Services, Such As Electricity, Gas, And Water
Another hazard associated with demolition work is the existence of services, such as electricity, gas, and water mains. These services can be damaged during demolition work, which can lead to serious injuries or even death.
To protect yourself from this hazard, it’s important to be aware of the location of all services before starting work. Additionally, you should always call the utility company to have the service disconnected before starting work. Additionally, you should never try to disconnect the service yourself.
15. Collision With Heavy Plant Or Machinery
Another hazard associated with demolition work is a collision with heavy plants or machinery. Demolition work often involves the use of large pieces of machinery, such as excavators and bulldozers. If you are not careful, you could easily be hit by one of these machines.
To protect yourself from this hazard, it’s important to be aware of the location of all plants and machinery at all times. Additionally, you should never walk in front of or behind a moving machine. Additionally, you should always wear bright clothing so that you are more visible to the operators of the machinery.
16. Plant and Vehicles Overturning
Another hazard associated with demolition work is plant and vehicle overturning. This can happen if the plant or vehicle is not properly secured, or if the ground is too soft. If a plant or vehicle overturns, it can cause serious injuries or even death.
To protect yourself from this hazard, it’s important to be aware of the location of all plants and vehicles at all times. Additionally, you should never walk under or around a plant or vehicle that is being lifted. Additionally, you should always wear bright clothing so that you are more visible to the operators of the machinery.
Things to Know Before Starting the Demolition
Before any work is started the full site investigation will help to determine the potential hazards and risks associated with the demolition work. This will help to ensure the safety of the workers and the public.
The investigation should cover the following topics:
- Before beginning demolition, it is important to investigate the construction details of the buildings that are going to be demolished, and of any neighboring structures. This will help ensure that the demolition is carried out safely and without damaging any nearby buildings.
- Any hazardous materials present, such as asbestos or lead. This is important to ensure the safety of those doing the demolition and to avoid spreading any hazardous materials. The location of any underground or overhead services (water, electricity, gas, etc.);
- It is important to investigate the area for any underground cellars, storage tanks, or bunkers. This is especially important if flammable or explosive substances were previously stored in these areas. This will help avoid any accidents or damage during the demolition process.
- It is important to investigate the location of any public thoroughfares that are adjacent to the structure or building. This will help ensure that the work can be carried out safely and without disruption to the surrounding area.
- The type of foundation the building is built on (e.g. slab, footing, etc.). This is important to know as it will affect the way the demolition is carried out. For example, a building with a footing foundation will need to have the foundations excavated before the demolition can begin.
- The height of the building. For example, a tall building will need to be demolished from the top down, while a shorter building can be demolished from the bottom up.
Conclusion
Demolition work is dangerous and should only be carried out by experienced professionals. Before any work begins, it is essential to carry out a full site investigation to determine the potential hazards and risks associated with the work. Additionally, all workers should be properly trained and equipped with the necessary safety gear. Finally, always follow the safety procedures that have been put in place to protect yourself and others from harm.
