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💥 Demolition Safety

Topic: Safe demolition practices Duration: 10-15 minutes Required: Demolition requires special training and procedures

The Hazards​

Demolition is one of the most dangerous construction activities:

  • Structural collapse - Buildings can collapse unexpectedly
  • Falling debris - Materials fall from height
  • Asbestos/lead - Hazardous materials exposure
  • Utilities - Live utilities in walls
  • Dust - Silica, lead, asbestos dust

Pre-Demolition Planning​

Engineering Survey​

  • Structural assessment - How building is constructed
  • Hazardous materials - Asbestos, lead survey
  • Utilities - Locate and disconnect utilities
  • Adjacent structures - Protect nearby buildings
  • Demolition plan - Written plan for demolition

Utility Disconnection​

Before demolition:

  • Electrical - Disconnected and verified
  • Gas - Disconnected and verified
  • Water - Disconnected and verified
  • Sewer - Disconnected and verified
  • Other utilities - All utilities disconnected

Verify: Test to ensure utilities are dead.

Structural Stability​

During Demolition​

  • Progressive demolition - Remove in logical sequence
  • Don't overload - Don't remove structural members prematurely
  • Monitor stability - Watch for signs of instability
  • Support as needed - Temporary supports if needed
  • Stay clear - Keep personnel away from collapse zone

Falling Debris Protection​

  • Debris chutes - For material removal
  • Netting - Catch falling debris
  • Barricades - Keep personnel away
  • Warning signs - Alert to hazards
  • Hard hats - Required at all times

Hazardous Materials​

Asbestos/Lead​

  • Survey completed - Identify hazardous materials
  • Abatement - Remove before demolition (if required)
  • PPE - Respiratory protection if needed
  • Training - Workers trained on hazards
Structural Collapse

Demolition can cause unexpected structural collapse. Never enter a building being demolished. Stay in safe zones.