Demolition Safety 101

Despite the close relationship between demolition and construction, demolition comes with different hazards and requires additional precautionary measures to ensure workers’ safety.

According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), extra hazards from demolition include:

• Changes and modifications, whether approved and noted or unapproved, to the structure’s original design
• Materials hidden within the structure
• Unknown strengths or weaknesses of construction materials
• Hazards created by demolition methods themselves

In order to mitigate these exposures, an engineering survey must be completed by a competent person prior to any demolition work. This survey should consider: the condition of the structure and the possibility of unintended collapse; securing or relocating nearby utilities; a fire prevention and evacuation plan, including arrangements for first aid and emergency medical services; and an assessment of all potential health hazards.

In addition to conducting a thorough engineering survey, there are some other steps you should take to protect your workers from the additional exposures:

• Make sure every employee has access to and understands the equipment that needs to be worn throughout the entire duration of demolition
• Begin demolition from the top of the structure, starting with exterior walls, and then proceed downward and outward to reduce collapse potential
• Wall openings should be protected by guardrails
• Floor openings should be marked and covered with materials able to withstand any imposed load
• Stairs and ladders should be properly installed, inspected and illuminated
• Test for confirmation of hazardous materials within the structure. If such materials are found, removal should be factored into the schedule and performed before other demolition work begins
• Prepare for dust. Control exposures through engineering controls like wet methods and encourage workers to wear the appropriate respirator
• Only trained and experienced employees should handle dangerous and explosive materials

While demolition brings added risks and hazards for workers, you have the ability to keep your employees safe.

For more information about demolition safety, please contact your agency or local Amerisure Loss Control Consultant at 800-257-1900 or [email protected].