Demolition work includes hazards such as poor structural conditions and injuries. A dismantling company that follows safety guidelines helps lower the risks associated with demolition sites. Here is more information about the benefits of safety measures in demolition projects:
Structural Collapse Prevention
Having an engineering survey taken of the site before work begins allows the dismantling company to learn about the building’s structural condition. The person completing the survey assesses the conditions of the building, including the walls and framing. They will check the condition of the areas where the employees will be working.
Being aware of building hazards helps the company exercise appropriate precautionary measures. Measures to prevent unplanned collapse include:
- Shoring or bracing walls and floors
- Demolishing exterior walls from the top floor down
- Removing upper floors before cutting a floor’s load-bearing members
Walls that have been damaged by fire or other natural disasters may have a higher risk of collapsing. Employees should not be working near structural hazards until the hazard has been addressed. This helps lower the risk of workers being injured in a structural collapse.
Injury Protection
Wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) can help prevent injuries on the demolition site. Workers should be trained in how to fit and use PPE equipment. PPE includes equipment that protects the head, eyes, face, feet, and hands. This may include helmets, gloves, boots, and side protectors. Helmets help protect workers from falling debris, while face and eye protection prevent flying metal or wood particles from getting into their eyes.
Protective equipment for workers can include ear and respiratory protection. Wearing sufficient ear protection can help protect workers’ ears from the increased noise caused by demolition machinery and explosives. Dismantling concrete and drywall can lead to the release of silica dust. Respirators allow workers to breathe safely during dust-exposing tasks. Thick, protective clothing makes cutting and welding processes less hazardous.
Fall Prevention
The dismantling process for larger structures can require workers to be in aerial lifts. Fall hazards include floor and wall openings. Precautions against falls on a demolition site can help prevent workers from experiencing fall-related injuries and death.
Appropriate precautions a company can take include making sure floor openings do not take up more than 25% of the floor area and installing guardrails for wall openings. Floor openings should be marked. Inspecting ladders and stairways before use allows the company to address potential hazards. Using PPE such as Personal Fall Arrest Systems can help stop a fall.
Emergency Preparation
Making a plan for emergencies before beginning a dismantling project allows the team to be prepared to address them. Planning for potential injuries or other medical emergencies includes having first aid services on-site and emergency services easily available. This allows injured workers to be assisted immediately, preventing their condition from worsening.
Being aware of fire hazards allows the demolition team to exercise proper precautions to prevent flash fires on the dismantling site. This process includes evaluating whether any flammable materials are present on the property and removing them before the demolition process begins. Having a fire evacuation plan in place helps workers safely leave the building in an emergency. This helps reduce the risk of workers being trapped in the building or getting hurt.
Find a Reputable Demolition Company
Safety measures on a site protect visitors and bystanders. When visiting a dismantling site, follow all instructions provided by the dismantling contractor. Make sure the company follows the appropriate procedures for handling dangerous materials. Some dismantling companies offer asbestos abatement services as part of the process. When you are ready to bid on a commercial or residential project, find a reputable local demolition company that follows strict safety guidelines.
