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.