SINGAPORE STANDARD CP 11 : 1992 (UDC 69.059.6) CODE OF PRACTICE FOR Demolition Copyright Reserved Singapore Institute Of Standards And Industrial Research 1 Science Park Drive Singapore 0511 ISBN 9971-67-437-8ce 1 992 This Singapore Standard having been approved by the Bullding and Construction Industry Standards Committee was endorsed by the Standards Council on 22 December 1992. First published, 1980. First revision, 1992 “The Building and Construction Industry Practice Committee appointed by the Standards Council consists of the following members Name Organisation Chairman: Mr Lam Siew Wah Construction Industry Development Board Secretary: Ms Tan Sock Cheng Singapore Institute of Standards and Industrial Research Members: A/Prof J Alum Nanyang Technological University Mr Ang Chee Keong Institution of Engineers, Singapore Mr Paul Chain Singapore Constructors Association Limited Mr Chee Keng Yam Association of Consulting Engineers, Singapore Mr Heng Hua Jee Housing and Development Board Mr Paul Low ‘Singapore Institute of Architects Dr Gary Ong Khim Chye National University of Singapore Mr Gibert Tan Peng Cheng Singapore Manufacturers’ Association Mr Tan Siong Leng Public Works Department Mr Tan Tian Chong Construction Industry Development Board Mr Harry K C Wong Department of Industrial Safety The Technical Committee appointed by the Building and Construction Industry Practice Committee and responsible for the preparation of this standard, consists of representatives from the following organisations: Name Organisation Chairman: A/Prof Surinder Singh National University of Singapore Deputy Chairman: Mr Chim Kok Keong Public Works Department Secretary: Mr Robin Low ingapore Institute of Standards and Industrial Research Members: Mr Chong Kien Shiun Urban Redevelopment Authority Mr Fong Weng Cheong Association of Consulting Engineers, Singapore Mr Tan Hong Tuan Housing and Development Board Mrs Tham-Lee Siyou Kim Mass Rapid Transit Corporation Mr Wan Tong Wah Ministry of Labour Mr Woon Wee Phong Singapore Contractors Association LtdForeword = - - : : 1. General 14 Scope - : : - 1.2 Definitions : : 2. Preliminary procedures 21 Survey - : : : 2.2 Contract : : : 2.3 Miscellaneous tems - 3. Protective precautions 31 General - : - 32 Safety of personnel on site 3.3 Safety and convenience of third parties 3.4 Protection of property : 4. Methods of demolition 41 General : : : 4.2 Hand demolition : - 4.3 Mechanical demolition by pusher arm 4.4 Mechanical demolition by deliberate collapse 45 Mechanical demolition by demolition ball 46 Mechanical demolition by wire rope pulling 4.7 Demalition by explosives : 4.8 Other methods of demolition 5. 5.1 Small and medium dwellings (not exceeding 10m in height) 5.2 Large buildings with loadbearing walls (three storeys and over) 53 Framed structures - : 5.4 Prestressed concrete structures 85 Composite construction : 56 — Timber : 7 7 5.7 Cantllevers (not part of a framed structure) 58 Bridges : : : 5.9 — Masonry and brickwork arches - CONTENTS CODE OF PRACTICE Typical methods of demolition of various types and-elements of structure CP 11: 1992 Page 12 4 14 18 16 18 18 20 20 aa 24 23, 24 24 26 26 27 28 37 38 38 39CP 11: 1992 5.10 sat 5.12 5.13, 514 5.15 5.16 ©oeonanaen Independent chimneys - : 5 : : Spires - : : . 7 : Pylons and masts - : : 7 : Petroleum tanks in the ground. - . : Storage tanks above ground - : : : Basements - : : : : Special structures = : 7 : APPENDICES Entry into confined space = : : 7 LUst of relevant acts and regulations 7 : TABLE Guide to typical methods of demolition : : FIGURES Definitions of buildings - : : : - Demolition of filer joist floor : : Demolition of jack arches - : - Hand demolition of in situ reinforced concrete structures End detalls of prestressed members : 7 Post-tensioned beams - - ; Demolition of masonry and brickwork arches - Demolition of masonry and brick chimneys = : Demolition of masonry spires - : : . Demolition of pylons and masts - : vo. Page a 43 45 45 ar 48 49 50 51 19cp 11: 1992 SINGAPORE STANDARD CODE OF PRACTICE FOR DEMOLITION FOREWORD This revised Code of Practice was prepared by the Technical Committee on Demolition under the authority of the Building and Construction Industry Practice Committee. Demolition is a skilled and sometimes dangerous operation which requires special procedures it itis to be carried out successfully. This Code of Practice represents a standard of good practice and has been prepared with the object of formulating the discipline to which these procedures should conform. tis intended for the use of all those involved or engaged in demolition, or in the preparation, supervision and execution of demolition contracts. Compliance with it does not confer immunity from relevant statutory and legal requirements, In revising this Code, the Technical Committee has taken account of developments in techniques, plant and machinery. In particular, the clause dealing with prestressed structures has been considerably expanded. At the same time, this Code necessarily recommends the adherence to the relevant authorities! Acts and Regulations, This Code is based on BS 6187 : 1982 “Code of Practice for Demolition” and is reproduced by Permission of BSI, 2 Park Street, London W1A 28S, ‘Acknowledgement is made for the use of information from the above reference. NOTE 1. Singapore Standards are subject to periodical review to keep abreast of technological changes and new technical developments. The revisions of Singapore Standards are announced through the issue of either amendment slips or revised editions. 2, Compliance with a Singapore Standard does not exempt users from legal obligations,1. GENERAL 4.4 Scope. This Code deals in detail with the various aspects of demolition work. It includes basic considerations and recommended methods of demolition from roof to ground level, the treatment of basements, the removal of underground storage tanks, the use of materials and plant, and offers advice ‘on statutory requirements and safety precautions, No recommendations are made concerning underpinning or excavation works. Mention has been made of shores and shoring but no attempt has been made to describe types of shores or to give any detailed information on the construction of shores. 1.2 Definitions. For the purposes of this Code, the following definitions shall apply: 1.2.1. Adjoining owner. The freeholder, owner, lessee, tenant or authorised occupier owning/ occupying a building or any other structure which may be affected by the proposed demolition. 1.2.2 Blast mats. A protective covering of sufficient strength and weight and of fine enough mesh to contain flying debris during blasting operations. 1.2.3. Bulldings (For classification see Figure 1 and Table 1) 1.2.3.1 Detached building on an isolated site. A building having a clear space on all sides of at least twice the maximum height of the section of building to be demolished. 1.2.3.2. Detached building on a confined site. A building having a clear space on all sides which does not conform to the requirements of Subclause 1.2.9.1 1.2.3.3. Attached building on an Isolated site. A building being attached on at least one side and having a clear space on all other sides of at least twice the maximum height of the section of building to be demolished. 1.2.3.4 Attached building on a confined site. A building belng attached on at least one side which does not conform to the requirements of Subclause 1.2.3.3, NOTE. In this Code, ‘lear space’ does not include any areas outside the boundaries of the site. 1.2.4 Building owner. A person or persons intending to demolish or partially demolish a building, plant or other structure, 1.2.5 Chute, An enclosed shaft used to transfer debris from one level to another, set at an angle to prevent free-falling debris, 1.2.6 Demolition ball. A cast steel weight with eyes and fixings, suspended from a liting appliance and used to demolish a structure. 1.2.7 Demolition contractor. A person, company of organisation carrying out the demolition 1.2.8 Fan. A protective screen fixed to the face of a building to contain falling debris during demolition. 1.2.9 Felling. The deliberate collapse of a structure such that the debris falls in a pre-determined area. 4.2.10 Gas expansion burster. A steel cylinder containing a pressurized gas that expands with great force when energized by an electric current.1.2.11 Grapple. A powered claw, mounted on a base machine for use in handling waste material. 1.2.12 High balling. Baling operations carried out on buildings or structures in excess of 30 m in height. 1.2.13 Hot work. The application of heat (including the use of tools that can produce an incentive spark) to plant, tanks or vessels that contain or have contained flammable substances. 1.2.14 Hydraulic burster. A steel cylinder fitted with a number of pistons or wedge arrangements that are forced out under hydraulic pressure. 1.2.15 Hydraulic cannon. A device mounted upon an excavator and used for splitting a mass by projecting a one-shot charge of water into a predrilled hole, 1.2.16 Jib derricking. Angular movement of a crane jib in a vertical plane. 1.2.17 Machine-mounted impact hammer. A larger breaker mounted on an excavator and powered either by hydraulics or by compressed air 1.2.18 Pulling rope. A wire rope, used in conjunction with an anchored winch or attached to a tracked or heavy vehicle, to pull down a selected part of a building, 1.2.19 Purpose-built grab. A grab, suspended from an excavator or crane, specially designed and strengthened for use in demolition. 1.2.20 Pusher arm. A steel attachment fixed to an extended jib arm on mechanically operated mobile equipment. 1.2.21. Shear. A powered, scissor-action cutting tool, mounted on a base machine, for use in cutting metal 1.2.22 Shoring. A system of temporary supports to prevent movement. 1.2.23 Slewing. Rotary motion of a crane jib or load about a vertical axis. 1.2.24 Thermal reaction. The structural steel member to be severed is surrounded by a mixture of ‘a metal oxide and a reducing agent which when ignited will react to liberate a large quantity of heat. After ignition, which may be remotely initiated electrically, the steel becomes plastic and a small unbalancing force applied by means of a rope attached to a winch is sufficient to effect the collapse of the member, 1.2.25 Thermic lance. A steel tube sometimes packed with steel rods through which oxygen Is passed. The tip of the lance is preheated to start an oxygen/iron reaction which produces an intense heat source that is applied to the material to be cut. Once started the reaction is self-supporting. PRELIMINARY PROCEDURES 21 Survey 2.1.1 Before any works of demolition are started, a detailed survey and examination of the bu! or structure and its curtilage should be made. Photographs should be taken where necessary.CP 11: 1992 Original outin of building _ 1H = Overall height of building ta. —— 1b. Detached building on ar —| - =] renter | ul a 1c. Figure 1. Definitions of Tae Height of section of building to be damolished Height of building to be demolished ___ Alt boundaries at a distance of at least 2 from building Building being jemolished n isolated site Not all boundaries: ‘are more than o distance of 24 } from building Building being demolished Detached building on a confined site f buildings:cP 11: 1992 All boundaries at dlistancn of atleast 2H trom building on Not all boundaries are more then » distance of 2H from building on Je. Attached building on a confined site Figure 1. Di initions of buildings (cont'd)CP 11: 1992 Al available plans of the building or bulldings should be examined. Where the nature of the construction is uncertain, a special site investigation should be carried out. Where there is doubt ‘concerning the design of the structural arrangements, the opinion and advice of a Professional Engineer experienced in such work should be sought. The relationship and condition of the adjoining property, services and other properties which may be affected by the demolition should also be considered, taking into account the existence of easements, wayleaves, party rights, boundary walls and other encumbrances. When the building owner has information available about hazards likely to be encountered during the demolition process, he should make it available to the contractor when inviting tenders for the demolition work. Such information should take account of the possiblity of drains, sewers or special services passing through or on his property. 2.1.2 During the survey, particular attention should be given to the nature of the construction of the building or structure with particular reference to those components or services detailed in the following subclauses. iso, the building or structure should be examined and, if necessary, tests carried out, to determine its condition, and whether constituent materials have deteriorated in strength which could result in instability arising due to a particular demolition process. 2.1.2.1 The roof and framed structures. The overall stability and the possible occurrence of unbalanced thrusts should be checked. All bracing members should be identified and protected to ensure that demolition is carried out in a sequence that maintains the stability and safety of the structure and adjacent works. 2.122 The walls. Check whether these are loadbearing and whether party or cross walls are properly bonded into front and rear walls. The thickness and condition of walls and gables including walls to adjoining property, which are to remain in position should be noted, particularly the reduction in thickness of walls at cupboards, etc. to determine the extent of precautionary and final support required. ‘The possible effect on the remaining structures of the removal of buttressing walls should also be considered, 2.1.2.3 The nature of the support or tail-loading of any cantilevered construction such as balconies, heavy cornices or staircases should be investigated. 2.1.24 Special structures. Special structures include precast concrete panels and framed, prestressed ‘concrete structures and slung structures (1.2. floor) that are in some way suspended from an umbrella type framework supported from a concrete core. There is at present very litle experience in the demolition of these types of building and It is, therefore, essential to proceed with caution and to carry out a full investigation to determine the type of structural framework and the principal details before any demolition is commenced. This may be done by: (@) obtaining the necessary information from the engineers responsible for the original design of the framework and from the contractors responsible for the construction of the buildings; (6) obtaining information from the Authority responsible for approving the design and details for the original buildings; 10CP 11: 1992 (¢) carrying out a visual inspection of the building by a Professional Engineer having a good general knowledge of structural frameworks, and where necessary carefully exposing parts of the structure to determine details of constructions. If prestressed members are identified then particular attention has to be given to establish the type of stressing used at the time of construction. 2.1.2.5 Basements, cellars, vaults and other voids. Basements, cellars, vaults and other voids should be tested for flammable vapours if there is any suspicion of such vapours being present. These should bbe carefully examined and it should be determined whether they extend under public footpaths or beyond the curtilage of the site. The effect of the removal of the cross walls and the stabilizing load of the superstructure on old basement retaining walls should be considered. The effect of the retaining action of the basement walls on adjacent property should also be checked. 2.1.2.6 Wells and underground storage tanks, The positions, depths, types of wells and contents of tanks should be determined. This particularly applies at chemical works, gas works and similar establishments. Before any physical inspection is made, precautions should be taken to guard against. the effects of any residual contents. Wells and underground storage tanks should be tested for flammable vapour if there is any suspicion of such vapours being present. 2.1.2.7 Dangerous structures. Local advice should be sought whenever possible to determine the type. of construction and the cause of damage. When a dangerous structure is dealt with by relevant authority under statute, the demolition or remedial work is required to be to their satisfaction. 2.1.2.8 Mains and services which may have to be diverted, removed, plugged or cut off in addition to those which have to remain on or off site, and therefore have to be protected. These may include: @) drainage (©) electricity (©) gas @) water (2) telephone cables () radio and television relay tines (9) hydraulic pressure mains (h) sewerage () roads 2.1.3 During the survey a careful examination of the whole site should be made including basements, cellars, vaults and other voids and dumps of materials or rubbish to establish whether there are any drums containing flammable materials, gas cylinders, domestic aerosol sprays and similar items which could cause a hazard if they were involved in a fire. 2.1.4 Enquiries should be made concerning previous uses to determine the nature of any tisk of danger arising therefrom (e.g. from petrol tanks, gaseous materials, flammable or explosive materials, injurious chemicals and radio-active materials)*, In such cases, special provisions should be made. The action to be taken will depend upon the nature of the material and concerned authorities should be consulted, 2.1.5 _ If there are any benchmarks on the building to be demolished, the Survey Department should be informed. ‘Radio-sctive substances may be found in certain types of lightning protective elements "cP 11: 1992 2.2 Contract. A formal contract in writing should be entered into between the building owner and the demolition contractor. Professional advice should be taken in the preparation of tender and other contract documents. |n addition to the normal conditions of contract, special attention should be paid to the following items, 2.2.1. Insurance. Before any demolition works are commenced the building owner should ensure that the demolition contractor is fully insured against all actions, demands, claims, costs and expenses in respect of any accident or injury to any of his workmen or any third party and any loss or damage to any property, including roads and services and should satisfy himself by inspection of the policy as to the adequacy of the insurance cover paying particular attention to the needs under: (@) collapse, subsidence, vibration and weakening of supports; (b) liability assumed under contract; (©) use of mobile and lifting plant; (@) claims for consequential damage; (©) fire; and () _transportation/handling of explosive materials. Particular consideration should be given also to the amount of the indemnity Insurance policies for demolition contractors should provide cover for all contractual liability. 2.2.2 Statutory notices. Before any demolition works are commenced the building owner or his, agent should submit a formal application to the Building Control Division (PWD) in accordance with the current Building Control Regulations, The method statement should be accompanied by illustrative drawings. No demolition work shall commence unfess @ permit had been obtained from the Building Authority. 2.2.3 Notices to departments, statutory boards and adjoining owners. Prior to the ‘commencement of any demolition works, the building owner or his agent is required to give notice to all concerned adjoining owners, government departments and statutory boards, e.g. water, gas, electricity, sewerage and telephones and to those responsible for other installations, e.g. radio and television relay lines, hydraulic pressure mains, etc., so that arrangements may be made for the cutting off, diverting and stopping up of the services that may be_affected by the demolition works. Notwithstanding the fact that the above course of action has been taken, the demolition contractor commencing demolition should ensure that the services, particularly gas and electricity mains, have been rendered safe. Where explosives are intended to be used, statutory boards and other interested parties should be informed, Where any proposed demolition works may affect any other property, the building owner should give notice to the owner of such properties so that full agreement can be reached, prior to the commencement of the demolition works, on such matters as temporary and permanent support, temporary and permanent protection, disturbance and all other matters, to ensure that the proposed ‘demolition works will not damage or inconvenience the adjoining owner's rights and interest. In many cases this will mean the preparation of schedules of conditions of the adjoining property and contents; itis strongly recommended that photographs should be taken 12CP 11: 1992 2.2.4 ‘Assigning or under-letting. The contract should contain a clause which precludes the assigning or under-letting of any demolition contract or part thereof without the written consent of the building owner. 2.2.5 Supervision. The demolition contractor is required to appoint a competent foreman experienced in the type of demolition work concerned to supervise and control the work on site. Where two or more demolition contractors take part in work on the same site each is responsible for appointing a competent foreman to supervise the work. To ensure safety of the whole works these foremen should collaborate in the planning and execution of the work. This does not Prevent the joint appointment of one person by two or more demolition contractors. It is in the interest of the building owner that he should arrange for supervision and co-ordination of the work on site. 2.2.6 Sequence of demolition operations. A programme should be drawn up in which the Proposed sequence of operations Is clearly indicated. 22.7 Trees. Existing trees, or other plants should not be removed or cut without the approval of the Commissioner, Parks and Recreation Department. Trees and other plants which are to be retained should be listed, numbered, and a description recorded In the contract documents, and positioned on a drawing. Trees to be retained should be protected from damage to branches and trunk by surrounding with an effective tree guard. Such a tree guard should be at a minimum distance of im from the bole but if possible a greater distance is preferable. Fires should not be lit close to remaining vegetation. A minimum distance of 3 m from the furthest spread of foliage is preferable. Trees to be retained should not be used to assist demolition operations on site in any way. Heavy vehicles should be kept well clear of trees to avoid damage to branches, and to roots by compaction of the soil. Similarly no machineries, demolished materials or earth should be stored at tree bases. {tin the course of demolition or excavation works, big roots or boughs are to be severed, the consent of the Parks and Recreation Department should first be obtained, 2.2.8 Materials 2.2.8.1 Any materials required for the works should be in accordance with the latest editions of the appropriate Singapore Standards (where applicable) or, in the absence of such standards, they should be the best of their respective kinds for the works required. Materials arising from the works should be Femoved as they accrue and not stored, disposed of or used again on the site, except with the approval of the building owner. 2.2.82 Any timber infested with lice, bugs, dry rot, woodworm, termite or which is otherwise decayed, should be disposed of by burning on the site, wherever possible, and where police and other relevant authority requirements permit;* otherwise such timber should be removed by the demolition contractor and burnt on a site to be indicated or provided by him. Any vehicles used for this purpose should be Covered to avoid dropping infected material and should be swept out and disinfected before being used for other purposes. Where necessary, the demolition contractor should take precautions to prevent the Spreading by vehicles of mud and debris on to the road and public access. NOTE. Clean Air (prohititon on the use of open fies) Order, 1973 under the Ciean Air Act, 1971 (Act 29 of 1971). 13CP 11: 1992 The responsibility of the demolition contractor in regard to clearing all refuse, debris, etc. from the site and for the provision and use of the necessary tip should be emphasized. No refuse or waste should be allowed to enter public sewers and water courses. The contract should contain a clause making clear the safeguarding of any items of archaeological, historical or geological interest or value and how these should be dealt with. In addition the demolition contractor's position in regard to delays and interference with his completion should be clarified. 2.3. Miscellaneous Items tion contractor should ascertain from the Building Control Division (PWD) ighting, barricades, 2.3.1 Licences. The demol oF other appropriate bodies what is required in the permits for hoardings, fencing, platforms, ramps, handrails, ec. and provide them accordingly 2.3.2 Scaffolding. Attention is drawn to the recommendations contained in Singapore Standard CP 14 on ‘Scaffolding’ Where demolition involves the erection of scaffolding for access purposes then this should be provided by a competent scaffolding contractor. ‘An independent tied scaffold situated on the outside of the bulding or structure should be used. The demolition contractor should arrange for the scaffolding contractor to visit the site as necessary and make the adjustments required to the scaffolding as the work proceeds, to ensure its stability 2.3.3 Closing of roads. Where the demolition works would be facilitated by temporary street closure, the building owner should approach the Roads and Transportation Division (PWD) as early as possible with a view to the closing of the street until the demolition works are completed, 2.3.4 Access to site. Where access is across a public footpath or walkway the building owner should consult the Walkway Unit (PWD) to obtain all necessary permissions. 2.3.5 Drain or sewer sealing or diversion. The building owner should take account of the possiblity of drains, sewers or special services passing through or on his property. 3. PROTECTIVE PRECAUTIONS 3.1 General. Demolition may be a hazardous operation and, at all times, the methods, materials, and equipment should accord with the need to safeguard life and property. It is essential that precautions should be taken both before and during actual demolition; these are divided under three main headings, namely those precautions which are: (@) specifically aimed at safeguarding personnel engaged on the site of the works; (0) necessary for the safety of persons not connected with the demolition including members of the public; and (c) necessary for the protection of property likely to be affected by the demolition works. In addition to these general precautionary measures, there are various specific precautions associated with the particular method or methods of demolition being employed and the structure or structural element being demolished. Those more specific measures are described in Subclauses 8.2 and 3.3. Attention is drawn to the recommendations given in SS CP 49 - ‘Noise control on demolition sites’ 14CP 11: 1992 3.2 Safety Of Personnel On Site 3.2.1 General. Demolition is an operation which comes within the scope of statutory regulations and a list of relevant Acts and Regulations is given in the Appendix B. Whilst the Acts and Regulations themselves should be consulted, the recommendations in the following subclauses are given for convenience. 3.2.2 Plantand equipment. The demolition contractor should be responsible for ensuring that plant and equipment is: (@) ofa required type and standard having regard to the location and type of work involved; (b) Inthe charge of a competent operator; and (c) maintained in good working condition at all times. Where appropriate, plant and equipment should comply with the relevant Singapore Standards, 3.2.3 Protection of site personnel. It is necessary for the protection of workmen during demolition ‘work that they should wear adequate protective clothing and where appropriate, helmets, goggles, safety footwear and industrial gloves. For specific operations such as work on buildings where chemicals have been stored or used or where lead paint, asbestos, dust or fumes may be encountered, which may prejudice the health of Persons using the site, special precautions should be taken regarding protective clothing, goggles and the use of suitable respirators, When the provision of protective equipment is a statutory requirement, it may be necessary to use equipment approved by the relevant authorities Projecting nails in timber should be removed or hammered flat; they should not be allowed to remain as a source of danger. High levels of noise can cause permanent hearing damage to workers. Attention is drawn to the Guidelines for the reduction of noise and vibration (IHD)* which contains advice on the levels of noise that are serious hazards and the precautions that can be taken, When noisy machinery is used, fear defenders may be necessary. NOTE, eter to Appendix A on entry into confined space. 8.2.4 Precautions against uncontrolled collapse. The removal of certain parts of the building or structure during demolition can result in other parts becoming unsafe and it is necessary to pre- determine where temporary support will be needed. Ifthe structure abuts other buildings, the abutting buildings should be given such lateral support as is glven by shoring designed by a Professional Engineer before the existing lateral support is disturbed. The layout of the shores should be designed to enable any new building to be constructed with the least possible interference. 3.2.5 Other precautions 3.2.5.1 Every working place and approach and all openings dangerous to persons employed should be properly illuminated and protected. 4.2.5.2 Overloading of any part of the building by debris or materials should be avoided. 32.53 Before carrying out any part of the work the demolition contractor should consider prevailing weather conditions and weather forecasts. Particular attention should be paid to the effects of adverse wind, “This publication can be obtained for the Industial Heath Department, Ministy of Labour 16cP 11: 1992 3.2.54 Electrical hazards, When mechanical plant is used, for demolition purpose, care should be taken to ensure that no part of such machines can come into direct contact or in close proximity to ‘overhead or underground electricity or telephone wires or cables. Where such a possibility exists, Public Utilities Board (PUB) should be informed in order that they assess the degree of risk and offer advice accordingly. Precautionary measure may include physical barriers, disconnection, recovery or diversion of the affected wires or cables. 3.2.5.5. Precautions should be taken to prevent the risk of fire or explosion caused by gas or vapour. When thermal reaction or lancing methods are used, consideration should be given to the prevention of oxygen enrichment and the attendant risk of explosion or ignition of flammable vapour. Containers of oxygen, acetylene or liquified petroleum gas should be handled with care and stored and used in accordance with accepted practice. ‘The use of thermal cutting tools in close proximity to timber and other flammable materials should be avoided unless suitable precautions are taken against the risk of fire or explosion. Attention is drawn to the increasing use of foam plastics and the like in building construction, including its use as insulation between wall leaves. This material may constitute both a fire hazard and ‘a health risk due to toxic combustion products, and methods of demolition likely to cause ignition should be avoided. Similarly, when burnt timber treated with copper/chrome/arsenic rot preservatives give off Poisonous fumes, and where such timbers are known to be present it should be disposed of ina safe ‘manner. 3.2.5.6 Care should be taken to guard against the risk of flooding, 3.2.57 Explosives should be handled in accordance with BS 5607, and used only by or under the control of a person competent in their use (see Subclause 4.7). 3.3 Safety And Convenience Of Third Parties 3.3.1. A person carrying on demolition operations should make sure that any building that is partly demolished and its site is, so far as is reasonably practicable, properly secured or closed against entry at all times when demolition operations are not in progress and that the building or structure is left in a safe condition at the close of each day's work. All reasonably practicable steps should also be taken to prevent the exposure of third parties to substances hazardous to health that are or could be present during demolition work When a building is to be partially demolished it should be ensured that at no time during the Process of demolition is the safety of any occupant of the remaining portion put at risk. If necessary the occupants of the remaining portion should be evacuated. 3.3.2 The relevant authorities may require the person uridertaking the demolition to do some or all of the following (@) To shore up adjacent buildings; (b) Toweatherproof any surface of an adjacent building that is exposed by the demolition; (©) To remove material or rubbish resulting from the demolition and clearance of the site: (@) To disconnect and seal any sewer, drain or water-pipe in or under the building; (2) To remove any such sewer, drain, service pipe and duct; () To make good to the satisfaction of the relevant authorities the surface of the ground disturbed by anything done under items (d) or (¢) above; 16CP 11: 1992 (9) To provide protective hoardings or sidewalk sheds for the safety of the pedestrians; (*) To install and operate instruments for measuring vibration, subsidence, ground slip et. of adjacent properties. 3.3.3 In addition the Building Control Division (PWD) may insist that the site be secured by means of close boarded hoarding, or fencing of appropriate height. If the hoarding causes an obstruction, it should be adequately iluminated at night by means of red lights, painted and kept in a neat and tidy manner at all times to the satisfaction of the Division. In the event of electricity being used, the voltage should not be greater than 25 V. Where works of demolition are likely to result in the discharge of materials or debris on to the public access, protective coverings or catch-platforms or fans and Protective hoardings or sidewalk sheds should be erected. 3.3.4 Where works of demolition are likely to result in the discharge of materials or debris on to the public access or private property not a part of the demolition site, protective hoarding or fans should pe erected or a temporary closure applied to the public access, Fans should be of adequate strength for the purpose and, if need be, waterproofed and laid to fall so that there is no likelihood of water or drips falling on persons using the public access. 3.3.5 The demolition contractor should arrange with the appropriate department to provide suitable access to the site, 3.3.6 Any gantry extending over the public foot-path should be to the approval of the Roads and ‘Transportation Divison (PWO). 3.3.7 Every effort should be made to minimize any nulsance to the public and the precautions detailed in the following subclauses should be observed. 3.3.7.1 Dust. The demolition works should be periodically sprayed with water to reduce the amount of dust, 3.3.7.2 Noise. Noise should be minimized as far as possible in particular by limiting the use of compressors and other plant to stated hours and by the fitting and use of silencing devices wherever practicable. 3.3.7.3 Fire and smoke. If bonfires are permitted, great care should be exercised in burning timbers, etc. in built-up areas and consideration given to the prevailing wind; some materials, such as rubber and linoleum, can give off offensive smoke. All fires should be extinguished early enough so that they are out before the personnel leave the site or an appointed fire-watchman should remain on the site for at least one hour after all fires have been extinguished. Extra care should be taken to ensure that'no incipient fires are left when burning equipment (e.g. oxy-propane torches) has been used. The particular requirements of smoke control areas should be ascertained from the Environmental Health Department, The deliberate burning of bulldings should not be used as a means of demolition, Gas cylinders and similar containers, whether empty, in use or spare, should be completely removed from the demoltion site and stored in a safe place since if they become involved in a fire, any resulting explosion may cause injury to persons and damage to property 3.3.7.4 Maintenance of access. Regard should be given to the need of maintaining convenient access to the adjacent property. 7CP 11: 1992 3.3.7.6 Maintenance of warning signs. Danger signs in iluminative red capital letters of the four official languages and 100 mm in height, and illuminated when necessary, shall be conspicuously posted around the perimeter of the affected area, and all door ways or other means of access to the property shall be kept adequately barricaded, except during the actual passage of men or equipment. During hours of darkness, dependable bright warning lights shall be placed on or about all barricades, and elsewhere as needed, When location, size, or other aspects of the operations require, a watchman shall be provided when work is not in progress to prevent the public from entering the area, and to maintain all danger signs, lights, barricades, or other public protection devices, 3.4 Protection Of Property 3.4.1. General. Where shoring is necessary, this should be so designed and constructed that itis ‘adequate for its purpose and a Professional Engineer should ensure that itis placed in posttion at the appropriate time. The shoring should be checked for effectiveness as the demolition proceeds. See also Subclause 3.2.4 The original survey will have indicated whether it is necessary for permanent support or weatherproofing or both to protect the adjoining buildings. Where required, temporary protection from. the weather, debris and dust should be effected to adjoining buildings. When grubbing out foundations or reducing to new levels adjacent to existing buildings not being demolished, care should be taken to ensure that the suppor ta the remaining foundations or land is not disturbed. After basements and cellars have been cleared, soakaways should be formed at the lowest point with holes of not less than 600 mm in diameter to expose the original soil, one hole to each 8.3 m? to ensure the effective drainage of the floor. Precautions should be taken also to prevent water penetration to adjoining buildings. Where watertight basement has been builtin ground having a high standing water table level, the basement should be filled with material to prevent flotation, 3.4.2 Vibration and concussion. Special care should be taken when demolishing buildings or tall chimneys to ensure that no undue vibration or concussion is caused which could result in damage to other properties, underground services or drains, or damage to adjacent property by flying debris. 4. METHODS OF DEMOLITION (See Table 1) 41 General. This clause describes the various methods of demolition In use, together with the appropriate precautionary measures that should be taken. While described separately in this clause, it 4s common for several methods to be used in combination or at different parts of the demolition site. In such cases the precautions relevant to all the methods in use should be taken. 18CP 11: 1992 Table 1. Guide to typical methods of demolition (see note 1) Type of structure Type of construction Method of demolition Detached | Detached | attached | Attached building | building | bullaing | building isolated | confined | isolated | confined sie" at siter sit ‘Small and medium two-storey Loadbearing wats | ascom | asom =| asom —| ao bulidings (see Subelause §.1) Large building three storeys and over | Loadbearing walls | agom | asom | agom — | ao (see Subclause 5.2) Loadbearing wal pom — | aM AM aM with wrought iton and cast iron members Framed structures (see Subciause 5:3) | structural steet acu aM aM aM In stu reinforced ADM ADM 40M aM concrete Precast reintorced | ADM OM ADM ‘AOM Prestressed reinforced | See See See See concrete Subclause | Subciause | Subsiause | Subclause 538 534 534 534 Composite (structural | ADM OM ADM aM steel and reinforced concrete) Timber sscom | asom | som — | aBoM Independent cantilevers (canopies, ADM ADM AoM OM balconies and etaicases (see Subclause 5.4)} Bridges (see Subciause 5.5) ascom | agcom | aw aM Masonry arches (see Subclause 5.6) com | acom | acom —| aco Chimneys (see Subclause 5:7) Brick or masonry | ACD a 0D a Stee! aC a A A In situ and precast. | AD a ry A Ieintorced concrete Reinforced plastics | AC a a A Spires (soe Subciause 5.8) Aco A A A Pylons and masts (ee Subeiause 5.9) ac. A A Petroleum tanks (underground) See Subclause 5.10 ‘Above ground storage tanks ‘See Subclause 6.11 (Chemical works and similar establishments See Subctause 5.12 Basements See Subclause 5.13 Special syuctures See Subciause 5.14 NOTE 1. This Table isa general guide tothe methods of demaltion usually adopted in particular circumstances, ln addition, subject to local restraints, explosives may be used by experienced personnel in many of the ckoumstances Usted (S00 Subclause 4.7). This Table should be read in conjunction with the main text The indication of a particular method does not necessary preclude the use of another method, or the use of several methods in combination (abe Subclause 4.1) NOTE 2. Legend ‘denotes hand demolition (see Subclause 4,2) denotes mechanical demeltion by pusher arm (see Subclause 4.3) denotes mechanical demolition by deliberate collapse (see Subclause 44) \enates mechanical demolition by demolition ball (see Subclause 4.5) denotes demoltion by other mechanical means excluding wire puling (see Subclause 48 and note 3) g000> NOTE 3. For mechanical demolition by wite pulling see Subclause 46. * For definitions cee Subclause 1.2, 19cP 11: 1992 4.2. Hand Demoli 4.2.1. Hand demolition involves the progressive demolition of a structure by operatives using hand-held tools; ling appliances may be used for lifting and lowering members once they are released, 4.2.2 Where work cannot be done safely from a part of a bullding or structure, a suitable working platform made from approved scaffolding or special purpose scaffolding should be used. Other means of support such as specially designed working platforms or a suitable skip suspended from a crane or an aerial platform, or, in some instances, ladders, may also be used. 4.2.3 Buildings and other structures should generally be demolished in the reverse order to that of their construction, The order of demolition for buildings should be progressive, storey by storey, having regard to the type of construction 4.2.4 Onall sites debris should be allowed to fall freely to the ground internally or externally only where the horizontal distance from the point of fall o a public highway, of adjoining property, is not less than 6 m, or half the height from which the debris is dropped, whichever is the greater. In other cases, chutes or skips should be used. Where debris from walls, etc. above first floor level is to be dropped to the ground or basement level within a building, sufficient openings, clear of joists or beams, should be formed in the floors to enable the debris to fall without deflection. I itis proposed to remove one or more joists to allow the free passage of debris, care should be taken that such action will not jeopardize the stability of the surrounding structure. Precautions should be taken against flying or faling debris by seating off all openings in walls adjacent to the area of fall. To prevent excessive lateral pressure, care should always be taken to avoid a building-up of fallen debris against walls in the lowest storeys. This is of particular importance in confined spaces such as lft and tall chimneys. When material is being dropped, a look-out man should be posted to ensure safety generally. 4.2.5 Steel structural members and reinforced concrete structural members should be lowered to the ground or be cut into lengths appropriate to the weight and size of member before being allowed to fall Where possible, a crane and liting gear should be used to support beams and columns whilst they are being cut and lowered to the ground. In framed structures of precast concrete or steelwork, similar support should be given to members while joints are being severed. 4.2.6 When only a portion of a structure is to be demolished, the stability of the part to remain should be checked. 4.3. Mechanical Demolition By Pusher Arm 4.3.1. Mechanical demolition by pusher arm involves the progressive demolition of a wall using a machine fitted with a pusher arm exerting horizontal thrust. 4.3.2 The pusher arm should be used only when the equipment is on firm level ground. It should not be overloaded and should generally be used from outside and not from inside the building. No person should be within that distance of the building where debris is liable to fly ‘The pusher arm should be made of steel. Pusher arms of other materials should not be used. The cab of the appliance should be robust enough to withstand impact from flying debris and the cab windows should be of shatter-proof glass. 20cP 11: 192 4.3.3 The height of the building should, in the first instance, be reduced by hand demolition to a height to suit the machine being used; then the height should be reduced progressively by pushing small sections to the ground. Where this method is adopted for demolition of attached buildings, the structure to be demolished should first be detached by hand demolition. The clear space in which the equipment is to operate should be a minimum of 6 m. The plant should be used only in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations; on no account should the point where the pusher arm is applied to a wall being demolished be more than 600 mm below the top of the wall. The plant should not be worked from a roadway without the Permission of the Roads and Transportation Division (PWD) 4.4 Mechanical Demolition By Deliberate Collapse 4.4.1 Mechanical demolition by deliberate collapse involves the removal of the key structural members causing complete collapse of the whole or part of the building or structure being demolished. 4.4.2 Expert engineering advice should be sought before this method is used. It should be employed only on detached, isolated, reasonably level sites and where the whole structure is to be demolished. There should be suificient space to enable equipment and personnel to be removed to a safe distance. Sections of a structure should not be pulled down by deliberate collapse in separate operations it instability of the remaining structure may result, causing a possible hazard to personnel on the site. 48 Mechanical Demolition By Demolition Ball 4.5.1 Mechanical demolition by demolition ball involves the progressive demolition of the bullding by the swinging of a weight suspended from a liting appliance. 4.5.2 Three techniques may be used: (@) Vertical drop; (©) Swinging in tine with the ji (6) Slewing jib. The operator should be experienced and skilled in the use of the equipment and techniques of demolition and there should be a high standard of inspection and maintenance. Reference should be made to BS CP 9010. Cranes with telescopic jibs shall not be used for demolition. When high balling Is to be carried out, it should be undertaken only by operators and experienced supervisors thoroughly conversant with this technique 4.8.3 This method should not be used on buildings or parts of buildings where the angle of the jib would exceed 60 degrees to the horizontal. The use of the demolition ball where attached to a normal duty mobile crane should be restricted to free fall vertical drop only. The use of swinging motion to effect demolition by a ball weight, whether by swinging in line with the jib or stewing, should be restricted to machines designed for arduous or heavy duty such as convertible dragline excavators, 24CP 11: 1992 ‘An anti-spin device should always be used on the hoist rope in conjunction with the ball attachment equipment. In all cases, reference should be made to the machine manufacturers for uidance as to the limitation in service, e.g. the lengths of jib and the weight of the drop ball and attachments that may be used. It should be noted that certain manufacturers do not recommend the use of their machines for demolition ball duties or may approve this use only conditionally, with restrictions on the techniques to be used or on the maximum jib lengths, etc. The hoist rope, anti-spin device, and the attachment of the demolition ball to the hoist rope should be inspected at least twice daily by a competent person. Itis advisable to reduce progressively the length of the jib as the demolition proceeds. But at 1no time should the jib head be less than 3 m above the portion of the building being demolished. ‘Swinging of the ball should be carried out by methods that do not overstress the jib or hazard the stabilty of the machine. The supporting ropes should be of such length or be so restrained that it is not possible for the ball to swing against any structure other than that being demolished. dl derticking for the purpose of swinging the ball should not be permitted. 4.8.4 Slewing jib techniques can impose excessive stresses on the machine and also on the jib, which should be suitably rated for the purpose. Factors that could impose high operational stresses in the jib are as follows (@) Angle of slew (which should not exceed a total of 90 degrees); (b) Acceleration of slew; (6) Rate of checking of stew: (2) Weight of ball; (@) Height at point of impact. Only operators experienced in the use of slowing jb techniques should be employed for this work. 4.8.5 Care should be taken to avoid the ball becoming trapped when drop-balling masonry arches, suspended floor slabs or similar elements of structure, as a sudden collapse could result in the machine being overloaded. if the ball is trapped, attempts should not be made to free it by a dragging or liting action as this may overload the crane. The cab of the machine should be robust enough to withstand impact from flying debris and the cab windows should be of shatter-proof glass. Inall cases the machine should be used only when standing on firm level ground. The machine should generally be positioned to operate from outside and not from inside the building, 4.5.8 Where this method of demolition is adopted on attached buildings, the structure to be demolished should first be detached by hand demolition and a clear space of at least 1 m wide provided between the two buildings to ensure that transmission of vibration is kept to @ minimum. At all times the stabilty and safety of the remaining property should be ensured. ‘The clear space in which the equipment is to operate should be a minimum of 6 m. 22CP 11: 1992 4.5.7 Where its possible to demolish a building without endangering any adjacent building the whole building may be demolished with a ball, provided that personnel do not have to enter the building once demolition has commenced. If the building has a pitched roof, the roof structure should be removed down to wall plate level by hand demolition before using the ball. 45.8 Before walls are demolished, sections of the floors should be removed by hand demolition to facilitate the free fall of debris. Generally between 50% and 75% of the areas of the floors can be Femoved but sufficient structure should remain to ensure the stability of the building. The demolition should be carried out progressively storey by storey, having due regard to the type of construction, 4.5.9 Debris should not be allowed to accumulate above an average height of 2m from ground level before removal, nor should it be allowed to subject the containing structure to undue lateral pressure. 4.6 — Mechanical Demolition By Wire Rope Pulling 4.6.1 Wire rope pulling should not be used on masonry structures exceeding 21 m in height. The Fope should be of such length that the horizontal distance from the demolition work to the winch or pulling vehicle is not less than twice the height of the highest part to be pulled, 4.6.2 Only steel wire ropes should be used for this operation. The size and strength of the rope should be adequate for the purpose for which itis to be used and in no case should the circumference of the rope be less than 38 mm, ‘The rope should be inspected by a competent person before use and at least twice dally to ensure that its strength has not been impaired by wear or damage, Damaged ropes should not be used. The rope should be firmly fixed at both ends and the tension in the pulling rope should be ‘gradually applied; snatch loading should not be permitted Any sharp edges round which the rope may be wound should be protected to avold wear on the rope. 4.6.3 When pulling, no person should be forward of the winch or tracked vehicle and no person on either side of the wire rope within a distance of three quarters of the distance between the winch or tracked vehicle and the structure to be demolished. 4.8.4. If an attempt or several attempts are made to pull a building or structure and the equipment is. found to be inadequate to cause collapse it is most probable that weakening of the building or structure will have taken place. Under these circumstances itis dangerous for a person to approach the structure and an alternative method of demolition should be used if at all possible, e.g. pusher atm, demolition ball or any other safe method. : 4.6.5 Where it is required to demolish a building or structure by sections and itis not possible or Practical to isolate such sections, the wire ropes should be attached to their respective sections prior to the first pull being made and the free ends should be left at a safe distance from the building, Where sections of the bullding or structure are progressively completely isolated, such sections may be progressively pulled down and the wire ropes re-fixed accordingly, having constant regard to the stability of the building or structure. 4.6.6 A well-anchored winch or a tracked or heavy vehicle should be used for pulling. Care should be taken to ensure that the vehicle does not lift from its tracks or tyres so as to endanger its stability uring pulling. The direction of the tracks or tyres should be maintained In line with the line of pull 23CP 11: 1992 47 Demolition By Explosives 4.7.1 Where explosives are to be used for demolition, a specialist or specialist firm or company, experienced in the controlled application of explosives should be employed, 4.7.2 No blasting operation shall commence unless a permit had been obtained from the Police. assistance 4.7.3 Before blasting operation commences, the police should be informed and th ‘sought to keep people and livestock or pet away from the area, 4.7.4 _Adelailed pre and post blast surveys of services and the surrounding structures should be made to avoid controversy and dispute. 4.7.8 Special attention should be paid to the presence of power cables, radio and television, transmitting station sited within 3 km of the intended blasting operations, since under special conditions. these can cause premature firing of electric detonators, 4.7.6 Lightning detector should be installed and checked regularly to detect the impending thunderstorm which may cause premature firing of electric detonators. 4.7.7 _ Utilities also require special consideration and the proximity of underground and above ground services should be carefully considered before blasting operations are carried out with the necessary Authorities who are responsible for concealed underground works (e.g. pipes, cables etc). 4.7.8 The explosive specialist should decide the charges to be used and their placing. Adequate storage accommodation should be provided in accordance with the “Explosive Substances Act 99 of the Statutes of the Republic Of Singapore, 1970". 4.7.9 _All explosives should be under the control of the shotfirer. Under no circumstances should explosives be left unattended or abandoned. It is essential that only competent persons are employed as shottirer. 4.7.10 Precautions should be taken to protect other property from shock and vibration and flying debris should be controlled by means of blast mats or other baffles. 4.7.11. Before any blasting commences both audible and visual signalling systems giving warning of blasting operations should be established. These should be such that they can be clearly heard and seen by site personnel working within the site areas, and also by the general public who may be affected. Guidance on Code of signals is given in BS 5607. 4.7.12 Inthe event of a misfire, the area should remain cleared until the explosives specialist has dealt with the situation. If after blasting operations, a misfire charge is found during the subsequent removal of debris, the area should be cleared and entrance restricted until the explosives specialist has rendered the misfire safe. 4.7.13 The method statement should state clearly the sequence and method of demolition, the extent of pre-weakening, type and quantity of explosives used etc. The structural stability due to pre-weakening should be checked and certified by a Professional Engineer. 4.8 Other Methods Of Demolition .8.1_ General. In addition to those methods given in Subclauses 4.2 to 4.7, there are a number of other forms of mechanical thermal, water jetting or percussive demolition available. These are generally more limited in application, and in a number of cases are useful for smaller demolition works. As with the previously described methods, they may be used in combination with other techniques. In all cases they should be carried out by persons experienced in the use of the particular equipment involved, and the equipment should be used in accordance with the manufacturer’ i 24cP 11: 1992 4.8.2 Machine-mounted impact hammer. A machine-mounted impact hammer is a larger and heavier duty form of the hand-held pneumatic dri, and may be pneumatically or hydraulically operated. As in the case of the lighter equipment, it is useful for breaking up massive construction such as Concrete base slabs or the lke, and for breaking larger pieces of debris into manageable sizes. It should ot normally be used to demolish tal vertical features such as walls or columns from the side, because of the risk of debris falling on to the machine or the operatives. When machine-mounted hammer is to be used on the building, the structural stability should be checked and certified by a Professional Engineer. 4.8.3 Power grapples and shears. Power grapples and shears are frequently hydraulically operated Power shears may be used as an alternative to oxyacetylene cutting or the lke to crop and cut through ‘metal such as reinforcing steel or beams, particularly where there might otherwise be a risk of fire oF where the more precise cutting possible with a torch is not required. Care should be taken to ensure that any member to be severed Is either effectively supported or, f to be allowed to fal, in so doing will endanger neither personnel nor the remaining structures. Power grapples may be used to handle waste material, either to move it about a site or to load other Vehicles when disposing of the waste. As some debris resulting from demolition has a high density, care should be taken to avoid overloading the equipment itself and to avoid the risk of the machine overturning as a result of instability induced by a heavy load, 4.8.4 Purpose-built grabs. Purpose-buit grabs should generally be used only for moving debris {rom one location to another. As in the case of power grapples, care should be taken not to overload the equipment, in order to avoid collapse or instability 4.8.5 Drilling and sawing. Drilling and sawing are used either to remove totally part of a structure OF to produce a potential fracture zone (e.g. by stitch-driling, which is driling a line of overlapping holes), and are frequently used in conjunction with other methods of demolition, particularly bursting. Diamond or tungsten tipped drils or saws are normally used. These methods can be employed in Confined spaces, or for work that requires a high degree of accuracy, or where the noise, dust and vibration resulting from some other methods would be unacceptable. They may be used to cut up floors. and suspend slabs into manageable sizes, of to cut holes and slots in parts of a structure. Whilst this 's being done the piece to be removed should be adequately supported. Use of these methods avoids damage to the surrounding area In order to flush out the resulting dust, and to cool the equipment during use, it is usual to employ running water in volume as a coolant. This needs to be borne in mind if it is proposed to adopt this method of demolition, and measures should be taken to provide a suitable supply of water, and to Collect and safely dispose of the waste water that results, Care should be taken that any sparks Produced during sawing do not constitute a health or fire hazard. 4.8.6 Bursting 4.86.1 General. The technique of bursting is analogous to the use of explosives in that It makes use Of the expansion of a mass of gas or a mechanical device in a prepared crack in a mass in order to break it into fragments. It may be possible to use this method where the use of explosives would not be possible as a result of site conditions. Three forms of bursting are described in Subclauses 4.8.6.2 to 4.8.6.4 4.8.62 Gas expansion burster. A gas expansion burster operates with explosive force and should only be used and operated by persons skiled in its use. The effect of the burster is obtained by inserting it into @ prepared cavity in the mass to be demolished. Upon being energized by means of an electrically operated device, the resultant increase in pressure of the gas ruptures a diaphragm, releasing the gas into the crevices in the surrounding structure which is thus fractured. Extreme care should be taken to ensure that the burster is effectively restrained within the prepared cavity in order to prevent it from becoming an uncontrolled projectile 25CP 11: 1992 4.8.6.3 Hydraulic burster. An hydraulic burster also uses an expanding device to force apart a mass, but the process is not as rapid as ina gas expansion burster. Pistons or wedges are placed in a prepared cavity and are gradually jacked out under pressure, the resulting increase in size of the device fracturing the surrounding material, During use care should be taken that when the structure or mass collapses it does so without endangering the operatives or equipment. 4.8.6.4 Hydraulic cannon. An hydraulic cannon projects a single, high-pressure, shot of water into a pre-drilled hole in a structure in order to break it up. It is generally used to break large pieces of rock or rubble into more manageable sizes for easier handling. As in the case of driling and sawing, measures should be taken to ensure the safe and effective disposal of the water utilized by this equipment 4.8.7 Thermal reaction and thermic lance 4.8.7.1 General. The thermal reaction and thermic lance methods of demolition are two techniques, but they each use heat asa means of weakening or severing a structure in order to facilitate its removal. As in all methods in which heat is used as the primary agent, care should be taken to prevent the risk of fire or explosion when these methods are used in the proximity of timber and other flammable materials and vapours. in particular consideration should be given to preventing localized oxygen enrichment because of the attendant risk of explosion. 4.8.7.2 Thermalreaction. The thermal reaction technique is typically used in conjunction with wire rope Pulling to break up structural steel members. The member to be severed is surrounded by a mixture of a metal oxide and a reducing agent that when ignited reacts to liberate a large quantity of heat. After ignition, which may be remotely initiated electrical, the steel becomes plastic and a small unbalancing force applied by means of a pulling rope should normally be sufficient to effect the collapse of the member. Suitable precautions commensurate with the other techniques being used in conjunction with the thermal reaction should be taken 4.8.7.3 Thermic lancing. Thermic lancing is the technique of using a thermic lance to cut through ‘materials, including concrete, that may not be amenable to the use of other forms of cutting equipment. The tip of the lance is pre-heated to start an oxygenyiron reaction that produces an intense heat source that is then applied to the material to be cut. Once started the reaction is self-supporting. During thermic lancing the products of combustion typically produce a thick smoke; suitable precautions should therefore be taken, particularly in a confined space. TYPICAL METHODS OF DEMOLITION OF VARIOUS TYPES AND ELEMENTS OF STRUCTURE (See Table 1) 5.1 Small And Medium Dwellings (Not Exceeding 10 m In Height). Generally, before any major demolition process Is commenced, the pitched roof construction should be taken down to wall plate level by hand methods. 5.2 Large Buildings With Loadbearing Walls (Three Storeys And Over) 5.2.1 General. Large buildings with loadbearing walls (three storeys and over) may sometimes incorporate wrought iron or cast iron structural framed members. Before any demolition is commenced, is essential to determine whether metal members are included and to identify the type of metal used in construction. Frequently metals used in columns are different from those used in beams. Normally explosives would not be employed in the demolition of this type of construction unless it is proposed to demolish the building as a whole Normally cast iron columns occur with either cast ion or wrought iron beams and loadbearing brickwork, Generally the beams support either jack arch construction or timber floor. 26cP 11: 1992 ‘Where cast iron or wrought iron frameworks are encountered the frame should be demolished in a similar manner to that recommended for framed structures of structural steel (see Subclause 5.3.1). 5.2.2 Roof trusses. Ifa building has a pitched root, the roof structure should be removed to wall Plate level by hand methods. Enough purlins and bracing should be retained to ensure stability of the remaining roof trusses while each individual truss Is removed progressively. Temporary bracing should be added where necessary to maintain stability. The end frame opposite to the end where dismantling is commenced, or a convenient intermediate frame, should be independently and securely guyed in both directions before work starts On no account should the bottom tie of roof trusses be cut until the principal rafters are Prevented from moving outwards. 5.2.3 Filler joists. When breaking out the concrete or brickwork between filler joist floors, the operative should be supported on a safe working platform independent of the bay of floor being removed (see Figure 2) 5.2.4 Floor. Heavy bulks of timber and steel beams should be supported before the extremities are cut and should then be lowered to a safe working place. 5.2.5 Jack arches. Where tie rods are present, they should not be cut until after the arch or series of arches in the floor have been removed. Particular care should be exercised and full examination of this type of structure undertaken before demolition is commenced (see Figure 3). The floor should be demolished in strips parallel to the span of the arch rings (at right angles to the beams supporting the arches) 5.2.6 Reinforced concrete and patent floor slabs. Before demolition is commenced, a small trial hole should be cut in order to ascertain the direction of the main reinforcement. The floor should be demolished in strips parallel to the main reinforcement. 5.3 Framed Structures 5.3.1 Structural stee! 5.3.7.1 The principle of design and the method of construction should be determined. The sequence of demolition should be so arranged that the remaining structure is stable; where necessary, temporary bracing should be added 9.3.1.2, Demolition should be commenced by removing partitionsand external non-loadbearing cladding. It should be noted that in some buildings the frame may rely on the panel walls for stability. ‘As demolition proceeds temporary supports and guys should be provided to control the fall of Cut members and to support any unrestrained remaining members. 5.3.2 In situ reinforced concrete 5.3.2.1 Before demolition is commenced, the nature and condition of the concrete, the condition and Position of reinforcement, and the possibility of lack of continuity of reinforcement should be ascertained, Attention should be paid to the principles of the structural design to determine which parts of the structure depend on each other to maintain overall stabilty 27cP 11: 1992 5.3.2.2 Demolition should be commenced by removing partitions and external non-loadbearing cladding. It should be noted that in some buildings the frame may rely on the panel walls for stability. Where hand demolition methods are to be used, the following procedures should be used, (a) Beams. For beams, suitable support should be provided for the beam, The concrete should then be removed from both ends by pneumatic drill and the reinforcement exposed. The reinforcement should be cut in such a way as to allow the beam to be lowered under control to the floor (see Figure 4(a)) (©) Columns. For columns, the reinforcement should be exposed at the base after restraining wire guy ropes have been placed round the member at the top. The reinforcement should then be cut in such a way as to allow the column to be pulled down to the floor under control (see Figure 4(b) for sequence of operations). (©) Reinforced concrete walls. Reinforced concrete walls should normally be cut into strips and demolished as for columns (see Figure 4(c)), although in some cases it may be acceptable to cut a wall ito rectangular portion of a size convenient toll and transport whole from site (4) Suspended floors and roofs. Before suspended floors and roofs are demolished, the type of construction should be ascertained (see Figure 4(d)). In solid single span slabs, the direction of the main reinforcement should be determined; the slab should then be Cut into strips parallel to the main reinforcement and demolished strip by strip. This method of demolition may not be suitable for stabs spanning in two directions, and a ‘modified technique, taking account of the type of support provided, may need to be developed. Similarly, where ribbed construction has been used, the principle of design and the method of construction should be determined before demolition is commenced. Care should be taken not to cut the ribs inadvertently 5.3.3 Precast reinforced concrete 5.3.3.1 A precast reinforced concrete structure consists of prefabricated members that are jointed together in position on site. It should be borne in mind that the joints may nt provide stiffness and the structure may rely for its stability on panel walls Joints may be of in situ construction depending for their strength on the bond between steel reinforcement and concrete grout, or they may depend on a mechanical connection. 5.3.3.2 Where a building has been constructed with an industrialized system, full information on the detail method of design and construction should be obtained before any demolition works are considered. 5.3.3.3 Attention should be paid to the principles of the structural design to determine which parts of the structure depend on each other to maintain overall stability. Temporary supports to individual elements of the structure may be necessary, 5.4 Prestressed Concrete Structures 5.4.1 Preliminary examination. First and foremost it is important to inspect all available records of the structure of the building and try to establish whether the construction conforms to these records. Hf none is available, a careful visual examination often shows whether a structure is prestressed or not. Subclause 5.4.4 lists the major points to be noted. It after such examination there is stil doubt as to whether the structure is prestressed, the advice of a Professional Engineer experienced in this type of construction should be sought. 28CP 11: 1992 Platform independent Main beam of floor slab being | broken out Stab being TT broken out Working platiorm >} Main beam Figure 2. Demolition of filler joist floor Tieroa | | | ‘cutting te rod Figure 3. Demolition of jack arches 29cP 11: 1992 0 @ @ @ © @ (a) 0 @ ® ® ® (b) Rope securely tied ‘around beam Cur 3 Floor level ‘Sequence of operations. Ensure all loads, other than seltweight, are removed from beam, ‘Secure rope to end of beam, Expose reinforcement at ends A and 8. Cut reinforcement at postions 1, 2 and 9 respectively. Lower beam to foot etic rope to end B, cut at postion 4 and lower beam to floor. Reinforced concrete beams Restraining rope ¥ Rope securely tied lin opposite directo to top of column to pulting rope) Pulling rope X Requred direction of Fall eet i Ensure all loads, other than seltweight, re removed from column, Secure and tension two wire quy ropes to the top ef the column Rope °X’is to prevent unintentional collpase inthe wrong diction and finally for puling column Rope "Y" isto prevent unintentional collapse inthe direction of winch. Expose reinforcement on side opposite to requited direction of fal, The height of concrete cut, dimension A, should be restcted to & minimum to prevent the possible uncontrolled collapse of the column Cut reinforcement at postion (1) on side opposite to required clrection of fall ‘With all workers in positions of satety release the anchorage of rope Y” and pull the column over with rope Soquence of operations Reinforced concrete columns Figure 4. Hand demolition of in situ reinforced concrete structures 30CP 11: 1992 Restraining rope ¥ Paling rope x sits ct on] ine ne No personnel fon ins side |eter int (Gof the wall height L | Remove conc (3) 1 Singte 1 1 1 i Sequence of operations (1) Ensure all oads, other than self-weight, ace removed fram wal, Cat slots in wal. @) proceed as for (0). () Reinforced concrete walls Strips. not to exceed 300mm Independent working platform to be used wherever possible pend main reinforce {nent Lines of support tunder the floor ‘Sequence of operations Depends on type of floor construction (see Subclause 5.3.22 (4) (a) Reinforced concrete floors Figure 4. Hand demolition of in situ reinforced concrete structures (cont'd) 31CP 11: 1992 5.4.2 Nature of prestressed concrete. Concrete has a tensile strength about one tenth of its strength in compression, In ordinary reinforced concrete, this tensile weakness is overcome by placing Stool reinforcement in the tensile zone; ths is usually near the bottom of a beam or slab, at mid-span and at the top over the supports. in prestressed concrete, precompression is used to provide Compression in these tensile zones. This is achieved by means of tensioned steel wites or tendons, bolted to or anchored against the concrete, The presence of reinforcement in the form of links and longitudinal bars should not, of itself, be taken as an indication of ordinary reinforced conerete, as most prestressed members contain cages of this type of reinforcement. 5.4.3 Methods of prestressing 5.4.3.1 General. Two basic methods of prestressing are in use: () _Pre-tensioning, in which the steel is tensioned before the conerete is cast around it and the concrete bonds with the stee! so that the steel and concrete act together. (©) Post-tensioning, in which the tendons are tensioned after the concrete has been cast and allowed to attain its design strength, the stress in the steel being sustained by means of end anchorages, Pre-tensioning is used primarily for factory-made units, and post-tensioning is applied to precast units of units that are cast in situ, in which ducts are formed within the members. The tenons are {nserted In these ducts and then stressed and anchored with permanent anchorages. Occasionally tendons are placed outside the member and protective conerete is added subsequently. In structures that are subjected to heavy concentrated loading, such as bridges, pretensioned Precast units are sometimes post-tensioned transversely once concreted in position, {tis important to remember that some members may not be properly grouted and that in recent Structures the tendons are sometimes not grouted at all. Other forms of protection are then provided. In some cases, particularly floor slabs, the tendons are first cased in grease and then enclosed in a Plastic sheath. These tendons are classified as ungrouted. The determination between grouted and ungrouted tendons is of utmost importance when the demolition of a member is being considered, since the behaviour of members containing these various types of tendon is different. 5.4.3.2 Tendons. Tendons may consist of either: (@) high tensile wire having a diameter varying between 2 mm and 8 mm, placed singulatly, in groups or in strands as a wire rope (see Figure §(a)), or (0) high tensile bars having diameters varying between 13 mm and 40 mm (see Figure 5(b)). 5.4.3.3 Grouting. After the tendons have been anchored, it is usual to fll the duets with a cement Grout. The individual ends of the prestressing steel are usually cut or burnt off and the anchors eneased with protective concrete, The grout performs two functions; it protects the prestressing steel rom corrosion, and also bonds the tendon to the concrete along the length of the duct. 5.4.4 Recognition of prestressed members. Before any demolition works are considered, information on the structural design and method of construction should be established I" itis not identified as above, the following ten criteria should be used to determine whether a Particular structure is prestressed or not. It should be borne in mind that exposure of non-prestressod inforcement is not conclusive evidence that the member is not prestressed, and investigation should be carried further. 22Nore. CP 11: 1992 Ma. member does not meet any of these criteria it does not necessarily mean tha i isnot prestessed. f@) (b) (© @) (e) 0 @) (hy } Span/depth ratio: prestressed beams and slabs may have a greater span/depth ratio than comparable reinforced concrete beams and slabs, Uneven soffit: when prestressed precast flooring units have been used itis often found {after the ceiling finishes have been removed) that adjacent units have different upward camber. ‘Shape of sections: prestressed units are often formed of shapes other than the simple rectangle, e.g. T, U and | shapes and hollow boxes are commonly used. Transverse stiffeners may occur at intervals and contain the additional tendons described in Sub- clause 5.4.3. Joints: post-tensioned members made from individual units have visible joints between each element. These joints are of varying thickness and formed of cement mortar or conerete; recently, thin resin joints have been used. Concrete strength: a concrete strength in excess of 30 N/mm? may be an indication of prestressed concrete. Concrete strengths may be estimated by non-destructive methods. If core testing is adopted extreme care should be exercised when taking cores because of the danger of cutting tendons. Ends of members: with pre-tensioning it is common practice to cut the prestressing steel flush with the ends of the concrete (see Figure (a). Signs of burning may be resent or the ends may have been coated with bitumen or a similar solution. Post- tensioned steel tendons are cut off flush at the anchor and the anchor is generally encased in a protective layer of concrete which may be identifiable. The presence of end anchors confirms that the member is prestressed and enables the prestressing system to be identified (see Subclause 5.4.6.1 about inspection hazards) Tanks: circular tanks are commonly prestressed with walls of thinner sections than for ordinary reinforced concrete construction. If a wire-winding machine has been used an external coating of pneumatically applied mortar is usually present. Portions of this may be chipped away and the presence or absence of prestressing wires may be established. If other systems have been used anchoring buttresses are usually present at intervals round the tanks (see Figure 5(d)). A further check is given by the presence of prestressing anchors along the top edge of the tank, but the absence of the latter does not necessarily imply the tank is not circumferentially prestressed. Prestressing may be applied in more than one plane. Columns: columns are seldom prestresset, but portal frames and some raking columns on bridges may be prestressed Retaining walls: Deep retaining walls are sometimes stressed vertically, in which case anchorages would be located at the top of the wall, probably within the thickness of the ground floor slab. If deep walls are considered to be of relatively thin section, and without intermediate buttress or horizontal supports, then the possibilty of a prestressed wall should be considered. Resilience: i during the course of demolition a member assumed to be of reinforced concrete exhibits unusually high degree of resilience, there is a likelihood that it may be prestressed. Further investigation should be made before demolition continues. 33cP 11: 1992 In situ slab In situ slab, (2) Typical T beam, with pre-tensioned high tensile wires burnt off near the end of the beam and with no end anchorage Possibie outline of protective concrete ‘on completion Plan of beam (©) Typical magnel-blaton wedge anchors in pairs of § mm or 7 mm diameter high tensile wires. (0) Typical post-tensioned beams, with high tensile bars or strands and anchor plates housed in the end Of the beam. The ends are usually protected by concrete. eee He NOTE: Alter stessing, a covering of preumaticaly applied ‘mortar or concrete is usually present, (@) __ Extemalelevationofprestressed circular onerete tank showing pairs of wires in opposed type anchorages. Figure 5. End details of prestressed members 34cP 11: 1992 5.4.5 Categories of prestressed construction. There are four main categories of prestressed members. The category or categories should be determined before attempting demolition, bearing in ‘mind that any prestressed structure may contain elements of more than one category. Category 1. Members prestressed before the application of the superimposed loads and having all cables or tendons fully bonded to the concrete or grouted within ducts. Category 2. As category 1 but having the tendons left ungrouted. This type of construction can sometimes be recognized from the access points that may have been provided for inspection of the cables and anchors. More recently, unbonded tendons have been used in the construction of beams, slabs and other members; these are protected by grease and surrounded by plastic sheathing, instead of the usual metal duct. Category 3 (see Figure 6(a)). Members that are post-tensioned progressively as the building Construction proceeds and the dead load increases, using bonded tendons as category 1 Category 4. As category 3 but using unbonded tendons as category 2, which could present an even greater hazard If itis not possible to reduce the prestress gradually. It is most dangerous to cut an unbonded post-tensioned tendon, because of the large amount of energy stored In the tendon; the anchorage could become a missile. Members should be lowered to the ground and final demolition carriéd out under the instructions of a Professional Engineer experienced in this type of construction. Examples of construction using members of category 3 or 4 are relatively rare up to this time, ‘but may be found for example in the podium of a tall building or some types of bridge. The greatest care should be exercised in demolishing such members to avoid upward or hogging failure, which could have catastrophic results. Such failure may occur when part of the load carried has been removed and itis, therefore, essential that cables or tendons be cut successively as the dead load is removed in order to maintain a reasonable state of equilibrium between the upward and downward forces and moments. 5.4.6 Hazards 5.4.6.1 The greater proportion of the stored energy of a prestressed member is contained in the tendons, and rapid release of this by removing the surrounding conerete and/or burning through the high tensile steel can precipitate sudden failure. In addition the possibility of the tendon and its anchorage becoming a missile cannot be ignored in any anchored form of prestressed construction. A sand bag screen should always be put round anchors when the prestressed members are broken up. When a tendon is exposed, whether for the purpose of intial inspection or as part of the demolition Procedure, this should be done from the side of the beam, preferably some distance away from the anchorage. : 54.6.2 Prestressed members are usually designed to resist the applied load in one direction only and should be handled with this in mind, Sudden failure of the member can occur if handled incorrectly. Members with multiple tendons are normally prestressed symmetrically and any unsymmetrical release of tendons should be avoided to lessen any tendency of sideways buckling of the member. However, damaged members may fail even though being handled correctly. 5.4.6.3 Members continuous over more than one support may have tendons the full length of the structure and demolition of one section may release and collapse the adjoining spans (see Figure 6(b)). This is @ particular hazard in the case of incompletely grouted tendons and structures of category 2, and progressive collapse is a real possibility 35cP 41: 1992 Category 3 As building Ie eroctes (losd on beam is ineraaeed The pos forca in tensioned tendon is Dear could Increased, be unstable ‘turing progressive demolition = — (Professions) ee er I recommen (@)_Progressively tensioned beam Anchorages Line of tensioned tendons continuous incor ag / ‘over two spans. = J i a z — a a = — a tendons are in ungrouted ducts. (b) Elevation of a two-span beam with post-tensioned tendons Figure 6. Post-tensioned beams 36CP 11: 192 5.4.6.4 Progressively prestressed structures of categories 3 and 4 provide additional hazards as the constructional processes cannot easily be reversed for demolition. The removal of dead load below the minimum weight essential for the stability of the structure may cause premature failure. Rupture may be preceded by upward deformation. The spontaneous secondary effects of this form of failure, e.g, the collapse of wall cladding panels caused by dead load reduction, should be carefully considered As failure progresses, the upward deformation can suddenly change to normal collapse failure. 5.4.6.5 If the concrete of a prestressed member is found to exhibit signs of damage or deterioration, for instance as a result of alkali aggregate reaction or deterioration of high alumina cement concrete of ifthe tendons or anchorages show signs of damage or corrosion, extreme care should be taken in the handling and lifting of the member. In some cases it may be advisable to add temporary bracing before the member is moved. 5.4.6.6 In many cases collapse caused inadvertently by incorrect demolition procedures occurs suddenly. This form of collapse without warning is of particular danger to site personnel 5.4.7 Recommended procedures for demolition 5.4.7.1 Pre-tensioned members. Pre-tensioned members usually do not have any end anchors, the wire being embedded or bonded within the length of the member. Simple pre-tensioned beams and slabs up to about 7 m can be demolished in a manner similar to ordinary reinforced concrete. Pre- tensioned beams and slabs may be lifted and lowered to the ground as complete units after the removal of any composite concrete covering at the tops and end of the units. To facilitate breaking up, the members should be turned on to their sides. Litting from the structure should generally be from points ‘near the ends of the units or from liting point positions. Re-use of lifting eyes if in good condltion is recommended wherever possible. When units are too large to be removed complete, consideration should be given to temporary supporting arrangements, 54.7.2 Pre-cast units stressed separately from the main frames of the structure, with end anchors and grouted and ungrouted ducts. Before units of this type are broken up, the advice of a Professional Engineer experienced in this type of construction should be sought. Generally this type of unit should, wherever possible, be lowered to the ground before being demolished, 5.4.7.3 Monolithic structures. The advice of a Protessional Engineer experienced in prestressed work should be sought before any attempt is made to expose the tendons or anchorages of structures in which two or more members have been stressed together. It may be necessary for temporary supports to be provided so that the tendons and the anchorage can be cautiously exposed. It is essential that fo indiscriminate attempt to expose and/or de-stress the tendons be made, When the prestressing system can be identified, the advice of the manufacturer should be sought. 5.4.7.4 Progressively prestressed structures. In the case of progressively prestressed structures it Is essential to obtain the advice of a Professional Engineer, and to demolish the structure in strict accordance with the method statement supplied by him, however burdensome this may be. The stored energy in this type of structure is large, In some cases, the inherent properties of the stressed section ‘may delay failure for some time, but the presence of these prestressing forces may cause sudden and complete collapse with litle warning 5.5 Composite Construction. Prior to the commencement of the demolition work, the method of construction should be ascertained. 37cP 14: 1992 While demolition generally may be carried out as described in Subclause 5.3.2, it should be borne in mind that basic sections on their own may have very little strength and may rely for their stiffness upon the composite nature of the complementary members; therefore, it may be necessary for temporary supports to be added. 5.6 Timber. Normally a timber building should be demolished by the deliberate collapse method or by hand in the reverse order to that of construction. 5.7 Cantilevers (Not Part Of A Framed Structure). A cantilever construction depends for its stability on the super-imposed structure. Canopies, cornices, staircases and balconies should be demolished or supported before the tailing-down load is removed. 5.8 Bridges 5.8.1 Expert advice should be obtained and, at all stages of the demolition, the closest supervision should be given by persons fully experienced and conversant in this type of work to ensure the stability of the structure, The sequence of demolition and the permitted hours of working should be programmed in Consultation with, and to the satisfaction of, the relevant authority or authorities responsible for the bridge and the land beneath i. Special care should be taken where work is being carried out over water. 5.8.2 Generally, when hand demoltion methods are employed, bridges should be dismantled in the reverse sequence to that in which they were erected. Work should commence by removing as much dead load as possible without interfering with the main structural members. 5.8.3 Fans or other temporary works erected in association with the demolition should meet any statutory requirements that may apply. Temporary works should be designed to carry the required loads and temporary bracing should be incorporated in the bridge structure, where necessary, to ensure stability under the most severe Conditions. Before transverse members are removed, temporary supports and guys should be fixed to the main girders. Where the abutments are designed to receive horizontal support from the bridge deck itself, temporary struts to the abutment have to be provided before the bridge deck is removed. 5.8.4 On isolated sites, a deliberate method of collapse may be possible provided the ends of the girders are previously freed and the work is carried out under the supervision of a person possessing special knowledge of this type of work. There is no advantage in using this method of demolition if the Collapsed structure presents hazards and difficulty in being cut into manageable pieces. 5.8.5 On a confined site, the section to be demolished should be supported by suitable liting equipment, then cut and lowered to the ground under control. 5.8.6 Consideration should be given to the possibility of sliding the bridge back over its supports by the use of counter-balancing. The balancing materials should be securely and safely fixed. The bridge should be transversely braced, if necessary. 5.8.7 Bridge decks, beams and vertical supports of reinforced concrete should be demolished by similar techniques to those used for the demolitian of reinforced concrete slabs, beams and columns (see Subclause 5.3.2.2) 28cP 11: 1992 Bridge beams are frequently made of precast concrete, Where suitable, such beams may be removed in whole for breaking up on the ground, Prestressed members should be dealt with as described in Subclause 5.4, 5.8.8 Principal members may be fractured by the use of explosives or by means of the thermic lance. This latter method may be particularly convenient when noise and vibration have to be kept to a ‘minimum, but attention should be given to the increased fire hazard. 5.8.9 Many old bridges contain cast iron girders with brick jack arches, or cast iron ribs. These should be handled with care, bearing in mind the brittle nature of the material, and that, if painted, there may be hidden cracks that develop into complete fractures under impact or reversal of stress during lifting out 5.9 Masonry And Brickwork Arches 5.9.1 Expert advice should be obtained and, at all stages of the demolition, the closest supervision should be given by persons fully experienced and conversant in the type of work to ensure the structure is stable at all times. 5.9.2 _ As much dead load as possible may be removed provided it does not interfere with the stability of the main arch rings, but it should be noted that the load-carrying capacity of many old arches relies Con the filing between the spandrels. (On no account should the restraining influence of the abutments be removed before the dead load of the spandrel fil and the arch rings is removed, ‘The normal sequence of demolition is as shown in Figure 7(a). Special temporary support is required in the case of skew bridges, 5.9.3 A single-span arch can be demolished by hand by cutting narrow segments progressively from each springing parallel to the span of the arch, until the width of the arch has been reduced to a minimum which can then be collapsed (see Figure 7(b)). Where it is impossible to allow debris to fall to the ground below, centering designed to carry the load should be erected and the arch demolished progressively. The design of the centering should make appropriate allowance for impact. Where deliberate collapse is feasible the crown may be broken by the demolition ball method working progressively from edges to the centre (see Figure 7(c)) Collapse of the structure can be effected in one action by the use of explosives. Charges should be inserted into boreholes drilled in the arch and both abutments. This method is the most effective for demolition of tall viaducts. 5.9.4 In multl-span arches, before individual spans are removed lateral restraint should be provided at the springing level. Demolition should then proceed as for a single span, care being taken to demolish the spandrels down to the springing line as the work proceeds (see Figure 7(d)). Where explosives are used it is preferable to ensure the collapse of the whole structure in one operation, so a to avoid leaving unstable portions standing, 39CP 11: 1992 (Order of demaiition SS (1 Spandret (1) Remove spaniel iting down to springing line. (@) Remove arch ring. @ Remove abutments, oe (2)Areh ring Arch demolished in ——(3) Abutments — approx 230mm — 1 strips @ povimet fe atent th Arch : Edge of arch Deliterate colapse for centre 10m Temporary centering sing as necessary Elevation Plan ®) Demolish arch at crown working from edge of Ege of arch arch to centre a hl ' L sume —E | a ft erie ' ' ! ' i 1 Edge of arch © Provide (ateral restraint before intermediate span 's demolished @ Figure 7. Demolition of masonry and brickwork arches 40CP 11: 192 5.10 Independent Chimneys 5.10.1. General $.10.1.1 The methods described in Subclause 5.10 normally apply only to chimneys of at least 1m internal base diameter. Demolition should be supervised and carried out by operatives thoroughly experienced in this type of work. 4.10.12 If itis proposed to demolish a chimney by hand a careful inspection and survey should be made to determine whether existing ladders, climbing irons and bands are sound. No reliance should be placed on existing painters’ pulleys. ifthe existing ladders, etc. are unsound, the chimney should be laddered by skilled steeplejacks. The fabric of the chimney should be examined to determine its condition and whether there has been any deterioration in the strength of the materials. Particular care should be taken surveying chimneys in which the structural materials are obscured by cladding, Measurements should be taken to determine whether there is any deviation from the perpendicular. 5.10.13 Where a chimney has varying cross sections through its height, or its condition has deteriorated, particular care should be taken where deliberate collapse is used for demolition as it may prove difficult to fell the chimney exactly along the proposed fall line. 5.10.2 Masonry and brick chimneys 5.10.2.1 Generally, hand demolition should be carried out from a safe working platform. This may be provided by either an internal or external scaffold or, f the chimney is in good condition, a truss-out (of suspended) scaffold. Care should be taken to ensure that any cornice or similar projecting feature is adequately supported or tailed down before the weight of the structure above is removed. The chimney should then be demolished progressively course by course. The debris may be allowed to fall to the ground internally but should be cleared as the work proceeds. If the brickwork or mortar is of poor quality then extra care should be taken particularly with regard to enlarging existing openings. Where the condition of the brickwork or mortar is suspect, debris should be lowered in suitable containers from outside the chimney rather than dropped internally §.10.2.2 When a method of deliberate collapse Is used, there should be a clear space for fall extending for atleast 20 degrees either side of the proposed deliberate line of fall and for a distance of at least 1.5 times the total height of the chimney, measured from its centre (see Figure 8). This is particularly important when the chimney has a metal capping, which may be projected forward on striking the ground. Those responsible for detonating the explosive charge should also ensure that at the time of the actual demolition (i.e, when the shot is fired) no person, other than the shot firing team, is closer to any patt of the chimney than a minimum of 1.5 times the total height of the chimney, regardless of whether of not such persons are within shelter. Hf the chimney is to be felled by a systematic cutting away, with subsequent weakening, at the base on the side of the line of fall, this should only be carried out by a person skiled in this type of work. Great care should be taken to ensure that there is no radial separation between annular courses of brickwork, and investigation should be carried out to establish the possibilty of any gap between the stack and the refractory lining 5.10.2.3 On isolated sites a demolition ball may be used working progressively from the top of the chimney (see Subclause 4.5.6). This method should be carried out only by an operative thoroughly conversant with this type of work. 9.10.2.4 Explosives should only be used by a specialist experienced in such work 4acP 11: 1992 Should be at least 15 4 {2) Elevation ~ Proposed deliberate lie of fall Gar space \ or fall \ Chigney ae Nearest cbstructons Crear area tobe cies time of shot tiring / Z Figure 8. Demolition of masonry and brick chimneys ©) Plan 5.10.3 Steel chimneys 5.70.3. Hand demolition should be carried out from a safe working platform provided by an external or internal scaffold, The chimney should be taken down from the top; the plate should be cut into manageable sizes ‘and lowered to the ground. Any internal lining should be demolished progressively with the steelwork, and the debris should be allowed to fall to the ground internally and should be cleared as the work Proceeds. If the lining is concrete, dificuty may be experienced In burning the plate with it in position and the lining should be removed first. Guys, if any, should be cut systematically as the shaft is lowered, ‘temporary guys having first been fixed at other points, where necessary 42cP 11: 1992 5.10.3.2 Deliberate collapse may be used, provided the conditions described in Subclause 5.8.2.2 apply and are maintained. A thorough survey should be made of the lining to ascertain its strength and ‘composition. Movement of the chimney should be observed. If the chimney is guyed two steel wire rope should be attached at 45 degrees on plan to each side of the line of fall before felling. The ropes should bbe made taut and the guys on the far side of the line of fall should be systematically severed. 5.10.3.3 Explosives should be used only by a specialist experienced in such work. 5.10.4 Reinforced concrete chimneys (in situ and precast) 5.10.4. Concrete chimneys should be examined to determine whether they are prestressed. If post- tensioned cables have been used, no work should be started until a Professional Engineer has been ‘consulted, §.10.4.2 Hand demolition should be carried out from a safe working platform provided by a scaffold. The chimney should either be taken down in sections from the top in panels of manageable size which should be lowered to the ground, or should be broken up in situ, with the debris being dropped to the ground inside the chimney and cleared as the work proceeds. This latter method may be appropriate when the chimney is fabricated from precast panels of light construction. When the chimney is removed in sections the concrete should be shattered by pneumatic tools to expose the reinforcement and each section should be supported while the reinforcement is cut. The lining should be demolished progressively with the shaft and the debris allowed to fall to the ground internally. 5.10.4.3. Explosives should be used only by a specialist experienced in such work. 5.10.5. Plastics-reinforced chimneys. Normally these chimneys are constructed inside a framework and should be demolished in a similar manner to that employed for masts (see Subclause 5.12) 5.11 Spires 5.A1.1 General 5.11.1.1 Hand demolition should be carried out from a safe working platform provided by a scaffold encircling the spire or, if the spire is in good condition, from suspended scaffold erected by skilled operatives. 5.11.12 The method of deliberate collapse may be used on sites that are detached, isolated and reasonably level, where the whole structure is being demolished and where there is sufficient space all around the spire to enable equipment and personnel to be a minimum distance, measured horizontally, of 1.5 times the total height of the structure from the centre of the spire. All base anchorages of steel- framed spires should be released first. 5.11.1.3 The demolition ball may be used on detached isolated sites where the whole structure is being demolished and the height of the section of spire being demolished does not exceed 24 m from ground level. The section above 24 m should be demolished by hand, 5.11.14 Explosives should not be used except in an emergency , and such work should always be controlled and supervised by a specialist. In the event of it being necessary to use explosives to demolish the spire complete with its supporting tower, a thorough structural appraisal should be undertaken to assess the feasibility of this method. 5.11.15 Because ofthe risk of fie, thermal cutting tools should not be used to remove metal fitings ‘or clamps from timber components in a spire. 43cP 11: 1992 5.11.2 Masonry. “The heavy solid stonework at the peak of a masonry spite, which can normally be removed only after releasing the central tie rod, should be reduced to hand-iting size before lowered tothe ground. In bad cases the stonework above the spider should be supported temporarily in position before the tie rod is released. Any overhanging stonework should be supported when the weight of the structure above is removed. Below the solid peak of the spire where the structure is hollow with the sides battering inwards, one complete course at a time should be removed and where openings occur temporary bracing should be provided. The condition of the stone-work and built-in metal cramps should be inspected by a safety officer or a responsible person as work proceeds to avoid any sudden fall of fractured or badly weathered stone (see Figure 9). Sequence of operations (1) ttinpoor condition provide temporary support. 2) Remove tie rod, (9) Demolish peak stone (@) Remove complete rings. Remove one Hate comptete ring — —~spider ata time Figure 9. Demolition of masonry spires. 5.11.3 Timber. Timber spires should be inspected, prior to any work commencing, to determine ‘whether any rot or detect is present. If rot is particularly prevalent at the foot of timber spire, appropriate Steps should be taken to support the structure before work is commenced, Cladding and timbers should be removed progressively from the peak in manageable sizes and lowered to the ground, 8.11.4 Steel and concrete, Steel and concrete spires should be demolished progressively from the peak. 44CP 11: 1992 5.12 Pylons And Masts 5.12.1 On confined sites, only hand demolition methods should be used. The pylon or mast should be taken down in the reverse order to that in which it was erected. Before felling, a steel wire rope should be attached to a spreader near the top of the structure land the slack in the rope taken up. The two legs nearest to the direction of fall should be partially severed and then the two legs further away should be completely severed. The pylon or mast may be pulled over when all personnel are clear (see Figure 10) 5.12.2. Explosives should be used only by a specialist experienced in such work. Spreader ‘Sequence of operations (1) Fix spreader. (@ Tako up slack on rope, ° ®) 6) Should be at least 15H Direction of pull Figure 10. Demolition of pylons and masts 5.13 Petroleum Tanks In The Ground 5.13.1 General. Before any work is carried out, Building Control Division, (PWD), Ministry of Labour and other relevant authorities should be informed. Before a redundant petroleum tank is to be removed from the ground the tank is to be removed from the ground, the tank should be emptied of fuel, cleaned and rendered inert by ane of the following methods: (@) By filing with water (see Subclause 5.11.2): (©) By filing with inert gas (see Subclause 5.11.3); () By using the ‘dry ice’ method (see Subclause 5.11.4). Where cutting with burning equipment or cutting discs is to be used, great care should be taken to ensure that any risks of fire or explosion due to the previous use of the tank have been eliminated. 45cP 11: 1992 |n addition to the precautions necessary with the tank, precautions should also be taken with the associated pipe-work and equipment; tools used to remove pipes and fittings should be of non- ferrous metal to prevent sparking, Where a tank is being excavated and there is a danger that the surrounding earth may have been contaminated either by leakage from the tank or by spillage, all the following precautions should be taken: (@) Danger notices should be displayed; (0) No smoking or naked lights should be permitted in the vicinity; (©) A copious supply of water should be used to lessen the risk from sparking. In all these operations, care should be taken to ensure that no petrol is allowed to enter any drainage system or water course. After excavation, the words ‘DANGER PETROL TANK’ should be painted with illuminative red capital letter, 100 mm in height and shall be conspicuously posted at each end or on opposite sides of the tank, 5.13.2 Using water as an inhibitor. The petroleum liquid and the ventilating pipe should be removed and the tank should be filed with water unt this flows through the ventilating hole(s). The openings should then be sealed, after which excavation may commence. It should be borne in mind that flammable petroleum spirit may emerge with the flushing water. This should be retained in a suitable vessel, or directed to an interceptor where practicable. Care should be exercised to ensure that there are no dead pockets into which the water has Not penetrated. In compartmented tanks, care should be taken to ensure that all compartments are filled. ‘When the tank is ready for liting from the excavation, the water should be removed but any ‘opening should be re-sealed immediately after emptying, It should be borne in mind that this technique does not render tanks suitable for hot work (Subclause 1.2.13) once the water has been partially or completely removed. 5.13.3. Using inert gas as an inhibitor. Nitrogen is recommended for use in purging tanks as itis non- toxic, The condition of redundant petrol tanks may be uncertain and, therefore, the atmosphere Pressure method should be used. This method involves the nitrogen being passed continuously Into the tank at one point, while the air and petroleum vapour being purged leaves from another opening, {tis tecommended that the nitrogen gas should be introduced directly from an industrial gas Supplier's road tank vehicle which is fitted with all the necessary reducing valves and measuring equipment. The petroleum liquid and the ventilating pipe should be removed and all the openings sealed except those required for the inlet of nitrogen and for the exhaust outlet should be of sufficient size so 8 t0 prevent build up of pressure in the tank. The nitrogen should then be introduced and the mixture leaving the tank should be vented to the atmosphere so that the tank remains at atmospheric pressure throughout the entire operation. At the beginning of the purging operation the Vented vapour may be flammable, Precautions should therefore be taken to avoid ignition. If approximately three tank volumes Of nitrogen are used, the final oxygen level will be approximately 1%. Following completion of the Plugging, the openings should be sealed and tank may then be excavated. 46