Top 10 Safety Hazards in Demolition (And How to Avoid Them)

Demolition isn’t only a messy and intensive process, but this work can involve many hazards and safety issues that could affect crew members and other people in the area. One mistake can cause a serious safety risk, causing long-lasting injuries. Additionally, problems with demolition can be expensive, especially if other buildings or structures in the area are negatively impacted.

The most important decision that you will make to minimize the risk of demolition safety hazards is to hire a demolition contractor that you can trust. You need a team that is proactive about safety protocols to avoid injury and unnecessary damage.

The first step is to know the top demolition risks. Then the crew can implement procedures to avoid common problems associated with these issues. In this article, we’re taking a closer look at the most common demolition safety hazards and things that you can do to prevent these issues:

1. Falling Debris & Structural Collapses

As the building is coming down, there is a risk that debris can fall and cause injuries. Or, workers could even be trapped under the falling materials. Not only are serious injuries a concern, but it’s also possible that death might occur if there is a sudden collapse.

Prevention: Avoid these injuries by bringing engineering experts on site to check the structure. Make sure that support bracing is in place if needed. Also, the demolition team should be implementing controlled demo sequences to bring the building down in the proper way.

2. Electrical Hazards

When electrical wires are live, there is a risk of shock, arc flashing, and injuries to workers in the area. The good news is that these electrical hazards are easily prevented with a proactive approach before demolition begins.

Prevention: Make sure that all utilities are shut off before the demolition. If there are any live wires or lines, then the area should be clearly marked so that workers know where they need to use extra caution.

3. Hazardous Materials in Demolition

If any hazardous materials are present, then specific demolition methods must be followed to ensure safety every step of the way. Some of the most common types of hazardous materials that might need special care include asbestos, lead paint, and silica.

Prevention: We will check the property for signs of hazardous materials, then plan the demolition accordingly. It’s important to complete testing in advance, then our crew will bring essential PPE and use proper removal methods.

4. Dust & Airborne Particles

As the materials are coming down, it can cause a lot of dust to be released into the air. These airborne particles aren’t only a nuisance, but they could potentially be harmful. Safety issues need to be considered, such as the way the dust results in low visibility or possible respiratory issues that could develop when breathing these particles.

Prevention: Various options are available for dust control, such as water spraying, providing respirators to the crew, and adjusting the demolition plan if needed.

5. Heavy Equipment Accidents

Various types of heavy equipment are necessary throughout the demolition process. Not only do we use large machines to tear down the building, but we also need trucks and haulers to dispose of the materials. There are inherent risks when heavy equipment is used, including possible rollovers, collision accidents, and machine failures that can cause complications.

Prevention: The most important factor in preventing heavy equipment accidents is to make sure that only skilled operators are using the equipment. Team members should be well-trained and have experience with the type of equipment that is being used. Additionally, safety barriers can be put in place to keep pedestrians and other people out of the demolition area. Don’t forget to complete daily equipment checks to ensure that everything is in good condition.

6. Excessive Noise

Noise is unavoidable during demolition, but certain measures can be followed to prevent excessive noise. These strategies are important to minimize disturbance to the neighbors and prevent long-term hearing loss for the crew members.

Prevention: Exposure time needs to be minimized. Also, crew members can wear ear protection to reduce the risk of hearing damage.

7. Fire & Explosions

Serious consequences can occur if a fire or explosion happens during the demolition. This risk is high when flammable materials ignite while the crew members are working.

Prevention: A thorough site inspection needs to be done in advance. Fire extinguishers should be on site and the crew should have emergency plans in place in case something happens.

8. Working at Heights

There is a risk of crew members falling from rooftops or scaffolding, causing serious injuries or even death.

Prevention: Crew members should always use harnesses and proper safety gear. Additionally, fall protection systems can be used, as well as guardrails, to reduce the risk of falling.

9. Misusing Tools & Equipment

The risk of injury increases when demolition tools and equipment are used incorrectly. Or, there could be injuries if the equipment is faulty and in need of repair.

Prevention: It’s important to make sure that everyone on site is well-trained on the proper use of these tools. Crew members need to be trained on correct tool selection and how to use the tools in the right way. Additionally, regular checks are important to ensure that the equipment is in good condition.

10. Poor Training & Lack of Safety Procedures

Many demolition accidents and mistakes are avoidable. If there are any violations of OSHA demolition safety standards, then the risk of injury increases.

Prevention: In addition to the initial training, make sure that crew members receive ongoing safety training. Additionally, site safety rules and clear communication can be helpful to reduce the risk of accidents.

FAQs

What is the biggest safety risk in demolition?

Some of the most dangerous safety risks in demolition include uncontrolled collapses and falling debris on the demolition site.

What PPE is required for demolition workers?

Crew members should be using high quality personal protective equipment, including hard hats, steel-toe boots, gloves, eye protection, hearing protection, and respirators as needed.

Call the Demolition Experts

If you need demolition services, then contact our team at Venditti, LLC to request a consultation. We offer residential and commercial demolition for projects of all sizes.