Demolition Work: Common Hazards and How To Mitigate Them

Posted by Greenshields Industrial Supply on 17th Sep 2023

It's no secret that many hazards are present in demolition work, and the safety of every construction worker on the job is paramount. If you have an upcoming job and want to increase demolition safety, we're here to help. Learn the answer to "What is demolition work?" and more.

What Is Demolition Work?

Demolition occurs when trained professionals break down and remove old buildings and structures. During a demolition project, construction workers utilize heavy-duty equipment and machinery to handle large and hefty building materials and remove all remnants of a structure. Since these tasks require training and powerful equipment, it's not shocking that many people injure themselves on the job.

Construction workers must carefully plan before demolishing a building. They must explain how they will handle the tear-down and removal of various debris types, including hazardous materials. Other planning includes how they'll complete the project and its duration.

Common Hazards in Demolition Work

When prioritizing safety in demolition, it's vital to learn about some of the most likely hazards you might encounter. Workers could sustain major injuries or die from accidents or unsafe protocols. Potential demolition hazards include the following:

Fires and electrical sparks
Dust, dirt, and other debris in the air
Collapsing or unsafe structures
Vehicle, equipment, and tool vibrations
Machinery

During wrecking and demolition work, a worker could experience breathing and hearing problems, physical injuries, burns, broken bones, and more. Old buildings might contain hazardous materials, such as lead and asbestos, that can reach workers and contribute to health problems.

When job site professionals fail to monitor these concerns, more people are at risk of getting hurt during demolition. Workers may face minor, life-changing, or deadly injuries due to improper protocols or management. However, there are plenty of ways to keep safe on the job.

Control Measures To Put in Place When Undertaking Demolition Work

Taking demolition control measures, such as the following, can create a safer environment when performing wrecking and demolition work:

Personal protective equipment - Workers may keep themselves safe by wearing safety goggles, a reflective vest, gloves, steel-toe shoes, and a hard hat. These offer increased protection against falling and flying debris and cuts, burns, and bodily injuries.
A top-to-bottom approach - Construction workers should start at the top of the building and work down to avoid a sudden collapse.
Safety training - Every demolition worker should know how demolition works and understand all safety protocols and regulations. They should know what to do in case of a fire.

Wrecking balls were once a popular demolition tool but are now a safety hazard. If you want to know how to stay safe during demolition work, consider the above protocols and more to keep everyone safe.

Greenshields: Giving You Access to Everything You Need for Your Demolition Project

We hope you now know how to stay safe during demolition work. If you're preparing for a building tear-down, Greenshields Industrial Supply can help you achieve a smooth process, offering Monopod tool holders and more.