Demolition hazards and control measures

When undertaking a demolition project, nothing is more important than safety. Ensuring the health and safety of staff, clients and anyone in the vicinity is vital. At Hughes and Salvidge, we prioritise safety above all else, adhering to all relevant regulations and following strict safety protocols throughout every project, from start to finish.

Here we explore some of the hazards that could present themselves during demolition and detail the control measures we put in place to prevent these.

Demolition hazards

A demolition hazard refers to any potential danger or risk associated with the process of demolishing buildings or structures. 

Working at height
If harnesses and guardrails are not utilised, falling is a significant hazard in demolition, posing severe risks of injury or death.

Collapsing structures
There are a number of things that can cause collapsing structures during demolition:

• Pre-existing damage or weaknesses in the building can cause unexpected collapses.

• Inadequate demolition plans or failure to follow engineered procedures can lead to uncontrolled collapses.

• Removing key structural elements without proper temporary supports can result in the building collapsing.

• Heavy machinery and nearby construction activities can create vibrations that destabilise the structure.

• Extreme weather, such as high winds, can weaken structures and trigger collapses.

• Incorrect use of explosives in controlled demolitions can lead to premature or unintended collapses.

• Mistakes by workers, such as cutting the wrong support beams, can cause unintended collapses.

Noise pollution
The excessive and disruptive sound generated during demolition can negatively affect the surrounding communities and environments.

Dust
Vast amounts of dust can be generated during demolition projects if it is not managed correctly.

Debris
A range of debris - big and small - can fall during demolition if preventative measures are not put in place. These can pose risk of damage to both people and property.

Machinery faults / misuse
Machinery can be dangerous if faulty or misused; this emphasises the importance of regular maintenance programmes and regular staff training.

Control measures

Site survey / planning process
When we tender for a project, we follow a rigorous process to ensure we have all the information we need to carry out the project safely. We start by conducting a site visit, during which we’ll survey the building(s) in question, conduct Risk Assessments, and examine any drawings, plans or surveys supplied by the client. Using this information we will draft a Method Statement for the client’s consideration. 

Staff training
We invest in ongoing training and professional development for our team to ensure they remain up-to-date with the latest industry practices and safety standards. This can include health and safety training, industry training or training on specific equipment / procedures in line with requirements.

Follow OSHA regulations
To comply with OSHA regulations in demolition the following guidelines should be adhered to in order to prevent accidents and ensure regulatory compliance:

• Training: Provide comprehensive safety training for all employees.

• Safety Plans: Develop and implement safety plans specific to each project.

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Ensure all workers use appropriate PPE.

• Hazard Communication: Clearly identify and communicate potential hazards.

• Inspections: Conduct regular site inspections to identify and mitigate risks.

Noise mitigation measures
We take measures to minimise noise on our demolition sites to lessen the impact on those living or working in the areas surrounding the site. These include constructing noise barriers, scheduling the noisier activities during less sensitive times of the day, and using quieter machinery wherever possible.

Dust suppression
Dust suppression involves the application of liquid to effectively restrict the airborne dissemination of fine particles. The water captures airborne dust particles, causing them to fall to the ground rather than disperse into the air. We utilise a dust suppression system that uses atomized misting equipment, which creates a water curtain, preventing the dust from being released into the air where it can become problematic.

Debris fencing / netting
We install debris fencing and netting around our demolition sites to capture and contain debris and dust, minimising environmental impact and enhancing safety to our staff, our client and the public. This contributes towards our excellence in maintaining a controlled and secure demolition environment.

Why use Hughes and Salvidge for your demolition project?

• Expertise and experience
  Our team demonstrates exceptional expertise in all areas and they bring in-depth knowledge, skill, and precision to every project.
  
  
• Safety first
  Safety is our top priority. We adhere to strict safety protocols throughout each project, ensuring the wellbeing of our customers, staff, and the public, whilst also complying with all relevant regulations.
  
  
• On time and on budget
  We consistently complete projects on time and within budget. Our track record reassures our clients that we deliver quality work within their timeframes and financial expectations.
  
  
• Considerate approach
  As a considerate demolition company, we go above and beyond to minimise disruption for all involved, ensuring a smooth and respectful process.
  
  
• Commitment to sustainability
  We are dedicated to sustainability, actively engaging in recycling, upcycling, and reuse strategies in all our projects.
  
  
• Complete solution
  Working alongside our associated companies, we can offer our clients a complete solution - Demolish. Crush. Recycle. Demolish with Hughes and Salvidge. Crush with K&B Crushers. Recycle with H&S Metals. And not forgetting H&S Asbestos for all your asbestos removal and disposal needs.
  
  

Get in touch

Please get in touch to discuss your demolition project needs with us, or check out our Demolition Services and other projects we’ve worked on…


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