Demolition: The word demolition means destruction, breaking down or removal. Demolition of building is the process of dismantling or destroying of a structure after its life of serviceability by pre-planned and controlled methods.
This standard lays down the safety requirements for carrying out safely the demolition/dismantling of all types of buildings, for example, residential building ( load-bearing structure, multi-storeyed framed structures ).
Demolishing a building can be a dangerous project, depending on the size, height, and location. For a general overview, the following steps would be a reasonable way to approach the job:
- Survey the building, its set asides, easements, and any available lay down areas for mobilization of equipment and storing/handling debris.
- Obtain permits from the local jurisdictional authorities. You may find you are required to also obtain EPA or Department of Environmental Protection permits, specifically if there are hazardous materials like lead paint or asbestos present. You really don’t want to handle an environmental impact fine in the course of the project.
- Have an environmental inspection done if required by permit. It may be beneficial to have a survey done, even if not required, to prevent employees from exposure to hazardous materials.
- Secure a laydown/mobilization area if one isn’t available. Loading and unloading equipment, stockpiling debris for removal, and other activities can crowd your workspace during demolition if you don’t plan accordingly.
- Have all utilities removed or disconnected beyond the footprint of the building. You may have to contact the power company, water service provider, sewer system manager, Gas Company, and others to have this work performed. Any HVAC equipment should be shut down, the refrigerant reclaimed, and if desired, the components removed for salvage or scrapping.
- Empty the building of all loose materials, furnishings, and debris. In some situations, it might also be advisable to remove loose appurtenances like ceiling tiles, carpets, and other items that will become friable and produce dust that leaves the property since containing dust is often a requirement of this type project.
- Determine if there are savable materials in the building. You may be able to simply remove electrical materials, plumbing pipes, and other materials that can be sold for a profit. Doors, windows, metal roofing materials, bar joists, and other items can be reclaimed or sold for scrap if there is a local market for them.
- Remove any interior partition walls that do not support the roof or structure above them. Metal studs and drywall are easier to remove methodically and be disposed of than to allow them to become part of a rubbish heap which has to be cleaned up later.
- Remove the roof system. Metal roofs can be unfastened and set down from the top of the building, wood structures have to be torn apart hand or with a machine. A large excavator can handle a sizable structure from the top down, but if one is not budgeted or available, proceed with hand work.
- Tear down exterior walls after the roof and ceiling support system is wrecked and hauled off or stockpiled. Walls with brick veneers, concrete block, or metal siding have to be broken down piece by piece, wood framed walls with sheathing and siding can be knocked down with wrecking bars and sledge hammers.
- Remove the floor slab and foundation. Again, heavy equipment makes this job much faster and easier, but it can be done with a jackhammer and shovels.
- Cleanup the work site, hauling the debris to a landfill suitable for the materials you’ve accumulated, haul any recyclable materials to a center that accepts them. Inspect the area for debris and hazards, and settle any permit inspections to close out project.
Building demolition is a labor intensive and dangerous enterprise. Be on the lookout for hazards throughout the project, and don’t take short cuts. For areas where civilian traffic may be a problem, erect safety barriers, fences, and dust control and maintain the integrity of the work site.
