If your construction site is carrying out demolitions, then there are potential hazards that could emerge. However, by taking careful steps to lower the risk, you can improve the working conditions for your employees. Below, we explore the main hazards and control measures for demolition work.
What is Demolition?
A demolition refers to the process of tearing down and removing old buildings and structures. Naturally, the force required to achieve this poses many dangers and risks. Workers will use powerful tools and operate heavy machinery to carry out demolitions, meaning training is crucial. Unsurprisingly, demolition jobs are the leading cause of injuries in the construction industry.
Main Demolition Hazards and Consequences
There are plenty of hazards that are associated with demolitions. Indeed, falling from a height, collapsing structures, noise, debris and mistakes with machinery all pose significant risks to workers. The injuries that can occur as a result can be incredibly serious. Death, broken bones, respiratory problems, burns and more can all happen as a result of working on demolitions.
Demolition Control Measures
01. Training for Demolition Work
Training is one of the best ways to lower risk. By empowering your employees with expert training, you can give them the tools to keep themselves safe. Reducing human error can help you avoid many accidents.
02. Wearing PPE during Demolition Work
If an accident does occur, then PPE can help limit the damage suffered. A hard hat, durable clothing, boots and work gloves are essential for protecting your employees.
03. Monitor Noise, Vibration and Dust
You should also continuously monitor your workplace to identify when safety standards are falling. By consistently measuring noise, vibration and dust levels you can step in and make changes when the workplace becomes more dangerous.
04. A Clean Site is a Safe Site
You should also ensure that your site is always clean and tidy. If tools are left lying around, your employees can easily injure themselves in an accident. What’s more, slippery or uneven flooring can lead to more accidents too.
05. Risk Assessment and Method Statements are Essential
The threat of hazards can be lowered by risk assessments and method statements. A risk assessment is where you scan your workplace to try and identify potential hazards, before acting to resolve them. Meanwhile, you should produce method statements as documents listing how to carry out individual tasks safely.
06. Manage Waste Disposal
Finally, you should ensure that you remove any waste safely from the site as soon as possible to keep the workplace neat and tidy.
In the end, demolition jobs are naturally dangerous. But by following the advice above, you should be able to limit the risk your employees are exposed to during their daily work.
