Col's Construction Blog
About Me
Col's Construction Blog

Hello! Welcome to my blog. My name is Col. I live in Perth and I have a passion for construction. I am pretty useless when it comes to construction work so I tend to leave it to the experts. However, I find that there is nothing more pleasing than seeing a team of construction workers complete a job. Over the years, I have hired many different types of construction worker and they have all taken the time to chat with me. During these conversations, I have learnt so pretty interesting things which I will be exploring on this blog. Enjoy!

Col's Construction Blog

Home Demolition Tips

Ethan Burton

There is a wide range of safety measures to consider when pulling down your home. After all, demolition works could lead to injuries or property damage. This article explores some of the safety measures to consider when demolishing your home. 

Determine A Suitable Demolition Method

There are two ways to demolish the proposed structure. You could either go for mechanical or manual demolition. Mechanical demolition involves the use of plant equipment such as excavators and bulldozers, while manual demolition utilises small tools and human labour. It is a preferable option if the site is constricted or inaccessible to plant equipment. Manual demolition is also ideal when you need to meet specified noise and vibration levels. 

Preparing For Demolition

Below are a few tips to help you prepare for demolition: 

  • Examine the site to identify risks that could complicate the demolition process. Nearby buildings and roads, electrical wires, trees, and asbestos are all considered risks.
  • Determine a viable risk management mechanism. For example, you could barricade the site, remove asbestos and apply for permits to close nearby roads and pavements.
  • When conducting manual demolition, decide where you will install scaffolding. Remember, it should not be attached to the building under demolition.
  • Remove windows, sinks, and any internal fixtures that could injure personnel during demolition.
  • Create a demolition plan detailing how you will pull down the pillars and slabs without bringing down the building entirely. Remember, if the building collapse prematurely, you risk injuries at the site. 

Managing the Site

Below are some site management tips as you conduct the demolition works: 

Employee Discipline

All employees must have protective gear. Besides, they should not take unnecessary risks at the site. For example, they should not use plant equipment to hoist people. If they have to enter the building during demolition, it must be braced. Besides, inform your employees about the site hazards and the proposed demolition plan. Finally, prepare for accidents such as fire and injuries. 

Plant Use

The plant equipment used at the site should be mechanically sound. Consider the use of modern technology to prevent accidents. For example, some plant equipment has radio frequency identification sensors that send alerts to transponders on the employees' helmets or safety jackets. The system sends a signal to the plant operator and employee if the employee is at a certain proximity to the plant equipment. 

Demolition Waste

How will you manage demolition waste? Start by limiting the effects of demolition waste. For instance, you could dampen the building to control dust and install a safety net to contain the debris at the site. You should also dispose of demolition waste to prevent its build-up. If possible, recycle as much waste as you can. 

For more help, talk to a home demolition service.


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