Site demolition involves tearing down a building or structure using heavy equipment or explosives to clear a lot. Due to the inherent hazards involved in this process, the law imposes strict guidelines enforced by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to ensure everyone’s safety. With careful planning, training, protection, and compliance with the safety standards, you can minimize your chance of accidents and ensure your work goes smoothly. Here’s what you should know about OSHA safety requirements during demolition.

What Are the Safety Requirements for Demolition?

1. Engineering Survey

Before demolition, an engineering survey must be conducted throughout the site to identify safety hazards. These inspections are meant to reduce the risk of fires, explosions, site-related accidents, and exposure to toxic chemicals. The survey will also determine the structure’s integrity and condition to assess the possibility of unplanned collapse, and provide a comprehensive plan on how to safely tackle the project.

2. Protection Measures

Once potential hazards are identified, precautionary measures should be put in place for the safety of the crew. To prevent collapse, have the walls and floors braced or shored and verify that the stairways and ladders are sturdy. Cover floor openings to hold up weights, provide guardrails, passageway covers, and safe entry points for employees. Ensure that flammable and hazardous chemicals are purged, and if any other hazards were identified during the inspection, post warnings around the site.

3. Protective Gear & Equipment

All demolition personnel must have personal protective equipment (PPE) when on site. This includes protection for the head, eyes, ears, face, hands, and feet. Respiratory protection may also be necessary to filter out particles created by sawing, sanding, or grinding certain insulation materials. Crew members that work with cutting or welding must also wear protective clothing.

4. Trained Personnel

Demolition employees have to be fully trained on how to recognize hazards and address these immediately. They should also be familiar with their duties and proper operation of equipment, no matter its size. To prevent accidents, remind workers to stay alert and go over the specifications of your project or any relevant information uncovered by your site inspection.

For safe and OSHA-compliant construction work, rely on the commercial contractors at Rojac Construction. As one of the leading civil engineering companies in Maui, HI, they’ve completed a range of large-scale construction projects, including roads, sewer lines, and subdivisions. Learn more about their business on their website, or call (808) 986-1105 to discuss a project.