Often times before construction can begin, demolition must take place. And anytime there is demolition involved with a job, there is a risk of workers becoming injured. However, this risk can be lowered if the employers take the proper measures to ensure the safety of their workers.
According to OSHA, demolition is the dismantling, razing, destroying or wrecking of any building or structure of any part thereof.
As the definition clearly displays, there are many hazards that can arise on a demolition site:
- Falling debris
- Hidden materials in the structure (i.e. lead, asbestos, harmful chemicals)
- Dangerous demolition methods
- Unidentified strengths or weaknesses of construction materials
- Changes to a building’s original design
As an employer, plan for success. If you properly plan to get the job done safely, you are guaranteed to decrease the risk of injury during demolition and on the job site.
How Do You Plan For Safety Success?
- Survey the site. Get an expert to complete an engineering survey before the demolition process begins in order to determine the structure’s condition and health hazards.
- Create a fire and evacuation plan. There are so many well-known phrases that apply here. “It’s better to be safe than sorry.” “Plan for the worst, hope for the best.” Make sure to be well-prepared with a plan in case of an emergency.
- Make sure to have First Aid and medical services readily available. The goal is to minimize the risk of injury by planning and being prepared, however, in the unfortunate case of an emergency, you’d want to have medical help nearby for fast assistance.
- Determine what Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) to provide your workers. Depending on the jobs, they might need protective gear and/or clothing for: face, head, eyes, hands, feet, hearing and respiratory.
- Give your employees appropriate training. The Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSH Act), Public Law 91-596, places a responsibility on employers to provide a safe workplace for their employees. In order to do this, they must see that their employees are trained on how to recognize and steer clear of hazards that could cause illness or injury. This training must be communicated clearly and in the correct language in order for every employee to understand.
For additional information on Workers’ Rights, Employer Responsibilities, and other services OSHA offers, visit OSHA’s Help for Employers, Workers’ page and Publications.