Demolition
Demolition
INTRODUCTION
Building demolition is the process of dismantling, destroying, or knocking down building structures along
with the materials used in the construction of the property. A building is demolished for various reasons such
as: it’s past its span of serviceability, the structural integrity is compromised, parts of the establishment will
need to be refurbished to improve its quality and value, or the property owner intends to sell a vacant lot.
Demolition methods are divided into two categories and further classified into demolition types. They are as
follows:
Non-explosive method
Non-explosive method is a demolition technique that uses hand tools and machinery. It is best used to dismantle
smaller- to medium-sized structures like homes or other establishments. This method includes the use of:
Sledge hammer
Bulldozers
Wrecking balls
Standard and high-reach excavators
Implosive method
Implosive method is a type of demolition technique that uses explosives to destroy the structural supports of the
building and make it collapse. It is best used to dismantle a building or structure with significant height .
How to prepare demolition works
A key step to a Demolition project getting underway is to efficiently plan out each
stage and aspect. Consider what you will need:
Every successful demolition project: it starts with careful preparation. And this is. Before
we ever break ground on a project, we make sure to take a step back and plan out the entire
process.
Let us walk through five (5) essential steps to prepare for a demolition project:
Step 1: Determine the Scope of Work
Step 5: Get Rid of Any Hazardous Materials and Disconnect Utilities (The complete demolition solution by Nicolas
Wallace – 15th March, 2022 – Louisville/USA)
The necessary safety requirements to prevent accidents and injuries caused by improp
demolition operations safety in the workplace are as follows:
• Make a plan
For health and safety purposes, demolition site signs are designed to be highly visible on any construction site.
In bright colors such as green, blue, red and yellow, they are not hard to miss. Every sign has a different
meaning and delivers a clear safety message, (Reference: Construction site signage by Darren Strong –
29th ,September, 1996-London/United Kingdom)
which should be followed at all, times.
There are typically four types of construction site signage:
Prohibition signs
Safeguard signs
Warning signs
Emergency sings
Machines for breaking down Tall Structures
Another category of demolition machines are those that can break down tall structures. This
comes down to one type of machine like cranes.
Cranes are used for a type of high-reach demolition called Top Down Way, which is a
method of safely and efficiently breaking down tall buildings and skyscrapers. This method
prevents negative environmental effects like dust, debris, and noise. In this process, the
operator uses the crane to demolish the building, starting at the top and working downward,
floor by floor
Best terrain for cranes:
On buildings
Soft or smooth ground
Uneven terrain
Environmental requirements are identified for the project in accordance with environmental plans and
statutory and regulatory authority obligations and are applied.
When it comes to project demolition, there are a number of potential environmental impacts that should be taken
into consideration. Dust and debris created during the demolition process can lead to air pollution, which can have
an adverse effect on local air quality. This is especially true if hazardous materials such as asbestos or lead paint
are present in the structure being demolished. If these materials become airborne, they can pose serious health
risks for those living nearby. (Reference: Demolition to environment – 27/Dec/2018 by Kloss Hauling – Manitoba city
CANADA)
When it comes to demolishing, there are many benefits that come with doing the job
properly.
• Proper demolition can help reduce air pollution by preventing dust particles from entering
the atmosphere
• Proper demolition can also help reduce soil erosion by controlling excavation activities and
ensuring that all debris is disposed of in an environmentally friendly manner.
• Proper demolition ensures safety onsite while helping to minimize disruption caused by
loud noises or other environmental factors like soil erosion
The Negative Effects of Demolition on the Environment
Air Pollution: During demolition work, dangerous pollutants including dust, particulate
matter, and asbestos fibers are released into the atmosphere. These contaminants can
worsen respiratory conditions while also impairing the quality of the air.
Water contamination: can result from demolition waste and runoff, which can harm
aquatic ecosystems and perhaps endanger human health.
Asbestos Abatement Regulations: Stringent rules govern the safe removal of asbestos-
containing materials during demolition.
Waste Management Regulations: Regulations require the proper disposal and recycling
of construction and demolition debris.