When most people think of demolition, they think of the wrecking ball swinging through a building, tearing it down piece by piece. But demolition is more than just knocking down walls; it’s the process of removing a structure safely and efficiently. It includes everything from tearing down the building to removing all the debris from the site.
If you’re planning on demolishing a structure, there are a few things you need to keep in mind:
Demolition Equipment
Bulldozers, excavators, and backhoes are among the standard heavy equipment used for demolition. Depending on the size and scope of the demolition project, you may need different types and equipment. For example, a small residential demolition project might only require a bulldozer, while a sizeable commercial demolition project might need multiple excavators, bobcats, and dump trucks.
Moreover, some standard power tools used in demolition include angle grinders, reciprocating saws, chainsaws, and chipping hammers. These tools can help cut through metal, wood, and other materials quickly and easily, making debris smaller and easier to remove from the demolition site.
Generators power many of the tools used in demolition. It allows workers to access power wherever they need it, especially when working off the grid. Having a reliable mobile diesel generator on-site can also help keep workers safe by providing backup power in an emergency. It also powers up the lights if workers need to keep working through the night.
Planning and Execution
The demolition of the old building is a complex process that requires careful planning and execution. The safety of all the construction workers is paramount, and the demolition crew must take the necessary steps to ensure that everyone is safe during the demolition process.
Demolition contractors ensure that all workers follow safety regulations at a demolition site and wear appropriate safety gear such as hard hats, gloves, and earplugs. They also ensure that the demolition site is secure and free of any hazards that could harm workers or anyone that might approach the area.
If workers identify any safety hazards, they must be addressed immediately before proceeding with the project. These hazards could refer to scaffoldings and ladders that might cause workers to fall at a great height, improperly used machinery or power tools that might harm anyone nearby, and the presence of asbestos, which is still present in older structures. By following safety protocols, construction sites can minimize the risk of accidents and injuries.
After the demolition is complete, the demolition contractors oversee debris removal from the site. It includes clearing any rubble that could hinder the construction and safely disposing of any hazardous materials that may have been released during the demolition.
Permits, Training, and Certifications
To begin a demolition project, you must acquire the necessary permits and approvals. It includes getting a permit from the local municipality and any other agencies involved in the project. Moreover, the target building must be structurally sound and can be safely demolished. This will help avoid any accidents or injuries during the demolition process. You will also need to ensure that workers are adequately trained and certified in demolition work.
Even if previous workers built a structure without a permit, the demolition team would still need a permit to take down that structure. A demolition permit is only valid for one specific structure. Hence, if you need to demolish multiple buildings, you would need a permit for each project. The application must specify the building and should be lawful to demolish under the city zoning regulations. Likewise, this permit is still needed even if only part of the structure needs demolishing.
Moreover, heavy equipment operators that will be present for large demolition projects must be trained adequately and certified before they can be allowed to operate any machinery. Training should include the specific type of equipment the operator will be using and how to handle it safely. Meanwhile, certification is typically provided by the manufacturer of the heavy equipment or an independent certifying organization.
Aside from operators, workers such as carpenters, electricians, and masons might also need to be present during a demolition project. They can help with tasks such as disconnecting utilities, removing hazardous materials, dismantling any parts of the structure that need to be salvaged, and preparing the site for the new construction.
These are a few things you need to know about demolition before starting your new project. Given the nature of the work, it is essential to hire demolition professionals because they have the training, are certified, and have the necessary experience in completing the job quickly, efficiently, and without damaging surrounding buildings or harming people.
