When you need demolition services for a building or structure on your property, hiring the right demolition contractor is the best decision that you will make. There are undeniable risks and potential hazards with this type of project, which is why you need to be sure that an experienced and licensed team is handling the demolition work.
The truth is that standard safety practices can greatly reduce the risk of accidents. You not only want to avoid injuries and help everyone stay safe – including workers and others in the area. But these practices also minimize the likelihood of unwanted property damage for yourself and surrounding structures.
So, as you are hiring demolition contractors, ask them about tips for staying safe on a demolition site. Make sure that they are following the best safety protocols to ensure an optimal outcome for your project.
Tip #1 – Proper Planning
The key to successful demolition operations starts with proper planning. An experienced contractor will complete a thorough site assessment to determine whether any specialized techniques are going to be needed for hazardous materials.
For example, asbestos surveys are essential when demolishing older buildings. Other potential hazards that need to be accounted for include underground utilities and unstable structures.
Before the demolition crew steps foot on the worksite, you should have a detailed demolition plan in place. Your contractor will help by ensuring that they bring all necessary equipment, safety tools, and permits. Every demolition contractor also carries the responsibility of complying with local regulations and safety protocols at all times.
If there are structural concerns, then engineers will need to be involved in the planning phase. They can provide important insights, especially for high-risk areas of the building.
Tip #2 – Disconnected All Utilities
It’s essential to make sure that all utilities are disconnected before the demolition work begins. Your contractor should assist with disconnecting the electricity, water, gas, and sewer lines on the site. The team will need to work with the utility companies to confirm that there are no live lines.
Even when the utility lines are disconnected, the lines need to be marked clearly. Proper marking systems give the crew information about how to proceed with the demolition and can minimize the risk of confusion. Additionally, even when the lines are properly disconnected a markout is still required if any digging is part of the demolition process.
Once you are ready to start the demolition, a final check should be done to make sure that all utility risks have been handled and the site is safe.
Tip #3 – Wear PPE at All Times
When the crew is on the job site, they should always be wearing the recommended personal protective equipment (PPE)based on the type of work being done. Make sure that your demolition contractor requires employees to wear these items to minimize the risk of injury when on the site.
Common PPE requirements for the demolition process include hard hats, gloves, steel-toed boots, and safety glasses. If workers are being exposed to hazardous materials in the air (such as dust and/or asbestos), then they might need to use respiratory masks.
Tip #4 – Maintain Communication
Clear communication should be in place between crew members, various contractors, and the property owner. The team needs a way to share quick updates and emergency alerts, which is why radios or other communication devices should be on site.
One essential practice to ensure safety is holding a briefing every morning about the activities of the day and potential risks that need to be managed. This team meeting can also be helpful to provide updates about the project and make adjustments to the demolition plan if needed.
Other forms of non-verbal communication can be used to mark the most dangerous areas of the work site. For example, signs and flags should always be placed to mark utility lines, restricted areas, and any other hazards that could cause injury.
Tip #5 – Training
Every crew member should complete a thorough safety training class and also be informed about the unique considerations for each job site. Team members need to know how to follow safety protocols properly. Additionally, everyone needs to understand hazard identification and how emergency situations should be handled.
Depending on the demolition methods being used, applicable safety training should be provided for the specific type of equipment. Not only does the crew need safety instructions for heavy machinery, but safety practices should also be in place for smaller handheld tools.
Put Your Demolition Project in the Hands of a Trusted New Jersey Contractor
There’s no doubt that you will benefit from the services of a professional demolition contractor. When you are hiring a team for your demolition project, make sure they have experience in the industry and a proven track record.
Partnering with a reliable contractor is one of the best decisions that you will make, giving you peace of mind every step of the way. Our team at Mikula is here to help, offering both residential and commercial demolition services– reach out today to learn more.
