Commercial buildings are normally larger than residential buildings. So, the demolition of a commercial structure is a complex task and requires more planning and safety measures. For such projects, each detail is important as even the smallest mistake can lead to threats like injuries.
In this blog, we will discuss some of the crucial safety tips for commercial building demolition directly from the pros.
Turn Off All Utilities
Any utility that stays on during demolition can bring unwanted damages and may cause injuries. So ensure that any utility including electricity and gas is not active during deconstruction. The best way is to ask the companies to cut off supply during demolition.
Stay Aware of Hazardous Material
Old commercial infrastructure can sometimes release harmful chemicals including lead and asbestos. The working professionals should know the harm of such elements and must know safety measures. The identification of such chemicals and safety measures should be part of the employee training program of a demolition company.
Limit Exposure to Harmful Chemicals
Most buildings constructed before the 1980s are exposed to chemicals. However, new construction does not contain any of these pollutants. However, contractors are mostly hired to demolish or update an older home. When doing residential construction on historic structures, residential construction workers may encounter dangerous materials.
Synthetic Mineral Fibers (SMF) are one of the common elements that are found in buildings. SMF is found in fibrous products like fiberglass, rock wool, or ceramic. SMF is not as dangerous as asbestos but still it can cause problems like irritation to the eyes, throat, and nose. It can also become a cause of lung cancer as it contains fiberglass. So it is recommended to follow protective measures whenever there is a chance of dealing with SMFs.
Fall Protection
On a deconstruction site, fall protection is one of the most crucial safety measures for all employees. So, whenever there is any project around an open wall, open roof, or a fall that exceeds 6 feet, it requires workers to have full body protection since some dangers are continuously present in a demolition project.
Lead Paint
One potential risk that is frequently disregarded is the growing threat associated with torching lead-painted steel beams. A little cut on these beams can release high amounts of lead into the air and expose nearby workers to lead poisoning. It’s essential to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) including respirators and protective clothes and to keep hand and eye cleaning stations ready. Lead paint is a common occurrence for residential demolition firms. However, health and safety are preserved by understanding the risks associated with exposure.
Work Ethics
Commercial building demolition is different from residential demolition since commercial buildings are larger and require more time to be demolished. However, reckless behavior is not appreciated in either of the projects. Whether the project requires a week or only two days, proper planning and analysis should be done before deconstruction.
Inform Nearby Property Owners
Before starting the project, it is important to inform businesses near the deconstruction site. It is ideal to provide this notification at least a week before the beginning of the work. As there will be dust, noise, and large machines or equipment that may disturb the people in the area. Informing the nearby property owners earlier can help them prepare for the upcoming disturbances.
Also Read: Methods of Demolishing a Commercial Building
Recycling Concrete, Steel, and Other Materials
We can recycle the following materials from a commercial building demolition project:
Concrete: From any demolition project you can extract tons of concrete. You can utilize that concrete as gravel, which is needed for constructing new buildings. Some commercial building demolition contractors can employ mobile concrete crushers that will easily process all of the concrete.
Steel: You can also recycle steel and other similar metals for creating new usable products or reuse them in construction where needed.
Interior doors and beams: You can also resale or reuse doors that are in good condition. You can find companies online that are interested in buying old doors. However, if the door is not in a good condition for reuse you can recycle the wood.
Hire a Professional for a Commercial Demolition Project
Following a set plan is important for commercial building demolition projects. Because the commercial buildings are larger and require more planning before the deconstruction. A good demolition company ensures that all the safety measures are applied and no one gets hurt when the work begins.
This is what we are following at the Delta Demolition. So, if you need a professional for commercial demolition projects feel free to get in touch with us
