Understanding Demolition Safety

Kids around the world know Bob the Builder as a friendly, knowledgeable construction worker. It’s too bad there’s no “Dean the Demolisher” – a friendly demolition expert. Although kids (and adults) might assume it’s easy to tear down buildings, the truth is that demolition contractors need just as much skill and expertise as traditional contractors.

Demolition equipment is extremely powerful, and demolition contractors need extensive safety training in order to properly use it. The following is a look at the steps responsible demolition contractors take in order to promote safety.

The National Demolition Association (NDA)

The National Demolition Association is a group that represents more than 1,000 demolition companies in the United States and Canada. The NDA provides helpful information to its members about demolition equipment, regulations and safety protocols. Finally, the NDA informs regulators as well as the general public about the benefits demolition contractors provide.

Safety Materials Provided by the NDA

The NDA provides members with a variety of safety-related materials, including:

• The Demolition Safety Manual, a guide book for demolition contractors based on OSHA regulations.
• The Hazard Communication Program, with safety sheets for each hazardous material demolition contractors are likely to see on the job.
• The Demolition Safety Talks Program, a series of talks demolition companies can use on the job site to educate workers.
• The Lead-In-Construction Training Program, a program designed to help demolition companies meet U.S. Department of Labor requirements.
• A variety of training DVDs and videos on safety matters.

Safety Precautions Reputable Demolition Contractors Follow

To safely dismantle a building, demolition contractors must:

Analyze materials. Wood, steel and concrete each have different properties that must be accounted for when demolishing a building. Different demolition equipment may be required according to the materials at hand.

Check for environmental hazards. Some construction materials, such as asbestos, are dangerous and require special safety precautions.

Facilitate worker safety. This is a given for all construction projects. Demolition contractors must provide employees with adequate safety training and equipment.

Elder Demolition’s Commitment to Safety

Here at Elder Demolition, we have worked hard to create a culture of safety. We choose the safest demolition equipment, provide exceptional training for employees and are LEED certified, so you know we’re careful about hazardous materials.