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815 Demolition Safety
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Structural Instabilities

It's important that the engineering survey identify framing, floors, walls of the structure and any adjacent structures that might be unstable.

Unstable Wall Removal

Key engineering and work practices controls for the hazards associated with structural instabilities during demolition include:

  • Shore/brace walls and floors as needed to maintain safe work areas during demolition activities.
  • Have a competent person continually inspecting the work area to detect hazards resulting from weakened or deteriorated floors, walls, or loosened material. A competent person is able to recognize existing and predictable hazardous conditions and has the authority to take prompt corrective measures to eliminate the hazardous condition.
  • Do not allow falling debris/stored materials or heavy equipment to exceed the safe carrying capacity of the floor.
  • Conduct demolition work from the topmost floors down; do not cut/remove load-supporting members until upper or supported loads have been removed.

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.

3-4. What is a key engineering control/work practice for the hazards associated with structural instability during demolition?