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815 Demolition Safety
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Unsecured Hazards in the Work Area

During demolition, unsecured objects like glass and structural members may fall while workers are under them.

Collapsed building
Glass and structural members may fall on workers.

Key hazard control strategies for the hazards associated with unsecured hazards in the work area during demolition include:

  • Use debris netting, sidewalk sheds, canopies, or catch platforms to reduce hazards from falling objects.
  • Make sure employee entrances to multistory structures are completely protected by sidewalk sheds or canopies, or both, providing protection from the face of the building for a minimum of 8 feet.
  • Canopies should be at least 2 feet wider than the building entrances or openings capable of sustaining a load of 150 pounds per square foot.

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.

3-5. What is a key hazard control strategy for unsecured hazards during demolition?