Factory Demolition: Risks and Preventative Measures

Factory demolition involves tearing down and dismantling old industrial buildings and structures. Demolition workers employ several equipment to dismantle concrete, metal, and other materials. They also use bulldozers and heavy machinery to remove large buildings. Usually, the workers take waste from demolition sites to landfills or recycling facilities.

However, performing demolition in Melbourne can be challenging for workers. Demolition accidents result in significant deaths and injuries every year. So, it’s crucial to take precautions and adhere to safety regulations.

The workers must securely operate power tools and know how to lift heavy objects. They also require good balance and coordination. Employees must feel comfortable working in different situations as demolition can occur both indoors and outdoors. Some demolition experts specialise in removing concrete barriers or eliminating asbestos from sites.

The risks associated with demolition activities include:

1. Falling from  height:

Falling from a height is one of the most frequent risks associated with factory demolition activities. Falls can happen if workers are tearing down a tall building or if the surface of the building is uneven.

Preventative measures: It’s crucial to take the appropriate precautions to avoid falls as they may result in death. These measures include using suitable fall protection gear, like harnesses and lanyards.

2. Falling Debris:

Falling debris is another risk related to factory demolition activities. Falling debris can happen if building materials fall and strike employees below while the structure tears down. It’s critical to be aware of the risks and take the appropriate actions to avoid falling debris as it can result in serious injuries.

Preventative measures: Wearing the appropriate PPE, such as hard hats and safety glasses, and constructing debris netting or catch platforms to stop debris from falling are a few methods you can use to avoid falling debris.

3. Dust and Fumes:

Dust and fumes are other  risks that come with factory demolition. Dust can accumulate when workers use power tools to tear down a building and can be dangerous if inhaled. Moreover, eliminating certain materials like asbestos can leak toxic vapours into the air.

Preventative measures: Wearing suitable personal protective equipment such as a respirator is essential to protecting oneself from dust and gases. You must try to operate in a well-ventilated space to avoid breathing in dangerous gases.

4. Dust Silting Up Drainage Systems:

The silting up of drainage systems by dust is one of the less well-known risks associated with demolition activities. The demolition of a building can produce debris and block the drainage system and these blockages can lead to significant plumbing issues if you don’t clear the drainage system immediately.

Preventative measures: It’s critical to be aware of the risk and take the appropriate procedures to stop dust from entering the drainage system. These measures entail providing suitable ventilation and maintaining a debris-free region around the drainage system.

5. Issues Resulting from Fuel Oil Spills:

Fuel oil spills pose another risk to demolition activities. Demolition workers frequently use fuel oils to power the machines used in demolition work, and if these oils spill, they could result in an explosion or fire.

Preventative measures: It’s critical to be aware of the risk and take the appropriate procedures to avoid spilling fuel oils. These measures involve utilising appropriate containment methods for storing and transporting fuel oils and keeping the area around fuel tanks and machines clear of trash.

6. Manual Operation:

Manual handling causes severe threats amongst factory demolition workers. Workers may experience tiredness when lifting or carrying heavy materials, such as bricks or garbage. So, take appropriate precautions to avoid manual handling resulting in serious injuries.

Preventative measures: You can employ appropriate lifting techniques, use mechanical aids to move heavy objects, and take frequent intervals to prevent exhaustion from manual operations.

7. Heavy Equipment and Plant-Related Noise and Vibration:

Heavy machinery and plant noise and vibrations are common during demolition in Melbourne. The equipment workers use during demolition activities can cause loud noises and potentially harmful vibrations to your health.

Preventative measures: Use suitable hearing protection, such as earplugs or earmuffs, to cover your ears from noise and vibration. Try to work in a location with adequate ventilation to lower the noise level. You might need to use earplugs or sound-cancelling earmuffs if the noise level is still loud.

8. Explosions and Fires Resulting from Using Flammable and Explosive Materials:

Combustible and explosive materials can cause fires and explosions, leading to another risk with factory demolition. Several gases and chemicals used in demolition projects are highly flammable and risk catching fire or exploding if you don’t handle them carefully.

Preventative measures: Understanding the risks associated with the substances you use and taking appropriate precautions are essential for preventing fires and explosions. You can accomplish this, for example, by reading the labels on every container, keeping flammable materials far from fires or heat, and employing adequate ventilation when working with volatile substances. Keep a fire extinguisher close by during an emergency.

Bottom Line:

Only trained specialists like Merhi Group should perform dangerous demolition activities. Conduct a thorough site study before demolition to identify potential dangers and hazards. All employees should also receive appropriate training and equipment for their safety. Lastly, always adhere to the safety regulations to safeguard yourself and other individual