Take 2min to understand how Demolition Works

Demolition Brisbane work comes along with several hazards. It means one must deal with sharp and protruding objects, lead-based paint and the worst of all is the removal of asbestos-containing materials. Before demolishing a structure that is suspected to contain with asbestos-containing materials, it is critical to remove it first.

It is recommended that such materials should neither be disturbed nor broken up as it can result in lots of health perils. Inhalation of asbestos can lead to fatal conditions such as lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.

If anyone suspects the presence of this harmful material in their building, then it is good not to disturb it instead have it removed cautiously. If disturbed during structure demolition, then its fibers might become airborne thus becoming perilous.

Below is some Demolition safety tips to ensure efficient demolition and handling of asbestos-containing materials:

Before commencing any demolition in Brisbane or renovation project, the structure involved must be inspected for the presence of asbestos. A certified asbestos inspector should do a thorough inspection to determine the amount and type of asbestos-containing materials in a structure.

The inspector should also give proper recommendations on how removal and demolition should be done. The common areas to check include the kitchen walls, splashbacks, vinyl floor tiles, underlay sheeting, roof cavities, backyards, living areas, bathroom, exterior sections such as lining under eaves, and electrical meter boards and more.

Additionally, before demolition, all electric, gas, water and sewer and other service lines should be closed, and utility companies notified.

Furthermore, all employees who will be involved in the demolition should be made aware and educated properly. They should be made to understand where such materials are located. When they are aware, they’ll be more likely to take all the safety precautions.

Upon the recognition of asbestos-containing materials, it is good to plan for safe demolition process before the work begins. Personal protective equipment such as gloves, hard hats, respirators, safety glasses and hearing protection are prerequisites. Inspection of such equipment before use is also mandatory.

No one is permitted to operate in areas where structural collapse risks exist. Alongside providing the right protective gears, all employees involved in demolishing a structure must be trained properly. They should understand proper use, fitting, selection, storage and maintenance of personal protective gears.

Safety precautions when demolishing a structure extend and apply to several other Brisbane City Council guidelines.

Workers who are exposed to dangerous asbestos must wash their clothes thoroughly before leaving the site. They should not carry or wear them when going home unless they are clean. There are special cleaning facilities to use. Rinsing them before washing can help prevent asbestos from becoming airborne.

Shortcuts are deadly when it comes to demolition projects. Step by step guide should be provided for the demolition employees to follow. If demolishing exterior walls, then the work must start from top to bottom. Any load-supporting members of structure on all floors should not be removed till all the stories on top have been demolished.

All roof cornices and other ornamental stonework should be removed before shredding down walls. Enclosed chutes can be used to convey demolition materials downwards to the ground.

In the case of regulated asbestos-containing materials of more than 3 square feet, removal should be done by a certified individual. Notification should be provided ten days before the onset of demolition. This is also essential in case demolition will take all the requirements provided by Australian Building and Construction Commission should be observed.

Failure to do observe the set guidelines may result in penalties and enforcement actions. In fact, both the building owner and contractor should share the responsibility for ensuring that all requirements are met.

All houses that were renovated or built prior 2003 stand a high chance of containing asbestos. This is because the material was widely used for construction and insulation until the late 80s. After demolishing a structure with asbestos, it should be disposed of properly to avoid spreading the damage. See more on Asbestos Removal Brisbane

Demolition is a risky undertaking that should be done by a professional and in line with the Australian Building Codes Board. This is because several guidelines must be observed. B E Plant Hire (a member of Master Builders Association ) are the experts you can count on for safe demolition, handling, and disposal of asbestos-containing materials. Contact them for precision managed asbestos demolition and other related tasks.