Demolition Work Risk Assessment
Demolition might look like destruction — but in safety, it’s all about precision. Whether you’re tearing down a wall, floor, or entire building, every step must be planned with safety in mind. Demolition isn’t just knocking things down — it’s navigating a minefield of risks.
A demolition work risk assessment is a structured process to identify potential hazards, evaluate who might be harmed, and implement controls to prevent accidents. It’s the backbone of safe demolition practices — without it, you’re flying blind.
Legal Framework and Safety Regulations
OSHA Demolition Requirements
Under 29 CFR 1926 Subpart T, OSHA mandates demolition work to include hazard surveys, proper planning, and trained personnel. The standard highlights special concerns like structural integrity and utility control.
UK CDM and HSE Regulations
The Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 require that demolition is planned and carried out by competent people. The HSE also issues specific guidance on structural demolition safety.
Indian BIS Standards and Guidelines
The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) provides guidelines under IS 4130:1991 for demolition operations. It includes provisions for safety, equipment, and debris disposal.
Types of Demolition Work
Manual Demolition
Uses hand tools like sledgehammers, jackhammers — suitable for controlled, small-scale work. Risk of collapse and injury is still high.
Mechanical Demolition
Involves machinery like excavators, bulldozers, and wrecking balls. High-efficiency but needs careful operator training and exclusion zones.
Implosion (Explosive Demolition)
Controlled use of explosives to bring down buildings — requires extensive planning, structural analysis, and public safety measures.
Soft Strip and Deconstruction
Non-structural dismantling of interiors — including removal of drywall, fixtures, wiring — often a precursor to full demolition.
Key Hazards in Demolition Work
Structural Collapse
Unplanned collapses can crush workers and equipment. Weak load-bearing elements are particularly dangerous.
Falling Debris and Materials
Loose bricks, steel, glass, or concrete falling from height pose serious risks to people and property.
Hazardous Substances (Asbestos, Lead)
Older buildings may contain asbestos, lead-based paint, or PCB insulation. Disturbing them without precautions can release toxins.
Dust and Noise Exposure
Demolition generates clouds of dust and hazardous noise levels — long-term exposure can lead to respiratory and hearing problems.
Working at Heights
Dismantling structures often requires working on scaffolds, ladders, or elevated platforms.
Fire, Explosion, and Utility Strikes
Live electrical lines, gas leaks, and improperly disconnected utilities can lead to fire, explosions, or electrocution.
Steps in a Demolition Work Risk Assessment
Step 1 – Site Survey and Hazard Identification
Inspect the site thoroughly. Check the structure, materials, environment, and layout. Identify all possible hazards.
Step 2 – Identify Workers and Public at Risk
Who could be harmed? Think beyond demolition crew — what about pedestrians, neighbors, and nearby structures?
Step 3 – Assess Risks and Plan Controls
Determine the severity and likelihood of each risk. Prioritize control measures based on risk levels.
Step 4 – Document the Plan and Train the Team
Create a written demolition plan. Include safety procedures, emergency contacts, and responsibilities. Train all workers before starting.
Step 5 – Monitor, Review, and Modify
Constantly check for changes on-site. Monitor the effectiveness of controls and revise the plan when needed.
Risk Control Measures for Demolition
Structural Support and Shoring
Use temporary supports to prevent premature collapse of walls or floors.
Fall Protection and Edge Barriers
Install guardrails, toe boards, and use fall arrest systems for work at height.
Dust Suppression Systems
Use water spray, dust screens, or vacuum extraction systems to control airborne particles.
Safe Debris Removal Practices
Don’t let materials pile up unsafely. Use chutes, containers, and timed removal.
Asbestos and Hazardous Material Handling
Only licensed professionals should handle asbestos. Follow proper containment and disposal procedures.
Utility Disconnection and Lockout
Before starting, disconnect gas, water, electricity, and internet services. Use lockout-tagout protocols.
Hierarchy of Controls in Demolition Work
Elimination – Avoid Demolition Where Possible
Can the building be repurposed instead of demolished?
Substitution – Use Safer Techniques or Tools
Use quieter, less dusty techniques when possible.
Engineering Controls – Barriers, Fencing, Machine Guards
Install physical barriers to protect workers and the public.
Administrative Controls – Safety Plans, Signage, Permits
Develop job safety analysis (JSA), communicate roles clearly, and enforce permit systems.
PPE – Helmets, Respirators, Gloves, Eye Protection
Equip all personnel with the right PPE and enforce its use on-site.
Safety Precautions and Best Practices
Conduct Pre-Demolition Engineering Survey
Hire a structural engineer to inspect the stability and plan the sequence of demolition.
Set Up Exclusion Zones and Watchmen
Only authorized personnel should access the demolition zone. Use flagmen and fencing.
Use Trained and Certified Personnel Only
Only qualified operators, riggers, and supervisors should work on demolition jobs.
Real Incidents and Lessons Learned
Case 1: Unplanned Collapse Due to Weak Structure
A team began mechanical demolition without shoring a wall. The wall collapsed, injuring two workers. Lesson: Always evaluate load-bearing structures.
Case 2: Worker Exposure to Asbestos
A laborer unknowingly disturbed asbestos insulation. Later developed respiratory illness. Lesson: Identify hazardous materials before beginning any work.
Demolition Work Risk Assessment Template
Key Fields in the Template
- Job Description and Location
- Structure Details (Age, Materials)
- Identified Hazards
- Risk Evaluation (Before and After Controls)
- Control Measures
- Safety Roles and Responsibilities
- Emergency Plan and Contact Info
- Review and Approval Dates
How to Use It Effectively on Site
Review the assessment daily. Hold toolbox talks. Post key safety points near the work area. Keep a copy on-site for inspections and emergency reference.
Risk Assessment – Demolition Work
General Information
- Project/Site Name: ABC Commercial Redevelopment Project
- Assessment Title: Risk Assessment for Demolition Work
- Location: Old Warehouse Building – Zone B
- Assessed By: Mahendra Lanjewar (Safety Officer)
- Assessment Date: 01 July 2025
- Review Date: 01 October 2025
- Activity Description: Demolition of a two-story RCC (Reinforced Cement Concrete) structure using manual and mechanical means including breaker machines and excavators.
Demolition Work Risk Assessment Table
| Task | Hazards Identified | Persons at Risk | Risk Rating (Before Control) | Control Measures | Risk Rating (After Control) | Responsible Person |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Manual demolition of structural members | Collapse of unsupported structures | Demolition workers | High | – Prepare method statement – Sequence work properly – Support unstable sections – Use permit to work | Low | Site Engineer / Safety Officer |
| 2. Operation of machinery (breakers, excavators) | Equipment failure, contact with workers, flying debris | Machine operators, nearby workers | High | – Only licensed operators – Maintain exclusion zones – Install safety barriers – Pre-start inspection of machines | Low | Equipment Operator / Supervisor |
| 3. Falling debris during demolition | Struck by falling concrete or blocks | Ground workers, bystanders | High | – Erect debris nets or screens – Use hard barricading – Provide overhead protection – Wear helmets with chin strap | Low | Safety Officer |
| 4. Dust and flying particles | Respiratory hazards, eye injury | All workers in area | Medium | – Use water spray to suppress dust – Workers to wear dust masks or respirators – Safety goggles mandatory | Low | Supervisor |
| 5. Exposure to noise and vibration | Hearing loss, hand-arm vibration syndrome | Operators and workers nearby | Medium | – Use ear protection – Rotate jobs – Regular breaks – Monitor noise levels | Low | Safety Officer |
| 6. Handling of debris and sharp materials | Cuts, puncture wounds, trips | Clean-up crew, laborers | Medium | – Wear cut-resistant gloves and boots – Remove debris systematically – Avoid overloading wheelbarrows | Low | Supervisor |
| 7. Accidental damage to underground utilities | Explosion, electrocution, gas leaks | All workers onsite | High | – Review utility drawings – Mark underground lines – Inform utility agencies – Isolate electrical and gas supply before start | Low | Project Manager / Site Engineer |
| 8. Uncontrolled access to demolition zone | Unauthorized entry, injury to third party | Visitors, nearby workers | High | – Secure perimeter with fencing – Post warning signs – Assign security personnel | Low | Safety Officer |
| 9. Waste disposal and storage | Environmental hazard, trip and fire risk | All site personnel | Medium | – Designate waste storage zones – Segregate debris properly – Ensure timely removal – No burning of waste | Low | Environmental Officer |
Risk Rating Matrix
| Severity | Likelihood | Risk Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 1 – Minor injury | 1 – Unlikely | Low |
| 2 – Moderate injury | 2 – Possible | Medium |
| 3 – Serious/fatal injury | 3 – Likely | High |
Risk Rating = Severity × Likelihood
Additional Notes
- PPE Required: Hard hat (with chin strap), safety boots, high-visibility vest, safety goggles, dust mask/respirator, gloves, and hearing protection.
- Permit to Work: Required for demolition activity, hot work, and confined space.
- Demolition Plan: Must be approved by engineer and safety officer before work begins.
- Exclusion Zone: Clearly marked and secured; only authorized personnel allowed inside.
- Toolbox Talk: Mandatory daily safety briefing before start of shift.
Emergency Measures
- First Aid: First aid kits at entry and near demolition zones, with trained first aider on duty.
- Emergency Rescue Plan: In place for collapse, injury, or fire.
- Fire Control: Fire extinguisher placed near machinery and fuel storage.
- Emergency Numbers: Posted on main board and control room.
Training Requirements
- Demolition workers must be trained in:
- Safe dismantling methods
- Machinery operation and hazard awareness
- PPE usage and inspection
- Emergency procedures
- Manual handling and debris removal
Review and Sign-Off
| Name | Designation | Signature | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rupesh Wasnik | Safety Officer | [Signature] | 01-07-2025 |
| Rakesh Kumar | Project Manager | [Signature] | 01-07-2025 |
| Manoj Yadav | Site Engineer | [Signature] | 01-07-2025 |
Conclusion
Demolition work is powerful — and potentially deadly — if not managed carefully. Every successful demolition begins with planning and ends in controlled, safe execution. A solid demolition work risk assessment isn’t just a document — it’s your safety foundation.
From assessing hazardous materials to planning for collapse prevention, every detail matters. Respect the structure, respect the process, and most of all — respect human life. Safety always comes first.
Reinforcement Steel Fixing Risk Assessment
Material Lifting Risk Assessment
Confined Space Risk Assessment
FAQs
1. Who should conduct a demolition risk assessment?
A competent person — typically a safety officer or engineer experienced in demolition — should conduct the assessment.
2. Is it mandatory to disconnect utilities before demolition?
Yes. Gas, electricity, water, and telecom services must be shut off and secured before starting any demolition.
3. What PPE is required for demolition workers?
Hard hats, safety goggles, steel-toe boots, gloves, hearing protection, and respirators are typically required.
4. Can demolition be done without heavy machinery?
Yes, small-scale or sensitive demolitions can be done manually, but risks still need to be assessed and controlled.
5. What is the most dangerous part of demolition work?
Unplanned structural collapse and exposure to hazardous substances are among the most dangerous elements.
