The Pre-Demolition Survey: Finding the Hidden Threats

Welcome back, let's Build Smart & Build Safe! This week, we're tackling a high-risk operation that requires absolute control and precision: Demolition Safety.

Unlike construction, where you're building stability, demolition involves controlled instability. The most critical step, and the one that dictates the safety of the entire job, is the Pre-Demolition Survey.

The First Step

Before any demolition begins, a thorough survey of the structure must be completed. This is your blueprint for hazards. Skipping this step is dangerous, illegal, and often fatal.

The survey is designed to find two categories of hidden, lethal threats:

1. Hazardous Materials:

   • Asbestos and Lead: These materials, often hidden in old insulation, piping, flooring, or paint, must be identified and removed by certified professionals before demolition begins. Disturbing them releases toxic fibers and dust.

2. Live Utilities:

   • Electric, Gas, Water, and Sewer: The exact location and status of every utility line must be determined. Failing to account for a single live gas line or electrical conduit creates an immediate risk of fire, explosion, or electrocution.

The Survey Guides the Plan

The information gathered in the pre-demolition survey dictates the entire work plan—where cuts can be made, which equipment can be used, and, most importantly, the procedures for safely shutting down and disconnecting all necessary utilities.

If the survey isn't complete or the information is unclear, the demolition work cannot safely proceed.

Tomorrow, we'll dive deeper into securing and controlling those hazardous utilities.

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-The Safety Man