DEMOLITION
As part of preparations carried out before construction commences, demolition sometimes is undertaken on sites that have existing structures that cannot be used/renovated in the proposed project.
Demolition, means a method to dismantle, wreck, break, pull down or knock down of a structure or part thereof by use of manual labour, machinery, or explosives. (Demolition of a Construction Work Definition, n.d.). It is the most high risk activity in the construction process and as such safety is of high importance.
The essence of safe demolition lies in efficient risk control, environmental management and careful planning. Clients and their consultant team play an important role in safe demolition and must:
- Allow sufficient time for planning the demolition works.
- Procure an appropriate contractor (carry out safety and environmental audits).
- Provide sufficient information concerning the site to a good standard.
Demolition requires notification to be submitted to the county council to determine whether prior approval is required for the method of demolition especially where buildings are over 50 cubic metres, and for walls or gates. Where demolition works may have an environmental impact, a screening opinion may be obtained from the National Construction Authority to determine whether a full Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is necessary.
REFERENCES
- Bs 6187: 1982 Code of Practice for Demolition. (n.d.). B S I Standards.
- /Demolition of a construction work Definition. (n.d.). Law Insider. Retrieved October 7, 2022, from https://www.lawinsider.com/dictionary/demolition-of-a-construction-work