Assessing the Potential Hazards of Demolishing Operation

Abstract

Demolition is regarded as a dangerous and complex activity. It requires sound knowledge of various construction techniques, each of which has its own demolition method. This study aim at investigating the dangers and problems associated with the execution of demolition works. It contains an extensive analysis of the data gathered from a field survey and questionnaires issued. Thirty-five (35) questionnaires were distributed to various sites where demolition works were ongoing. Analysis drawn from structural questionnaires and observation revealed that, most demolition operators are often not provided with safety clothing or protective equipment on some demolition site. The study further revealed that, the general public is mostly exposed to excessive noise, dust or flying particles. These result in operatives experiencing injury in the process especially with the manual method. Also, most of these associated hazards or problems occur as a result of inadequate measures taken in ensuring safety on some demolition sites and its surroundings, workers not abiding by the necessary roles in ensuring a safe operation. This study concludes that, hazards in demolition works can never be prevented yet basic safety measures and the need for constant vigilance on site can reduce most of these hazards.  Recommendations to this study prompt that, all workers on demolition sites must be made aware of the kind of dangers or hazards that they could be exposed to with the method employed in the demolition. Trained personnel with the full knowledge of various techniques of demolition should be allowed to carry out the work.

Keywords: Health, Safety, Potential, Hazards, Demolition,