OSHA defines demolition as “the dismantling, razing, destroying or wrecking of any building or structure or any part thereof.” Tucker Paving provides Demolition Services as part of our extensive offerings, and our 30 years of experience has taught us that it can be one of the most dangerous endeavors in construction. There are so many hazards that are possible on a demolition site in addition to the work itself, from dangerous materials to unknowns concerning the materials used in the original construction. In addition, demolition can also be dangerous for nearby communities due to hazardous materials that could enter the environment during the demolition process. We’re happy to share the safety tips we swear by that have earned us an Experience Modification Rating of .66. 

Demolition Safety Tips

  • Plan out the demolition, but you need to also plan for the unexpected. Demolition plans must include an engineering survey by a competent person to assess the structure, complete utility detection, and an assess the health hazards the demolition presents. You should also plan for the unexpected; this includes making strategies for dealing with collapses, fires, injuries, and more. This includes having First Aid on site, contacting Emergency Medical Services, and having an evacuation plan.
  • Supply the proper PPE for employees. PPE can include Eye, face, head, hand, foot protection, hearing protection, respiratory protection, fall protection gear, and more. It is also no longer enough for an employer to provide óne-size-fits-all PPE; as of January 2025, PPE provided by an employer must fit properly for every employee.
  • Train employees.  Employees must be thoroughly trained on the work they will be doing, on the hazards they will face during the demolition, and the PPE they will be required to wear to OSHA standards. For instance, OSHA requires that “It is not enough to provide PPE. Employees must be trained on the selection, use, fitting, inspection, maintenance, and storage of PPE.”
  • Minimize releasing hazardous materials. Part of any demolition project is ensuring that any hazards found at the site are not allowed into the environment, including water, air, and land. Known and unknown hazards must be planned for, and remediation steps must be taken to keep any hazardous materials—like lead, asbestos, and more—out of the environment.

We have 30 years of experience in the construction industry, We complete projects for residential, commercial, and municipal clients, and safety is always our primary concern on any jobsite!. Contact us by calling (863) 299-2262, or use our contact form online. How can we help you with your next project?