Tucker Paving offers site clearing as a part of our array of services, and this can include demolition. Demolition brings with its own set of dangers and hazards, and one that can be easily overlooked is the proper handling of hazardous materials. Hazardous materials, like chemicals and other substances, can be dangerous for workers completing the demolition and those occupying the areas surrounding the demolition; it can also leach into the groundwater and soil if improperly handled, posing a danger for years to come. Make sure to follow the Best Practices of handling hazardous materials during demolition.
Common Hazardous Materials
There are numerous hazardous materials that could be present in a building or other structure slated for demolition, especially if the structure is old. There are many materials that were commonly used in construction that, at the time, were not known to be hazardous. Materials like asbestos in insulation and flooring, lead in paint made prior to 1978, mercury in fluorescent lights and more, and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) used in electrical equipment and caulk can all pose dangers during demolition.
Furthermore, without knowing the exact history of a building or a structure, workers cannot know for sure what chemicals and other hazardous materials could be present in a structure. It’s possible that hazardous materials were used, dumped, or were leached at the site. It’s important to follow proper protocols when demolishing a building or structure.
Demolition Best Practices for Hazardous Materials
It’s crucial to follow best practices when demolishing a building or structure for the safety of workers and the environment, especially if it’s thought that hazardous materials could be present.
- Conduct testing for the presence of hazardous materials. Identifying what hazardous materials are present and where is necessary for ensuring safe removing protocols are followed.
- Use the correct Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). PPE like respirators, gloves, eyewear, and protective coveralls may all be necessary. Keep in mind that PPE must be rated for the hazardous materials in order to be effective.
- Train employees in hazardous material removal. Employees must be properly trained in the removal of specific hazardous materials to be able to safely participate in the demolition. This training will teach the specific steps necessary to safely remove hazardous materials.
- Follow Safety Data Sheets (SDS). SDSs give detailed information on the hazards present in a material and the safety precautions that must be taken when handling it.
- Have a Site Control Plan. This plan maps out where removal will take place, how it will happen, and who will be responsible for the removal; it also includes proper signage and barriers to alert others to hazardous materials zones and barring accidental entry.
- Follow state and local regulations for the removal and disposal of hazardous materials. This is necessary to ensure that materials are disposed of in an unsafe manner. Companies that do not follow these regulations risk fines and other penalties.
- Do follow-up testing. Test both the site and workers who were on the site to ensure that there has been no contamination of the hazardous materials. It’s the company’s responsibility to keep workers safe from hazards, and the company could be liable if it does not.
At Tucker Paving, safety is always our leading priority. In our 30 years in the asphalt and concrete paving industry, we take all precautions necessary to keep our teams safe. We can help you with your next project! Call us at (863) 299-2262, or fill out our contact form online.