Whether you’re transforming a commercial space or doing large-scale renovations for a home, demolition is likely part of the process. With such a considerable undertaking, you’ll need to prepare and follow safety rules to avoid accidents. Follow these tips to protect yourself and your property.

How to Safely Prepare for Demolition Projects

1. Identify Threats & Concerns

Buildings may have hidden hazards that will come out during demolition. For example, lead paint can cause lead poisoning when broken up and scattered in the air.

If you’re remodeling an investment property built before the 1970s, schedule an asbestos test as well. This material can cause mesothelioma, a condition marked by cancerous tumors, and was used in countless materials, including insulation, flooring, wall panels, and concrete.

2. Use the Right Safety Gear

Demolition generates a lot of dust, sharp debris, and dangerous materials. If you’ll be supervising the project, put on safety essentials before entering the site. A face mask will keep you from breathing in asbestos or lead particles, concrete dust, and other airborne contaminants. Wear safety goggles to shield your eyes and a hard hat to protect against falling debris. Wear closed-toe shoes, and cover all your skin. 

Protect your property as well. Seal off the demolition area by hanging plastic sheets. Lay down cardboard or canvas paper rolls to cover flooring, and open windows to ventilate rooms.

3. Create a Waste Disposal Plan

Discuss disposal options with your contractor to find out what they will handle, whether that’s only building debris or all the waste generated. Rent a roll-off dumpster to store the rest. Learn what you can recycle, like bricks, metal, glass, and concrete, and find out which centers will accept those materials. Also, check what can’t go in the dumpster, like harmful chemicals, asbestos, or biohazards. You’ll avoid fines and introducing toxic byproducts into the ecosystem.

Enjoy a stress-free demolition process with the help of Amazon Construction in Pearl City, HI. This skilled team has served Oahu customers since 1981. They tackle many phases of residential and commercial projects, including land clearing, demolition, and heavy haul trucking to remove waste. Call (808) 841-6595 to discuss an upcoming project, and visit their website to learn more about their capabilities.