4 . CONTROLLING RISKS IN DEMOLITION WORK
Overhead protective structures should be provided for public walkways in conjunction with perimeter fencing . Overhead protection may be constructed from scaffolding , fabricated steel or timber and should be designed to withstand an appropriate load .
Unauthorised entry to a demolition workplace can expose persons to a number of hazards that , if not controlled , could result in fatalities or serious injuries . The person conducting a business or undertaking who controls the workplace , who may be a principal contractor or demolition contractor , must ensure , so far as is reasonably practicable , that the workplace is secured so as to prevent unauthorised access . Monitoring of access and egress points for the workplace should be conducted during the work .
Further information on security fencing , falling materials , overhead protection and hoardings can be found in AS 2601 : The demolition of structures .
4.4 Plant and equipment
A range of plant and equipment typically used for demolition work includes :
• powered mobile plant
• personnel and / or materials hoists •air compressors •electric generators •jack hammers •hydraulic jacks
• oxy-acetylene ( gas cutting / welding )
• concrete saws and corers
•scaffolding
• ladders ( limited use )
• many types of handheld plant , including : angle grinders , power saws , hammers , demolition saws , hydraulic jacks and pinch / lever bars .
You should ensure :
• plant is used and operated by a competent person
• that appropriate guards and operator protective devices are fitted
• that the safe working load is displayed and any load measurement devices are operating correctly
• plant is maintained in accordance with the manufacturer / supplier ’ s instructions or relevant Australian Standards
• manufacturers recommendations for the safe use and storage of oxy-acetylene cutting equipment are referred to .
Further general guidance on plant can be found in the Code of Practice : Managing the Risks of Plant in the Workplace .
20 CODE OF PRACTICE | DEMOLITION WORK