Suitable control measures should be implemented , for example using steel plates or other restraint measures , at locations adjacent to pedestrian areas or where concrete cover is reduced . This will help to minimise the risk of personal injury or property damage arising from the unexpected release of stored energy in tendons .
6.2 Fire-damaged , ruinous and structurally unsound buildings or structures
An assessment should be undertaken to identify asbestos , hazardous materials and structural integrity issues relating to fire-damaged , ruinous or structurally unsound buildings or structures . The person conducting a business or undertaking should request a written report by a competent person specifying the hazards associated with the design and the current state of the structure .
Control measures should be taken , as far as is reasonably practicable , during the assessment and demolition stages .
In specifying the hazards associated with the design and current state of the structure , the report by the competent person should also specify the control measures that should be applied to the demolition .
Where possible , fire damaged , ruinous or structurally unsound buildings or structures should be demolished by mechanical means .
6.3 Lift shafts
The combination of the lift shaft structure and the lift plant ( including the lift cage or car , winders , counterweights , electrical supply and controls ) can make these complex structures . Different methods can be applied to the demolition of lifts and these will depend on the circumstances of the particular site .
In general , demolition procedures should include the following :
• temporary support of the lift cage and the disconnection of electric power to all areas of the lift machinery
• lowering of any counterweights to an appropriate level for disconnection and the unwinding of cables in a controlled manner prior to the removal of drums
• provision of temporary decking in the lift shaft
• progressive demolition of the lift shaft walls onto existing floors and the removal of any debris .
6.4 Basements , cellars , vaults , domes and arched roofs
During the demolition of a basement , cellar , arch , vault or dome frequent inspections should be made to identify whether there has been any unplanned movement . If unplanned movement is detected , appropriate action should be taken to avoid any uncontrolled collapse .
CODE OF PRACTICE | DEMOLITION WORK 33