Before embarking on any demolition project, it is crucial for Project Owners, Site Managers and Health and Safety Officers to grasp the intricacies of the pre-demolition process to guarantee safety, compliance and operational efficiency. In this blog, we provide a detailed overview of the entire pre-demolition process, including a pre demolition checklist for easy reference, along with in-depth explanations of each task.
What is the pre-demolition process?
The pre-demolition process is a vital phase that ensures the safe, legal and efficient removal of a structure. Here, we’ve outlined the entire process in 10 steps:
- Early assessment: Conduct a site inspection, feasibility study and consult with key stakeholders.
- Obtaining permits and approvals: Ensure compliance with national and local regulations.
- Surveys: Conduct hazardous materials and structural surveys.
- Site preparation: Implement security, salvage operations and environmental protection measures.
- Developing the demolition plan: Determine the optimal demolition method, sequence, and waste management strategy.
- Health and Safety planning: Assess potential risks and ensure safety preparedness.
- Notification: Inform the public, internal teams and stakeholders.
- Final inspections: Lead a pre-demolition inspection to secure approval to proceed.
- Logistics: Prepare access routes and mobilise equipment.
- Documentation: Maintain records for compliance and future reference.
What steps should be taken in the early assessment phase?
- Visual site inspection – conduct a detailed visual inspection of the building and surrounding area to identify structural conditions, materials and any visible hazards. This should also include the assessment of access points for demolition equipment and personnel, as well as logistical considerations for site operations.
- Feasibility study – evaluate the financial implications of the demolition, including labour, equipment and disposal costs. Create a preliminary timeline for the demolition process, considering potential delays and logistical challenges.
- Consultation with key stakeholders – communication with the local community to inform nearby residents and businesses about the planned demolition, addressing any concerns they may have.
Where to obtain permits?
What are the requirements for demolition in the UK?
In the UK, any demolition work must be formally communicated to the local authority before it begins.
Section 80 of the Building Act 1984 mandates that anyone planning to demolish a building (or a significant portion of it) must provide written notice to the local authority’s Building Control department at least six weeks in advance of the demolition.
Planning permission may also be required if your site is located in a conservation area, the structure is a listed building, pub, monument or music venue or is unsafe/uninhabitable.
Under the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (England) Order 2015, a demolition contractor must notify the Local Planning Authority (LPA) of the intent to demolish and obtain approval before proceeding. This involves submitting a detailed method statement and possibly an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA).
What is a pre-demolition survey?
A pre-demolition survey is a comprehensive assessment conducted before any demolition work begins. Its purpose is to identify hazardous materials such as asbestos, evaluate structural risks and address environmental concerns. This survey ensures that demolition is carried out safely, legally and with minimal impact on the surrounding environment, protecting workers and the public.
What should be considered in a pre-demolition survey?
- Hazardous materials – a pre-demolition survey should identify any hazardous materials to ensure safe and compliant demolition practices. The key hazardous materials include asbestos, lead, mould and mildew, mercury, radon, flammable materials, fuel and oils, pesticides and herbicides, batteries, silica and PCBs (Polychlorinated Biphenyls).
- Structural analysis – the survey should assess the integrity and safety of the building before demolition. Key areas to include are load bearing elements, foundation condition, structural materials (e.g. wood, steel, concrete), any previous modifications, signs of deterioration, mechanical and electrical systems (e.g. Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning), surrounding structures, environmental surrounds (e.g. soil stability), potential hazards and stability during demolition.
What does site preparation involve?
- Securing the site – establish secure boundaries by erecting fencing, signage and barriers to safeguard the site and protect public safety.
- Salvage operations – identify and recover materials or fixtures that can be salvaged, reused or recycled, minimising waste and promoting sustainability.
- Dust and noise control – implement strategies to reduce dust, noise and vibration during demolition, such as using water sprays and installing sound barriers to mitigate environmental impact.
- Utility disconnection and meter removal – safely disconnect all utilities, including electricity, gas and water, and remove any meters to ensure the site is secure and ready for demolition activities.
What things must be planned prior to demolition?
A pre-demolition plan typically includes the following critical points:
- Demolition method selection – determine the most suitable demolition method (mechanical, manual or implosion) based on site conditions and project goals.
- Demolition sequencing – develop a detailed sequence of demolition activities to ensure stability and safety.
- Waste management plan – create a waste management plan outlining the disposal, recycling and management of demolition debris.
What should be included in the health & safety plan?
Demolition site safety is an absolute must and a plan will typically include:
- Risk assessment – identify potential hazards and assess the likelihood and severity of each identified risk, prioritising each based on their potential impact.
- Safety protocols – develop and document clear procedures for all demolition activities and outline how to respond to emergencies.
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) – specify the types of PPE required for different tasks.
- Training and competency – ensure that all workers are competent to perform their tasks safely, with necessary certifications or licences.
- Site safety management – appoint a site safety officer to oversee health and safety compliance and to address any issues that arise.
What information should be provided to key stakeholders?
- Public notification – inform nearby residents and businesses about the upcoming demolition activities, including timelines, potential disruptions and safety measures in place to mitigate any impact.
- Internal communication – establish effective communication channels among the demolition team, and include site supervisors and other stakeholders to ensure everyone is informed of updates, responsibilities and safety protocols throughout the project.
What is a final pre-demolition inspection?
The final pre-demolition inspection is a critical step that occurs just before demolition begins. This inspection ensures that all preparatory measures are complete and that safety protocols are in place. Key aspects to verify include:
- Permit verification – confirm that all necessary permits and approvals from local authorities are secured.
- Safety protocols – make sure that all health and safety measures have been implemented effectively.
- Site readiness – ensure the site is adequately secured and that any hazards have been addressed.
How to prepare logistics and equipment?
- Equipment mobilisation – arrange for the mobilisation of necessary demolition equipment and personnel to the site.
- Access arrangements – ensure that access routes for machinery, debris removal and emergency vehicles are clear and well-defined.
What documentation and reporting should be compiled?
- Record-keeping – compile all documentation, including permits, safety records and material disposal records, to ensure compliance and for future reference.
- Pre-demolition meeting – conduct a final meeting with the demolition team to review the plan and address any last-minute issues or questions.
Who is responsible for what prior to demolition starting?
There are several key roles involved with the entire demolition process, each with their own set of responsibilities:
- Project owner: ensures all resources, funding, and necessary approvals are secured while communicating with local authorities and stakeholders.
- Demolition contractor: handles pre-demolition planning, site surveys, obtaining permits and developing the health and safety plan, along with coordinating utility disconnections.
- Health and Safety officer: ensures compliance with safety regulations, conducts training and safety briefings and performs regular inspections to verify effective safety measures.
- Site manager: oversees adherence to the demolition plan and safety protocols, facilitates communication regarding safety concerns, and monitors the use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
Ensure a safe and successful demolition project
Understanding and complying with regulations, performing essential surveys and creating thorough health and safety plans are crucial steps in the pre-demolition process. Engaging stakeholders and obtaining necessary permits help minimise potential risks. Ultimately, a well-organised and executed pre-demolition phase not only safeguards workers and the public but also enhances efficiency and sustainability throughout the demolition process and the subsequent development phase.
Rabbit Demolition is an established and expert demolition company with the ability to handle demolition projects of all sizes, incorporating all elements of the removal and clearing processes which surround unwanted buildings and construction sites.
To find out more about Rabbit Demolition’s demolition services contact our expert and friendly team on 01903 762020 or enquiries@rabbitdemolition.co.uk.
Rabbit Demolition is part of The Rabbit Group of companies, which includes Rabbit Skip Hire.
