Accidents and injuries occur more readily in the demolition stage of a construction project, than any other phase. The primary reason for this, are hidden dangers, often obscured to the naked eye, and/or concealed by years of accumulated debris. Such materials, when exposed, are ripe to churn up lethal amounts of carcinogens, into the work environment, in the form of dust, fumes, and gases that can be extremely damaging to the health and wellbeing of workers.
That is why it is important, as part of pre-construction protocols to identify hazardous building materials before beginning a restoration or remediation project. Although there are many hazardous building materials, the most common include asbestos, lead, mercury, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB), chlorofluorocarbons, and radioactive sources. Surprisingly, these dangers will remain contained, when left unmolested inside the walls and framework of the structure, and do not become weaponized until commencement of the demolition process. As it is the uncontrolled nature of this process, in even the most controlled settings that will unleash unsafe poisonous substances upon contractors and employees. Additionally, the nefarious nature of the randomized sequelae inherit in the demolition process will often lead to contaminated buildings, project delays, additional expenses and even regulatory violations. Understanding the health, safety and applicable environmental regulations associated with the disturbance and disposal of these materials, are a necessary aid to owners and contractors, when attempting to navigate these very dangerous and unpredictable waters.