Demolition is often one of the first steps in a renovation project, but it can also be one of the most unpredictable. Behind walls, above ceilings and beneath existing finishes, conditions don't always match the drawings or what was anticipated before construction began.
Through our BuildSafe Program, Shannon Construction's Safety Committee reinforces the importance of planning ahead, recognizing potential hazards and knowing when to stop and reassess. This is especially important in occupied buildings, where construction activities must be carefully coordinated to protect workers, building occupants and ongoing operations.
Verify Utilities Before Demolition
Before demo begins, project teams must identify existing utilities and confirm that affected systems have been properly isolated and made safe. Electrical, plumbing, mechanical and fire protection systems can remain concealed within walls, ceilings and floors, sometimes serving areas beyond the immediate work zone.
Crews should review the scope, verify existing conditions, follow applicable lockout/tagout procedures and clearly identify what is being removed versus what must remain. Suspect hazardous materials must also be evaluated and appropriate controls established before they are disturbed.
Assess Structural Conditions
Selective demolition requires a clear understanding of the building's existing structure. Removing walls, ceilings or framing without assessing structural integrity can be very hazardous.
Teams should watch for unexpected structural components, conditions that differ from the drawings and signs that an element may be supporting adjacent construction. When uncertainty arises, work must stop until the condition has been evaluated by a structural engineer and a safe approach is established.
Use the Right PPE for the Task
Demolition work can expose workers to sharp materials, flying debris, silica dust, elevated noise levels and fall hazards. PPE should be selected based on the task and identified hazards, including appropriate eye and face protection, hearing protection and respiratory protection when required. Cut-resistant gloves should be selected according to ANSI/ISEA 105 cut ratings based on the materials being handled. When fall hazards are present, appropriate fall protection measures must be implemented, including properly fitted harnesses and approved anchorage points when required.
While hazard prevention remains the first priority, PPE serves as an essential final layer of protection for workers.
Maintain a Clean, Controlled Work Area
Debris can accumulate quickly, creating trip hazards, obstructed access and unnecessary risks. Crews should keep walkways and exits clear, remove debris regularly and properly handle sharp or broken materials.
In occupied buildings, additional precautions are necessary to protect building occupants and maintain daily operations. Dust containment, clearly defined work zones, controlled access and coordination of disruptive activities help minimize the impact of demolition on surrounding spaces. Maintaining safe access and egress throughout construction is equally important.
When Conditions Change, Stop and Reassess
Even with careful preparation, demo can uncover concealed utilities, unexpected structural conditions or materials that require a different approach.
If something doesn’t look right, stop and reassess.
Anyone present on a Shannon job site has the authority to stop work when an unexpected condition or safety concern is identified. Work should only resume once the issue has been evaluated, necessary precautions are in place and the team understands how to proceed safely.
Successful demolition requires more than knowing what needs to be removed. It requires understanding what must remain, anticipating potential hazards and making informed decisions when conditions change.