Demolition Safety Checklist

Complete this comprehensive demolition safety inspection before and during demolition operations to ensure OSHA 1926 Subpart T compliance and protect workers from structural collapse, falling debris, and hazardous material exposure.

Industry: Construction
Frequency: Before each demolition phase
Estimated Time: 45-60 min
Role: Demolition Supervisor / Safety Manager
Total Items: 54
Compliance: OSHA 1926.850-860, OSHA 1926.62 Lead, OSHA 1926.1101 Asbestos, EPA NESHAP, UK HSE CDM 2015

Engineering Survey (OSHA 1926.850)

Verify engineering survey completion per OSHA requirements.

Written engineering survey completed by competent person?
Structural condition of building documented?
Type of framing identified (wood, steel, masonry, concrete)?
Previous building use investigated for hazards?
Adjacent structures assessed for stability impact?
Engineering survey available on-site?

Utility Disconnection & Isolation

Verify all utilities properly disconnected and locked out.

Electrical service disconnected at source?
Gas service disconnected and capped?
Water service disconnected?
Sewer lines capped/plugged?
Steam lines disconnected (if applicable)?
Telecommunications/cable disconnected?
Written utility disconnection confirmations on file?
Lockout/tagout procedures in place?

Hazardous Materials Assessment

Verify hazardous materials survey and abatement.

Asbestos survey completed by licensed inspector?
All ACM (asbestos-containing materials) identified and labeled?
ACM properly abated before demolition?
Lead paint survey completed?
Lead-based paint properly managed/abated?
PCBs in transformers/ballasts assessed?
Mold contamination assessed?
Mercury-containing devices removed (thermostats, switches)?
Hazmat clearance documentation on file?

Site Preparation & Perimeter Security

Verify site is properly prepared and secured.

Perimeter fencing installed (minimum 6 ft)?
Warning signs posted at all access points?
Pedestrian walkways protected (sidewalk sheds)?
Traffic control plan implemented?
Dust control measures in place?
Noise mitigation measures for residential areas?
Debris chutes installed for upper floors?
Exclusion zones clearly marked?

Structural Demolition Controls

Verify structural demolition procedures.

Demolition sequence plan documented?
Top-down demolition sequence followed?
Shoring/bracing installed where required?
Floor openings covered or barricaded?
Wall sections braced to prevent uncontrolled collapse?
No undermining of walls or floors?
Floor load limits not exceeded by debris?
Mechanical equipment operated at safe distances?

Worker Protection & PPE

Verify worker safety measures.

All workers wearing hard hats (Class E minimum)?
Safety glasses/goggles worn?
Hearing protection provided for high noise areas?
Respiratory protection provided as needed?
Fall protection for work above 6 feet?
High-visibility vests worn?
Steel-toe safety boots worn?
Buddy system in place for hazardous areas?

Emergency Preparedness

Verify emergency response capabilities.

Site-specific emergency plan posted?
First aid kit stocked and accessible?
Trained first aider on site?
Fire extinguishers available and charged?
Emergency contact numbers posted?
Evacuation routes established and clear?
Communication system for alerts in place?