Plan, Check, Do

“This was an entirely avoidable incident. The risks associated with demolition activity are well known and long standing. Demolition, dismantling and structural alteration are high risk activities which require careful planning and execution by contractors who are competent in the full range of demolition techniques. In this case, demolition using hand tools meant workers were unnecessarily exposed to the risk of structural collapse. It would have been safer to use a long reach excavator, which was subsequently brought in to complete the demolition following the incident. Ultimately, the system of work planned was unsafe, resulting in severe injuries which still affect the worker today.”

This is an interesting quote from an HSE Inspector commenting on an, unfortunately, all too familiar story. We don’t need to know the full details to know that something went seriously wrong, but what makes it interesting is the inspector’s clear indication that the planning process for the work was flawed. The point made was not that there was no planning, but that the system of work in operation was wrong and resulted in the incident. This begs the question, why carry out the correct procedure and planning, without making sure it is an appropriate and safe system of work.

If you’re not sure get it checked. C&D can help with this, our extensive knowledge of demolition engineering from years of experience has helped many companies with just such issues. If you need help get in touch and we will see what we can do together.