Health and Management at Work - Demolition of Chandler Building - Case Study Example

HEALTH AND MANAGEMENT AT WORK: Demolition of Chandler Building Student’s Name: Professor’s Name: Date: Introduction The demolition of Chandler building of UCLAN University in the United Kingdom is as a result of ongoing construction process. The building was constructed before 1990 and constructed from bricks. Additionally, strip foundation was used during construction of this structure. Demolition of Chandler building requires careful planning since it sits on an active and busy environment. In addition to this, careful demolition process is required because it is a tall building. According to Safe Work Australia (2011) before embarking on any demolition works, the health and safety managers should ensure that the prospective contractors have extensive information about the existing building. This leads to a demolition survey, which is considered paramount for any demolition works so as to identify any potential structural issues and risks arising from flammable or hazardous elements. Planning of demolition work requires in depth planning which ensures that accidents are minimized. Demolition planning entails Identification of hazards, assessment of risks and determination of suitable control measures with all the relevant persons (Safe Work Australia, 2011). There are various possible risks that demolition work may pose to both the workers and other persons nearer to the building. Therefore contractors are entitled to make an initial visit to the demolish site and provide a conclusive statement about their demolition techniques as well as the precautions to be undertaken to counter anticipated hazards. Safety and health hazards and the associated risks in Chandler Building Demolition There are four categories of demolition methods and each of these methods are associated with specific risks and health hazards. They include; manual demolition, mechanical demolition, induced collapse and use of explosives (Safe Work Australia, 2011). A single or more than one demolition method can be used in building demolition and this depends on the structure that is being demolished. In the case, manual and mechanical demolition techniques may be suitable. The safety and health dangers associated with manual and mechanical demolition can affect the construction personnel or any person within the site or its environs or both. Possible safety and health hazards are largely dependent on the method used in the demolition process. Health and safety hazards during demolish may arise as a result of several things including; inhaled or ingested substances and accidents caused by the noise and vibrations due to excavation operations. The Chandler building demolition poses a number of risks and also endangers the lives of many in that environment. The instability of the Chandler building during the demolition may be caused due to the excavation operations or unexpected natural forces such as storms or floods that will further weaken the structure. Thus the structure may experience premature collapsing, as a result burying workers, passer-by and also lead to the possibility of destroying cars and shops within its vicinity. The pressure and tensions associated with the dismantling of the building may release objects either small or big such as bricks and construction tools unexpectedly hence endangering the health and safety of workers. Mechanical and manual demolition requires workers to take down a building bit by bit, this technique involves a lot of movement and manual activities which leads to the unevenness of the ground or parts of the building. Unstructured edges, heights and openings may contribute to workers’ injury due to trips, slips or falls. As a result, partially dismantled sections of the Chandler building, will expose the workers to risks associated with falls and heights. This is mainly associated with the fragile state of the edges and floors that may cause the workers falling from heights. Constrained postures of the building and use of heavy loads could lead to severe injuries of the workers and passers-by due to uncontrolled events such sudden collapse of parts of the building. According to the Occupational Safety & Health Council (2004) the fragile nature of a building under demolition puts workers at a high risk of being hit by flying debris or buried by collapsing substances. Noise and vibrations, caused by the machines being used may lead to sudden wear and tear of the Chandler building. The continued use of the machines vibrates the building causing it to have cracks in less anticipated areas thus may lead to falling and collapse of several parts of the building. The existence of asbestos, wood preservatives, PCBs and remains from certain species such as rats expose workers to health risks like chronic diseases. Hazardous materials such as the remains of asbestos, PCBs and wood preservatives when inhaled by an individual is likely to lead to chronic body disorders. For instance asbestos has been identified as a hazardous material that causes cancer, which is a long term health risk that is likely to affect a person in the long run. Additionally, inhaling or close body contact of these materials is likely to cause breathing difficulties and contamination among the workers. Silicosis is another major hazard during demolition activity. It is a health effect caused by excessive exposure to crystalline silica. Peterson et al. (2015) affirm that the earth’s crust contain silica which has been classified in the group of carcinogenic compounds and may easily lead to chemical health hazards. Therefore, most building materials such as bricks and stones contain silica (Occupational Safety & Health Council, 2004). In this case of chandler building made of bricks, demolition will cause breakages of bricks which in turn results to generation of silica from the stone particles. Entry into confined spaces can also be a source of chemical hazard as the workers will be exposed to more silica and carbon dioxide and less oxygen. Dust particles from the demolition will also expose the workers and individuals with the surrounding environment to health risks. Since the Chandler building is constructed out of bricks, a lot of dust is expected during the dismantling of the building. These dust particles may lead to respiratory issues when inhaled. The fact that the Chandler building is located in a less open space and is surrounded by a busy locality, the number of people being exposed to the risks associated with dust is going to be very high. Thus, dust from a demolition site can result to complaints emerging from residents in the vicinity which in turn may have an effect on acquisition of permits for future demolition (Peterson et al., 2015). During structural alterations, fires and explosions are likely to occur. Fires and explosions are safety and health hazards associated with handling connected electric services. These include; oxygen lances, gas, electricity or telecommunication wire equipment and water pipes. Workers may mishandle the wire cables and pipes or a sudden collapse of the building may lead to poor interaction of these electric and water supplies. As a result the building may explode and go up in flames thus endangering both the workers and the entire neighbourhood of the university. Potential Accidents and Incidents during the Demolition of Chandler Building Accidents are defined as an unexpected event or catastrophe that leads to the sudden stop of an activity or task. An accident may lead to the damage of a property, loss or resources and equipment, illness or may death. An incident on the other hand is defined as an unplanned event that will lead to catastrophic activities such as deaths and loss of properties but may be prevented if precautionary steps are implemented. The main difference between incidents and accidents is that incidents are expected to happen, therefore mitigation plans must be put in place to prevent these incidents from taking place. Whereas accidents cannot be prevented as no one expects them to happen (HSE, 2004). Major accidents and incidents with control measures from HSE UK guidlines Falls from height is one major possible incidents that can occur during the Chandler building demolition. The building is tall and on normal occasions demolition process begins with the roof. Slippery surfaces, weak floors, fragile surfaces and openings are the major causes of falls during demolition. The need to work from higher grounds during demolition should be prevented by using high reach machines. Therefore the demolition workers should be provided with devices that will eliminate the risk of falling from heights. This may include the use of temporary platforms and work position structures (HSE, 2004). Pest and control technicians are required to asses as site before a demolition so as to eliminate any health hazards in a building (HSE, 2004). Chandler building is an old and tall structure whose roof provides a good environment for bats and birds, while the dark corners and holes in it is an inhabitant for rats. The inhalation of fungus found in birds’ and bat’s excretion is likely to expose the workers to health hazards such as the contraction of the Histoplasmosis infection (Peterson et al., 2015). The Histoplasmosis is identified as a highly infectious disease that can be transmitted from an infected individual to other people. Therefore not only are the demolition workers more likely to suffer the effects of inhalation of this fungus but also risk transmitting it to their family members or those they interact with (Lenhart et al., 2004). Uncontrolled collapse and falling debris can cause accidents to both the workers and people who are passing near the building being demolished. Premature and uncontrolled collapse of the Chandler building is viewed as an accident as no one can control the flying debris or tools which will hit all things and anyone close by. Guidelines provided by the HSE (2004) outline that areas where falling objects might fall should be identified as designated areas where passers-by should keep off. These areas should be clearly marked and enclosed with barriers. Furthermore a controlled traffic mechanism should be implemented within the vicinity. An operating traffic management system is essential to ensure that workers are not hit by turning, reversing or slewing vehicles (HSE, 2004). Inappropriate use of heavy demolition machines is likely to contribute to premature collapse of the building. Less experienced or skilled operators of these machines such as cranes, are likely to put excess force while balling hence unexpected parts of the building fall. Injuries or deaths arising from this kind of event is an incident. This is because such incidents can be prevented by ensuring that the workers on site are well skilled in their area of specialisation and that one is aware of what he or she is doing (HSE, 2004). Catastrophic deaths and injuries caused by fires and explosives are incidents that are anticipated and can be prevented. The Chandler building is located within a busy environment with a lot of movements, therefore in case of a fire or explosion a large population is going to be affected. Therefore both overhead and underground electric wires, gas supply systems, telecommunication connections and water pipes should be identified before the demolition and disconnected. Additionally, all the cables and pipes within the building can be clearly labelled to ensure that the workers on site are aware of these technical equipment and the dangers associated with them (HSE, 2004). The health and safety hazards linked to noise and vibration are all incidents that can easily be prevented. According to the publication by the HSE (2004) the continued exposure of workers in a loud and noisy site is likely to cause a health hazard such permanent hearing damage. Noise can also lead to safety incidents arising from poor communication between the demolition workers. Therefore workers are likely to get injured because the noise prevents them from hearing warning signs or directives. Hearing protection gears are a necessity to prevent any of these health and safety incidents from taking place. Vibration also contributes to these health and safety issues as well as vibration syndrome health risks. Hand tools that have intense vibration may cause workers to acquire the hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS), while those who sit of vibrating machines are likely to acquire the whole body vibration syndrome (WBVS). These two incidents can be reduced by ensuring that workers are less exposed to vibrating equipment (HSE, 2004). Health and Safety Strategies and recommendations for Demolition of Chandler Building As discussed above the demolition and dismantling of the Chandler building is going to be a very risky activity. The presence of heavy machinery, hazardous materials, and the requirement to work at high places all place the workers and inhabitants at risk. Therefore the activity will requires extensive planning and all health and safety strategies need to be put in place. The HSE (2004) guidelines dictate that all stakeholders in any given demolition site should be provided with first-hand information to protect workers’ health and safety as well as other participants. There are some major strategies which can be put in place to ensure reduction of accidents and incidents during Chandler building demolition. These strategies are; Demolition planning and design Appropriate selection and use of demolition equipment Demolition workforce selection and oversight Proper communication of demolition project requirements Education and training on health and safety systems Demolition Planning and Design Before carrying out any demolition activity, a clear plan and structural survey should be developed (Diven & Taylor, 2006). A clear plan and survey can be developed by assessing the information available in the original design plans, structural alteration reports and also samples of the material taken from the structural site (Egbu et al., 2002). Knowledge of the site is particularly important. It is important in both in the development of structural design survey and also in the demolition process (HSE, 2004). In this case of Chandler building demolition, its design plan and alteration reports if there is any should be sought. The safety and health manager of Chandler building should closely work with the construction supervisors. This will ensure that during the survey process the construction team is well educated about the state of the building and what to expect (HSE, 2004). Additionally, the information provided will dictate the types of services required above and below the ground level. Appropriate Selection and use of Demolition Equipment The demolition works for Chandler building, will mainly entail the use of heavy machines and manual works. Thus, it is important to assess and select the right tools and equipment for this demolition due to high risk of accidents originating from their use. For large machines to be used in demolition, subsequent health and safety processes should be developed carefully (Anumba et al., 2004). Additionally, selection of mechanical equipment should be done after a logistic assessment and trained users need to be selected as well (HSE, 2004). Demolition workforce selection and oversight It is one of the most important health and safety strategies that should be adopted. An experienced workforce is important for the development of accurate sequence of demolition and the assessment of health and safety issues arising (Anumba et al., 2004). In the case of Chandler building demolition project, competent workforce ought to be selected. This can be achieved through assessment of their abilities to understand the health and safety procedures that are given. Additionally, the selected workforce should have specific training on all aspects of work they are taking on. At the same, supervision is important. The demolition manager should ensure that all workers on site are closely supervised and follow all health and safety precautions (HSE, 2004). Proper communication of demolition project requirements and Health & Safety Information Communication is the key to any construction work and it can pose challenge if there is a problem especially in the construction sector where almost all the requirements are given verbally. It is also important in case of emergency. The requirements of the demolition process and the health and safety information ought to be communicated in stages (HSE, 2004). Notably each step of demolition process has its own health and safety measures. Regular briefings to the workforce will also help in averting some accidents because the workers will be informed of the possible risks. Nonetheless, it is important to use illustrated safety signals because verbal communication may prove to be a challenge because of the noise. Education and training on health and safety systems All the workers should be given training in accordance to their duties and responsibilities. This will ensure that the number of accidents and incidents occurring are reduced reasonably (HSE, 2004). The kind of training designed for a specific group of workers should provide them with the following; The kind of risks and hazards they are exposed to and how to avert them Procedures to be followed in their respective areas and how these undertakings can be executed with minimal risks Emergency procedures to be followed in case of an accident (Safe Work Australia, 2011) Conclusions In conclusion, Chandler building may pose numerous health and safety hazards to the workers and people residing near it. However, with proper health and safety strategies in place, accidents and incidents will reduce. The paper has highlighted some of the risks and accidents that might occur as a result of this demolition activity. Various health and safety strategies have also been proposed which will ensure reduction of these accidents and incidents. Besides other health and safety strategies, the demolishing contractor should put in place these strategies. References Anumba, C., Marino, B., Gottfried, A. & Egbu, C. (2004). Health and Safety in Refurbishment involving Demolition and Structural Instability. Norwich: Health & Safety Executive. Diven, R. & Taylor, M. (2006). Demolition Planning. Supplemental Architectural Services. New York: The American Institute of Architects. Available at: http://www.aia.org/aiaucmp/groups/aia/documents/pdf/aiab089227.pdf (Accessed on 6th December 2015) Egbu, C. O., Marino, B., Anumba, C. J., Gottfried, A., & Neale, B. (2002). Managing Health and Safety in Refurbishment projects Involving Demolition and Structural Instability. In Applying and Extending the Global Knowledge Base” proceedings of the CIBW70 commission Facilities management and Maintenance Global Symposium, 315-327. Health and Safety Executive (HSE). (2004). Investigating Accidents and Incidents: A workbook for Employers, Unions, Safety Representatives and Safety Professionals (Health and Safety Guidance. HSE Books. Lenhart, S., Schafer, M., Singal, M., & Hajjeh, R. (2004). Histoplasmosis: Protecting workers at risk. Cincinnati: National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. Occupational Safety & Health Council. (2004). Guidance Notes on Health Hazards in construction Work. Hong Kong: Occupational Safety & Health Branch Labour Department. Available at: http://www.labour.gov.hk/eng/public/oh/OHB82.pdf (Accessed on 3rd December 2015) Peterson, E., Shaurette, M. & Clarke, D. (2015). Demolition Dust: Hazards and Control. Available at: http://www.dustboss.com/support/dust-related-health-safety- issues/demolition-dust-hazards-and-control/ (Accessed on 3rd December 2015) Safe Work Australia. (2011). Demolition Work. Draft of Code of Practice. Available at: http://www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au/sites/swa/about/publications/pages/Demolition- Work.aspx (Accessed on 1st December 2015) Read More