# Demolition hazards

URL: https://hardhatbinder.com/en/toolbox-talks/demolition
Last updated: 2026-10-23

This week we have demolition work on our job, and tearing things down can be just as dangerous as building them. Walls, floors, and roofs can fail without warning, and hidden utilities can hurt you. Let's go over how we keep everyone safe while we take things apart.

## Key points

1. Never start tearing out until the supervisor confirms the structure has been checked by a competent person for weak walls, floors, and damaged framing.
2. Treat every wire and pipe as live until you are told electric, gas, water, and steam lines are shut off, capped, or controlled.
3. Ask about hazardous materials like asbestos or lead paint before you cut or break anything; if you see something suspicious, stop and report it.
4. Stay out of areas below where others are working and respect the barricades and signs; falling debris does not give a warning.
5. Don't pile debris on floors or near openings; overloaded floors can collapse, so use chutes or move it out as you go.
6. Cover or guard floor openings and wall openings, and tie off when you work near an edge.
7. Wear your hard hat, safety glasses, gloves, and boots, and use dust control and respirators when told; demolition dust can harm your lungs.

## Talk it over

- Which parts of this building look weak or damaged to you, and where should we keep people away?
- How do we know the utilities are off here, and who do you ask if you're not sure?
- Where will the debris go today, and how do we keep it from piling up on floors or blocking exits?

> **Remember:** If you're not sure it's safe to pull it down, stop and ask first.

## Official sources

- [29 CFR 1926.850](https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-29/section-1926.850) — Demolition — preparatory operations

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Source: HardHat Binder, operated by Leadspire LLC. Templates to be reviewed by a competent person before use; not legal advice; not affiliated with OSHA.