Common Mistakes During Dismantling and How to Avoid Them

Demolition — is not just the destruction of old structures, but a complex set of operations requiring thorough preparation, coordination, and control. Mistakes at any stage can lead to delays, budget overruns, and even risks to personnel health. Let’s review the most common missteps and ways to prevent them.

1. Lack of a Detailed Work Plan

• Error: Starting demolition “on the fly” without a clear step-by-step schedule or engineering justification.

• Consequences: Missed deadlines, duplicated efforts, unexpected obstacles (hidden utilities, structural quirks).

• How to Avoid:

  • Conduct a comprehensive technical survey of the site (geodetic survey, instrumental diagnostics).

  • Create a detailed plan specifying responsibilities, deadlines, and required resources.

  • Obtain approval of the document from all relevant services (occupational health and safety, fire safety, environmental).

2. Neglecting Safety

• Error: Incomplete or perfunctory staff briefing; absence or improper use of personal protective equipment.

• Consequences: Worker injuries, fines from regulatory bodies, suspension of work.

• How to Avoid:

  • Provide a full briefing on safe demolition methods and equipment operation.

  • Equip all personnel with appropriate PPE: helmets, safety glasses, gloves, protective footwear.

  • Implement continuous monitoring of noise, dust, and vibrations on site.

3. Incorrect Equipment Selection and Use

• Error: Using machinery not rated for the load or specifics of the structures (e.g., an undersized excavator for reinforced concrete).

• Consequences: Machinery breakdowns, downtime for repairs, hazardous situations if hydraulics or connections fail.

• How to Avoid:

  • Select specialized equipment based on the weight and type of structures to be demolished.

  • Inspect machines before deployment to the site (technical check, test runs).

  • Arrange for backup equipment or rental options in case of breakdowns.

4. Ignoring Structural Features of the Building

• Error: Failing to account for floor layouts, load-bearing walls, and hidden utilities (water, gas, electricity).

• Consequences: Unexpected damage to utility networks, flooding, fires, short circuits.

• How to Avoid:

  • Conduct exploratory openings and measurements of structures before demolition.

  • Obtain and review the building’s “as-built” drawings or engineering plans.

  • Plan work sequences to ensure step-by-step utility shutdowns and safe load removal.

5. Poor Organization of Debris Removal and Sorting

• Error: No designated storage zones; mixing different types of waste (metal, wood, concrete).

• Consequences: Site congestion, fines for unsorted waste, extra costs for separate transport.

• How to Avoid:

  • Allocate separate zones and containers for each type of debris.

  • Choose a contractor that provides debris recycling and disposal services.

  • Develop a removal schedule to prevent on-site container overflow.

6. Insufficient Communication Within the Team and with the Client

• Error: Lack of regular reports and meetings; team members unclear on current tasks.

• Consequences: Mistakes, duplicated efforts, and misaligned expectations.

• How to Avoid:

  • Incorporate regular briefings into the workflow to discuss plans and site conditions.

  • Keep the client informed of progress and promptly agree any changes to the plan.

Conclusion
A systematic approach—from meticulous planning and risk assessment to strict safety controls and clear teamwork—helps avoid demolition mistakes. By following these recommendations, you can optimize the process, reduce costs, and ensure the safety of everyone involved.