Safety checklist — Demolition
Demolition and removal work. Compliant with Québec's Construction Safety Code (CSTC) and CNESST standards.
Before work
12 items- ✓
Full PPE: hard hat, FFP3 mask, safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves
- ✓
Asbestos and lead survey reviewed (mandatory for pre-1999 buildings)Critical
ℹ️ Mandatory for buildings built before 1999 (CNESST)
- ✓
Utilities disconnected and confirmed de-energized: water, power, gas, telecomCritical
ℹ️ Verify disconnection with respective utility providers
- ✓
Safety perimeter established and marked — prohibition signs posted
- ✓
Load-bearing structure identified — engineer consulted if in doubt
- ✓
Demolition plan posted and explained to team
- ✓
Adjacent buildings protected if necessary
- ✓
Demolition from top to bottom — never by undermining
- ✓
No overloading of floors — materials removed progressively
- ✓
Water spraying to limit crystalline silica dust
- ✓
Rubble removed by chute or bin — never by free fall
- ✓
Continuous monitoring of residual stability
After work
4 items- ✓
Residual structure stability verified
- ✓
Area cleaned, secured and fenced
- ✓
Waste sorted: wood, metal, concrete, hazardous materials
- ✓
Asbestos-containing materials stored per regulations
More checklists — Heavy Work
More safety checklists
Risks and prevention — Demolition
Demolition work poses risks of unplanned collapse, dust exposure (silica, asbestos), contact with live utilities (electrical, gas), and flying debris. The CSTC requires a demolition plan for structures over one storey or presenting particular hazards.
Before any work, underground and overhead utilities must be located and disconnected. The presence of asbestos, lead, or mould must be assessed and managed per applicable CNESST regulations. The demolition zone must be clearly marked and restricted to authorized personnel.
Heavy equipment operators must have adequate visibility and communication with the spotter. Structures must be demolished top-down in a controlled sequence to prevent sudden collapses.
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