Demolition & Confined Spaces

What is the first consideration for any demolition project?

• ASpeed of completion
• BCost minimization
• CHazard surveys identifying asbestos, structures, services, contamination, and structural instability✓
• DEquipment availability

Answer: Pre-demolition surveys are essential to identify hazardous materials (asbestos, lead), active utilities, structural hazards, and environmental contaminants.

What is a confined space?

• AAny small room
• BA space not designed for occupancy with limited access and potential for hazardous atmospheres✓
• CA closet or cupboard
• DAny underground area

Answer: Confined spaces include tanks, vaults, chambers, and enclosed areas where oxygen-deficiency or toxic atmospheres can develop. Limited entry/exit complicates rescue.

What is required before entry to a permit-required confined space?

• AJust worker consent
• BHazard assessment, atmospheric monitoring, rescue plan, permit, and trained personnel✓
• COnly equipment provision
• DNothing special

Answer: Permit-required confined space entry requires: completed permit, atmosphere tested and acceptable, rescue equipment and personnel prepared, and competent supervision.

What are the hazards associated with asbestos in demolition?

• AAsbestos is harmless
• BInhalation causes mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis✓
• COnly a minor irritant
• DNo specific hazard

Answer: Asbestos fiber inhalation causes serious lung disease. Demolition of asbestos-containing materials requires licensed contractors and specialized procedures.

When should asbestos removal occur during demolition?

• ADuring general demolition
• BBefore any other demolition work begins✓
• CAfter demolition is complete
• DIt doesn't matter

Answer: Asbestos must be removed and properly disposed of BEFORE general demolition commences to prevent contamination and fiber release.

What is atmospheric monitoring in confined spaces testing for?

• ATemperature and humidity only
• BOxygen levels, toxic gases, and flammable atmospheres✓
• CAirflow speed
• DMoisture content only

Answer: Testing checks: adequate oxygen (19.5%-23.5%), absence of toxic gases (H2S, CO, etc.), and absence of flammable atmospheres (LEL limits).

What is a 'Hot Work Permit'?

• APermission to work in warm weather
• BAuthorization and precautions for work involving heat (welding, cutting, grinding) to prevent fires✓
• CA type of training course
• DNot required

Answer: Hot Work Permits authorize high-temperature work and require: fire watch personnel, removal of combustibles, sprinklers/extinguishers ready, and post-work checks.

What should be done with utilities before demolition begins?

• ALeave them active for convenience
• BDisconnect, cap, and secure all services (gas, electricity, water, drainage) per regulations✓
• COnly gas needs disconnection
• DUtilities don't matter

Answer: All live utilities must be identified, safely disconnected, and capped to prevent fire, explosion, electrocution, and contamination during demolition.

What is a confined space rescue plan?

• AOptional procedure
• BDocumented plan for rapid extraction of an incapacitated entrant with trained and equipped rescuers✓
• CJust having a first aider on site
• DNot necessary

Answer: Rescue plans must document: rescue method, trained rescuers, required equipment (harnesses, lines, ventilation), and coordination with emergency services.

What training is required for confined space entry personnel?

• ANo special training needed
• BHazard recognition, atmospheric testing, rescue procedures, emergency response, and permit use✓
• COnly equipment operation
• DGeneral safety only

Answer: Competent personnel must understand confined space hazards, recognize atmospheric dangers, perform testing correctly, and execute rescue procedures.

What is the purpose of a confined space entry permit?

• APermits not needed
• BAuthorize entry, confirm hazards assessed, controls implemented, and rescue available✓
• COptional paperwork
• DOnly verbal permission required

Answer: Confined space permits document: hazard identification, atmosphere testing results, rescue plan confirmation, and authorized entrant/attendant/rescue person appointment.

What pre-demolition survey must be completed before demolition starts?

• ASurveys not required
• BAsbestos survey mandatory; identifies asbestos-containing materials before disturbance✓
• COnly visual inspection needed
• DNo asbestos risks in construction

Answer: Licensed asbestos survey required before demolition. Identifies ACM (asbestos-containing materials), determines encapsulation or removal requirements per regulations.