Demolition and regeneration projects in city centres are naturally more hazardous than similar projects in rural areas. The risk to the workers on the sites is the same but in the former there are more risks for people in the immediate vicinity, particularly in the busiest urban areas. In both cases it is essential that the structure is properly supported throughout the whole project.
One thing many companies fail to realise is that the stability of a structure can change over the course of the project. This occurs because the weather will affect the loading, putting different pressure on parts of the property. The direction of the wind can change quickly, as can the strength. If care has not been taken an uncontrolled collapse can occur.
On top of this as parts of the structure are altered or completely removed the loading also changes. The last thing you want is for the load to end up unevenly balanced, even if you do have props and supports in place. Once the maximum loading is exceeded a collapse could occur.
In June the wind caused a building in a block of empty shops to collapse in Hamilton, New Zealand. The properties were being demolished as they had been deemed unsafe for occupation. During the demolition work a 20 metre by 4 metre section of wall toppled into the roof after being struck by a strong gust of wind. The props in place were insufficient and the uncontrolled collapse put the workers on site at risk. Luckily they all escaped uninjured although reports say they had to rush out of the way.
At Denon Construction we understand how the stability of structures can change over the course of a project, whether it is undergoing alterations or a demolition. We have the skills and experience to ensure the right structural supports are put in place to keep it stable for the whole duration. With our help you can cut the risk of uncontrolled collapses occurring and account for the safety of people on and around the site. We have a lot of experience working in big city centres as well as rural areas.