Method Statement for Demolition — create with RAMSagent
A demolition method statement details exactly how a demolition task is performed safely — from preliminary surveys of hazardous materials (asbestos, PCB, lead) to dismantling, sorting, and removal. The document should reference Canada Labour Code Part II (chemical workplace hazards), COHSR (construction work), and medical surveillance for asbestos.
RAMSagent generates complete method statements for each demolition task, including asbestos screening, dust protection plan, and recycling classes — ready to print or share with subcontractors.
Typical risks for Method Statement — Demolition
| Risk | Description | Legal | Severity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Asbestos and Other Hazardous Materials | Buildings before 1982 may contain asbestos in pipe insulation, facade panels, and carpet glue. Material inventory is required before demolition, and work can only be performed with permits and medical surveillance. | Canada Labour Code Part II, COHSR | Critical |
| Silica Dust | Demolition of concrete, brick, and plaster releases respirable crystalline silica (RCS) causing silicosis and lung cancer. The limit of 0.1 mg/m³ requires wetting or H-class vacuuming. | Canada Labour Code Part II, COHSR | High |
| Fall Hazards in Partial Demolition | When floors are demolished stepwise, edges, stairwells, and elevator shafts become temporary fall edges. Collective protection (rails, nets) must be re-established before work continues above 2 m. | Canada Labour Code Part II, COHSR | Critical |
| Crush Hazards in Machine-Controlled Demolition | Excavators with demolition shears require exclusion zones of at least 1.5 times the machine's reach. No one may be present in the risk area during demolition. | Canada Labour Code Part II, COHSR | High |
Applicable Regulations
- Canada Labour Code Part II Design and Execution of Construction Work
- Framework for construction sites, including demolition. Requires coordination, prior notification, and safety responsibility.
- Canada Labour Code Part II Chemical Workplace Hazards
- Regulates silica dust, asbestos, and other hazardous substances released during demolition. Requires risk assessment, measurement, and action plan.
- Canada Labour Code Part II Medical Surveillance in the Workplace
- Medical surveillance is required for personnel working with asbestos-containing materials.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is an asbestos survey required before demolition?
- Yes — for all buildings constructed before 1982 (and often later), a material survey is required before demolition as per COHSR. RAMSagent reminds you of the survey in the Site-Specific Safety Plan and links it to the required asbestos abatement.
- When is prior notification required for demolition?
- Prior notification to the relevant authority is required when the work is expected to last more than 30 working days with more than 20 workers on site simultaneously, or more than 500 person-days (Canada Labour Code Part II, COHSR).
Related Guides
Free Word Template: Method Statement
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