Risk Assessment for Demolition — create with RAMSagent
A Job Hazard Analysis for demolition is a comprehensive project assessment of health and safety risks before work begins. It evaluates probability × consequence for asbestos/PCB/lead, silica dust, fall hazards, collapse risk, and traffic, guiding the choice of protection level per Canada Labour Code Part II and COHSR.
RAMSagent builds the risk assessment from material inventory and links it to individual Site-Specific Safety Plans for each task.
Typical risks for Risk Assessment — Demolition
| Risk | Description | Legal | Severity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hazardous Materials (Asbestos, PCB, Lead) | Dominant project risk in demolition — requires inventory, permit application, and certified remediation before demolition work starts. | Canada Labour Code Part II, COHSR | Critical |
| Silica Dust | Airborne exposure over 0.1 mg/m³ is the limit. Project measures: wetting, H-class extraction, personal respiratory protection. | Canada Labour Code Part II, COHSR | High |
| Collapse Risk in Partial Demolition | Renovations where load-bearing elements are removed require structural calculations and shoring systems before demolition. | Canada Labour Code Part II, COHSR | Critical |
| Traffic and Vehicle Movements | Container transport, demolition machinery, and site vehicles create collision risks on and around the worksite. | Canada Labour Code Part II, COHSR | High |
Applicable Regulations
- Canada Labour Code Part II Basic Obligations — Systematic Work Environment Management
- Framework for systematic work environment management: risk assessment, action, follow-up.
- Canada Labour Code Part II Construction and Demolition Work
- Advance notification and requirements for demolition projects.
- Canada Labour Code Part II Chemical Work Environment Risks
- Regulates asbestos, silica dust, and other hazardous substances.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the difference between a Job Hazard Analysis (JHA) and a Site-Specific Safety Plan?
- The Job Hazard Analysis (JHA) covers the entire project, assessing likelihood × consequence. The Site-Specific Safety Plan details exactly how a specific task is performed safely. RAMSagent links them automatically.
- When is prior notification required for demolition?
- When there are more than 30 workdays with over 20 workers simultaneously, or more than 500 person-days in total (COHSR, Part 8).
Related Guides
Free Word Template: Risk Assessment
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