Scheduling Demolition

When is demolition, with all asbestos-containing materials in place, appropriate?

If the engineering survey required in WAC 296-155-775(1) indicates that the structural integrity of the building would not allow employees to safely remove asbestos-containing materials prior to demolition, the building may be demolished in-place without such prior removal. The demolition plan would then need to include procedures and methodology to reduce employee exposure to airborne asbestos fibers during demolition activities. Dust suppression using water is such a procedure and is identified in WAC 296-155-775(18).

If a regulatory authority has determined that the building’s structural integrity has been compromised by fire, water damage, earthquake, etc., rendering entrance and occupancy a hazard to employees, the building may need to be demolished in-place without prior removal of asbestos-containing materials. Condemnation by the health department would qualify as such documentation of a hazard to employees entering the building.

Courtesy of WISHA