DEM/Specific/TBT-DEM-012

Bridge Demolition

Demolition › Specific › Bridge Demolition

All Categories/Demolition/Specific/Bridge Demolition

Bridge Demolition

Toolbox Talk Record

Ref: TBT-DEM-012  |  Issue: 1  |  Date: March 2026
PresenterProject
LocationDate

What?

  • Bridge demolition is a high-risk specialist operation requiring detailed engineering planning.
  • A pre-demolition structural survey must identify the bridge type, condition, and load paths.
  • Demolition methods include mechanical breaking, diamond cutting, strand jacking, and controlled explosives.
  • Post-tensioned bridges contain high-energy tendons that can release violently if cut incorrectly.
  • Traffic management on roads and railways beneath or adjacent to bridges must be in place.
  • Environmental controls are needed for dust, noise, vibration, and debris falling into watercourses.
  • Temporary works may be needed to support the structure during sequential demolition phases.
  • Utility diversions must be completed before demolition begins — bridges often carry live services.
  • Exclusion zones must be established to protect workers and the public from falling debris.
  • All bridge demolition requires a site-specific method statement approved by a competent engineer.

Why?

Prevent collapseUncontrolled structural collapse during bridge demolition can cause multiple fatalities among workers and the public.
Protect the publicBridges are often above roads, railways, or waterways where the public is present during demolition.
Specialist risksPost-tensioned elements, hazardous materials, and complex load paths require expert engineering knowledge.
Do Don't
  • Complete a pre-demolition structural survey and asbestos refurbishment survey
  • Obtain an approved method statement before starting any demolition work
  • Establish exclusion zones to protect workers and the public from debris
  • Coordinate traffic and rail possessions with highways authorities and Network Rail
  • Install temporary works to support the structure during phased demolition
  • Identify and divert all live services carried by or adjacent to the bridge
  • Use dust suppression and debris netting to control environmental impacts
  • Ensure all operatives hold CSCS demolition cards and relevant NVQ qualifications
  • Monitor the structure for movement and distress throughout the operation
  • Brief the team daily on the demolition sequence, hazards, and escape routes
  • DON'T start demolition without a fully approved site-specific method statement
  • DON'T cut post-tensioned tendons without specialist engineering guidance
  • DON'T allow public access beneath or adjacent to the demolition zone
  • DON'T demolish structural elements out of the approved sequence
  • DON'T proceed without confirmed utility diversions and isolations
  • DON'T ignore movement or cracking observed during the demolition process
  • DON'T allow debris to fall uncontrolled onto roads, railways, or waterways
  • DON'T work beneath unsupported structural elements at any time
  • DON'T reduce exclusion zone distances without engineer approval
  • DON'T rely on assumptions about the bridge structure — always survey first

See also: Demolition Safety Awareness | Structural Stability During Demolition
ebrora.com

RAMS Builder

Generate professional Risk Assessment and Method Statements in minutes. 10 document formats, site-specific content, instant Word download.

Learn More