DEM/General/TBT-DEM-009

Structural Stability During Demolition

Demolition › General › Structural Stability During Demolition

All Categories/Demolition/General/Structural Stability During Demolition

Structural Stability During Demolition

Toolbox Talk Record

Ref: TBT-DEM-009  |  Issue: 1  |  Date: March 2026
PresenterProject
LocationDate

What?

  • Demolition progressively removes structural elements, changing load paths and reducing stability.
  • Premature or uncontrolled collapse is the greatest risk during demolition work.
  • A structural engineer must assess stability at each stage of the demolition sequence.
  • Temporary propping or bracing may be needed to maintain stability during progressive demolition.
  • Removing load-bearing walls, columns, or bracing members without assessment can cause sudden collapse.
  • The demolition method statement must specify the exact sequence of element removal.
  • Pre-weakening structures for mechanical demolition creates hidden instability risks for operatives.
  • Weather conditions including wind and rain reduce the stability of partially demolished structures.
  • Adjacent structures and party walls must be assessed for the impact of demolition on their stability.
  • BS 6187 provides the code of practice for demolition and requires stability assessments at every stage.

Why?

Prevent collapseUncontrolled structural collapse during demolition causes multiple fatalities and is often entirely preventable with proper planning.
Changing load pathsEvery element removed changes how loads travel through the structure. Without assessment, progressive failure becomes likely.
Legal requirementCDM 2015 and BS 6187 require that demolition is planned by competent persons with stability assessed at every stage.
Do Don't
  • Follow the demolition sequence in the method statement exactly as written.
  • Obtain a structural assessment before removing any load-bearing element.
  • Install temporary propping or bracing where specified by the structural engineer.
  • Monitor the structure for signs of movement, cracking, or distortion daily.
  • Establish exclusion zones around areas at risk of uncontrolled collapse.
  • Assess the impact of demolition on adjacent structures and party walls.
  • Stop work in high winds and reassess stability of partially demolished structures.
  • Brief all operatives on the sequence and any changes to the demolition plan.
  • Ensure a competent engineer is available to advise during complex demolition stages.
  • Record each stage of demolition and confirm stability before proceeding further.
  • DON'T remove load-bearing elements without a structural assessment in place.
  • DON'T deviate from the approved demolition sequence in the method statement.
  • DON'T enter areas where stability has not been confirmed by a competent person.
  • DON'T ignore cracking, movement, or unusual noises in the structure.
  • DON'T remove temporary propping until authorised by the structural engineer.
  • DON'T pre-weaken structures beyond what the method statement specifies.
  • DON'T continue demolition in high winds on partially demolished structures.
  • DON'T assume the structure is stable because it has stood for many years.
  • DON'T work adjacent to a party wall without assessing the demolition impact.
  • DON'T allow unauthorised persons to enter the demolition exclusion zone.

See also: Demolition Safety Awareness | Pre-Demolition Survey Requirements
ebrora.com

RAMS Builder

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

Learn More