Demo Tools
This tool is commonly used to break through drywall by swinging.
What is a sledgehammer?
While removing drywall, you uncover a junction box with exposed wires. What two safety steps should you take immediately?
What is stop work and confirm the power is shut off at the breaker; then make sure all live wires are covered
This type of glove is recommended when handling sharp demolition debris.
What are cut-resistant gloves?
This is the first thing you should do before beginning any hands-on demolition work.
What is inspect the site and review the demolition plan?
If you don’t shut off water lines, this could happen.
What is flooding or a burst pipe?
This handheld power tool is great for cutting through nails and wood during demo.
What is a reciprocating saw (Sawzall)?
If hazardous materials like mold, asbestos, or lead are discovered mid-project, this is the correct course of action.
What is stop work immediately and notify a supervisor or certified abatement team?
This type of eye protection seals completely around the eyes and is better than safety glasses in dusty environments.
What are safety goggles?
Before removing walls or fixtures, this system should be turned off to prevent water damage.
What is the plumbing system?
Demoing a load-bearing wall without support can cause this.
What is a structural collapse or ceiling drop?
This tool is used to pry apart materials without cutting them.
What is a crowbar or pry bar?
Before any demolition, you should shut off these three utilities.
What are water, gas, and electricity?
You wear these on your feet for toe protection on demo sites.
What are steel-toe boots?
Before cutting pipes or wires, you should use this tool to detect them.
What is a stud finder or wire detector?
Breathing in demolition dust without a mask can lead to this.
What is lung damage or respiratory problems?
This demolition tool uses compressed air and breaks up concrete.
What is a jackhammer?
This type of ventilation is important when demo work creates dust or fumes indoors.
What is proper airflow or mechanical ventilation?
You wear this when dealing with dusty materials like drywall.
What is a dust mask or respirator?
After removing surface layers like drywall, you’re left with this wooden framework.
What are studs?
Cutting into a wall without checking for wiring could result in this.
What is electrocution or fire?
This long-handled tool is used to pull out nails or lift boards.
What is a wrecking bar (or flat bar)?
A demo team is working in a two-story building. Before removing the first-floor ceiling, this critical step must be taken.
What is assessing and possibly supporting the second floor to prevent collapse?
A coworker is wearing a hoodie and sneakers while using a reciprocating saw. List two PPE items they’re missing.
What are safety boots and eye protection (also: gloves, hearing protection, etc.)?
Selective demolition is often used when doing this kind of project.
What is a renovation or remodel?
During demolition, a worker removes a wall without checking the blueprints or consulting a supervisor. Soon after, cracks appear in the ceiling above. What went wrong, and what could the consequences be?
What went wrong: The wall was likely load-bearing and should not have been removed without proper support. Consequences: Structural damage, collapse, serious injury, or death.