What must be included in a risk assessment for this work?

Pre-demolition structural survey of both demolition building and adjacent structures. Vibration assessment and monitoring thresholds (BS 7385-2 limits). Dust control measures: water suppression, misting, sheeting, monitoring. Noise assessment and control (Section 61 consent if applicable). Exclusion zones calibrated to debris fall radius and structural failure scenarios. Dilapidation survey of adjacent occupied buildings (pre-works condition record). Communication plan with occupants: notice periods, contact details, complaint procedure. Structural monitoring of adjacent buildings during demolition. Emergency procedures for unexpected structural movement or collapse. Public protection measures: hoarding, fans, covered walkways

Risk Assessment for Demolition Near Occupied Buildings — UK

UK construction-safety guidance by the Riskora Editorial Team

Demolishing a structure adjacent to occupied buildings creates risks that extend far beyond the demolition site itself. Structural instability, vibration damage, dust emissions, noise exposure, and the risk of debris reaching neighbouring properties must all be assessed and controlled. The occupants of adjacent buildings are involuntary stakeholders in your demolition project — their safety is your legal responsibility.

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Example Risk Assessment

Pre-demolition structural survey of both demolition building and adjacent structures
Vibration assessment and monitoring thresholds (BS 7385-2 limits)
Dust control measures: water suppression, misting, sheeting, monitoring
Noise assessment and control (Section 61 consent if applicable)

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When This Document Is Required

Under CDM 2015 and the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, a risk assessment is required before demolition work near occupied buildings begins. The assessment must consider risks to both workers and neighbouring occupants. BS 6187:2011 requires the demolition plan to address the effects of demolition on adjacent structures. Local authority environmental health departments may impose conditions relating to noise, dust, and vibration under the Environmental Protection Act 1990. Party wall agreements under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 may also apply.

What Must Be Included

Pre-demolition structural survey of both demolition building and adjacent structures
Vibration assessment and monitoring thresholds (BS 7385-2 limits)
Dust control measures: water suppression, misting, sheeting, monitoring
Noise assessment and control (Section 61 consent if applicable)
Exclusion zones calibrated to debris fall radius and structural failure scenarios
Dilapidation survey of adjacent occupied buildings (pre-works condition record)
Communication plan with occupants: notice periods, contact details, complaint procedure
Structural monitoring of adjacent buildings during demolition
Emergency procedures for unexpected structural movement or collapse
Public protection measures: hoarding, fans, covered walkways

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not conducting a dilapidation survey of adjacent properties before starting
Failing to set vibration monitoring thresholds and install monitors before work begins
Underestimating dust impacts on occupied buildings with ventilation intakes
Not obtaining Section 61 consent for high-noise demolition methods
Ignoring party wall obligations when demolishing structures on a boundary
Not communicating demolition schedules to adjacent building occupants

Example Scenario

A demolition contractor in Glasgow is demolishing a four-storey concrete building attached to an occupied retail unit. The party wall is shared, and the adjacent unit remains trading throughout demolition. Using Riskora, the project manager generates a risk assessment covering structural stability, vibration monitoring to BS 7385 limits, dust suppression for the adjacent ventilation system, and a communication plan for the retail tenant — all produced in minutes and ready for principal contractor review.

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Riskora is an assistive document preparation tool. All documents generated must be reviewed, verified, and approved by a competent person before use on site. Riskora does not replace professional safety judgment, and no output should be treated as a legal compliance guarantee.