Technology has come a long way from the days of demolition where a hole would be cut in the bottom of a chimney, for example and then the hole filled with combustible materials or timber, set alight and then left to come down.
Advances in technology and innovation in the demolition industry have evolved over several decades to ensure a high-risk sector can provide systems and methods to not only improve performance but also improve health and safety with an environmental approach.
Drones and remote surveying
The use of drones
One such technological advancement is the use of drones. These can be used to survey the site as part of the tender process, along with reviewing the progress of the project and providing images for marketing purposes.
Drones have the ability to cover large areas in a short time, without any interference or obstacles on the ground, and if necessary, provide a snapshot of areas that are not accessible by personnel in the field.
The advanced capabilities of the camera on the drone present a clear and detailed image, which can easily be stored on a memory stick and can then be stored or shared at a later date. This proves invaluable when surveying, rating or marketing a project.
Proximity warning system
SiteZone uses frequency identification (RFID) radio detection, which is able to transmit around corners and through foreign objects, debris, dust, fumes and bad light conditions.
RFID tags vibrate, making workers aware of an approaching site vehicle, at the same time the driver is warned by an alarm and lights flashing in the vehicle’s cab. The two-way feature of this alarm system is the basis of the safety of the site, because the responsibility for preventing any incidents is split between two parties.
Robotic surveys and 3D imaging
Site surveys conducted by the robot apparatus
Other developments in technology in this industry have been the introduction of robotic equipment to remotely carry out surveys and inspections on related demolition work. For Demolition Birmingham, visit a site like Hammerjacks, a professional Demolition Birmingham business.
Such devices can be used when the structure has been deemed unsafe or not secure and therefore cannot be accessed by personnel. Robots with a remote device can securely access a structure and carry out various surveys, inspections or related demolition tasks, eliminating the risk to life.
3D imaging
The demolition industry has also embraced advances in computer software and other sectors have incorporated such as 3D imaging techniques when creating a building design or planning a method for a demolition project.
Advances in tools, equipment and machinery
Technological advances in tools and equipment
Finally, technology has advanced in the tools and equipment and protective clothing used in the demolition process.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) has never been more durable and modern materials used in protective clothing have made it easier for operatives to remain mobile and complete their tasks while protected.
Machine advances in plant also continue to lower fuel consumption and emissions more than ever before thanks to engine technology. Hydraulic technological advances also improve performance and durability in the factory.
Summary
This article looks at how technology has modernised industrial demolition, moving on from older methods like burning out a chimney base. It covers drones used for site surveys, marketing images and progress monitoring, RFID warning systems that alert workers and drivers to each other, and robots that survey unsafe structures remotely. It covers 3D imaging for planning projects and advances in equipment and machinery efficiency.
Questions this article raises
- How much does deploying drone surveys typically save compared with traditional site surveys?
- How reliable is RFID proximity warning in very dusty or low-visibility demolition sites?
- What training do operators need to run demolition robots safely?
