When it comes to demolition works in Sydney, there are certain guidelines that must be observed. The government, through different branches that are vested with special powers, have imposed a stringent set of regulations that should be strictly followed in any demolition work, whether it is residential or commercial, regardless of how big or small the extent of the job will be. This includes notifying the relevant authorities and applying for the required permits. Both property owners and demolition companies in Sydney should be aware of the existing legal frameworks to make sure that any job will be completed successfully and in the absence of any possible legal troubles.
Submission of Notification for the Demolition Work
One of the most important things that should be done is to notify the concerned authorities about the demolition job that will be done. More often than not, this will be the responsibility of the demolition companies in Sydney. Specifically, notifications should be submitted when the work involves the use of explosives and load shifting machinery. This is also required if the structure that will be demolished is load-bearing. The notification must be submitted at least five days prior to the initiation of the work. It can be submitted electronically, which is a convenient option.
Submission of Safe Work Method Statement
Again, this is another responsibility of the demolition companies in Sydney. The Safe Work Method Statement, also known as SWMS for short, will serve as the blueprint of the job that will be completed. It entails the identification of the specific steps that will be involved in having a property taken down. This should also stipulate the risks that are associated with the demolition work, and more importantly, the measures that will be imposed by the contractor in the alleviation or elimination of the hazards that have been identified. It must be as detailed as possible and must include steps that are in accordance with what the national and local laws specify.
Work Health and Safety Regulation 2001
This is the document that specifies all of the important legal requirements that should be emphasized in demolition Sydney. It defines what a construction work is, and more importantly, the legal guidelines that should be followed in every construction project, including a demolition. One of the most important things specified in such is the need to have a safe workplace. Demolition companies in Sydney are required by law to make sure that they have state-of-the-art equipment that will be influential in the establishment of a safe workplace. There should also be presence of appropriate warning signs and more importantly, a competent supervisor should be present on site. The latter is the one who will assume full responsibility in managing the demolition project, including making sure that everyone wears personal protective equipment to have a safer work environment.
Licenses that are Required
The right license to obtain before starting the demolition will depend on the nature of the demolition work that will be executed. Generally speaking, there are two types of licenses that will be issued. The first one is restricted demolition licence, which is required for small-scale jobs. On the other hand, for works that are larger, a full demolition licence will be required. The latter is specifically required if the job will necessitate the use of explosives in taking down a property.
Indeed, demolition is not an easy undertaking and it is definitely not your usual DIY task, regardless of how small your property can prove to be. It is important to choose a good demolition company. With its experienced workforce and innovative equipment, you can be confident that the work will be completed successfully, and more importantly, in compliance with the legal guidelines that have been specified by the local and national government.