The demolition of existing structures is often necessary for any number of reasons which may include the age and safety of the structure, the desire for an updated newly constructed building, or simply a partial remodel of an existing building. In some cases, this demolition is performed in a relatively uncontrolled manner such as with a wrecking ball or heavy machinery. Other times, this demolition must be performed in a more controlled manner so as to prevent damage to critical systems, adjacent structures, or portions of the original structure which are to remain undisturbed. In such cases, the owner and/or contractor may elect to hire an engineer to provide guidance in the controlled deconstruction process. However, current codes are vague in their requirements for the enlistment of a licensed engineer and/or what services are required to be performed by a licensed engineer.

The current versions of both the International Building Code (IBC) and the Florida Building Code (FBC) contain chapters entitled “Safeguards During Construction” with sections that address demolition.

FBC Chapter 33, Section 3303 DEMOLITION
3303.1 Construction documents. Construction documents and a schedule for demolition must be submitted when required by the building official. Where such information is required, no work shall be done until such construction documents or schedule, or both, are approved.

This section makes evident that the local building official has the authority to require engineering for a demolition project but is not implicitly required to do so by the code. The Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) regulations (Standards – 29 CFR) however do require engineering as stated in the following:

Preparatory operations. – 1926.850(a)
Prior to permitting employees to start demolition operations, an engineering survey shall be made, by a competent person, of the structure to determine the condition of the framing, floors, and walls, and possibility of unplanned collapse of any portion of the structure. Any adjacent structure where employees may be exposed shall also be similarly checked. The employer shall have in writing evidence that such a survey has been performed.

While demolition is essentially the antithesis of construction, it does not always follow that the controlled demolition of a given structure is always understood by the same person responsible for the controlled construction of the structure. That is to say that structural members and connections are typically designed so as to include the method and sequence of construction. Whereas in demolition, the process is less controlled and structural stability is often accomplished by means of bracing and/or shoring.

Therefore, the owner and/or contractor in responsible charge of a demolition project must determine whether a controlled deconstruction is warranted. If and when controlled deconstruction is required, it will prove prudent to hire a licensed professional engineer experienced in both shoring design and demolition to help guide the safe and controlled demolition of an existing structure.

If you have any questions regarding these or other engineering issues, please contact Blake Tuomy, PE at btuomy@brackenengineering.com.

Bracken Engineering is gearing up for our annual Erin go Bracken celebration, but this year we are putting a spin on things. Bracken Engineering will be offering continuing education (CEU) opportunities and a St. Patty’s Day celebration.

We are excited to be hosting two courses for CEU credit that are approved for Contractors, Adjusters, Attorneys, Building Administrators and Engineers. Registrants are invited to attend both courses: one being a lecture and live demonstration based on roof damage and repair and another lecture and live demonstration centered on the design and installation of an interior slab underpin. Come see the future of underpinning! 2 CEU’s will be offered for each of the courses and an Irish celebration will follow for the reception.

Irish folk singer Brendan Nolan is back by popular demand to help kick off our reception. We hope that you will come join us to earn some CEU’s, gain a better knowledge and understanding of the industry, and as always enjoy the great company, good food and green beer!

For more details regarding the Erin go Bracken event, visit our event webpage at www.BrackenEngineering.com/ErinGoBracken.

Slainté!

“For nearly 35 years, Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) has been creating, finding and supporting programs that directly improve the health and well being of nearly 4 million children worldwide every year.” ~ Ronald McDonald House

Bracken Engineering was proud to show support for this organization by volunteering at the Ronald McDonald House/Pediatric Services of Florida – Suncoast Classic 10K - 5K in St. Petersburg this February. Our volunteer team arrived in St. Pete at 6:00 a.m. to help race participants get registered and ready for the 10K (6.2 mile) and 5K (3.1 mile) races to be held throughout BayWalk of St. Pete.

All proceeds from the race were to benefit three local Ronald McDonald Houses that are currently providing services for over 2,000 families in the Bay Area receiving medical treatment at All Children’s Hospital, Shriner’s Hospital, St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital of Tampa and Tampa General Hospital.

For more information about the Ronald McDonald House, or how you can get involved, please visit the Ronald McDonald House website: www.rmhc.org.