Demolitions must be planned, controlled, and safe!

Experts emphasize that the ongoing building demolitions carried out across many cities in Türkiye as part of urban transformation should not be seen merely as the removal of old structures, but also as a critical phase that must be carefully managed in terms of worker safety, environmental protection, and public health.

Highlighting that urban transformation offers a significant opportunity for cities to achieve earthquake-resistant and modern buildings, Dr. Sertaç Temur said: “This process, which has accelerated with the state’s rent and loan support, will provide even greater social benefits when reinforced with safety measures. Through planned, controlled, and safe demolitions, both workers’ and citizens’ health can be protected, and cities can be renewed with confidence.”

Asst. Prof. Sertaç Temur, Vice Head of the Department of Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) at Üsküdar University, evaluated urban building demolitions within the scope of urban transformation from the perspective of occupational health and safety.

Demolitions are rapidly continuing

Stating that building demolitions carried out across many cities in Türkiye as part of urban transformation are progressing rapidly, Asst. Prof. Sertaç Temur said: “With the support and incentives provided by the state, the transformation process has significantly accelerated in recent years. However, this process is not only about removing old buildings; it is also a stage that must be carefully managed in terms of worker safety, environmental security, and public health. Conducting demolitions in a controlled and planned manner is of great importance for the construction of safe cities.”

Demolitions must be planned

Before starting the demolition of a building, electricity, natural gas, and water connections must be cut, the structural condition of the building must be examined by engineers, and a safe demolition plan must be prepared, Dr. Temur emphasized. He continued:
“Other critical steps include fencing off the worksite with barriers, setting up safety lines, and determining alternative routes for pedestrian and vehicle traffic. To prevent uncontrolled collapse during demolition, phased demolition techniques should be used, and heavy machinery must be operated from safe distances.”

Protecting environmental and public health

Highlighting that various measures must also be taken in terms of environmental health, Dr. Temur said: “To prevent the spread of intense dust and debris generated during demolition, water spraying should be carried out at regular intervals, and nearby residents should be informed in advance about the process. Noise, vibration, and waste management must also be carefully considered. Collecting debris systematically, separating recyclable materials, and managing the process in a way that does not harm the environment are vital for protecting public health.”

Helmets, reflective vests, and dust masks are essential

Drawing attention to the importance of individual safety alongside collective protective measures, Dr. Temur stated: “Workers involved in demolitions must use personal protective equipment such as helmets, gloves, steel-toed boots, reflective vests, and dust masks without exception. Dust masks, in particular, play a critical role in preventing respiratory diseases. Therefore, the simultaneous implementation of collective measures and personal protective equipment is essential for a safe demolition process.”

Municipalities and contractors are responsible

According to the regulations, both contractors and municipalities carry responsibility in this process, Dr. Temur explained: “Municipalities are obliged to review safety plans before granting demolition permits. Contractors, on the other hand, must implement this plan on-site and ensure the safety of workers and the surrounding environment. Labor inspectors affiliated with the Ministry of Labor and Social Security, municipal officers, and environmental inspection teams can also conduct field inspections. However, inspections are not always carried out with sufficient frequency and scope, which can result in uncontrolled demolitions.”

Improvements needed for more effective implementation

Although the legislation provides the necessary framework, some improvements are needed for more effective implementation, Dr. Temur said: “Conducting inspections at regular intervals, applying penalties not only as deterrents but also with a guiding approach is important. Awareness-raising efforts can be increased to ensure contractors fulfill their responsibilities, while municipalities can ensure that the public is informed about the process more transparently. This way, a safer environment can be created in terms of both occupational safety and public health.”

Urban transformation is an opportunity

Emphasizing that urban transformation is not only about renewing buildings but also about building safer cities, Dr. Temur concluded: “Urban transformation offers a significant opportunity for cities to achieve earthquake-resistant, modern structures. This process, accelerated by the state’s rent and loan support, will yield even greater social benefits when supported with safety measures. Through planned, controlled, and safe demolitions, the health of both workers and citizens can be protected, and cities can be renewed with confidence.”