3306.8 Demolition Sequence

Any structural member that is being dismembered shall not support any load other than its own weight. No wall, chimney, or other structural part shall be left in such condition that it may collapse or be toppled by wind, vibration or any other cause. The method of removal of any structural member shall not destabilize remaining members. All handling and movement of material or debris shall be controlled such that it will not develop unaccounted impact loads on the structure.

Structural steel, reinforced concrete, and heavy timber buildings, or portions thereof, shall be demolished column length-by-column length and tier-by-tier. Structural members shall be chained or lashed in place to prevent any uncontrolled swing or drop.

Exception: Where the design applicant has demonstrated the adequacy of alternate means of demolition through plans, calculations, or the establishment of safety zones, as appropriate, the commissioner may accept such alternative means of demolition.

Demolition of masonry buildings with wooden floors shall comply with the following requirements:

1. Demolition of walls and partitions shall proceed in a systematic manner, and all work above each tier of floor beams shall be completed before any of the supporting structural members are disturbed.
2. Sections of masonry walls shall not be loosened or permitted to fall in such masses as to affect the carrying capacity of floors or the stability of structural supports.
3. No section of wall with a height more than 22 times its thickness shall be permitted to stand without bracing designed by a registered design professional.