The Kimmins Difference: Employee Demolition Training
Our previous blog explored the Kimmins employee training programs and the highly sought-after "merit badges." Now, we focus on employee demolition training, a topic that sparks explosive discussions.
Demolition Safety
Alongside our extensive involvement in civil infrastructure projects in the Tampa Bay area, Kimmins Contracting offers comprehensive demolition services, including:
Wrecking ball
Implosions
Commercial interiors
Cutting torch
Mechanical demolition
Allow us to share a few noteworthy examples:
Tampa General Hospital: We recently removed three aging boilers in the hospital's basement. This task involved cutting the boilers into numerous smaller pieces before transporting them through freight elevators and service corridors.
Six Flags: Creating space for new attractions and venues often necessitates demolishing and removing existing amusement rides. Our team efficiently disassembled the Phoenix, an immense pendulum-swing ride to accommodate a new roller coaster ride. We prioritized visitor safety by implementing off-hours work schedules while shortening the project timeline.
Tampa International Airport: As part of the airport's recent expansion, demolishing a parking garage structure adjacent to the terminal was essential. Our team tented the building to meet the stipulated timeline for effective dust and debris control. Subsequently, we performed an overnight implosion to minimize disruption to flights and air travelers. You can view the video of the parking garage implosion here.
In all demolition projects, our diligent Kimmins team conducts multiple walk-throughs to meticulously inspect existing structures for potential hazards, ensuring the safety of employees, subcontractors, and the general public. Additionally, we thoroughly review original construction plans, news archives, as-built drawings, and previous building permits to identify any demolition risks or hazards. In cases where limited documentation is available, we engage in discussions with previous property owners and tenants.
Asbestos remains a prominent hazard in approximately 50% of our demolition projects. Before commencing any demolition work, we meticulously and completely remove asbestos from the structure, packaging it for safe transport to certified asbestos collection stations. Due to its fireproofing properties, asbestos has been incorporated as an additive in various building materials, including:
Pipe and plumbing line insulation
Steel beam/metal deck fireproofing
Gypsum board (drywall)
Gypsum finishing products (topping, coating, spray-on texture)
HVAC duct insulation
Floor tiles
Carpeting
Flooring Adhesive
Ceiling tiles
Thermal and acoustical insulation
Given the potential risks associated with asbestos, we diligently conduct rigorous sample testing on all demolition and remodeling projects.
Lastly, remember that Kimmins is continuously seeking reliable and hard-working tradespeople to join our team. If you believe you would thrive in our safety-first culture and working environment, we invite you to visit the Kimmins Career Page to explore the available positions and learn more.