Job Description for a Demolition Worker
Before new buildings and high rises can go up, existing structures must be demolished. This job falls to a demolition worker, who accomplishes this type of work with heavy machinery or, occasionally, explosive devices. While there is a great deal of variety in this type of work, it is hard labor and potentially very dangerous, requiring specifically-trained individuals to perform it.
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Job Description
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Demolition workers, as described by education.com, are members of the construction labor industry, and are responsible for systematically destroying existing buildings to make way for new construction. They use wrecking balls, wrecking bars, sledgehammers, axes, shovels and, occasionally, explosive devices, to accomplish this.
Risks of Profession
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One risk demolition workers must protect themselves from is exposure to silica. Silica is one of the most common minerals associated with many types of rock, specifically the kind that a demolition worker will come in direct contact with when the structure is brought down. Silica, when directly inhaled, has been known to lead to silicosis, a lung infection associated with profound breathing difficulties. Additionally, and as stated by cdc.gov/niosh, those who suffer from silicosis are at a great risk of tuberculosis.
To cut the risk of contracting silicosis, the Centers for Disease Control recommends demolition workers wear face masks covering their nose and mouth when performing their jobs.
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Training Necessary
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As reflected by careers.stateuniversity.com, a demolition worker does not need a college degree in the field, nor does he always need previous experience as such. Often times, demolition workers are trained on the job.
Trade Union for Demolition Workers
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The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that just under 18 percent of all workers within the construction industry belong to Associated General Contractors of America. Demolition workers are covered under this union as well.
There are benefits to becoming a union member, one of which could be specialized training courses to prepare for more specialized construction demolition projects.
Employment Prospects
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The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that by 2018, the need for construction laborers may grow by as much as 20 percent. The bureau also reports that, due to fluctuations in the nation's economy, workers may experience times of unemployment. This would be directly related to construction projects that were planned but later canceled.
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References
- Photo Credit demolition of an old house image by Oleg Ivanov from Fotolia.com
