If your project calls for demolition of an elevated structure then you will need to install a rubbish chute in order to get rid of debris. How do you go about setting this up with safety and productivity in mind?
Preparation Fundamentals
Consult with the contractor who erected the scaffolding around the outside of the building, to make sure that it can adequately support the weight of an assembled chute. In the area where workers will be closest to the top of the chute ensure that there is adequate scaffolding protection to prevent falls.
Also, ensure that there are toe boards in place, so that pieces of debris are not kicked inadvertently to the street below. The rubbish skip should be fitted with all the necessary warning lights and other safety requirements as stipulated by your local authority. Cover the skip with tarpaulin to keep dust down and make sure that the bottom of your chute assembly is cordoned off from any public access by using hired barriers.
Security
It's important to ensure that the top of your chute assembly is securely attached to a strong anchorage point at the top. Work with the provider of the scaffolding to ensure this is the case before proceeding. An anchoring point will have to be secured to the building itself, as well as to the scaffolding and it is recommended that a safety backup chain is also attached to a separate anchoring location.
Installation
At ground level start building the chute. Slide one section over the next and fasten the safety clips. Usually, a chain will be provided which should be run through anchorage plates on each side of each chute. Join together up to eight sections of your chute, before attaching a rope to the top and using a scaffolding hoist designed for the purpose.
These special hoists can be hired from your local builder's merchant. Proper choice of equipment will also help to ensure that the chute is not damaged inadvertently during installation. If you need more individual chute components to reach your working height, you can add the sections to the bottom, in stages as you raise it up.
Final Preparations
When you are happy that the chute is at the correct working height then it needs to be secured to the scaffolding at 6 m intervals from top to bottom. Once this is done you can apply the hopper at the top of the chute to make it easier to collect the debris when work commences. Set the opening of the hopper at the same level as your wheelbarrow.
Remember, while toe boards should be erected in this area, you should also add PVC sheeting to surround the opening of the hopper, to deflect any spilled material back into the work area. For more tips and suggestions, talk to resources like Qwik Chutes.
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