Selective demolition of redundant and earthquake damaged buildings in Turkey

Abstract

When a building reaches the end of its useful life or suffers severe damage during a disaster, it has to be demolished. However, not much is known about how the demolition work proceeds, or how is it regulated in Turkey; what machinery, tools and techniques are used; what material is salvaged and what dumped as waste; and how it is disposed off. Answers to these questions were sought through research conducted in İstanbul, Ankara and İzmir, as well as in earthquake affected areas in Turkey. Safety was an issue that became a concern during the course of these studies. This paper presents an overview of information on pertinent legislation and regulations; the conventional procedure for building demolition work; and case studies on selective demolition of redundant and damaged buildings. Based on the findings of the case studies certain recommendations are made to enhance safety and feasibility of building disposal projects.