Demolition operative

Demolition operatives demolish and dismantle structures safely. The work also involves putting up fences and scaffolding and clearing the site.

Work activities

Demolition operatives demolish and dismantle buildings and other structures. All demolition is planned and operatives work to a structured programme. The work involves assessing the structure and preparing the site to make sure it can be demolished safely. This includes putting up fences and scaffolding. Demolition operatives use chisels, crowbars and axes to demolish stone or brick walls. They also use machinery such as pneumatic drills, chainsaws and, in some cases, explosives. Tasks include stripping roofs, floors and fittings, removing doors and windows and demolishing roof structures.

Materials are often removed and recycled for future use. Operatives sort and grade bricks and timbers that can be recycled. When they’ve finished the work, they clear the site. Demolition work is potentially dangerous so demolition operatives must wear basic safety equipment such as protective footwear, goggles, gloves, respirators and ear-protectors.

Being able to read, write and speak Welsh may be an advantage when you’re looking for work in Wales.

Personal qualities and skills

As a demolition operative, you’ll need:

• To follow safety regulations, as the work can be dangerous.
• A head for heights.
• To be fit and healthy, as the work can involve lifting and carrying.
• An interest in buildings and how they are built.
• Teamworking skills.
• You will need to pass a health and safety test in order to enter this profession.
• It is useful to have a driving licence, as you may have to travel locally.

This job might not be suitable for people who have skin conditions, such as eczema, or breathing complaints, such as asthma.

Pay and opportunities

The pay rates given are approximate. Demolition operatives earn in the range of £17,000, rising to £30,000 with experience.

Demolition operatives work a 42-44-hour week. Overtime, including Saturday working, may be available.

Employers are specialist demolition contractors and building, construction and civil engineering companies. Opportunities for demolition operatives occur with employers in towns and cities throughout the UK.

What’s happening in this work area?

Construction is an industry dominated by small firms. Employment levels are projected to grow steadily, as there is an urgent need for more housing over the coming decades. The construction industry is one of the most male dominated industries. Women account for only one in 10 of all jobs. The industry is actively trying to change this. Full-time working remains the main method of working.

Where are vacancies advertised?

Vacancies are advertised on all the major job boards, and on the Government’s Find a Job service.

Entry routes and training

To enter this job, you’ll need to apply directly to an employer. You may also be able to enter through a scheme run by ConstructionSkills. You could also take a level 2 (intermediate) apprenticeship in the role of demolition operative.

Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS): For most building companies, you’ll need a CSCS card to work on site. These cards show that you are qualified to do the work you’ve been employed for. See the CSCS website for more details.

Training is usually a combination of on-the-job training and day- or block-release at a recognised training centre. Successful completion of training leads to the certificate of competence of demolition operation.

ConstructionSkills offers a number of relevant certificates and awards at level 2.

With experience, it may be possible to work towards managerial roles, e.g. construction site manager.

Qualifications

Entry requirements vary. You do not always need qualifications to enter this work. To follow a training programme approved by ConstructionSkills, you usually need to have had a good general education. It’s useful to have some qualifications in subjects like construction and the built environment, english and maths. There are various relevant qualifications available from organisations like City & Guilds and Edexcel. These courses may be in a more general subject area, such as construction. ConstructionSkills sets an entrance test.

To begin an apprenticeship, you’ll need GCSEs in English and maths, although it may be possible to complete these alongside your programme.

Adult opportunities

Age limits: It is illegal for any organisation to set age limits for entry to employment, education or training, unless they can show there is a real need to have these limits.

Most people who enter this type of work have skills gained in the construction industry. Related skills gained as a building operative are useful.

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