Site Operations
Enabling Works Safety
Safe execution of enabling works on UAE construction projects — site clearance, demolition, service diversions, temporary hoarding, and utility isolations before main works commence.
v2.0Updated 15 Feb 2026ADOSH-SF v4.1 (February 2026)Learning Objectives
- Sequence enabling works safely before main construction.
- Identify and isolate live buried and overhead services.
- Manage demolition, clearance and hazardous material discovery.
- Erect compliant hoarding, access and site security.
- Handover a de-risked site to the main works contractor.
Awareness Video
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1. Scope of Enabling Works
Everything that must be complete before main construction can start safely: site clearance, demolition, tree removal, service diversions (power, water, gas, telecoms, drainage), ground investigation, temporary hoarding, access roads, welfare setup and utility connections.
2. Buried & Overhead Service Detection
Utility record drawings + CAT & Genny sweep + trial holes before any mechanical excavation. Overhead lines: minimum clearances to DEWA/ADDC/SEWA specification; goalposts and bunting. Never assume a service is dead — prove-dead with lockout and instrumentation.
3. Demolition Safety
Pre-demolition survey (structural, asbestos, hazardous materials). Method statement approved by structural engineer. Exclusion zones, dust suppression, edge protection on remaining structures. Progressive demolition — never remove load paths without temporary supports.
4. Hazardous Material Discovery
Stop-work triggers: asbestos-suspected material, contaminated soil, unexploded ordnance, abandoned services, buried tanks. Cordon, do not disturb, notify environmental consultant and authorities. Restart only with a documented safe-disposal method statement.
5. Hoarding, Access & Security
Municipality-approved hoarding height and setback; corner sightlines; gate banksman; separate pedestrian entry. Site security 24/7 during enabling to prevent unauthorised access to open excavations, live services or demolition debris.
6. Handover to Main Works
Enabling contractor issues a formal handover pack: as-built service isolations, remaining hazards register, ground conditions, dilapidation survey of adjacent properties, permits closed. Main contractor accepts in writing before mobilising the primary workforce.
Knowledge Assessment
1. Enabling works are:
2. Before mechanical excavation you must:
3. Overhead power lines require:
4. Demolition sequencing must:
5. Suspected asbestos during clearance means:
6. Site hoarding is:
7. 24/7 security during enabling prevents:
8. 'Prove dead' on isolated services means:
9. Dilapidation survey covers:
10. Handover to the main contractor must be:
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