What must be done to the walls or floor of a fire-damaged structure before demolition?

Ensuring that the walls or floor of a fire-damaged structure are shored or braced is essential before demolition to maintain safety. Fire damage can significantly compromise the structural integrity of a building. Shoring or bracing involves providing temporary support to prevent collapse while work is ongoing. This step is crucial because unstable or weakened structures pose a substantial risk to workers, potentially leading to serious injury or fatalities.

While other considerations, such as inspecting for safety, removing debris, and reinforcing with steel, are also important in the overall demolition process, shoring or bracing specifically addresses the immediate risks associated with the compromised structure. Without adequate support, the likelihood of sudden structural failure increases, making shoring a critical safety measure that must be in place prior to any further actions, including demolition.