Demolishing Silos Is Riskier Than It Looks

[MikePhua]

The Illusion of Control in Silo Demolition
Demolishing old agricultural silos may seem straightforward—knock out a few blocks, push with a machine, and let gravity do the rest. But the reality is far more unpredictable. These towering structures, often built decades ago with concrete staves and steel hoops, can behave erratically when compromised. One misjudged angle or underestimated structural element can turn a routine job into a near-death experience.
In one widely circulated incident, a contractor attempted to bring down a silo using an excavator. The structure collapsed in the wrong direction, landing directly on the machine. Miraculously, the operator survived, protected by the cab’s rollover protection system (ROPS). The excavator, however, was totaled—its boom crushed and cab twisted. This event underscores the razor-thin margin between luck and tragedy in demolition work.
Terminology Clarification

• ROPS (Rollover Protective Structure): A reinforced cab or frame designed to protect operators in the event of a rollover or falling debris.
  
• Stave Silo: A silo constructed from interlocking concrete blocks (staves) held together by steel hoops.
  
• Cribbing: Temporary wooden supports used to stabilize or manipulate structures during demolition or lifting.
  

Unconventional Methods and Their Risks
Operators have used a variety of techniques to bring down silos, each with its own hazards:

• Knocking out blocks at the base and relying on gravity.
  
• Using a cable snare pulled by a dozer to slice through weakened sections.
  
• Cribbing with wood and burning it away to induce collapse.
  
• Employing long pipes attached to skid steers as battering rams.
  

While some of these methods work under controlled conditions, they often rely on guesswork and intuition rather than engineering principles. One operator recalled a silo that leaned precariously after partial collapse, unsure whether vibrations from the excavator would trigger a full fall or if additional force was needed. In the end, a gentle push from the boom was enough—but the uncertainty was palpable.
The Legacy of Fred Dibnah and Old-School Techniques
Fred Dibnah, a British steeplejack and demolition expert, became famous for his chimney demolitions using sledgehammers, fire, and gravity. His methods, though effective, would be considered reckless by today’s safety standards. Videos of Dibnah climbing chimneys with rope ladders and erecting scaffolds without harnesses are both awe-inspiring and terrifying. His legacy lives on as a reminder of how far demolition safety has come—and how much still relies on human judgment.
Modern Equipment and Manufacturer Background
The excavator involved in the silo collapse appeared to be a newer model, possibly from a major manufacturer like Caterpillar, Komatsu, or Volvo. These companies have invested heavily in operator safety over the decades.

• Caterpillar, founded in 1925, revolutionized earthmoving with its track-type tractors. Its excavators are known for robust ROPS and advanced hydraulic systems.
  
• Komatsu, established in 1921 in Japan, introduced intelligent machine control and reinforced cabs for demolition work.
  
• Volvo Construction Equipment, dating back to 1832, emphasizes operator ergonomics and visibility in its cab designs.
  

Despite these advancements, no machine is invincible. A falling silo exerts thousands of pounds of force, enough to crush steel booms and shatter glass. The survival of the operator in this case was a testament to modern engineering—but also sheer luck.
Repurposing Old Silos and Materials
In regions with aging agricultural infrastructure, many silos remain unused. Some are built from precast sections with steel straps, offering potential for repurposing:

• Retaining walls using silo staves.
  
• Playhouses made from steel domes.
  
• Landscape features incorporating curved concrete panels.
  

However, the labor required to dismantle these structures often outweighs the value of the materials. Without a clear reuse plan, demolition remains the default option—bringing us back to the risks involved.
Recommendations for Safer Demolition
To reduce accidents and improve outcomes:

• Conduct structural assessments before demolition.
  
• Use remote-controlled equipment when possible.
  
• Employ engineered collapse plans with load calculations.
  
• Avoid improvisation unless backed by experience and contingency planning.
  
• Always assume the structure may fall unpredictably.
  

Conclusion
Silo demolition is deceptively dangerous. While the structures may appear simple, their collapse dynamics are complex and unforgiving. Operators must balance experience, caution, and equipment capability to avoid disaster. The incident of the excavator crushed by a falling silo is not just a story of luck—it’s a warning. In demolition, there’s no substitute for preparation, and no room for complacency.