Industrial Decommissioning Checklist: What It Takes to Shut Down Safely, Efficiently, and by the Book

Before you begin an industrial decommissioning project, make sure every step is covered. Use Melching’s checklist to plan, budget, and execute safely and efficiently.

Industrial decommissioning is more than tearing down a building.

It is a complex process that involves environmental science, safety compliance, asset recovery, and regulatory coordination. Whether you are closing, repurposing, or selling an industrial property, this checklist helps ensure you have addressed every detail and partnered with the right team to get it done correctly.

1. Define the Scope of Work

• Identify all structures, systems, and materials to be removed or remediated.

• Review historical site data, blueprints, and environmental records.

• Establish clear project goals: full demolition, partial removal, or site preparation for redevelopment.

Melching Tip: A clear scope reduces surprises and change orders later in the process.

2. Conduct Environmental Assessments

• Perform Phase I and Phase II Environmental Site Assessments (ESAs).

• Identify hazardous materials such as asbestos, lead, PCBs, and underground tanks.

• Develop abatement and waste management plans that meet all regulatory standards.

Melching Advantage: Our in-house environmental team manages assessment, abatement, and documentation in full compliance with state and federal regulations.

3. Plan for Utility and System Deactivation

• Locate and isolate all live utilities including electric, gas, water, steam, and communications.

• Coordinate with service providers for safe disconnection.

• Document all system closures and verify isolation before work begins.

Why It Matters: Missed or unidentified utilities are a leading cause of site accidents and costly project delays.

4. Develop a Safety and Compliance Plan

• Establish site-specific health and safety protocols.

• Ensure OSHA, EPA, and state environmental compliance at all stages.

• Train all personnel in safety standards such as HAZWOPER, confined space entry, and fall protection.

• Maintain air monitoring, dust control, and emergency response procedures.

Melching Standard: Safety is the foundation of every project we complete.

5. Manage Salvage, Recycling, and Waste

• Inventory and remove valuable scrap and reusable equipment.

• Segregate waste streams for recycling, including concrete, steel, and wood.

• Track and document every load of waste disposal or recycling.

Melching Difference: We maximize recovery value while maintaining full environmental accountability.

6. Execute Demolition and Site Cleanup

• Perform selective or total demolition.

• Remove underground structures, tanks, and foundations.

• Conduct soil and groundwater cleanup as required.

• Crush, grade, and stabilize the site to prepare for redevelopment.

Melching Capability: With owned equipment and experienced in-house crews, we maintain full control of pace, safety, and quality from start to finish

7. Verify Completion and Documentation

• Secure final environmental clearance and regulatory sign-offs.

• Provide complete documentation for waste disposal, recycling, and safety compliance.

• Verify the site’s readiness for redevelopment or sale.

Melching Value: Detailed documentation and transparency protect your investment and reputation long after the work is complete.

Ready to Get Started?

Whether you are decommissioning a power plant, closing a factory, or preparing an industrial site for redevelopment, Melching helps you clear the way for what comes next.

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