Giuseppe PANSERI, President of the European Demolition Association

• What is the economic situation for demolition in Europe?

In 2011, there is a slight improvement, compared with 2010, albeit with slight differences between countries. In the United Kingdom and Germany, the economic situation is much better. France is stable. Spain and Italy are suffering more. The 2012 business outlook for our sector is uncertain due to the global economy. Demolition work precedes construction projects. 

• How is the profession organised?

As you are aware, two major construction groups have specialised subsidiaries in France although, overall, companies are mid-sized, family-owned or family-rooted businesses.

• Has the profession changed?

Yes, a lot. From the 1970s, first with the hydraulic rock breaker such as the Montabertbreaker, fitted on an excavator; then – as I realized when I went to Japan – with the concrete grab, enabling demolition work to be performed with no noise and no vibration. Then came the concrete shears from the US. Even carrier machinery has changed: it is now equipped with crawlers of variable widths. The most recent development, the long arm, which places the machine further away from the structure, provides greater safety.

• So the construction industry has adapted to the needs of the demolition profession?

The first excavators were built by small, specialised manufacturers. Since then, all major manufacturers have produced machines for our profession.

• How far does recycling enter into demolition concerns?

Re-use of materials has caused a change of methods. The developments in demolition equipment described earlier satisfy environmental concerns. I can add the mobile crusher to this list, which enables the re-use of material on site.

• Demolition is a still very specific business. Does the EDA implement a training policy?

Driving a mini excavator and a full-sized excavator fitted with demolition equipment are definitely not the same thing. The EDA Technical Commission has published a book providing recommendations on long arms and is preparing a new document for operators of this type of equipment.

• Should demolition businesses attend Intermat?

Yes, it is one of the most important events in Europe. Perhaps some will be unable to come because of the economic situation. But most businesses will attend because discovering what construction has in store for our industry matters to them.

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