DOYLESTOWN, PA, July 25, 2008 - Building on the success of its annual demolition safety summit over the past 13 years, the National Demolition Association has significantly expanded its popular training program and re-christened it as the "Demolition Academy." The three-day safety and management training event will take place October 15-17 at the Renaissance Concourse Hotel in Atlanta, GA.

"The National Demolition Association is the leading trade organization for the global demolition industry and is viewed as the final source for information on demolition safety," said Michael R. Taylor, CAE, executive director. "That's why we decided to re-brand our program and expand its scope to include more topics aimed at both management and others involved in the demolition process."

The Demolition Academy begins on October 15 with the Demolition-Specific OSHA 10-Hour Certification, offered in both English and Spanish. In addition, training is offered on the topics of Confined Space Rescue and Aerial Lift Equipment Safety - Train the Trainer.

During the following two days, the safety and management topics to be covered include managing stress, implosion safety issues, Personal Protective Equipment, confined space awareness, and rental equipment safety awareness. Other topics will cover managing a demolition project; how to manage a company's safety program; when disaster strikes: what to do during an on-site emergency; legal issues confronting the demolition industry; and current human resources issues on the demolition jobsite. The topics on October 16 and 17 will be in English only.

The Demolition-Specific OSHA 10-Hour Training Certification is taught by certified instructors and is required by many of the industry's larger clients. "It should be an important part of every company's safety training program," Taylor noted. The course is also required as part of OSHA's new Disaster Site Worker Training Certification.

The National Demolition Association is a non-profit trade organization representing nearly 1,100 U.S. and Canadian companies and many international firms that are involved in the demolition process. Membership includes demolition contractors, general contractors, civil engineering firms, and recycling, landfill, and salvage operations. The Association's efforts help members stay abreast of regulatory and safety matters, keep regulators informed about issues facing the industry, increase public and industry awareness, and provide members with networking opportunities and information on the latest technical advances in equipment and services.