Controlled deconstruction at height

Snelgrove water tank (Image: Tri-Phase Group)

Camille and Rachelle Atrache of Canada’s Tri-Phase Group will present a case study on the demolition of the Snelgrove elevated water tank.

Located in a former hamlet on the northern edge of Brampton, near Toronto, this complex, high-risk infrastructure removal required specialised planning, engineered methodology and strict safety execution.

The structure posed several unique constraints, including significant working height at 43-metre high to tackle the 5,000 cubic metre tank, along with lead abatement of the paint to allow torching of cutting points, reinforced concrete construction, restricted work zones and proximity to residential neighbourhoods.

These conditions ruled out conventional high-impact demolition methods and required a carefully engineered dismantling strategy. The team developed a phased demolition approach centred on controlled deconstruction, precision sequencing and continuous risk assessment.

Safety, environmental control and stakeholder coordination were core priorities throughout the project.

Tri-Phase Group implemented specialised access systems, engineered lift and removal procedures, and active monitoring controls to manage vibration, dust and debris.

Meanwhile, close coordination with municipal representatives, engineers and regulatory stakeholders ensured compliance, communication clarity and minimal disruption to nearby operations.

Tri-Phase Group, a Canadian environmental, demolition and construction firm, was founded in 1997. It specialises in complex demolition, remediation and environmental services across the country.

Camille Atrache, chief executive officer

With more than 40 years of industry experience and an engineering degree, Camille has established himself as a respected leader in the demolition and environmental services sector. He brings extensive expertise in project management, hazardous materials abatement, environmental compliance and large-scale structural demolition.

As the founding leader of Tri-Phase Group, Camille has played a key role in the company’s growth and evolution into a trusted contractor serving major infrastructure, transportation, institutional, healthcare and industrial clients. His strong technical background has been instrumental in delivering challenging projects safely, efficiently and in compliance with stringent regulatory standards.

Throughout his career, Camille has remained committed to advancing industry best practices, promoting safety and sustainability, and fostering long-term client relationships built on trust, performance and operational excellence.

Rachelle Atrache, chief operating officer

With over 10 years of experience supporting large-scale demolition and environmental projects, and holding a master’s degree in environmental sciences, Rachelle has played an important role in the company’s continued growth across the infrastructure, healthcare, institutional and industrial sectors.

Her expertise includes project coordination, operational strategy, client relations, proposal development and contract management for technically challenging and highly regulated projects.

Rachelle has been actively involved in supporting major clients and projects throughout Canada, helping ensure successful project delivery while maintaining a strong focus on safety, compliance, efficiency and client satisfaction.

She is passionate about supporting the advancement of the demolition and environmental services industry through innovation, collaboration and high operational standards.

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