On a construction site, dust is more than just a nuisance; it is also a pollutant. It can cause short and long-term respiratory problems if you’re not too careful. Dust is so light, and it can travel through the air and into our waterways. Just like wastewater, it contains sediments from lumber, concrete, and so much more. The EPA recommends that construction sites be mindful to the impact of dust during construction activity.
Dust is inevitable during construction projects. During most land development phases, dust tends to develop due to less vegetation and the increase disruption of the soil. Additionally, we are now in the dryer and cooler season of the year when it rains less in Florida that intensifies the challenge to control dust on construction sites.
Prevention is key on a construction site. it is important to implement measures to reduce and control its impact. Here are some common initiatives that can possibly help reduce dust.
Water
Using water is probably the most used and inexpensive method of removing dust from a construction site. Misting or watering areas will reduce significant amounts of dust created
Vegetation
Another great way to control dust flying in the air is by using mulch or vegetative cover. Additionally, temporary seeding is an excellent way to prevent erosion and provide dust control. This method has been found to dramatically improve wind erosion by 80 percent.
Surface Roughening
Tilling, or surface roughening, is a method where a chisel type plow through soil. This method is only used on flat areas causing the roughening of soil. Normally, tilling is done by leaving 6-inch furrows in the wind direction to gain the biggest reduction of wind erosion. This process helps modify the soil surface to help resist wind and reduce dust.
Put up a wall
Barriers are a good way of keeping the dust from going into areas it doesn’t belong. All kinds are used in this application such as fences, perennial grass, trees, or stone. Either way, the objective is to control the blown soil that will create dust on a construction site. Placing barriers at right angles to prevailing wind has been found very efficient at reducing dust.
No one wants dust generated from a construction site that can create pollution, and more importantly a health hazard. When working on a construction site, make sure to wear the right personal protection equipment (PPE) when working in areas of high concentration of dust.
If you have any questions about dust control measures on your construction site, contact KCI. Conditions on construction sites constantly fluctuate with the seasons. KCI’s commitment to keeping our clients compliant does not. Have a question about how to manage stormwater on your construction site? We would love to hear from you. Call KCI today, 888-346-7779.
