Dust Control

By Mary Stasiewicz
Dust control is an integral part of any construction project. Any project involving storage of large quantities of earth onsite has a potential to become a dust control problem. This includes both projects which involve excavation of large quantities of dirt and projects which require importing fill to the project site for the purpose of building embankments.

Why is Dust Harmful?

The excavated dirt or imported fill often sits on the project site for extended periods of time and winds can result in the creation of a dust hazard if proper dust control measures are not implemented. Excessive dust in the air can limit visibility and may result in the introduction of chemicals and pollutants into the storm sewer system.

Types of Dust Control Measures

There are many different types of dust control measures. These methods include both permanent and temporary measures. Some of the temporary dust control measures include:

Temporary dust control measures are often used in short term construction projects. These methods may require frequent reapplication but are typically inexpensive and non-intrusive to the project site. Seeding and mulching is one temporary dust control measure involving the use of seeds and mulch spread over the soil to prevent dust. The seeds and mulch must be kept moist for this method to be effective. Tillage is another temporary dust control method. This method is usually employed in an emergency situation before heavy winds are expected. The soil is tilled to roughen the soil and bring large clumps to the surface in an effort to minimize dust. The use of spray on adhesives is one of the more expensive and difficult temporary controls. This method is usually used in situations where other dust control methods have been ineffective. Irrigation is one of the most commonly used temporary dust control methods. This simply involves spraying the dirt supply down with water periodically. This weights the soil and makes it much less likely to produce dust.

Some of the permanent dust control measures include:

There are also permanent dust control measures which require more work up front but less maintenance. Planting of permanent vegetation such as seed and sod can help to reduce the dust in the area. Leaving existing trees and bushes in place can also reduce the amount of dust onsite. If installing permanent vegetation is not an option, topsoil can be placed. Topsoil is a dense soil which can be placed over the finer dirt to prevent erosion. A similar method of dust control involves placing a layer of course rock or crushed stone over the dirt supply to prevent dust.

Dust Control Contracts

It is typically the contractor's responsibility to employ dust control measures in an effort to mitigate the potential dust hazard. Contracts typically specify the usage of dust control measurements either on a regularly scheduled basis or as required by the conditions.