Tool Box Talk
Avoiding and Managing Dust
WHY IS IT IMPORTANT?
Dust can be a nuisance to people living and working near construction sites and if it not prevented and managed properly, can lead to local authorities becoming involved. The local authorities have the power to stop works leading to programme delays and can also impose fines.
Do
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Use the wheel washes which are provided on site – dry mud turns to dust.
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Observe site speed limits when driving on site.
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Cover the loads of lorries carrying dry materials on and off site.
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Locate stockpiles in the least sensitive areas away from residential properties.
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Keep stockpiles to the minimum practical height and use gentle slopes.
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Ensure that any spillage of dry or dusty materials is cleaned up or damped down.
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Notify your supervisor where you think dust suppression measures are needed.
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Stick to designated haul routes across open areas so these can be controlled and maintained.
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Provide water supply to concrete crushing plant and demolition areas
Don't
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Ignore dust problems – discuss what remedial action is necessary with your supervisor.
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Forget to use wheel washes.
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Overfill dump trucks as spillage onto haul roads causes dust.
What powers does the local authority have in relation to dust generation?
Are site staff/operatives aware of what activities have the potential to cause dust in their work area?
Are site personnel aware of site speed limits and how observing these can help reduce dust levels?
