The Significance of Outdoor Dust Monitoring

Outdoor air monitoring for dust and airborne particles plays a large role in the protection of human health from potential exposure to fine particulates. In a construction setting, monitoring for these particles allows the contractor to know when they need to implement additional controls to mitigate the spread of dust. As dust and fine particulates can cause negative impacts to respiratory health, it would be ideal for the construction activities to include practices such as seeding (allowing vegetation to provide stability to stockpiles), use of calcium chloride or equivalent to suppress emissions or use of water management (without abusing the amount of water used).

Dust and other particles can cause harm to the environment, such as water contamination and damage to vegetation, thus preventative measures should be implemented to reduce the spread of emissions of such particulates.  

The process involves utilizing direct and laboratory type sampling of Particulate Matter (PM) and other parameters (such as heavy metals and other toxic compounds) to assess the quality of air and compare to local air quality regulations and guidelines.

Outdoor air monitoring is a crucial tool in reducing the migration of dust and particulate emissions. It allows entities to ensure they are practicing sufficient protocols to reduce their emissions and protect human health and the environment.