The extraction, moving, handling of materials on construction sites generates large quantities of dust. While this can be a nuisance to houses and business nearby, it also presents a significant health hazard. With this in mind, operators need to consider the best methods of dust suppression on construction sites. Options are available to suit every situation. At Cross Plant Hire, our mobile dust suppression bowsers for hire offer quick, easy and cost-effective solutions to industrial dust suppression.
Why is dust suppression on construction sites so important?
Industrial dust suppression is vital on construction sites. The dust generated by construction tasks can be detrimental to your workers, the groundwater, wildlife, local businesses and the community.
On any construction site where there is the possibility of air or water dust pollution, dust control measures apply. The latest dust suppression technology can be used to prevent dust from moving through the air and landscape while construction is in progress.
What is the best method of dust suppression on construction sites?
Thanks to its low cost and wide availability, water is the most commonly used method of dust suppression. A water bowser can be driven around the site to spray water over dusty areas. This prevents the dust from becoming airborne. Water must be applied a minimum of three times per day, depending on the weather and humidity. Operators should avoid applying excess water as this can cause problems of erosion.
Our mobile water bowsers are an effective way to minimise airborne dust. Designed for optimal efficiency, they are easy to move around the construction site and can apply water wherever it is required.
Which construction tasks generate dust?
Many routine jobs on building sites can produce significant quantities of dust. These include:
- - Dry sweeping the site
- - Cutting paving slabs, flagstones and kerbs
- - Raking mortar and chasing concrete
- - Sawing roof tiles
- - Sanding joints in plasterboard
- - Sawing and sanding timber
COSHH regulations (The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002) apply to any activities that might expose construction workers to hazardous dust. Employers have a legal duty to perform risk assessments and control or prevent employees’ exposure to dust.
How does construction dust affect health?
While dust is dirty and can be a nuisance to anyone living or working near a construction site, it is also seriously detrimental to health. Construction workers who are exposed to dust for lengthy periods are one of the groups at the highest risk of developing long term health problems. Figures from the Health and Safety Executive indicate that every year, over 500 construction workers die from being exposed to silica dust.
The dust generated on construction sites falls into three main categories:
- - Silica dust -This dust forms when processing materials containing silica, including sandstone, concrete and mortar.
- - Wood dust - Wood dust is created when processing hardwoods, softwoods, plywood and MDF.
- - Dust with little or no silica - This less-toxic dust is created when processing plasterboard, marble and limestone.
Dust can build up in the respiratory system and lead to permanent damage to the airways and lungs. Serious illnesses that are sometimes seen in patients who have worked on construction sites include:
- - COPD
- - Asthma
- - Lung cancer
- - Silicosis
- - Asthma
The best methods of dust suppression
The two main ways of suppressing the amount of airborne dust are:
- - LEV (Local Exhaust Ventilation) systems are fitted onto tools such as sanders to remove the dust as it is being produced.
- - Water suppression systems, where water is used to moisten the ground and prevent clouds of dust from rising into the air.
The latest dust suppression equipment hire at Cross Plant Hire
At Cross Plant Hire, we offer a range of dust suppression bowsers for hire featuring the latest dust suppression technology. Sprinkler head systems and fantails make quick work of suppressing dust. Our dust suppression bowsers are available in various capacities to suit your requirements, including 500 gallons, 1000 gallons and 2000 gallons.
To find out more about our range of mobile dust suppression equipment, please email us: sales@crossplanthire.com or get in touch with our friendly team on 0161 401 0000
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