DustScanAQ conduct indoor and outdoor workplace dust surveys. We use real-time particulate samplers in selected and representative locations to assess the concentrations of either total inhalable (TSP), thoracic (PM10), respirable (PM4) or high-risk respirable (PM2.5) dust within working areas and at varying heights. Whilst such surveys are not definitive in terms of NAQS AQO or COSHH regulations they are useful to identify key ‘dusty’ areas and processes; the location of many such dust sources and dusty locations can be investigated during a survey.
High levels of dust in a working environment can impact the health of staff, the perception of the site to neighbours/the public, visibility/safety, the efficiency of plant and equipment and pose a fire/explosion risk. Indoors, fine dust particles may remain suspended for many hours and at times accumulate in areas away from obvious point sources.
The results from DustScanAQ dust monitoring surveys can be used to map dust concentrations spatially and in 3 dimensions. Samples are carefully collected from different heights and positions to find points where dust concentrations are highest. This information can be used to help locate local exhaust ventilation (LEV) systems and other control measures or investigate if site emissions propagate to their boundaries and beyond.
Recent dust surveys and mapping exercises include projects for major building refurbishment works, a sheet metal fabrication factory and an incinerator bottom ash (IBA) processing facility.