Rail depots and transport projects generate diverse dusts: silica from ballast, metal and carbon from brakes, welding fume, and diesel particulate. Large spaces, open doors, and changing tasks make control challenging. A layered plan keeps exposures low and simplifies compliance.

Capture at source

Use LEV on welding bays and grinding stands with hoods positioned close to the arc or wheel. For cutting and drilling concrete or sleepers, use water suppression plus tool-mounted extraction. When handling ballast, use enclosed chutes or vacuum systems rather than tipping and brushing.

Control in the air

Deploy portable air scrubbers or negative air units to manage background particulate in enclosed carriages, paint shops, and maintenance bays. Place units to pull air away from breathing zones. For respirable crystalline silica (RCS) and fine fractions, specify HEPA H14. Calculate needs using the actual room volume and target air changes; verify performance under load as filters accumulate dust.

Housekeeping that prevents re‑suspension

Ban compressed air for cleaning. Use H-Class industrial vacuums for fine and hazardous dusts; M-Class for general debris. Fit pre-separators to reduce filter loading. Bag and seal waste immediately. Schedule end-of-shift vacuuming of walkways, pits, and steps to prevent tracking dust into cabins and offices.

Monitoring and assurance

RCS has a UK WEL of 0.1 mg/m³; use this as a mental yardstick for high-risk tasks. Employ portable PM meters or dust lamps for spot checks, and rotate controls if readings climb. Keep a simple log of filter changes, inspections, and issues reported by crews.

Practical takeaways

• LEV on welding and grinding; water suppression and extraction on cutting.
• Air scrubbers/negative air for enclosed bays; choose H14 for fine fractions.
• Vacuum-only housekeeping with H-Class where risks warrant.
• Use pre-separators and seal waste to avoid secondary exposure.
• Spot-check with PM meters; act if levels rise.

By combining source capture, targeted air cleaning, and disciplined housekeeping, depots can cut exposure to silica and mixed particulates while keeping operations moving.