Effective dust control is not a single device or process; it is a simple, layered system that prevents, controls, and removes dust. This guide explains how to apply the three-layer model on live jobs so people, programmes, and inspections stay on track.

1) Capture at source (prevention)

Stop dust before it escapes. Fit tool-mounted extraction with the right shroud, keep seals intact, and choose blades/discs that cut cleanly to reduce fines. Use water suppression where compatible, and avoid aggressive passes—slower, steadier cuts often create less dust. Where possible, redesign the task: pre-cut outside, use off-site fabrication, or swap to low-dust methods.

Set performance, not just equipment

Specify airflow under load, not free-air figures. Check that the extraction maintains capture while cutting or sanding. For silica (RCS), remember the UK WEL is 0.1 mg/m³ (8-hr TWA); the closer you capture to the source, the easier it is to stay below this.

2) Capture in the air (control)

Some dust still escapes. Use air scrubbers or negative air machines to cycle room air through high-efficiency filters. Position the intake near the dust source and the exhaust to promote a clean-to-dirty flow. Seal doors and use make-up air to avoid short-circuiting. Where fine or carcinogenic dusts are present, select HEPA H14 filtration.

Continuous units, including those in the MAXVAC range, can quietly reduce background particulate while work proceeds. Monitor with a simple PM meter to confirm improvement and adjust placement.

3) Capture on surfaces (housekeeping)

Prevent re-agitation. Do not sweep or use compressed air. Vacuum floors, ledges, and plant with an industrial unit matched to the hazard class, then damp-wipe. Empty bags before two-thirds full to protect suction; schedule filter checks so airflow does not collapse mid-shift.

Putting it together on site

Start each task with source capture; run air control in the background; end with vacuum-led housekeeping. Keep spare consumables, record pressure drops or performance changes, and do brief particulate spot checks. This keeps controls simple, visible, and effective.

Practical takeaways

• Prioritise source capture; design tasks to generate less dust.
• Use air scrubbers/negative air with correct HEPA class (H14 for fine/carcinogenic).
• Vacuum, do not sweep; maintain filters to protect airflow under load.
• Verify with quick PM readings and adjust placement or technique.

When each layer carries part of the load, you get safer air, cleaner surfaces, and fewer delays from rework or enforcement actions.