Personal dust monitors help verify whether controls are working by measuring what the wearer actually breathes. They give near-real-time feedback on airborne particulate such as PM10, PM2.5 and PM1, and can inform decisions on tool settings, extraction, and isolation.

How they measure dust

Most wearable monitors use light-scattering optics: a small beam passes through the sampled air and electronics estimate particle concentration from scattered light. Data are logged over time so you can see peaks during tasks like chasing or raking. Some models estimate mass concentration, but gravimetric sampling remains the reference for compliance.

Placement and use

Clip the monitor in the breathing zone on the upper torso or shoulder strap so it sees the same air as the wearer. Zero or check the unit in clean air before the shift, keep inlets unobstructed, and note task timings to interpret peaks later. If readings spike, slow the cut, improve shroud sealing, shorten hose runs, or add room air control.

Strengths and limits

Personal monitors show exposure trends quickly, helping you fine-tune controls and verify change. They do not directly identify RCS without specific calibration and should not replace COSHH-required risk assessment. Treat results as actionable intelligence that prompts improvements.

Practical steps

• Choose a monitor suitable for the site environment and dust levels.
• Position in the breathing zone; keep it powered, clean, and logged.
• Respond to peaks by improving capture at source and room control.
• Use results to brief teams and update method statements.

Used well, personal dust monitors turn invisible risk into visible data, helping keep exposure closer to HSE Workplace Exposure Limits.