Monitoring turns dust control from guesswork into evidence. Whether you are verifying compliance with COSHH or checking if new extraction is effective, use a simple, repeatable approach focused on mg/m³ data.

Choose the right method

• Personal gravimetric sampling: filters worn in the breathing zone, analysed to give task or shift-average mg/m³. Use for compliance evidence.
• Real-time monitoring: PM1/2.5/10 readings to spot peaks and compare methods in minutes. Ideal for setting controls and training.

Real-time instruments such as Trolex monitors can provide continuous particulate readings to guide on-the-spot adjustments.

Plan the monitoring

• Define the question: shift exposure, task peak, or background level?
• Sample representative tasks, materials, and conditions (indoors vs outdoors, dry vs wet cutting).
• Calibrate and log: record start/stop times, tools, controls used, and any changes.

Act on the data

• Compare results to WELs (e.g., RCS 0.1 mg/m³ TWA). Set internal action levels below WEL to drive improvement.
• When peaks occur, move the air scrubber, improve tool extraction, or add temporary enclosures.
• Repeat measurements after changes to confirm improvement.

Common pitfalls to avoid

• Relying on free-airflow ratings; always check extraction performance under load.
• Sampling only on “good days”; include typical worst-case tasks.
• Ignoring housekeeping; settled dust can invalidate a clean reading later.

Practical takeaways

• Use personal sampling for compliance and real-time PM for rapid control tuning.
• Log tasks, tools, and controls against the readings.
• Trigger corrective action when results approach your internal limits.

Consistent, simple monitoring builds a feedback loop: better controls, clearer air, and demonstrable compliance.