Drilling masonry, block, or concrete releases respirable crystalline silica (RCS). HSE’s WEL for RCS is 0.1 mg/m³, so simple controls make a real difference. The goal is to capture at source, keep the air clear, and avoid re-agitation.

Prepare the work

Mark accurately to avoid extra holes. Where suitable, pilot first to reduce time on the full-size bit. Run the drill at the lowest effective speed; less energy often means less dust. For exterior work and where permitted, light water misting can suppress dust, but ensure electrics and surfaces are protected.

Capture at source

Fit a drill shroud or suction cup that seals to the surface; connect it to an H-Class industrial vacuum. Keep hose runs short and free of sharp bends. A simple drill shroud, as commonly paired with MAXVAC extractors, holds the dust right at the hole and prevents plumes from entering the work area.

Keep the air clear

In small rooms, run an air scrubber during drilling and for a few minutes after. Choose a unit with high-efficiency final filtration and consider negative pressure where containment is possible. Assess performance using under-load airflow and confirm with a handheld PM meter.

Housekeeping without re-dusting

Do not brush or blow off surfaces. Vacuum the workface, floor, and clothing with the same H-Class unit, using a brush nozzle for edges. Empty the bin carefully and seal waste bags.

Practical takeaways

• Use a drill shroud connected to an H-Class vacuum; keep hoses short.
• Lower drill speed and consider a pilot hole to reduce dust generation.
• Run an air scrubber in confined spaces and verify with a PM meter.
• Never sweep; vacuum debris and seal waste promptly.
• For silica, keep exposure as low as reasonably practicable under COSHH.

These small adjustments take minutes to set up and can halve the visible dust at eye level, improving both safety and productivity on site.