Dust control is far easier and cheaper to achieve when it is built into the programme, not bolted on after complaints. Good planning protects health, reduces rework, and keeps neighbours and clients on side.

Pre-construction survey

• Identify dust sources by task and phase: cutting, grinding, chasing, sweeping, drywall sanding, demolition.
• Map sensitive receptors: occupied areas, HVAC intakes, neighbouring properties, clean zones.
• Decide containment needs early: barriers, anterooms, and possible negative pressure rooms.

Design controls by the three layers

1) Capture at source

• Specify on-tool extraction and water suppression where suitable.
• Confirm compatible shrouds and hoses for planned tools.
• Define cutting speeds and methods that reduce dust.

2) Capture in the air

• Plan air scrubbers or local exhaust ventilation sized by room volume and required air changes.
• Allow for H13/H14 filtration when managing fine respirable dusts like RCS.
• For containment, plan modest negative pressure (commonly a small pressure drop) and door discipline.

3) Capture on surfaces

• Avoid sweeping and compressed air.
• Use industrial vacuums (M-Class minimum for silica and wood dust) and damp wipe protocols.
• Schedule daily tidy and a final clean per area.

Specify performance, not buzzwords

• Quote airflow under load, not free-air figures.
• Set filter class requirements (e.g. H14 for fine/carcinogenic or respirable dusts in air filtration).
• Account for filter loading and spares; plan prefilters to extend life.

Programme and logistics

• Include mobilisation time for containment, LEV, and power.
• Position kit to avoid cable trips and blocked returns; plan duct runs and doorways.
• Define waste routes, bag types, and sealed bins.

Monitoring and verification

• Agree simple trigger points using a particulate monitor.
• Keep daily logs of controls in place and any deviations.
• Build in hold points for high-dust phases and final cleans.

Practical takeaways

• Write dust control into RAMS, programme, and procurement.
• Design by layers: source, air, surfaces.
• Specify filter class and airflow under load.
• Plan spares, waste, power, and verification from day one.

By treating dust as a planned workstream, you avoid last-minute fixes and set the project up for safe, efficient delivery.