Real-time dust monitoring has moved from nice-to-have to essential on UK construction sites. It gives supervisors immediate feedback on airborne particulate, so controls can be adjusted before exposure builds. It also provides evidence for COSHH and client assurance when working around the public or in sensitive buildings.

What real-time monitoring shows

Most site monitors report PM10, PM2.5 and often PM1. These are useful indicators of airborne particulate and trend changes during tasks. They do not identify specific substances, so personal sampling is still required to assess exposure against WELs (e.g., HSE WEL for respirable crystalline silica is 0.1 mg/m³). Use PM as an early-warning system and trigger for intervention.

Where to place monitors

• Near the source but out of harm’s way: 1–3 m from dusty tasks, roughly breathing-zone height (1.2–1.5 m).
• Upwind and downwind to see spread across the workface and to boundaries.
• At welfare entrances and clean zones to verify containment.
• Move units as tasks shift; do not leave them in corners or dead air.

Set alerts you can act on

Use simple traffic-light thresholds to prompt action. PM alarms are not WELs, but they can be set conservatively and refined with experience. Ensure audible/visual alerts are visible against site noise and light. Log events with time, location and task.

What to do when levels spike

• Pause the task; check tool extraction, water suppression and cutting speed.
• Close gaps in barriers; ensure a make-up air path if running negative pressure.
• Add or reposition air filtration; an air scrubber such as a MAXVAC Dustblocker can help pull down background levels while you investigate.
• Switch to H14 filtration for fine or carcinogenic dusts; check filters are seated.
• Housekeeping: vacuum surfaces with an H-class industrial vacuum; avoid sweeping and compressed air.

Make data useful

Tag readings to tasks and locations. Review weekly: which activities trigger alarms, at what duration, under what weather or ventilation conditions. Use findings to set method statements, refine LEV, and schedule maintenance. Keep a simple site log to show clients and, if needed, HSE how you control dust in practice.

Practical takeaways

• Use 2–4 monitors on active works to see trends, not just a single point.
• Place at breathing height, both upwind and downwind of tasks.
• Set clear alert levels and define the response before work starts.
• Treat spikes immediately: improve capture at source, containment and filtration.
• Review logs weekly and adjust controls and methods accordingly.

Real-time monitoring does not replace occupational hygiene sampling, but it makes daily control far more reliable and visible. Used with sensible placement and clear actions, it reduces exposure, rework and clean-up time.