Dust Assessment
Dust assessments are frequently required by planners, developers, or operators to meet national and local policy and legislation requirements. At DustScanAQ, our expert consultants leverage their extensive experience to guide clients through these policy frameworks in planning and permitting. We specialise in producing a comprehensive range of dust assessments tailored to individual project needs.
Mineral Dust Assessments
Considering the pivotal role mineral products play in construction, transportation, and infrastructure, the UK’s 2,300+ active mineral sites and plants collectively produce over 1 million tonnes of mineral products daily.
These essential resources are often concentrated in specific regions, which can result in land-use conflicts when situated near dust-sensitive areas such as residential neighbourhoods or ecologically significant sites. Dust assessments are crucial in the planning process to evaluate potential impacts and support developers in minimising their environmental footprint.
The experts at DustScanAQ bring unparalleled expertise in conducting mineral dust assessments for hard rock, sand, and gravel sites across both national and international projects. While no universally standardised approach exists, our dust assessments follow the latest guidance from the Institute of Air Quality Management.
A key aspect of our approach is fostering effective collaboration with local planning and permitting bodies. We recognise the complexities of regulatory landscapes and work closely with authorities to ensure our dust assessments meet their requirements. This collaborative approach streamlines the approval process and helps our clients achieve compliance with environmental regulations.
Methodology
Traditionally, visible dust deposition has been the primary focus for mineral sites. However, growing public awareness of air quality risks has shifted attention to PM10, PM2.5, and Respirable Crystalline Silica (RCS). In response, we’ve expanded our dispersion modelling capabilities to address air quality impacts from mineral site operations. This comprehensive methodology sets a new standard for dust assessment, and DustScanAQ actively contributes to advancing these techniques.
We also recognise that dust can originate from various other activities and sites. That is why we adopt a customised approach for each project, ensuring our dust assessments align with the specific needs of planning or permitting authorities. Our tailored methodologies are designed to evaluate the unique characteristics of every site, ensuring thorough and accurate results.
John Bruce
(PhD, BSc, MIAQM, MIEnvSc)
Principal Consultant
Discuss your requirements with our Principal Consultant
If you would like to discuss your dust assessment needs with our Principal Consultant, we’d be happy to arrange an initial call to understand your exact requirements.
Please call us on +44 (0)1608 810110 or email John using the button below.
Case Studies
Dust Characterisation Case Study using Optical Microscopy and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM)
Detailed analysis of dust samples from a heat exchange unit in Derry/Londonderry
Construction Dust Risk Assessment Case Study
Assessment of construction emissions for a mixed use development in London
The business was formed in 2004
We are employee owned
Over 145,000 samples analysed
