HomeMy WebLinkAboutElement 5 BMP-C140BMP C140: Dust Control
Purpose Dust control prevents wind transport of dust from disturbed soil surfaces
onto roadways, drainage ways, and surface waters.
Conditions of Use x In areas (including roadways) subject to surface and air movement of
dust where on-site and off-site impacts to roadways, drainage ways, or
surface waters are likely.
Design and
Installation
Specifications
x Vegetate or mulch areas that will not receive vehicle traffic. In areas
where planting, mulching, or paving is impractical, apply gravel or
landscaping rock.
x Limit dust generation by clearing only those areas where immediate
activity will take place, leaving the remaining area(s) in the original
condition, if stable. Maintain the original ground cover as long as
practical.
x Construct natural or artificial windbreaks or windscreens. These may
be designed as enclosures for small dust sources.
x Sprinkle the site with water until surface is wet. Repeat as needed. To
prevent carryout of mud onto street, refer to Stabilized Construction
Entrance (BMP C105).
x Irrigation water can be used for dust control. Irrigation systems should
be installed as a first step on sites where dust control is a concern.
x Spray exposed soil areas with a dust palliative, following the
manufacturer’s instructions and cautions regarding handling and
application. Used oil is prohibited from use as a dust suppressant.
Local governments may approve other dust palliatives such as calcium
chloride or PAM.
x PAM (BMP C126) added to water at a rate of 0.5 lbs. per 1,000
gallons of water per acre and applied from a water truck is more
effective than water alone. This is due to the increased infiltration of
water into the soil and reduced evaporation. In addition, small soil
particles are bonded together and are not as easily transported by wind.
Adding PAM may actually reduce the quantity of water needed for
dust control, especially in eastern Washington. Since the wholesale
cost of PAM is about $ 4.00 per pound, this is an extremely cost-
effective dust control method.
Techniques that can be used for unpaved roads and lots include:
x Lower speed limits. High vehicle speed increases the amount of dust
stirred up from unpaved roads and lots.
x Upgrade the road surface strength by improving particle size, shape,
and mineral types that make up the surface and base materials.
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x Add surface gravel to reduce the source of dust emission. Limit the
amount of fine particles (those smaller than .075 mm) to 10 to 20
percent.
x Use geotextile fabrics to increase the strength of new roads or roads
undergoing reconstruction.
x Encourage the use of alternate, paved routes, if available.
x Restrict use by tracked vehicles and heavy trucks to prevent damage to
road surface and base.
x Apply chemical dust suppressants using the admix method, blending
the product with the top few inches of surface material. Suppressants
may also be applied as surface treatments.
x Pave unpaved permanent roads and other trafficked areas.
x Use vacuum street sweepers.
x Remove mud and other dirt promptly so it does not dry and then turn
into dust.
x Limit dust-causing work on windy days.
x Contact your local Air Pollution Control Authority for guidance and
training on other dust control measures. Compliance with the local Air
Pollution Control Authority constitutes compliance with this BMP.
Maintenance
Standards
Respray area as necessary to keep dust to a minimum.
February 2005 Volume II – Construction Stormwater Pollution Prevention 4-41