In order to take formal action, we will have to prove that a statutory nuisance (opens new window) is being caused. However, we will always first (and at the earliest opportunity) speak with the person responsible for generating the dust to discuss minimising the levels to an acceptable level.
Construction sites
Dust nuisance can be an issue during construction and demolition work, resulting from activities such as earthworks, the cutting of materials and, in particular, vehicles using haul roads that result in resuspension of deposited dust.
Best practice guidance (PDF, 6 MB) has been produced in partnership with the Greater London Authority and London councils.
Waste facilities
If you experience dust generated on a site handling waste, this will be covered by a condition to its environmental permit. This is enforced by the Environment Agency (opens new window) who should be contacted on 0800 807 060.
All other sites
Dust is also an issue at quarries and some other industrial sites. Certain industrial premises are also issued with an environmental permit covering emissions to air.
Typical operational sources include stack emissions, stockpiling and the loading and unloading of materials.
Control measures
Methods to reduce the risk of causing dust nuisance include:
- fitting and maintaining of grit and dust arrestment plant
- use of water to dampen down work areas
- installation of wheel-washing facilities at site entrances/exits
- water spraying of haul roads and stockpiles
- reduction of speeds on haul roads
- seeding stockpiles for long-term cover
- treating stockpiles with bonding agents
- sheeting of vehicles
- using sealed or sheeted containers/skips for waste materials
- erecting barriers or sheeting around works
- use of chutes to move materials eg from height into skips.
Report dust caused by a commercial property
Report nuisance dust from a residential property