A proactive approach to execute targeted particulate matter control measures for construction works

Abstract

Particulate matter (PM) refers to the solid or liquid particles suspended in the air that harm human and the environment. PM emissions from the construction industry have become a critical concern for human health. Previous studies have been performed to minimize PM emissions using various control measures. However, they failed to mitigate the PM concentrations to optimum levels advocated by occupational health and safety standards. In this study, we identified the maximum PM exposure zones in various construction activities to reduce the overall PM exposure by considering the spatiotemporal characteristics of PM emissions. The exposure profile assessment of various PM sizes showed that activities such as cutting, drilling of M20 and M25 concrete slabs, mixing and sanding of M25 concrete, and plastering demonstrated maximum PM exposure at the breathing height (1.5 m above the ground). We found that the PM concentration increased with an increase in the density of the material (i.e., from wood to M25 concrete). Moreover, this study clearly describes the necessity for the proper positioning of the control measures (i.e., water spray system and exhaust ventilation) based on the size-dependent PM exposure profiles and maximum PM exposure zone. The health risk of a worker inside the maximum PM exposure zone was observed as potential according to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) guidelines (i.e., hazard index = 10−4 to 10−6). This study directs construction professionals to focus on appropriate positioning of the PM countermeasures by targeting the maximum exposure zones and size-dependent PM exposure profiles for various high-PM-emitting activities.