Dust control
Find out how to prevent dust from construction work affecting workers, neighbours and the environment.
Why dust control matters
Construction dust can affect workers, neighbouring properties, air quality, visibility, waterways and public roads.
Builders, developers and site operators must minimise dust emissions and comply with the conditions of their development consent and applicable environmental requirements.
Dust controls may be required for demolition, earthworks, excavation, stockpiling, cutting, grinding and vehicle movements on unsealed surfaces.
Managing construction dust
Select controls appropriate to the work, site conditions and weather. Controls may include:
- covering or stabilising stockpiles
- securing loads before materials leave the site
- using water to dampen exposed surfaces without creating polluted run-off
- using dust extraction or dust-catching equipment
- installing screens or wind barriers around the site
- stabilising site entry and exit points
- removing soil and mud tracked onto public roads
- limiting vehicle speeds on unsealed surfaces
- placing fine sweepings in a sealed bag or container before disposal
- postponing high-dust activities during strong winds
Inspect and maintain dust controls throughout the works. Additional requirements may be included in your development consent.
Legal requirements and guidance
The Act regulates air pollution under sections 124–126, while the Clean Air Regulation includes a general obligation to prevent or minimise air pollution.
Report dust leaving a construction site, affecting neighbouring properties or creating unsafe conditions on a public road.
Site operators
Pollution incidents causing or threatening material harm to the environment must be reported immediately in accordance with the Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997. Learn about the duty to notify pollution incidents.
