RTA Demolition Dust Minimisation Procedures

By Franki Lee, NSW Roads and Traffic Authority, franki_lee@rta.nsw.gov.au

Editor's Note: On the basis of the first dot point below, you would expect that cavity dust removal would be done as a matter of course, prior to demolition - yet it isn't. Who has evidence that screens stop cavity dust? What type of screens would?

The following are the dust minimisation procedures used by RTA contractors for demolition work:

• The contractor shall take all necessary precautions to prevent the contamination of the atmosphere, building and their surrounds by airborne fibres and particulates.

• Prior to any demolition work commencing the contractor is responsible for providing temporary barrier/screens, as appropriate, to suppress the effect of dust movement to adjacent occupied properties.

• Demolition of areas likely to result in significant dust is not to be undertaken during periods of strong winds.

• The contractor is to ensure that dust generating materials are maintained in a moist condition during demolition or loading activities.

• Material transported in open trucks shall be covered to prevent the generation of dust.

• The tailgates of all vehicles used to transport material from the demolition site shall be securely fixed prior to loading.

• The burning of timber or other combustible materials is prohibited at all times.

These dust minimisation measures have been included in the Specification for Demolition Work (Environmental Management Plan) used for demolitions on the M5 East motorway and other motorways.