Construction and demolition activities can lead to significant short-term dust emissions, affecting local air quality and public health if not properly managed. To help address this, many local authorities across the UK now require developers to carry out a Dust Risk Assessment (DRA) in line with the Institute of Air Quality Management (IAQM) guidance.
At Viridian Air, we support developers, contractors, and planners in delivering IAQM-compliant assessments and Dust Management Plans (DMPs) that meet regulatory expectations and protect local communities.
What Is the IAQM Guidance?
The IAQM Guidance on the Assessment of Dust from Demolition and Construction (latest update: January 2024) provides a clear methodology for identifying the potential dust impact of a development and determining the level of mitigation required. It is widely used and often referred to in planning conditions and by environmental health officers.
The guidance ensures consistency and transparency in assessing dust impacts from:
- Demolition activities
- Earthworks
- Construction phases
- Trackout (vehicles leaving the site)
When Is a Dust Risk Assessment Required?
A construction DRA is typically required:
- As part of an Air Quality Assessment for planning applications
- When development is located near residential areas, schools, healthcare sites, or other sensitive receptors
- To discharge planning conditions or meet the requirements of local air quality or environmental protection policies
Some councils explicitly refer to IAQM methodology in their local validation checklists or supplementary planning documents.
How the IAQM Assessment Works
The IAQM method involves:
- Screening the site to determine the need for a detailed assessment
- Classifying the risk from each phase of the development (demolition, earthworks, construction, trackout) as low, medium, or high
- Identifying the sensitivity of surrounding receptors to dust soiling and health effects
- Recommending proportionate mitigation measures based on the risk level
- Preparing a Dust Management Plan (DMP) to outline control strategies and monitoring
This structured approach helps ensure dust impacts are properly understood and managed.
How Viridian Air Can Help
We provide:
✔ IAQM-compliant construction Dust Risk Assessments (DRAs)
✔ Site-specific Dust Management Plans (DMPs) tailored to risk level
✔ Advice on dust mitigation techniques, such as wheel washing, haul routes, and on-site suppression
✔ Support with planning conditions and liaison with local authorities
Whether you’re preparing a new application or responding to a planning condition, our team ensures your project meets expectations and minimises environmental impact.
Protect Your Project and the Local Environment
With regulatory requirements tightening, it’s essential to get your dust assessment right the first time. Our experienced consultants are here to help.
📩 Email us at: info@viridianair.co.uk
🌐 Visit: www.viridianair.co.uk