Controlling Dust and Debris in Groundskeeping: Expert Tips

Groundskeeping can be a messy job, with dust and debris flying around and causing a variety of problems. But there are ways to control dust and debris on outdoor work sites, and it's important to take the necessary steps to reduce the amount of dust in the air. In this article, we'll discuss some of the techniques that can be used to control dust and debris in groundskeeping.

Mulching and Tilling

Mulching and tilling are two natural methods for controlling dust on outdoor work sites.

Mulching involves covering the ground with a layer of organic material, such as wood chips or straw, which helps to keep the soil moist and reduce the amount of dust that is kicked up into the air. Tilling is another way to reduce dust, as it helps to break up the soil and make it less likely to be disturbed by wind or other activities.

Using Water

Spraying water on dirt or using products such as magnesium chloride and calcium chloride can help to reduce dust on outdoor work sites. These chlorides help to keep unpaved landscapes in good condition without making areas too muddy to work with during a landscape renewal project. Water can also be used to create a seal on the ground, which helps to reduce the amount of dust that is kicked up into the air.

Using Snow

Snow can provide excellent dust control during storage, but it is not ideal if the material is in active use or in transport.

Snow can help to keep dust from being kicked up into the air, but it can also make it difficult for workers to move around on the site.

Using Sweeping Compounds

Sweeping compounds are designed specifically for controlling dust on outdoor work sites. These compounds are designed to prevent dust clouds from forming when you push a broom, making it easier for workers to clean up without creating a mess.

Using Vacuums

Using a vacuum as a dust collection system can be an effective way to control dust on outdoor work sites. Vacuums can help to quickly remove dust from the air, but they can also be noisy and require frequent emptying.

Using Low-Dust Mud

Low-dust mud is an alternative to regular mud that is designed specifically for controlling dust on outdoor work sites. Low-dust mud is more difficult to sand than regular mud and can cost 60 percent more, so most professionals use it only on smaller remodeling projects.

Using Expandable Trellis Systems Expandable trellis systems, together with landscape fabric, can minimize the intensity of incoming wind, which would otherwise throw dust into the air. This can help to reduce the amount of dust that is kicked up into the air during a landscaping project.

Soaking

Soaking is an old-fashioned method of controlling dust on outdoor work sites. This involves spraying water on affected areas to prevent dust from being transported through the air.

This method requires frequent reapplication of water, especially in hot, dry climates. As an expert in groundskeeping, I know how important it is to take steps to reduce dust during projects. Mulching and tilling are two natural ways to control dust, while using water, snow, sweeping compounds, vacuums, low-dust mud, expandable trellis systems, and soaking are all effective methods for controlling dust, debris, and other particles in groundskeeping. Taking these steps will help keep workers safe and prevent environmental damage while ensuring that groundskeeping projects are completed efficiently and effectively.