The construction industry plays a significant role in the world economy. More than ever, care has to be taken in monitoring the air quality at these construction sites due to activities such as land clearing, operation of diesel engines, soil disturbance, traffic on unsealed surfaces, demolition, burning and working with toxic materials. Monitoring around large infrastructure projects (e.g. traffic tunnels, ports, road projects etc.) often requires baseline air quality measurements during construction and compliance monitoring after opening. Environmental impacts from construction projects may also require measurement of water quality, blast, vibration and noise in conjunction with meteorological parameters.
Emissions to the atmosphere from construction and building site activities most often include particulates which can have adverse off-site impacts to the local community and environment if not properly monitored. Real time monitoring results can be used to activate preventative measures to be taken by the constructor.
Air quality monitoring for regulatory and compliance purposes requires instrumentation, systems and procedures that meet local and international standards such as those described by the regulatory authorities.
