Dust Monitoring Workshop Draws Crowds

The instrumentation specialists Ashtead Technology (UK) and monitoring instrument manufacturer TSI recently co-hosted a technical workshop which focused on monitoring workplace and environmental air quality. The level of interest in the workshop was so high that some applications to attend had to be declined once registration was full.

“We were delighted with the level of interest,” said Ashtead’s Josh Thomas. “Space limitations meant that we had to limit the number of participants to 30 which sadly meant that we were unable to accommodate the later applications. However, the feedback from those that attended was extremely positive, so the event was a great success.”

Delegates included health and safety managers from a range of industries, in addition to specialist environmental and occupational health contractors and consultants. Echoing the positive response from all delegates, Richard Prestage, a provider of health & safety surveys and training, said: “The presentations were all very clear and whilst the speakers had commercial responsibilities, they were not too promotional, and demonstrated an ability to focus on the most important issues.” Explaining how the workshop was able to help him in his daily work, Richard said: “The demonstration of the TSI AM510 showed how it is possible to identify peak exposure levels to different particulate fractions, which will be a particular benefit in comparison with air sampling pumps.”

The day began with technical presentations explaining the reasons for monitoring including an overview of the regulatory requirements. Detailed information was provided on the latest technologies for the measurement of dust, fine particulates and other airborne contaminants. In the afternoon, practical sessions provided participants with an opportunity to operate a range of hand-held particulate monitors and discuss some of the issues that arise in their own applications.

The afternoon’s activities included a tour of the TSI High Wycombe facility with Operations Director Brian Blackburn, who outlined the company’s environmental and quality management procedures. Brian explained how quality is built into the company’s products and how the company’s business processes focus on key issues such as on-time delivery.

The workshop concluded with a presentation by TSI’s Nick Brown, who provided a live demonstration of ambient dust monitoring at a site in Germany using web-enabled technology. Nick explained how this equipment can incorporate meteorological instruments and be employed to monitor ambient air pollution issues, such as odour nuisance or dust from construction projects.

To register for future events please visit www.ashtead-technology.com/TSI.