The most frequently used solution of controlling dust is with the use of a wetting agent. And the most commonly used agent is water. To help retain the moisture in the soil of extremely arid areas, some contractors are applying the chemical magnesium chloride on the soil’s surface. This has proven to have a minimal negative effect on the environment while considerably increasing the ability to contain the moisture in the ground, thus reducing the annoying dust.

For some places out west there are actual ordinances that must be followed. Many of these require a bond be deposited before any form of dust abatement material can be used. This is to make sure any possible cleanup will be properly funded.

There are approved dust abatement materials that are properly labeled as dust palliative. These can be used, but a document known as the material safety data sheet (MSDS) must not only be available on site, but also filed with authorities when applying for a building permit. Because of so many problems in the past with oil based dust suppressants, many places will no longer authorize their use. If they are used, then stiff fines are issued.

No matter what is used, the overall goal is to keep the surrounding areas from becoming contaminated from the construction site. This is to include any contamination to the ground water. If the possibility of ground water contamination exists, then preventative measures are required. In the majority of cases where ground water contamination occurs, dust abatement will not be enough to prevent the closure of the construction site.