Monitoring dust pollution at site
Johan Kornelissen, Occupational Hygienist at National Environmental Health Consultants discussing strategy with the contractors to improve dust control at the Hilltop Estate Development.
Demushuwa Property Developers contracted an occupational hygienist registered with the Labour Commissioner to conduct a dust sample test and analysis at Pikkie Paradys Pre-primary School in Kleine Kuppe to determine the dust concentrations and dust content at the school. Sampling started last week.
“We are taking responsible actions within a reasonable time span and in unique circumstances considering the drought, winter conditions and water restrictions,” said Helene Meintjes, speaking on behalf of Demushuwa. “The results of the dust sampling and analysis will assist us to make informed decisions about the dust control that will be to the benefit of the community and the developer, contractors and consultants involved in this project,” she said adding that Demushuwa should receive the final report within two weeks.
Pending the outcome of the dust analysis results, the contractors are spraying water into the dust cloud generated by excavation work. The contractors appointed an expert to assist with monitoring the dust on an ongoing basis and informing the operators to take corrective action when and where required. In addition, the earthworks activity will increase on wind still days. The contractors are striving to keep the stockpiles to a minimum and to flatten the slopes of the stockpiles. According to the engineer and principal agent at the site, they have reduced the dust to a reasonable degree.
On 5 July, the contractors started increasing their watering activities by also wetting the general site area before excavations take place. The earthworks started on 19 June and will be completed in four months from the start date. The contractors further estimate that the dust should substantially reduce within the next couple of weeks when they reach the harder rock material beneath the surface.
In 2009 the City of Windhoek awarded the tender to develop the Kleine Kuppe area to Demushuwa Property Developers. The company is establishing services on behalf of the City of Windhoek. Serviced land is a legal obligation. The Hilltop Estate Development is estimated to be completed in 2018.
