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IAQM PM10​ Sensor Position: Are Low-Cost Sensors (LCS) Fit for Construction Site Monitoring?

Air Quality & Dust

The world of air quality monitoring has been revolutionised by the rise of Low-Cost Sensor (LCS) systems. These devices offer the promise of wider spatial coverage and real-time data, but for professionals in the construction and demolition sectors, a critical question remains: are these sensors fit-for-purpose for regulatory compliance?

The Institute of Air Quality Management (IAQM), recognising the concerns among its members, has published a new Position Statement on the use of LCS for PM10​ (Particulate Matter up to 10 micrometres in size) monitoring near construction sites.

Exert from version 1.0 IAQM Paper:

The Issue: With the increasing availability and use of low-cost sensor (LCS) particulate matter (PM) monitoring systems (also known as indicative sensor systems), IAQM members have raised concerns about whether these systems are fit-for-purpose, and compatible with the aims of IAQM Guidance(i) and the Code of Practice(ii), when used to monitor PM10 concentrations around construction sites, particularly during elevated PM events. This position statement only relates to PM10. The recent MCERTS updates and this guidance do not currently apply to PM2.5 measurements. The indicative nature of LCS systems means they are not currently fit-for-purpose for reporting against air quality objectives, limit values or PM2.5 targets.

Read the paper here.

Mastering Your Section 61: How Our Environmental Monitors Simplify the Process

News

As a site manager or project coordinator, you’re constantly juggling a dozen different things at once. The last thing you need is a complex legal application holding up your project. That’s where the Section 61 application comes in—a crucial but often time-consuming step for managing noise on site.

At Campbell Associates, we understand the pressure you’re under. We’ve designed our environmental monitors and the Sonitus Cloud platform to take the headache out of Section 61s, helping you get approval faster and work with confidence.

What Exactly is a Section 61?

Simply put, a Section 61 is a formal application for prior consent to carry out noisy works under the Control of Pollution Act 1974. You submit this to your local authority, detailing your planned work, noise predictions, and mitigation measures. Getting it right is key to avoiding noise-related complaints, costly fines, and project delays.

But how do you prove your predictions and demonstrate you’re meeting your commitments? That’s where we come in.

From Paperwork to Peace of Mind: A Step-by-Step Guide

Our environmental monitors aren’t just for checking compliance after a complaint; they are powerful tools that simplify your entire Section 61 process.

Step 1: The Pre-Application Phase – Building Your Case A strong Section 61 application starts with solid data. Before you even submit your paperwork, our monitors can be deployed on site to:

  • Baseline Monitoring: Accurately measure existing noise levels. This provides a clear starting point and helps you make realistic noise predictions for your application.
  • Predictive Data: Use our noise, vibration, and dust data to precisely model the potential impact of your planned activities on the surrounding area. This robust information makes your application more credible and professional.

Step 2: The Application – The Numbers that Count Once you have your baseline data, you can fill out the Section 61 form with confidence. Instead of using rough estimates, you’ll have a report generated from our monitors, demonstrating a proactive approach to environmental management. This can significantly speed up the approval process, as it shows the local authority that you have a plan rooted in accurate, real-time information.

Step 3: Post-Approval – Working Confidently Your Section 61 is approved, and work can begin. Now, our monitors shift from a planning tool to a real-time safety net.

  • Continuous Monitoring: Our monitors run 24/7, tracking noise and vibration levels against the agreed-upon limits in your Section 61.
  • Real-Time Alerts: If a limit is approached or exceeded, our system automatically sends you an immediate alert via email or text message. This lets you react instantly, before a complaint is made.
  • Automated Reporting: Our Sonitus Cloud platform automatically generates clear, concise reports on your project’s compliance. When the local authority asks for an update, you don’t need to manually pull data. With a single click, you have a professional report ready to send, saving you hours of admin time.

Why Choose Campbell Associates?

  • Accuracy & Reliability: Our monitors are built to provide accurate, dependable data, giving you the confidence to stand by your applications.
  • Simple to Use: With a simple setup and easy-to-use platform, our systems are designed for busy professionals.
  • Remote Management: The Sonitus Cloud platform gives you full control and visibility from your laptop or phone—no need to constantly be on-site.
  • Peace of Mind: We help you transform your Section 61 from a potential roadblock into a smooth, efficient process.

Don’t let noise monitoring slow down your next project. Let our environmental monitors and the Sonitus Cloud platform give you the data, alerts, and peace of mind you need to work confidently.

Contact Campbell Associates today to learn more about our solutions for your next Section 61 application.