No, actually it will save you money in the overall time spent on clean-up and also reduce or eliminate complaints about your worksite from neighbors.  The cost for containment equipment ranges from $125 - $400 (click on this link to see some containment devices). Once you invest in this equipment, you can use it on job after job after job. It is a one time cost. It will improve the health of your workers so your workers will be less likely to call in sick. It will also help reduce equipment damage and potentially allow qualifying for green incentives.

 It is a GOOD investment in your business and the health and well being of your employees.

Nonmonetary benefits include improving air quality, protecting your workers, ensuring compliance, and enhancing community relations.

issuing fines for non-compliance. If there are violations outside of normal work hours, the police department will be responsible for enforcement and fines.

The health effects vary based on the materials. See below for more information on each material.

Microplastics

Microplastics can become airborne and inhaled by mammals—including humans and pets—or enter our bodies through contaminated food and water. Once in waterways, they can travel thousands of miles, polluting ecosystems and entering the food chain. A major pathway into these systems is through storm drains; debris left behind by contractors or residents often washes into streets and then into our drains. Once in the environment, microplastics can take hundreds to thousands of years to break down. Their presence raises serious health concerns, from tissue inflammation and organ accumulation to gut microbiome disruption. They can also carry harmful chemicals and pollutants, potentially leading to immune, endocrine, respiratory, and gastrointestinal issues.

Silica Dust

Inhaling crystalline silica dust can cause silicosis—a serious, irreversible lung disease marked by scarring that impairs breathing and may lead to respiratory failure. High or prolonged exposure can trigger acute cases quickly. Silica is also a known carcinogen, increasing the risk of lung cancer, TB, COPD, and other respiratory issues. It’s been linked to autoimmune disorders and kidney disease as well. Prevention through proper ventilation, wet methods, respirators, and regular health monitoring is essential to protect workers.

Fiberglass

Fiberglass, made of fine glass fibers in resin, poses health risks mainly through inhalation and skin contact. Airborne particles can irritate the eyes, skin, nose, throat, and lungs, causing coughing, breathing issues, and skin rashes. These symptoms are usually short-term but can worsen with repeated exposure.

Prolonged or high-level exposure—especially in occupational settings without proper protection—may increase the risk of respiratory diseases, including fibrosis and possibly lung cancer. The IARC classifies certain fiberglass types as "possibly carcinogenic" (Group 2B), based on animal studies.

While sealed, undisturbed insulation poses low risk, workers involved in fiberglass manufacturing, installation, or removal face higher exposure. Proper PPE, ventilation, and dust control are essential. Persistent symptoms after exposure should be evaluated by a medical professional.

Building materials made of polycarbonate materials have become very popular.  They resist rot, are easy to work with and cut and shape much like wood.  

Outside trim work, decking, vinyl siding and fencing, pvc piping are some of the products that create microplastics.  Other materials like fiberglass, cutting of pavers, pressure treated lumber and pilings also cause a threat.

Ironically manufacturers like to call these products “Green” because they save on lumber and trees.  However, the dust and scrapings from the product are creating microplastics which has become a major concern for water supplies and human health. 

No.  Construction Containment can be added to the existing city construction code as an amendment.

Stormwater ordinances are in construction codes, so are construction laws saying sites need to be clean at the end of the day.   However, microparticles are so tiny they can be blown away and scattered easily by the wind and once they are in the soil they are virtually impossible to clean up.  It is best to contain particles as work is being performed.

OSHA’s concern is with the health and safety of workers.  OSHA will visit a site if a serious accident occurs.  They will not get involved with environmental hazards, unless it affects people. 

Yes.  Manufacturers of tools have accessory devices to capture dust.  Vacuum attachments are available for saws to collect material. Water-based suppression systems, HEPA filtration, and sustainable materials can also be incorporated to minimize environmental impact while effectively managing dust. 

No, not yet.  The UCC is a State Code.  Ideally it would be better if it is Statewide.  We hope to see it become a State Law, meanwhile with cities stepping up to take action to protect their citizens we hope this will pave the way for a State law.

This affects everyone.  PFAS, forever chemicals, are in many construction materials.  Once these particles are in the ground, they will leach into the soil contaminating it.  Eventually they may work their way into groundwater and affect municipal drinking water.  Additionally, all water, from wherever it comes from, will eventually drain to the sea.  Microplastics contained in water drainage will end up in the ocean where they can end up in the food chain.