Section 9:
Air Quality

Permitting Requirements

Some construction activities, such as the operation of concrete batch plants or the use of diesel-powered generators continously for extended periods of time could necessitate obtaining an air permit from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality prior to initiation of the activity. The contractor is responsible for obtaining and complying with any applicable air permit for the construction work they undertake for TxDOT.

Construction Specification Requirements

During projects constructions, temporary increases in particulate matter (PM) emissions from fugitive dust may occur from construction activities, such as but not limited to excavating, boring underground, pouring dry concrete, and construction vehicle activty. The Standard Specifications, such as in Item 204, "Sprinkling", will call for monitoring of wind conditions and/or "sprinkling" to control dust. Other specification may call for engineering controls, such as using a dust collection system or baghouse to collect find particles. Ensure the contractor is utilizing dust control measures while performing their activities as covered by specification language.

Construction Specification Requirements

  • When feasible, ensure the contractor uses contruction equipment with up-to-date engines that have newer, cleaner technology. TxDOT recommends programs like the Texas Emissions Reduction Plan (TERP), or other local and federal programs, for financial incentives for procuring cleaner vehicles and engines. Note that this is a recommendation, not a requirement.
  • Ensure the contractor does not apply dry construction material in windy conditions. This will avoid the scattering of dust and materials.
  • If other approved methods are readily available, TxDOT should avoid allowing dry-pour concrete methods when practical to do so.
  • When feasible, recommend the contractor use enchanced visual monitoring procedures for fugitive dust control when performing activities that are known to produce significant fugitive dust (e.g., boring through limestone or using approved dry pour concrete techniques).
  • If other approved methods (e.g., asphalt emulsions) are readily available, TxDOT should avoid allowing the use of cutback asphalt treatment when practical to do so. Limit idling time of construction vehicles but only when practical to do so. For instance, it is understood that idling may be necessary to control in-cabin temperature for operators on hot or cold days.