Stofhinder

Stofhinder, or dust nuisance, is a Dutch term used to describe the nuisance and potential health effects caused by airborne particulate matter that reduces comfort or well‑being for people in the vicinity of a dust-emitting source. It can originate from industrial processes, construction, mining, agriculture, and domestic activities such as cooking or burning. Stofhinder refers to the presence of dust in the air that can irritate the eyes, nose, throat, or lungs and can also affect visibility and the use of outdoor spaces.

Assessment and regulation with regard to stofhinder typically occur within environmental and occupational health frameworks. Authorities may establish emission limits, permit conditions, or required risk assessments for activities that emit dust. Exceedances can trigger enforcement actions. Measurements often involve air sampling to determine particle size fractions (such as PM10 and PM2.5) and total dust concentrations, complemented by visual assessments of nuisance levels and dispersion patterns.

Control and mitigation strategies emphasize source reduction and containment. Preferred measures include enclosing processes, local exhaust ventilation with dust extraction, water suppression or wet processing, and thorough housekeeping. Additional steps include secondary containment, dampening of surfaces, air filtration or filtration systems, and the use of personal protective equipment when necessary. For projects near residences or public spaces, improved site management, barriers, and careful scheduling help minimize nuisance.

See also: air quality, particulate matter, environmental nuisance, occupational safety, environmental regulation.