D4: The Mission of WMATA to Understand Tunnel Dust
Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority
Silver Spring, MD
USA
Mon, 6/1: 3:15 PM - 4:15 PM CDT
Education Sessions
Education Sessions
Ernest N. Morial New Orleans Convention Center
Room: 284
CM Credit Hours: 1
Description
Tunnel dust is a prevalent environmental concern within subway systems, comprising a complex blend of materials originating from rail infrastructure, train components, maintenance operations, and other natural and man-made sources. Recognizing the potential implications for worker health and safety, the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) undertook a multi-year study to thoroughly characterize the composition of tunnel dust and assess associated exposure risks.
This session will highlight key findings from the investigation, including detailed analyses of dust composition, identification of potential contributing sources, and results from exposure assessments. Attendees will gain valuable insights into the nature of tunnel dust and its relevance to occupational hygiene and transit system operations.
This session will highlight key findings from the investigation, including detailed analyses of dust composition, identification of potential contributing sources, and results from exposure assessments. Attendees will gain valuable insights into the nature of tunnel dust and its relevance to occupational hygiene and transit system operations.
Learning Outcomes
Upon completion, the participant will be able to:
• Describe the composition of tunnel dust in subway environments and its various natural and man-made sources contributing to its presence.
• Explain the methodology used by WMATA to conduct the study on tunnel dust, including sampling techniques and analytical approaches.
• Anticipate the potential health and safety risks associated with worker exposure to tunnel dust in transit systems.
• Discuss strategies for mitigating exposure risks and improving air quality and safety for transit workers.
• Evaluate the relevance of tunnel dust findings to broader transit system operations and maintenance planning.
• Describe the composition of tunnel dust in subway environments and its various natural and man-made sources contributing to its presence.
• Explain the methodology used by WMATA to conduct the study on tunnel dust, including sampling techniques and analytical approaches.
• Anticipate the potential health and safety risks associated with worker exposure to tunnel dust in transit systems.
• Discuss strategies for mitigating exposure risks and improving air quality and safety for transit workers.
• Evaluate the relevance of tunnel dust findings to broader transit system operations and maintenance planning.
Content Level
Intermediate
Core Competencies
Chemical Hazards
Risk Assessment
Work Environments, Occupations, and Industrial Processes
Keywords
Aerosol and airborne particulate monitoring
Asbestos, lead, and dust
Exposure Assessment
Hazard Communication
Risk assessment and management
Session Availability
In-person
OnDemand
Targeted Audience
Professional
Transfer of Knowledge
Case Studies
Live Polling