Hopefully this article has helped explain the main reasons why your walls get dusty and what you can do about the dust on your walls. Remove any newly-revealed stains or mould with a baking soda paste, hydrogen peroxide, or a chemical mould-killing solution (for more serious concerns). If this is the case it is time to repaint to get the finish that you were hoping to get before you started cleaning. For high traffic areas you want to consider a washable paint as this will retain its finish for longer. Organic dusts originate from plants or animals. An example of organic dust is dust that arises from handling grain. These dusts can contain a great number of substances. Aside from the vegetable or animal component, organic dusts may also contain fungi or microbes and the toxic substances given off by microbes. For example, histoplasmosis, psittacosis and Q Fever are diseases that people can get if they breathe in organic that are infected with a certain microorganisms.

It's difficult to clean water stains so consider painting over them (Image credit: Getty Images) Wash down with sugar soap First, determine how large of a space you’ll isolate to determine how much plastic sheeting you’ll need for a dust barrier, and what size pole best suits your space. It’s best to use one single sheet of plastic rather than multiple pieces to lower the risk of particles seeping through the seams of the plastic. Step Two Besides macrophages, the lungs have another system for the removal of dust. The lungs can react to the presence of germ-bearing particles by producing certain proteins. These proteins attach to particles to neutralize them. Silica dust – Silica is a natural mineral present in large amounts in things like sand, sandstone and granite. It is also commonly found in many construction materials such as concrete and mortar. The silica is broken into very fine dust (also known as Respirable Crystalline Silica or RCS) during many common tasks such as cutting, drilling and grinding. It is often called silica dust (see also Control of exposure to silica dust: A guide for employees). Wood dust – Wood is widely used in construction and is found in two main forms; softwood and hardwood. Wood-based products are also commonly used including MDF and chipboard (see also Wood dust).When old and crumbly lime plaster is disturbed, it can release dust particles into the air. This dust can contain various potentially harmful dust like silica and lime dust. Silica can cause lung damage and respiratory problems, and lime dust is alkaline in nature, which can cause skin, eye and respiratory irritation. Contrary to its name, sugar soap isn’t a sweetened dishwasher. It’s actually a gentle chemical compound that’s crystallised to look like sugar. Its main use is on bare walls to help the coat of paint adhere better. However, it can also be used on painted walls to clean them up. Construction Managers and contractors who work in the healthcare industry recognize that dust poses serious health risks at hospitals and healthcare facilities during remodeling and renovation. What is a Dust Wall?

Mix a cup of baking soda with half a cup of water to form a paste (think ‘toothpaste’ consistency).

If you are still left with a few marks on a wall you can try spot cleaning with a baking soda mix. Make up a paste using three parts baking or bicarbonate of soda and one part water. Then get a soft damp sponge, apply the paste and gently rub the area. Wipe clean with a clean cloth.

Chief among these protocols is a dust control plan as part of the overall plan developed by Construction Managers. Dust control is directly related to preventing healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) from occurring as a result of construction. The prevention of HAIs is vital. Dust poses a serious health risk to patients and staff alike. It must be contained and controlled during all phases of construction. Client/Patient Satisfaction and Safety If you want to keep your walls looking perfectly clean and fresh, the best thing you can do is to re-paint it. We do not mean you need to re-paint your walls every time you see a bit of dust gathering. If you are unsure whether your old lime plaster contains asbestos or other hazardous materials, it is best to consult a professional before attempting any removal or renovation work. They can assess the situation and provide guidance on how to proceed safely. Not all inhaled particles produce scar tissue. Dusts such as carbon and iron remain within macrophages until they die normally. The released particles are then taken in again by other macrophages. If the amount of dust overwhelms the macrophages, dust particles coat the inner walls of the airways without causing scarring, but only producing mild damage, or maybe none at all. Workers can be affected from a variety of illnesses caused by dust they inhale in their work environments. For practical purposes, we limit this document to dust. We do not take into consideration combined effects arising from exposures to dusts, gases, fumes and vapours.

So, what’s the best way to clean walls?

In planning, Construction Managers work with the hospital’s infection control and prevention specialists to ensure that the work is in compliance with the hospital’s ICRA protocols. This not only provides patient safety but promotes long-lasting relationships with the hospital’s infection control and prevention specialists. Construction Managers also work with field teams and work crews to make certain that the required protocols are met if not exceeded. The abrasive nature of baking soda helps remove stubborn marks and stains. However, it might remove paint leaving a dull or shiny patch depending on paint. Test in an out of the way area if unsure. Cleaning your painted walls not worked, it’s time to repaint It is important to take precautions when working with old and crumbling lime plaster. You should wear a dust mask and protective clothing to prevent inhalation of dust particles. It is also a good idea to wet the plaster before working with it to help reduce the amount of dust produced. How Should Old Lime Plaster be Disposed of Once Removed? One of the top benefits of lime plaster is its carbon-absorbing properties. As it absorbs carbon, it can eventually become carbon neutral. This means that lime plaster can help reduce the amount of carbon in the atmosphere, making it a great choice for those looking for ways to reduce their carbon footprint. To avoid respiratory or other problems caused by exposure to dust, controls must be implemented. As per the hierarchy of control, the first consideration should be hazardous substances substituted with non-hazardous substances. Where substitution is not possible, other engineering control methods should be introduced. Some examples are:

The changes which occur in the lungs vary with the different types of dust. For example, the injury caused by exposure to silica is marked by islands of scar tissue surrounded by normal lung tissue. Because the injured areas are separated from each other by normal tissue, the lungs do not completely lose their elasticity. In contrast, the scar tissue produced following exposure to asbestos, beryllium and cobalt completely covers the surfaces of the deep airways. The lungs become stiff and lose their elasticity. Sugar soap is one of the most popular ways to clean your walls. Not only does it sound sweet, but it’s perfect for washing large areas and renewing their shine and lustre. Mix up a solution of sugar soap as recommended by the manufacturer. Typically 50ml for 4 litres of water for general cleaning and double this for more stubborn areas. Use a soft sponge in the same way as you would for warm soapy water and clean off with clean, warm water. Spot clean with baking soda Masks are available that provide different levels of protection. There are two main performance types you should ask your supplier/ employer for if working with construction dusts: FFP2 and FFP3. FFP3 is the most advisable type to use if you are doing work that does or could create high dust levels or involves silica or wood dust (the more hazardous substances).To get at dust trapped in tiny nooks and intricate carvings, use a clean natural-bristle paint or makeup brush, then wipe with a microfiber cloth. For dusting fabric furniture and soft toys