Could construction dust harm my family's health?« Back to Previous Page

After the construction work started next door a few months ago, we’ve noticed an increase in dust settling on our living room carpet and furniture. The bedrooms get the worst of it, especially in the mornings when I open the windows to air out the place. My kids have been coughing more lately, and I’m worried it could be from all this dust. Could the dust from construction be affecting my family’s health?
Posted by Pooja Malhotra
Asked on November 30, 2025 11:23 am
0
Construction dust can indeed pose potential health risks to your family. In the UAE context, particulate matter from construction sites often includes various fine particles that may contain harmful substances like silica, asbestos, lead, and other toxic materials. These can be carried into nearby homes via wind or through open windows, especially in a region like Dubai where weather conditions can influence air quality.

The increase in dust settling on your living room carpet and furniture is a sign of potential exposure to construction-related particulates. The higher levels detected in the mornings when you open the windows for fresh air could be due to the lower pressure during early morning hours, causing dust to settle more heavily indoors. For families with kids or anyone who might have respiratory issues, this can exacerbate health conditions.

In terms of health effects, exposure to construction dust can lead to symptoms like coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Long-term exposure is linked to more serious issues such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and even lung cancer in severe cases. Given that you've noticed a rise in your kids' coughing, it's prudent to consider the possibility that construction dust might be contributing to their symptoms.

For peace of mind and accurate assessment, I strongly recommend contacting a professional environmental inspection service. Here at Saniservice.com, we offer comprehensive indoor air quality tests specifically tailored for such scenarios. Our services are in line with local UAE regulations like those set by the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) and other relevant bodies to ensure that your home environment is safe.

To take immediate action, consider installing an air purifier equipped with HEPA filters. These can help remove a significant portion of dust particles from the air before they settle on surfaces or enter your respiratory system. Regularly cleaning furniture and carpets using a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter also helps reduce dust levels in your home.

If you decide to seek professional assistance, do not hesitate to contact us at 800-66537 (MOLDS) for an inspection. We're here to ensure the health of your family is our top priority and can provide tailored solutions based on local regulations like those enforced by the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi.

Remember, proactive steps now could protect not just you but also your loved ones from potential long-term health effects.
Posted by Sani Admin
Answered on December 6, 2025 6:10 am