BAM and TEOM Air Monitors
Airborne particulate matter is a common concern for the mining, construction and manufacturing industries. With strict standards regulating worker health and off-site impacts, it is important to implement a comprehensive dust monitoring system to protect your compliance.
In some cases, this may require a real-time sensor, such as the Beta Attenuation Monitor (BAM) or the Tapered Element Oscillating Microbalance (TEOM).
ENVSS uses these tools to continuously monitor the concentrations of PM2.5 and PM10. If you would like to enquire about these services, you can contact us on (08) 9355 4010 or [email protected].
What Do BAM and TEOM Measure?
BAMs and TEOMs are real time particulate monitors, designed to measure matter suspended in the air. They provide results as micrograms per cubic metre (µg/m³).
Whilst they can be used in a variety of dust monitoring applications, BAMs and TEOMs are most commonly used for:
PM10: Particles ≤10 micrometres, inhalable into the upper respiratory tract
PM2.5: Fine particles ≤2.5 micrometres, inhalable deep into the lungs
The National Environment Protection (Ambient Air Quality) Measure (NEPM) regulates monitoring and standards for these particle sizes. Both are directly linked to environmental nuisance and human health issues.
How They Work
Beta Attenuation Monitor
A BAM operates by drawing ambient air through a filter tape. Once particulate matter is collected on that filter, a beta radiation source is used to measure it’s collective mass.
The beta radiation attenuation is a direct reflection of the extent of particulate matter in their air. As more particles accumulate, beta radiation attenuation increases.
The BAM is a proven technology and, because it collects the data needed for compliance monitoring under AS 3580.9.11, it is a popular choice for dust monitoring systems across Australia.
Tapered Element Oscillating Microbalance
A TEOM also draws air through a filter. However, it’s filter is mounted on a tapered element that oscillates at a chosen frequency. As particles gather on the filter, their mass will cause a change in oscillation, which is then converted into a µg/m³ measurement.
TEOM’s are a highly regarded tool, ideal for environments where:
Continous, accurate measurement is required
Dust loads are high
Rapid feedback is needed.
Why Use BAM or TEOM?
Whether it be a BAM or a TEOM, using a real time air particulate monitor offers significant benefits when managing dust on site:
Continuous real-time data: You receive immediate feedback on airborne particulate levels
Supports proactive dust management: Your team can adjust work practices in response to rising (or falling) dust levels
Compliance reporting: The data will assist you in attaining various certifications and clearances
BAM or TEOM: Which Should You Choose?
BAMs and TEOMs are used for different tasks and what you choose will depend on your monitoring objective.
Application | Recommended Instrument |
|---|---|
Regulatory compliance (AS 3580) | BAM |
Community complaint response | BAM or TEOM |
High dust environments (quarries, mines) | TEOM |
Long-term background monitoring | BAM |
Rapid feedback for site management | TEOM |
In many cases, BAMs and TEOMs can be used in the same dust monitoring system – providing both a regulatory record and detailed operational data to support site management.
How the ENVSS Team Uses BAMs and TEOMs
Using these real time dust monitors, we provide an end-to-end service that keeps your site operating safely and compliantly. We offer:
Deployment of calibrated BAM or TEOM units, installed in line with AS 3580.9.11
Regular servicing, filter changes calibration checks
Data is instantly available in our remote monitoring platform, with real-time alerts via SMS or email
Assistance with site-specific dust management plans and complaint response
Contact ENVSS for Dust Measurement Equipment with Clear, Actionable Data
The BAM and TEOM are some of the most popular dust monitoring tools in Australia, and it’s not without reason. Whether its for compliance, management or community confidence, they provide the robust and reliable data that keeps your site moving.
At ENVSS, we can assist you in choosing the right monitoring solution for your site. In addition to BAMs and TEOMs, we stock a wide range of dust measurement equipment including Dust Deposition Gauges.
If you would like or request a quote or discuss dust monitoring requirements on your site, contact ENVSS at (08) 9355 4010 or [email protected].
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