Aerosol Physics Laboratory assessed air quality impacts of the Tammela School demolition site
Measurements conducted by the Aerosol Physics Laboratory, together with sample analyses performed by the Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, brought scientific evidence into the public discussion. The results showed that the demolition work did not cause significant exposure to harmful substances outside the construction site. Concentrations of asbestos fibers and respirable dust in the alveolar size fraction remained below detection limits at all sampling locations, while quartz concentrations were only a fraction of occupational exposure limit values. Immediately adjacent to the demolition site on Väinölänkatu, concentrations of inhalable particles (PM10) occasionally increased substantially depending on demolition phases and local wind conditions. However, during work breaks and in the evening and nighttime hours, concentrations returned to typical background levels.
In addition, the laboratory’s analysis indicated that the water cannon used at the site did not provide a clear benefit in reducing particle concentrations during the demolition of the tall school building. The findings provide research-based evidence for the City of Tampere and contractors to support the development of dust control measures in future demolition projects.
More detailed results from the measurements and analyses are available in the research report attached to the City of Tampere’s press release.
Related News Coverage:
City of Tampere Press Release (10 November 2026): Demolition of Tammela School did not cause significant harmful exposure outside the construction site (only available in Finnish)
https://www.tampere.fi/ajankohtaista/2026/11/10/tammelan-koulun-purku-ei-aiheuttanut-merkittavaa-haitallista
Aamulehti (10 November 2026): City: The water cannon used during the demolition of Tammela School provided no clear benefit (only available in Finnish) https://www.aamulehti.fi/tampere/art-2000012400623.html
Yle News (10 November 2026): City of Tampere study: Demolition of Tammela School reduced air quality (only available in Finnish) https://yle.fi/a/74-20256030
