Equipment
HEPA filter
HEPA filter, short for high efficiency particulate air, traps at least 99.97 percent of particles 0.3 microns wide, so crews use it in vacuums and air machines to capture fine dust, fibers and spores.
HEPA is a standard, not a brand. The name stands for high efficiency particulate air. EPA explains that this type of filter can theoretically remove at least 99.97 percent of dust, pollen, mold, bacteria and other airborne particles that are 0.3 microns wide.
OSHA's asbestos rule uses the same number in its own definition and requires vacuums with HEPA filters to collect dust and debris that contain asbestos. Ordinary shop vacuums and household filters do not meet it. They can blow fine fibers back into the room.
On a job site, HEPA filters sit in two main places. One is the handheld vacuum used to clean surfaces. The other is the exhaust of a negative air machine.
Ask your contractor to confirm that both are HEPA rated. Never use your own vacuum to clean up suspected asbestos or lead dust. For jobs with mold, the same equipment helps keep spores inside the containment area.
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