A recurring challenge in industrial areas and healthcare facilities is dust. Unfortunately, dust containment is one of the most overlooked factors during renovations and remodelling. It is essential for the occupant’s health and safety and the workers involved in dust containment projects.

Exposure to circulating dust can be a dangerous hazard and also unhygienic. Respiratory illnesses are the most common consequence of exposure to harmful dust particles. Places with high particle pollution must have a dust containment unit or system installed for everyone’s safety.

Let’s flesh out why dust containment is necessary and the benefits associated with it. Read on to learn more!

What is Dust containment?

It’s a simple term to describe the process of containing dust and debris traveling from a construction or renovation area to other sensitive parts of the building. Dust containment is also prominent in healthcare facilities, pharmaceutical laboratories, and different high-risk environments. Dust containment and abatement mitigate the multiple risks of dust exposure and protect the electronics and furniture from damage.

You must be wondering which contaminants can be controlled and contained using containment units. Since bacteria, viruses, mold, and other infectious particles travel via air, we can stop these foreign agents from making potential contact with humans.

Another thing to remember is that dust containment units are often used in conjunction with other dust control devices. An example would be negative air machines which provide negative air pressure. The hazardous air is sucked inside the machine and filtered out into the environment.

How to figure out if a facility requires dust containment?

• Dust particles are mainly invisible to the naked eye, which does not make them less harmful. However, sometimes when a ton of dust is gathered in the surrounding environment, you can see and smell the dust. Often, people observe smoke and fog in their proximity; this indicates that the space requires proper dust extraction.

• Check your HVAC systems to know if the heating and cooling vents are working in optimal condition. When a building is filled with dust and debris, the ducts are continually clogged, which causes higher bills and maintenance issues.

• If there is an increase in dust build up, you can notice a thick layer of dust formed on equipment and machinery.

The Art of Dust containment

• We know the primary goal for dust control is preventing airborne diseases from transmission. The air surrounding us contains hazardous particles, dust, and debris that threaten our health. Dust contains dormant and live particles; some are unharmful, like dust mites, while some are harmful, such as bacteria. Infection control remains the most crucial aspect of dust containment, especially in hospitals, to prevent the spread of hospital-acquired infections (HAIs). Patients with suppressed immune systems are at a higher risk of illnesses and must be protected using appropriate measures.

• We covered how dust containment helps protect the furniture and electronics. It’s surprising how many electronics are susceptible to dust accumulation. Dust can threaten the vast information and data stored in the files in the long run. It can lead to slower computers and even malfunctioning ones. Permanent dust containment units are probably the most suitable for such a location.

• Employee and client safety is the top priority in any situation. When the air quality is poor, people suffer. Having well-maintained and effective dust control measures in place will ensure that your workers are happy as well as customers. This is needed when working with a vulnerable population and during COVID-19, such as in hospitals.

• Dust containment can help you comply with safety regulations and guidelines. Many building projects need dust extraction to ensure safety from viruses and airborne ailments. The correct dust containment unit can help you keep your crew safe and comply with workplace health and safety guidelines.

Mintie’s Dust containment Units

Before building owners commence a remodelling project, ensure a dust control system is in place. With the correct strategy, you can avoid expensive clean up later and keep the occupants safe.

Mobile contaminants units are stand-alone pieces that are easily collapsible and conveniently moved from place to place. In addition, Mintie offers several dust containment products for small and huge companies alike; these can improve the overall air quality by removing contaminants.