jackson thomas, Author at Abatement Technologies®

Managing Mould Issues Following Hurricanes

There is no denying the initial impact of a hurricane can be devastating, leaving communities to piece together their lives, homes, and communities. Fallen trees, scattered debris, and structural damage are to be expected. However, we often do not consider the implications of post-hurricane water damage and consequential mould growth.

Hurricanes can bring flooding and leave standing water. This moisture can cause mould to grow in as little as 24 to 48 hours. Because mould is microscopic and releases spores into the air, it can become a major issue when inhaled. While moulds are essential to the environment, some can cause major destruction and grow rapidly on organic surfaces and can be hazardous to humans who are exposed to them.

Thankfully Abatement Technologies offers several solutions to help make mould remediation a more efficient and effective process.

Temporary Wall Systems

Temporary containment wall systems, like our SHIELD WALL™ solution, are designed to contain airborne contaminants during construction and renovation projects. Their modular design allows contractors to expand and adjust the walls to incorporate additional areas as the job progresses. The walls can be easily decontaminated and stored once taken down, ready for reuse with a variety of projects down the road.

Portable Air Scrubbers

Portable Air Scrubbers are essential for negative pressure–a strategy for controlling the amount of air in a room to ensure contaminants can’t escape to adjacent areas. Working in tandem with temporary wall systems, air scrubbers create a filter which removes contaminated air within the sealed containment area. Contaminated air passes through multiple stages of filtration to trap particles such as mold spores. Utilizing High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters allows remediation specialists to capture 99.97% of particulates measuring 0.3 microns in size, contributing to cleaner air.

Partnering in Mould Remediation

Mould can grow quickly after extended periods of increased moisture and make cleaning up after a hurricane more challenging. Choosing the right partner to help with mold remediation can make the process easier. The Abatement Technologies team of Aire Guardians specialize in getting the right products to remediation contractors quickly, helping to make cleaning up after a natural disaster more efficient. Our cost-effective solutions, expansive inventory, and speedy shipping make Abatement Technologies the ideal partner to help contractors with post-hurricane cleanup.

Renting vs. Buying Temporary Containment Walls

The world of construction and design is always advancing as innovative, cost effective, and sustainable solutions are introduced into the marketplace. Temporary modular containment walls are the perfect example of this. Modular containment walls—like our SHIELD WALL™ system—are a versatile and adaptable alternative to traditional drywall and poly sheeting containment methods.

Temporary modular containment walls offer a variety of benefits to commercial construction and renovation projects, from an aesthetically pleasing appearance to a more efficient set-up. Modular containment systems can be installed significantly faster than traditional methods, saving time and reducing labor costs. These reusable walls are constructed with eco-friendly materials, meaning less waste and faster cleanup at the end of a project.

The flexibility, speed, and cost effectiveness of temporary modular wall systems have redefined the way contactors contain dust and other airborne pathogens during construction. From hospital construction to office space renovations and many other projects, and whether buying or renting, temporary modular wall systems provide a practical and sustainable alternative to older containment methods. While purchasing the walls is an excellent multi-use solution, renting can also be an attractive option.

Renting Modular Containment Walls

Though the upfront cost of modular containment systems may seem comparable to traditional methods, time and labor savings in addition to reusability make them the most cost-effective solution. In fact, our SHIELD WALL™ containment walls can pay for themselves in as few as two or three uses, depending on the scope of the project. Purchasing modular containment walls outright is an easy decision for some while others, especially those with short-term projects, or those who do not have the storage space between jobs, may benefit from using a rental service that provides the containment walls alongside a quick installation and teardown service.

Renting the walls can reduce the initial investment, which is helpful when you're looking to control costs while still reaping the benefits of modular containment solutions. For some companies, the expense of renting may fall under a different budgetary spend, making it easier for approvals. Renting also allows contractors to try the modular walls before purchasing to assess how they will work in different spaces and help make decisions about whether they’re a good long-term investment.

For some, purchasing modular containment walls outright is the best option, but those with short-term projects may benefit more from leasing or renting the walls. Companies can work with a knowledgeable team of experts to help determine what will work best for their project. These experts may ask key questions, such as:

How many projects do you have that require containment?
Do you have space to store modular walls between projects?
What is the length of time between the start and finish of a project?
Do you have the staffing to install and maintain the walls?

While purchasing the walls is an excellent long-term solution, renting can also be an attractive option. And, with a knowledgeable team of IAQ experts on staff, Abatement Technologies’ consultants can help guide you through the selection process and help determine if renting is the best financial route for your needs.

Blog #5 – DUCT-PRO®: Cleaning the Return

Abatement Technologies® is the industry leader in quality duct cleaning solutions. Our high-performance DUCT-PRO® packages utilize HEPA-AIRE® equipment to clean HVAC duct systems faster and more efficiently than other methods. Abatement Technologies’ equipment uses our exclusive source removal duct cleaning process, meaning our equipment captures dirt and debris to provide complete air duct cleaning and decontamination. Our source removal duct cleaning process is designed to work with the tools and procedures professional duct cleaners need to follow the NADCA recommended steps for cleaning air duct systems effectively.

We have created a blog series based on our official DUCT-PRO® training videos to guide users through the proper DUCT-PRO® processes and procedures. In our last post, we covered the proper steps for agitation to remove debris and dirt from the ductwork. Here we’ll cover the procedure for cleaning the return.

Attaching the Vacuum

Check the power vacuum filters after the supply system has been cleaned and clean or replace them if necessary. It’s also a good idea to check the moisture filter and drain it if needed. After examining these areas inspect the ductwork and furnace layout to determine the best locations for hookups. Taking the time to complete this step now will save time later in the process.

To attach the vacuum, the duct cleaning professional will cut a hole in the return plenum on the upstream side of the filter and then attach the quick connect collar. The filter should be removed if it is upstream from the vacuum hose. Then the zone bag can be put in the main duct above the coil, preventing air from being pulled through the previously cleaned supply side of the system.

Cleaning the Return

The return duct system should be cleaned using the same procedures that were used on the supply side. Duct cleaning pros should keep in mind that return systems are typically much dirtier than the supply side and require more brushing and air sweeping. It’s important to properly clean the equipment after use. Place the air hose from the power vacuum in the blower compartment and air wash the blower compartment with the DUCT-PRO® air booster gun when all the duct work has been completely cleaned.

Sanitizing can begin once the return is clean, it’s important to read the label and follow the manufacturer’s directions accurately before using any sanitizer. Be certain the product has an EPA registration for its intended purpose, follow the manufacturer’s recommendations regarding personal protective equipment (PPE), and ensure all grills and registers are covered before sanitizing. Adding a drop cloth around the work area to prevent damage to the flooring surfaces is also a good idea.

Air Duct Sanitizing

These instructions are for non-porous duct systems. Due to the porosity of the material, there are no sanitizers with EPA registration for use in porous ductwork such as duct board or lined duct.

The sanitization process is generally conducted using a ULV fogger which produces a variable flow from light fog to a heavy mist, adjusted at the nozzle. The correct output is a mist that will quickly wet the entire surface without creating puddles.

A good practice is to fog the branch runs with slight negative pressure in the duct system. This not only helps pull the fog through the ductwork but also helps to prevent the sanitizer from entering the room, and can be accomplished by attaching the vacuum to the original hookup point. If the duct system is small, adjust the airflow of the DUCT-PRO® HEPA-AIRE® vacuum for better coverage before fogging. Allow all surfaces to dry before restarting the air handler.

Want to learn more about our DUCT-PRO® equipment and packages? Click here - https://abatement.ca/duct-cleaning-process/

Blog #4 – DUCT-PRO®: Agitation

Abatement Technologies® is the industry leader in quality duct cleaning solutions. Our DUCT-PRO® source removal cleaning packages utilize our HEPA-AIRE® equipment to clean HVAC duct systems faster and more efficiently than other methods. Abatement Technologies’ equipment uses our exclusive source removal duct cleaning process to capture dirt and debris and provide complete air duct cleaning and decontamination.

Our source removal duct cleaning process is designed to work with the tools and procedures professional duct cleaners need to follow the NADCA recommended steps for cleaning air duct systems effectively. We have created a blog series based on our official DUCT-PRO® training videos to guide users through duct cleaning processes and ensure the equipment is used properly and efficiently. We’ve looked at the methods for duct cleaning and air sweeping in our previous posts.
In this installment, we’ll cover agitation—a process for dislodging the extreme buildup of debris prior to air sweeping.

Methods for Agitation

Manual brushes or whips with add-on rods are some of the most used tools and methods for agitation. The procedure is similar to chimney sweeping, with the brushes swept horizontally instead of vertically. The DUCT-PRO® power rod system is used with compressed air and has lengths of connected rods with three different flexibilities. Each rod has a special fitting that connects to various whip heads.

The DUCT-PRO® power brush system is a powerful method of agitation in large ducts and for commercial applications. This system is driven by its own power source and enables the use of both compressed air and brushes for optimal performance. The remote-control setting allows cleaners to
operate the compressed air, rotation, and speed functions. The brushes can be turned both clockwise and counterclockwise to clean both sides and bottom corners.

There are many advantages to the system, including brushes of different sizes and bristle stiffness designed for various duct types. The softer brushes should be used for inline duct and duct board and stiffer bristles for metal. It is important to do a thorough examination prior to cleaning to determine the condition of the ductwork. The DUCT-PRO® power brush system offers contractors the unique capability to use both forward and reverse compressed air, allowing cleaners to brush and air sweep at the same time. Power brushing eliminates the need for an extra access hole and speeds up the cleaning process while producing excellent results. We’ll explore the proper steps for cleaning the return side of the ductwork in our next blog.

Want to learn more about our DUCT-PRO® equipment and packages? Click here - https://abatement.ca/duct-cleaning-process/

Blog Series #2 – DUCT-PRO®: Cleaning the Supply

Abatement Technologies® is leading the duct cleaning industry with our quality equipment and innovative solutions. Our DUCT-PRO® source removal duct cleaning packages provide the tools professional duct cleaners need to follow the NADCA recommended steps for cleaning air duct systems effectively.

Our DUCT-PRO® cleaning process has been designed to create new business opportunities for contractors. It is faster and more efficient than other solutions on the market, and our customizable duct cleaning packages can accommodate each contractor’s unique requirements. We have developed a process to ensure duct cleaners select the right package for their needs and can customize everything from the vacuum to the AIRE-SWEEP® portable air compressor, agitation devices, and accessories.

It’s important to understand the role each piece of equipment plays in the process to ensure their efficiency and proper use. Our team of Aire Guardians at Abatement Technologies have® created a video series to provide users with the information needed to clean HVAC duct systems quickly and efficiently, leading to a profitable indoor air quality business.

To accompany the training videos, we’ve created a blog series to help break down the steps and process for using DUCT-PRO®. In our last post, we covered the proper protective equipment and prep work needed to efficiently clean ducts. Here we'll discuss the proper steps for cleaning the supply side of the ductwork.

Steps for cleaning the supply

The duct cleaning professional will prepare to clean the supply side by cutting a 12-inch access hole. If cutting a 12-inch hole is not possible, the largest possible size should be cut, keeping in mind that the larger the hole, the better the airflow. If the duct is constructed with duct board instead of sheet metal, it's important to hold the hole cutter blade at a 45-degree angle (similar to cutting the top off of a pumpkin) to achieve a good fit when replacing the piece at the end of the project.

This access hole is typically cut into the plenum, as high above the coil as possible. Sometimes, the hole is cut into the main duct close to the plenum. It’s important to cut the hole high enough that the cutting doesn’t damage the coil. It’s a good idea to protect the coil by covering it with a tarp or piece of plastic to prevent debris from falling into it during the cleaning process.

Once the access holes are made, a quick connect adaptor is screwed over the holes using zip screws to hold it in place. The contractor will then use flexible ducting to attach the quick connect collar which will be held in place using the locking collar. Duct tape can be used in this step to attach the quick connection to the duct board.

The contractor should check all damper settings in the branches and main ducts before beginning the cleaning process to ensure they are all open. With the DUCT-PRO® power vacuum connected to the supply, the duct system can be turned on to create a strong airflow through its supply.

In our next post, we’ll share how to properly conduct the push method in duct cleaning.

Want to learn more about our DUCT-PRO® equipment and packages? Click here - https://abatement.ca/duct-cleaning-process/

Blog Series #1 – DUCT-PRO®: Preparing for the Job

Our source removal duct cleaning process is designed to work with the tools professional duct cleaners need to follow the NADCA recommended steps for cleaning air duct systems effectively. Abatement Technologies® DUCT-PRO® equipment is designed for contractors looking to expand their existing business. DUCT-PRO® enables professionals to offer duct cleaning as an add-on service, which can lead to more business opportunities and higher revenue.

It’s important to understand the role each piece of equipment plays in the process before starting a duct cleaning business. Our team of Aire Guardians at Abatement Technologies® has created a video series to provide users with the key information needed to safely start using DUCT-PRO®. We’ve created a blog series to accompany our training videos and help break down the process for using DUCT-PRO®. In this blog, we’ll discuss the proper accessories and equipment needed for the job as well as the necessary prep work for their optimal performance.

DUCT-PRO® Accessories & Equipment

We recommend beginning any duct-cleaning project with personal protective equipment (PPE) including safety glasses and respirators. Additional recommended PPE includes cut-resistant gloves and sleeves to reduce injuries when reaching through ductwork with sheet metal cutouts.

Once the proper PPE has been identified, it's time to identify which duct cleaning method is right for the job. Our DUCT-PRO® system uses the state-of-the-art source removal duct cleaning push/pull method. The “push” mechanism is achieved with high-velocity compressed air tools while the “pull” mechanism is accomplished by creating powerful airflow through the air conveyance system with the use of the HEPA-AIRE® portable vacuum included in the DUCT-PRO® package from Abatement Technologies®.

Duct Cleaning Prep Work

Next ensure the furnace, AC, and duct systems are turned off and will remain off for the duration of the project. It’s also good practice to turn off the air handling unit at the thermostat as well as the circuit breaker to prevent accidental startup. It’s important to be aware of, and adhere to, all local regulations regarding gas pilot lights and other utilities before beginning any project.

The duct cleaning professional should conduct a thorough inspection of the project site to identify any potential safety concerns and determine the layout of the ductwork once the systems have been turned off. During this process, the duct cleaning professional will examine the condition of the ductwork and determine the type of air handler used so they can develop a plan for hookup points and air sweeping procedures. It’s important to understand how to clean the supply and return duct networks to avoid pulling debris through the heat exchanger and coil. To separate the supply and return, simply pull out the furnace filter and insert an inflatable zone bag into the air handle to isolate the supply and block airflow.

Grill masking tape should be used to seal off the registers and increase airflow through the branch being cleaned. It’s important to keep the furthest two or three vents uncovered during this step to allow air into the ductwork to create airflow. The airflow will be inadequate for transferring debris to the power vacuum if all vents are covered.

Our DUCT-PRO® HEPA-AIRE® portable vacuums are designed to pull large volumes of debris through the duct system and filter all of the contaminants before exhausting clean air from the vacuum. For optimal performance, the vacuums should be placed as close to the furnace as possible.

When the filters become dirty, audio and visual alarm cues will signal that airflow has been reduced and it’s time to change them. Most operators prefer to change the HEPA filter every one to two years of use.

Check out our next blog post to learn more about duct cleaning with our DUCT-PRO® specialty tools!

Want to learn more about our DUCT-PRO® equipment and packages? Click here - https://abatement.ca/duct-cleaning-process/

7 Ways to Use SHIELD WALL™ for Temporary Containment

Temporary modular walls have grown in popularity in recent years as a reliable alternative to traditional solutions, like drywall and poly sheeting. Due to their reusability, flexibility, and cost savings, temporary wall systems are a great solution for a variety of projects.

At Abatement Technologies, our SHIELD WALL™ containment solution has been successful in a wide range of commercial construction projects–both inside and outside of healthcare. Here’s a quick look at some examples of how industry experts are leveraging SHIELD WALL™ temporary walls to protect people from airborne contaminants during construction in occupied settings.

Hospitals and Long-term Care Facilities

Infection control and reducing healthcare associated infections (HAI’s) has become a central concern in healthcare construction. In the US and Canada, code compliance is required in all healthcare facilities. Many regulations and standards require containment barriers, like our SHIELD WALL™ solution, to prevent pathogens from entering patient care areas. For a complete solution, SHIELD WALL™ is used in conjunction with our high-efficiency, HEPA-filtered portable air scrubbers, and monitoring equipment to effectively isolate, capture, and control airborne dust particles and pathogens. Additionally, SHIELD WALL™can be easily configurable to create anterooms and patient isolation rooms.

Schools

Schools and college/university campuses environments support a range of interests and activities for a large and diverse population. When construction or renovation needs arise, they often can’t be put off until a break or summer recess, requiring construction to occur in occupied spaces. During these projects, it’s important to minimize the disruption of construction noise and prioritize safety for all. Our SHIELD WALL™ temporary containment solution not only blends in with its surroundings, its superior sound attenuation significantly reduces noise to allow projects to move forward without disruptions.

Data Centers

Data centers are not only massive investments, they’re integral to the operations of many organizations. With various pieces of sensitive equipment and hardware, even the tiniest particle of dust can cause serious damage, risking the integrity of stored data. Because of this, it's important that a modular containment solution, like SHIELD WALL™, is used to prevent any damage to the equipment. And to further protect equipment, SHIELD WALL™ is used in conjunction with air filtration devices to keep the area pressurized and monitored, ensuring electronics are dust free for optimal performance.

Airports

Airports today have become more than just a center of transportation—they’ve become a hub of commerce and development. In fact, according to the FAA's Air Traffic Organization (ATO), approximately 2,900,000 passengers fly in and out of U.S. airports on any given day. And, to keep up with the traffic, airports are constantly undergoing renovation and construction. However, while construction is underway, navigating flight checkpoints and finding the right terminal can be challenging for even the most seasoned traveler, especially those unfamiliar with the terminal’s design. Simple signage and barriers can be confusing, and don’t always discourage people from entering.

With a containment solution, like SHIELD WALL™, airports can effectively conceal construction areas to appear as if it’s a regular wall within the airport. This eliminates potential confusion and helps travelers safely navigate around the construction site.

Malls

Modular wall systems in retail and mall construction is a practical way to keep the stores not involved in the project open to the public, without sacrificing the aesthetic of the store fronts. Instead of the traditional drywall with branded logos, temporary containment walls offer retailers a reusable option that doesn’t sacrifice the safety of shoppers. If branding the area under construction is required then custom graphics can be easily applied to the temporary walls letting shoppers know what’s “coming soon”.

Residential Buildings

When renovations are required in residential buildings, like apartment complexes and other multifamily housing, concealing the construction area is essential in protecting the safety of tenants. And, minimizing noise and disruptions is a valuable bonus. Our SHIELD WALL™ temporary containment solution not only effectively protects tenants from breathing in any potential harmful pathogens, its superior sound attenuation protects tenants from noise disruptions.

Office Spaces

Think outside of the box, or in this case, outside of the cubicle! During construction and renovations, it’s important to find a balance between getting the work done in an efficient manner without disrupting office production. As the central location for many companies, a productive work environment leads to successful operations. Because of this, it's crucial to maintain a quiet workplace throughout the duration of the project.

Additionally, SHIELD WALL™ is so flexible that it’s not just used for construction purposes. Many facilities have used the modular system to easily construct temporary cubicles for additional overflow work space.

A versatile solution for any industry

From malls to healthcare to multifamily housing, schools and office buildings, and even data centers, temporary containment wall systems are designed to protect. Our SHIELD WALL™ containment system is trusted by leading contractors across North America to protect people in occupied spaces from potential infections and disruptions of renovation.

Ready to learn more about how SHIELD WALL™ can help you get the job done? Contact us today!

Renting Smart with Abatement Technologies

Contractors looking to build their equipment inventory inevitably end up asking themselves – do I rent or buy this piece of equipment? Concerns like budget and storage constraints can make buying new equipment a burden. And, for the contractors who rarely use certain pieces of equipment, renting can be the most cost effective option.

But because of the nature of construction, it’s important that contractors have access to the equipment they need, when they need it. And because construction projects can be unpredictable, rental companies need to have a full inventory that is ready to ship out at a moment's notice.

Abatement Technologies: A One-Stop-Shop

For companies like Century Building Materials, having an equipment provider that operates with the same sense of urgency is a must. And, leveraging Abatement Technologies as a one-stop-shop for their rental equipment needs, Century Building Materials is able to single-source a wide range of equipment, cutting down on the time and effort needed when working with multiple vendors.

Abatement Technologies helps supply rental companies with equipment like:

Negative air machines
Portable air scrubbers
Monitoring equipment
Containment barriers
And more!

Meeting Renter Needs

By helping rental companies offer innovative products to renters, Abatement Technologies helps ensure renters are meeting industry standards and requirements. Specifically, in healthcare, it’s essential that contractors take the proper measures to protect patients. For some, this can mean updating practices and equipment.

For many years the materials needed to contain construction areas were disposable materials, like drywall and lumber. However, by renting a modular containment wall system, like SHIELD WALL™, the wall can be returned at the end of the project and rented repeatedly.

Around the Clock Customer Service

Abatement Technologies offers rental companies the support needed to provide high quality equipment to customers, at any time. And, with Abatement’s rapid order fulfillment capabilities, rental companies can ensure products are readily available for customers whenever and wherever they need them. With a knowledgeable staff on hand, Abatement Technologies offers a consultative approach to its customer service to find the right solution for each need.

Century Building Materials and Abatement Technologies - A Case Study

Want to learn more about how Abatement Technologies supports an equipment rental company? Click here to read about Century Building Materials’ partnership with Abatement Technologies to readily provide rental equipment to its customers.

Choosing the Right Containment Cart for the Job

When it comes to construction in critical environments, nothing is more important than safety. In fact, awareness of healthcare-related infections has grown over the last several decades and construction, especially when accessing a ceiling, in critical settings is now recognized as one of the causes of the airborne transmission of pathogens. Because of this, regulations were put in place to prevent the spread of pathogens when doing maintenance in a ceiling.

Containment Cart Requirements

Why use a containment cart? Because disturbing a single ceiling tile can release spores of environmental fungi. Contractors and healthcare facilities alike must exercise caution by following ceiling access regulations, detailed by the ASHE ICRA 2.0 matrix.

Further, the right containment cart has the ability to meet all industry standards and certifications. In order to stay compliant, equipment must be also able to meet the Joint Commission enforced CDC guidelines, which includes an assessment to evaluate a patient's risk of infection due to exposure from airborne microbes.

AIRE GUARDIAN® Containment Carts

At Abatement Technologies, each of our containment cart models are ICRA-compliant, so contractors can feel confident that they are purchasing the right equipment for each job. Abatement Technologies’ AIRE GUARDIAN® line-up consists of three different containment carts. While each cart has similar benefits, there are a few key differences.

AG8000: The AG8000 is the largest most rugged mobile containment cart offered in the AIRE GUARDIAN® series, and was specifically created for contractors or maintenance teams working on projects in healthcare facilities. With its unique upper header design, the AG8000 can safely support a worker on a ladder, ensuring OSHA compliance and extending height access for contractors as they work above ceiling tiles. With the AG8000, contractors can easily work in the plenum, above the ceiling deck. With an optional extension, contractors can work on more ceiling tiles at a time with wider coverage (5 sqft).

The AG8000 can be used in a variety of construction and maintenance activities, such as: ceiling tile replacement, electrical wiring installation, HVAC equipment, ductwork, and much more.

AG5000: The AG5000 was designed to be the perfect blend of durability and transportability. Since the cart is collapsible, it decreases the amount of storage needed between jobs, and makes it small enough to put in the bed of most standard size pickup trucks to move to and from the jobsite. Furthermore, due to the increased transportability of the AG5000, contractors have the flexibility to use the containment cart in job sites other than a hospital setting.

Similar to the AG8000, the AG5000 is another hard-sided containment cart option. Not only are hard-sided containment carts more aesthetically pleasing, but they are also more durable and long lasting. Additionally, the hard-sided surface can comply with more hospital requirements.

AG3000: The soft-sided AG3000 is a great economic containment cart option. Because of this lower price, customers frequently purchase this model in bulk to add to their fleets. This model is smaller than both the AG8000 and AG5000, which makes it even easier to transport. Additionally, this containment cart’s easy assembly and disassembly means it only requires one worker, which can cut down on labor costs.

Contain, Pressurize, Monitor

When containment carts are used in conjunction with portable air scrubbers, a workspace can become a fortress under negative pressure. Negative pressure confines the harmful dust particles to the construction area, further ensuring that patient occupied spaces are not infiltrated. And, by leveraging a room pressure monitor, an optional accessory for each of Abatement Technologies’ containment cart models, contractors can ensure that the space remains under negative pressure for the duration of the project - preventing dust particles from escaping beyond the containment cart.

Our Aire Guardians at Abatement Technologies specialize in assisting with dust control (ICRA) requirements for healthcare construction and renovation and can assist you in making the best product selections customized for the needs of your project.

Ready to learn more about Abatement Technologies’ containment cart solutions? Contact us today!

Key Tools for Mold Remediation and Air Quality

While moulds are an important part of the environment, its growth indoors can cause serious health problems. Unexpected events, like leaks from pipes and flooding from storms, can create standing water, which allows mould to grow in just 24 to 48 hours. Because of its fast spread, mold can be nearly impossible to prevent. That’s why it's important to focus on controlling its path—in the safest possible way.

Remediation specialists need the tools to not only keep themselves safe, but also the people in surrounding areas. With the proper protective equipment and the necessary tools, contractors are able to meet standards and safety regulations to effectively protect against infections and mould induced reactions.

Here are key tools remediation specialists will need to get the job done safely:

Personal Protective Equipment

Contractors rely on personal protective equipment (PPE), like respirators, gloves, and fitted goggles combined with high-efficiency particulate absorbing (HEPA) filters, cleaners, wet vacuums, and disinfectants to effectively and safely remediate mould.

Beyond PPE, contractors also need to take additional steps to contain harmful particulates and protect air quality. Taught by various organizations, like the IICRC, industry training and best practices often involve the following products: reusable containment barriers and negative air machines.

Reusable containment barriers

To protect others in and around the affected area, it’s important to isolate the contaminated area by closing off HVAC grills, sealing off cracks and crevices, and setting up containment barriers.

Traditional containment has been done by using poly sheeting and drywall with insulation. But, these materials are not reusable and are often disposed of at the end of the project. With the rising cost of construction-related materials and the huge labor shortages, companies are turning to reusable containment barriers, like our SHIELD WALL™ solution. It’s quick and easy to install and can be used over and over again.

By combining the containment walls with air filtration devices and a differential pressure monitor, remediation experts can create a negative pressure environment within the contained area for a complete containment solution.

Portable HEPA Filtration System

Portable air scrubbers—or negative air machines—are used in conjunction with containment to remove contaminated air from a sealed containment area through ductwork. The filtered air is exhausted outside of the contained area, creating negative air pressure inside.

There are several varieties of air filtration devices available on the market today, but it’s important to know which device is the most effective option. The best choices are units equipped with true HEPA filters. A true HEPA filter can capture 99.97% of 0.3-micron particulates, including mold spores, dust, and other allergens, and an even higher percentage of larger particles.

At Abatement Technologies, our PRED750 can be used alone or in conjunction with central air filtration to effectively remove harmful particles from the air. The portable air scrubber is equipped with a high-efficiency HEPA filter and is the most mobile HEPA filtration device in its class.

Want to learn more about Mould & Indoor Air Quality?

In our recent white paper “Mould & Indoor Air Quality: An Abatement Technologies White Paper,” we discuss:
1. How mould grows
2. The effects it can have on our health
3. Steps and standards for mould remediation
4. And the tools needed for the job

Download the white paper here.