Benefits of H class vacuum cleaners

The key benefits of H class vacuum cleaners are they reduce the disruption of dust when cleaning up hazardous materials on-site, which in turn reduces the exposure of workers to inhalation of dangerous particles. Allows for the safe disposal of these materials without the risk to construction workers.

What are H class vacuum cleaners?

H class vacuum cleaners have been specifically designed for the safer clean-up of hazardous materials and are fitted with high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters which remove hazardous particles down to at least 0.3 microns. 

Are there different types of H class vacuum cleaners?

Yes, there are 2 different types of h class vacuum cleaners, one being a standard h class vacuum cleaner which is fitted with a HEPA pre-filter and collets the dust into a dust bag. These need still need to be used within an enclosure when handling substances such as asbestos. The second is a SafeChange, this lightweight model is also fitted with a HEPA filter and collects the hazardous particles in a sealed pod which can be disposed of safely without being in a controlled environment. 

Do you still need to wear respiratory protective equipment (RPE) when using an H class vacuum?

It is important to wear RPE such as a mask when working or cleaning up on any construction site, and especially with a standard h class vacuum cleaner, as workers should still be within an enclosure or controlled environment.

Considerations when hiring or buying a H class vacuum cleaner?

British Standards

Only hire or buy H class vacuum cleaners that have to conform to BS 8520-3:2009 as this is a legal requirement. This is important even if it is for other construction work as it ensures the highest levels of safety.

Servicing

Ensure that the H class vacuum cleaner has an up to date service or examination certificate. These should be done on a regular basis, at least once every 6 months. A good supplier should check these over after every hire to ensure they are in good working order and not damaged in a way that would make them unsafe.

H class vacuum cleaners are not just beneficial for when working with hazardous materials such as asbestos but any type of industrial cleaning where there is the risk of exposure to dust particles which should not be inhaled. A product that could be more widely adopted by the construction industry as a whole when cleaning up after drilling, grinding, sanding etc., on-site. 

It is important to note that standard vacuum cleaners with high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters should not be used when working with asbestos. Beacon stock a wide range of Numatic and SafeChange H class vacuum cleaners in different sizes depending on your requirements. Buy or Hire options are available. H class vacuum cleaners also require regular servicing to ensure they remain safe to use and maintain optimum performance. We have an experienced team to carry out this routine maintenance. Contact Us.