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Vacuuming: The necessary first step in floor cleaning
Every aspect of how we clean our public spaces is getting a closer look. Technological advancements in cleaning machines have made it possible for your cleaning crews to be even more efficient in their work.
Looking forward, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has focused our attention on the importance of cleanliness and hygiene practices in our daily lives. Every surface we touch could carry harmful germs that potentially make people sick.
Additionally, adjacent surfaces like floors also carry germs that migrate to other surfaces. That’s why cleaning floors in addition to high-touch areas is so important. And the first step in cleaning and disinfecting both hard and soft floor surfaces is vacuuming.
This article aims to help you better understand what features to look for in a vacuum cleaner, and how to carry out best practices for vacuuming public and large spaces safely and effectively.
Tips & Tricks guide
Preventing health and safety risks with vacuuming
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What to look for in a vacuum cleaner
Effectively removing dirt from your floors so that disinfection can take place requires a high-quality industrial or commercial-grade vacuum cleaner. Here are several features to look for:
1. Powerful dirt removal
Soil removal efficiency is the most important measure of a vacuum’s performance. Thorough cleaning and disinfection can only be successful if all the dirt is removed first.
2. HEPA filtration or ULPA filtration
The type of filtration system used is largely dependent upon the environment you wish to clean. In industrial plants, ULPA filtration is often specified, while HEPA filtration is typically sufficient for institutional and commercial facilities. To be considered certified HEPA, a filter must be individually tested and verified. HEPA filters that have gone through this process are known as true HEPA. There are also many filters on the market labeled HEPA-type, HEPA-like, or something similar – these filters have not been individually tested or verified, so their efficiency can’t be guaranteed. We recommend that you look for filters labelled H13, H14 or U15.
3. A bagged vacuum
Vacuums come in bagged and bagless varieties. A vacuum with a dust bag will help
ensure the particles you collect are retained. With a bagless vacuum, there is more of a risk that the particles will be re-released into the air while emptying.
4. Effective edge cleaning
Edge cleaning is important for complete coverage. Ineffective vacuums and improper
end tools will not only make it difficult for the disinfectant to do its job, but also leave a gray, dusty edge along your walls.
5. Appropriate dust class rating
Special safety vacuum cleaners (dust extractors) for the Building & Construction
and Industrial industries for handling hazardous dust are divided into three classes of use: Class L for moderate-risk dust, Class M for medium-risk dust, and Class H for high-risk dust. If your environment contains hazardous dust, make sure to choose a vacuum rated for the appropriate dust class.
6. The right style for your job
Vacuums come in a lot of shapes and sizes – upright, backpack, canister, etc. Each
is designed for a specific task, so make sure to select equipment that matches your application.
Recommended commercial vacuums
High-quality commercial vacuums featuring HEPA filtration and secondary containment options, like high-efficiency dust bags, are an important tool for contractors and small business operators who may be working in an environment where there is cause for concern. As in institutional or industrial scenarios, using PPE and heeding local guidelines are necessary to improve the level of safety for users.
Recommended light industrial vacuums
Smaller industrial vacuums are readily available with HEPA and, sometimes, ULPA filters. Following all precautions recommended for handling health hazardous dust, including but not limited to PPE and adhering to the manufacturer’s operating instructions, is essential when cleaning in advance of disinfecting an area.
VHS 42 30L
Powerful and safe dust 40L extractor for H-class hazardous dust
- H class extractor for the collection of high-risk dusts
- Dual filter option that includes a washable PTFE long-life filter and certified HEPA
- InfiniClean automatic filter cleaning system
VHS 42 40L
Powerful and safe dust 40L extractor for H-class hazardous dust
- H class extractor for the collection of high-risk dusts
- Dual filter option that includes a washable PTFE long-life filter and certified HEPA
- InfiniClean automatic filter cleaning system
Recommended industrial vacuums
Industrial vacuums are available with HEPA and, in some cases, ULPA filters to prevent the discharge of extremely fine dust. When combined with dust bags or other secondary containment, these filters will greatly reduce – but not fully eliminate – the risk of exposure to the collected debris. In all cases, PPE and strict adherence with local guidelines should be the standard for use.
The single phase combustible dust vacuum cleaner, certified for use in Atex Z22 locations.
- Anti-static star filter with PullClean system and optional HEPA14/ULPA15 upstream filter
- Brushless motor ensures continuous, high performance
- Stainless steel construction and wide range of anti-static accessories
Vacuum cleaning
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To learn more about our vacuum cleaning solutions please click below to learn more.
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