Different trades face different dust risks, but the selection logic is consistent: assess the material, the process, and the environment. Use M Class as the baseline for construction dust, escalate to H Class where substances or settings are high risk, and verify performance under load. This simple guide maps typical choices by trade and turns them into actions you can brief to your team.

Carpentry and joinery

Softwood and hardwood dusts need M Class as standard. Fit tool shrouds on sanders, routers and saws, keep hoses short and anti-static, and vacuum housekeeping dust with M Class. In workshops, add H13–H14 room filtration to reduce background levels.

Masonry, tiling and concrete

Cement, brick and tile cutting produce RCS. Use M Class at source with well-fitted shrouds; favour water suppression outdoors. Indoors or on prolonged dry work, add H14 air scrubbing or consider H Class extraction where risk is high.

Drylining and plaster

Gypsum dust is lower hazard but still respirable. Use M Class extraction on sanders and maintain filters to keep airflow steady. Never sweep; vacuum and seal bags before disposal.

Decorating and refurbishment

Assume unknowns until proven otherwise. Lead paint removal requires H Class, containment, and controlled waste handling. For adhesive/grout removal, M Class at source plus housekeeping is usually suitable. Stop work if you suspect asbestos and follow the correct procedures.

Facilities and maintenance

For routine building dust, M Class vacuums keep areas clean without re-agitating particulate. For biohazard or sensitive healthcare settings, specify H Class with H14 room filtration and strict decontamination protocols.

MAXVAC offers trade-focused extraction and air filtration options that can be combined to match these scenarios without overcomplicating site logistics.

How to stay compliant

• Write a COSHH assessment that names the dust, the control measures, and who checks them.
• Prove airflow under load and record maintenance of filters, hoses and gaskets.
• Use a particulate monitor for spot checks in enclosed areas.
• Train workers in tool technique, bag sealing, and no-sweep housekeeping.

Practical takeaways

• M Class is the default across most trades; step up to H Class for high-risk dusts or sensitive environments.
• Layer controls: capture at source, manage the air, then clean surfaces.
• Keep evidence: checks, training, and maintenance logs support COSHH.

Pick the class your materials and setting demand, then run the controls well. That is how you keep exposures down and projects moving.