Set builds and venue refits generate airborne particulate from MDF cutting, scenic sanding, polystyrene carving and rigging works at height. Dust threatens crew health, optics and audio equipment, and can delay continuity-sensitive shoots. Quiet, targeted controls protect people and production schedules.

Capture at source

Fit on-tool extraction to saws, routers and sanders used on MDF and plywood; maintain sharp cutters and slower feeds to reduce breakout and dust. For polystyrene, use local capture at hot-wire stations and collect beads before they migrate. Pre-cut materials off-stage in a designated zone with dedicated extraction and waste handling. Where drilling into concrete or masonry, use shrouded drills and vacuums to limit silica (RCS) exposure; wood dust WELs also apply under HSE guidance.

Control in the air

Deploy air scrubbers with HEPA (H14 recommended for fine particulate) and position them to pull air away from cameras, lights and audience seating. Select variable-speed units to keep noise low during rehearsals; compact scrubbers from MAXVAC are often used for quiet overnight recirculation or to maintain negative pressure in build zones. Protect return-air grilles with temporary prefilters during heavy works and remove them before showtime.

Housekeeping without re-agitation

Avoid sweeping. Use H-class industrial vacuums with anti-static hoses to prevent static shocks near sensitive kit. Clean from high to low (grids, catwalks, truss) then floors. Install tack mats and boot-brushes at stage entries to stop tracking. Bag waste immediately, especially foam offcuts and fine sanding dust that redisperse easily.

People, timing and monitoring

Schedule dusty work in blocks, followed by an air-scrub period before technical rehearsals. Provide FFP3 RPE for sanding, routing and masonry drilling. Keep a small PM meter off-camera to confirm air is clearing between takes and to trigger filter maintenance.

Practical takeaways

• Zone and extract at the tool; pre-cut off-stage where possible.
• Use quiet HEPA air scrubbers; maintain negative air in build zones.
• Vacuum only; add tack mats and anti-static hoses.
• Sequence dust then scrub time to protect gear and continuity.
• Check PM levels to validate clean-down before audience access.

A disciplined approach keeps air clear, equipment safe and productions on schedule.