Changeovers compress activity into a short window where guards come off, product changes, and cleaning happens fast. That combination can drive dust into the air and across lines. A simple, repeatable plan protects quality and keeps you within COSHH expectations.

Sequence to avoid plumes

Pre-vacuum external surfaces before opening. Remove empty containers and waste first, then clean, then introduce new materials. Keep a vacuum nozzle at the point of opening, and bag parts as they come off. Prohibit sweeping and compressed air throughout.

Temporary containment and airflow

Use soft barriers or curtains to form a mini-zone around the line. Establish directional airflow with a portable air scrubber so air moves from adjacent clean areas into the zone and through filtration. Check placement and keep focus on airflow under load rather than free-air numbers. A compact unit such as MAXVAC Dustblockers can maintain local control when set close to the task and exhausted to a safe area.

Targeted cleaning, not general disturbance

Focus only on surfaces that affect the next run. Vacuum first, then damp wipe. Empty or change filters and bags outside the zone where possible. Keep tool-mounted extraction on for quick abrasive tasks like deburring.

Readiness check before restart

Do a final vacuum of touchpoints and the floor, let the air cleaner run for a short settling period, then confirm with a quick particulate check. If levels trend high, pause, re-vacuum and extend air cleaning before you remove barriers.

Practical takeaways

• Pre-clean exteriors and remove waste before opening the line.
• Create a mini containment zone with directed airflow.
• Control with H-Class vacuums and H14 where respirable dusts may be present.
• Clean what matters; avoid unnecessary disturbance.
• Verify with a PM spot check before restart.

Disciplined sequencing, local airflow control and targeted housekeeping turn changeovers from a dusty rush into a controlled, low-risk transition.