Renovating live healthcare spaces demands strict dust control to protect patients and maintain infection prevention standards. The approach is simple: contain the work, maintain pressure, filter the air and clean without re-suspending dust.

Plan containment before tools start

• Define the work zone and access routes; use rigid barriers and sealed doors. Temporary systems such as ZipWall can help establish airtight partitions quickly.
• Seal penetrations, edges and above-ceiling voids to prevent bypass paths.
• Schedule high-dust tasks for low-traffic periods and coordinate with estates and infection control.

Pressure and airflow

• Maintain negative pressure in the work zone relative to adjacent areas. Keep one dedicated make-up air path to stabilise flow.
• Use air scrubbers with HEPA; when controlling respirable nuisance and fine particulates, select H14 to align with healthcare expectations.
• Measure pressure with a simple manometer and check readings during shift changes and after filter maintenance.

Clean building methods

• Prefer tool-mounted extraction and low-dust techniques (score-and-snap, slower cutting speeds). Avoid sweeping and compressed air.
• Use industrial vacuums with H-Class filtration for fine dusts. Wipe surfaces damp, then vacuum again to finish.

Filtration and maintenance

• Place air cleaners to create a clear air pathway: pull from the dust source towards the extraction unit, then exhaust away from sensitive areas.
• Check airflow under load; filter loading will reduce m³/h. Replace pre-filters proactively to protect final HEPA elements.
• Equipment such as the MAXVAC Dustblocker can provide continuous air filtration inside the enclosure when maintained and positioned correctly.

Waste, handover and verification

• Double-bag waste inside the zone; mist bags before sealing. Use dedicated trolleys and routes.
• Verify with a particulate monitor pre- and post-clean. Keep simple records to satisfy client and COSHH documentation.

Practical takeaways

• Build a tight enclosure and keep it under negative pressure.
• Use H14 HEPA air filtration and change pre-filters early.
• Adopt low-dust methods and H-Class vacuums; never sweep.
• Control waste movements and verify with basic PM readings.

Precision containment, steady negative pressure and disciplined cleaning protect patients and staff while allowing work to proceed efficiently.