Fine dust degrades cooling, fouls boards and fans, and risks static issues in server rooms and clean zones. Preventing ingress is cheaper than recovery. The goal is a clean boundary, stable pressure and disciplined housekeeping.

Build a clean boundary

Use antechambers or lobbies as buffer zones. Fit door closers, keep doors shut, and use sticky mats changed frequently. Limit entry points and assign dedicated, low-lint garments for anyone crossing the boundary. Box and wipe equipment before it enters.

Run the right pressure strategy

Maintain a slight positive pressure in the server room relative to surrounding spaces. Seal cable penetrations, floor grommets and ceiling voids with appropriate gaskets. Where nearby works generate dust, hold those rooms under negative pressure to avoid backflow.

Control nearby works and airflow

During maintenance or refurbishment, adopt wet methods for drilling and chasing where feasible, and use on-tool extraction. In adjacent spaces, run H14-grade air scrubbers and vent to a safe area if negative air is needed. Keep airflow under load sufficient to turn the room air several times per hour, especially during dusty tasks.

Housekeeping that protects equipment

Use HEPA-filtered vacuums for floors, racks and cable trays. Avoid dry sweeping and consumer vacuums. Replace equipment filters on schedule and vacuum grilles and heat sinks regularly. Keep packaging, pallets and cutting activities outside the clean boundary.

Monitoring and response

Track PM2.5/PM1 with a particulate meter and trend readings. Investigate spikes immediately—check door discipline, seals and any nearby works. Keep a short log of actions taken and verify recovery to baseline.

Practical takeaways

• Create a lobby with sticky mats and strict door control.
• Positive pressure in the clean zone; negative pressure in dusty works.
• Use H14 air filtration during maintenance and after works.
• HEPA vacuum only; no sweeping or compressed air.
• Monitor PM and act quickly on spikes.

With a clear boundary, stable pressure and methodical cleaning, server rooms and clean zones remain resilient even during nearby construction or maintenance.