Some colleagues are more affected by dust: those with asthma, sensitivities or recent illness. Clean-air zones provide dependable respite and help keep everyone productive on dusty projects.

Assess needs and choose locations

Identify vulnerable staff confidentially and map high-dust tasks. Site clean-air zones upwind, away from cutting or mixing, and near welfare or supervision so they are easy to use.

Control the air

Use air purifiers with high-efficiency filtration to reduce fine particulate; for respirable silica and other fine dusts, H14 filtration is appropriate. Units like the MAXVAC Dustblocker, used as an air scrubber, can support a zone when positioned to optimise flow.

Separate and maintain

Use barriers or temporary walls to limit migration. Keep doors closed and establish clean-to-dirty flow. Inspect filters daily, manage filter loading and replace bags before they are full to maintain airflow under load.

Manage people and clothing

Provide RPE parking, tack mats and coat hooks outside the zone to avoid bringing dust in. Encourage clean-as-you-go with an H-class vacuum rather than sweeping.

Practical takeaways

• Place zones upwind and away from dust generation.
• Deploy high-efficiency air purification and check performance daily.
• Use barriers and keep a clean-to-dirty flow.
• Prevent re-entry of dust with mats, hooks and vacuum housekeeping.
• Monitor with a simple PM meter and adjust layout if readings climb.

Clean-air zones work when they are easy to access, well-maintained and respected by the team. A small amount of planning creates a meaningful difference for vulnerable staff.