In any industrial environment, safety is of the utmost importance and should be the top priority to protect workers from harm. Whether you’re at a construction site or in an environment with hazardous waste or chemicals, the use of industrial vacuum cleaners will ensure your surroundings are free from harmful debris and keep workers safe. Proper safety is not just about wearing a hard hat or protective gear but also includes health protocols to ensure the working environment doesn’t negatively affect your health. For instance, asbestos exposure may cause illnesses such as lung cancer, asbestosis, and cancer of the gastrointestinal tract, kidney and throat. To ensure workers are not exposed to harmful dust or asbestos particles, regular use of the appropriate vacuum should be consistently provided and monitored.
Types Of Industrial Vacuum Cleaners
Industrial vacuum cleaners range to as many as the industries that use them. The varieties are designed to clean several messes from oil slicks, powder, sand, rocks, and various materials of different consistency and size. There are, of course, the known or ‘traditional’ style industrial vacuums, but some can be as large as a room or are set on the back of a truck. It sounds ridiculous, but in some cases, vacuums of this magnitude are essential to properly clean and filter debris and harmful waste. The different types include:
- Truck-mounted vacuum cleaners – have the mobility to travel to disaster sites where flooding, slurry, sewage, etc., need to be removed.
- Explosion-proof vacuum cleaner – designed to remove flammable substances, solids and hazardous liquids that a spark or friction may ignite.
- Central vacuum systems – designed and constructed as part of the building or structure and powered by the building’s electricity, much like an air conditioning system.
- Stationery vacuum systems – manufactured for ultra heavy-duty use and are capable of handling wet and dry abrasive materials, granular particulate substances and fine powders.
- Portable vacuum cleaner – offers flexibility to move to isolated locations of disaster, liquid spill, or construction work to remove debris inaccessible by conventional means.
- Electrostatic discharge vacuum cleaner – designed and manufactured for the electronics market to clean, remove and collect dust and debris from electronic components.
- Air-powered vacuum cleaners – operate on compressed air and are used in environments where electricity isn’t available.
Always ensure you use the correct vacuum for your needs to ensure safety and thorough removal of debris, harmful substances and hazardous waste.
The Importance Of Filtration
The filter in a vacuum cleaner is an essential component. The air quality that is reintroduced back into the environment ensures the health and safety of the workers and operators. Depending on the type of dust and the level of danger, filters are divided into three categories, namely:
- Class L (moderate risk) – this filter can retain 99% of dust smaller than two microns, for example, plaster dust.
- Class M (medium risk) can retain 9% of dust smaller than two microns and dust derived from wood.
- Class H (high risk) – this filter can retain 99.5% of dust smaller than one micron and is used for carcinogenic dust and those contaminated with pathogens, for example, asbestos.
Benefits Of Using Industrial Vacuums
Industrial vacuum cleaners are used in various industries, including agriculture, automotive, aviation production, baking, chemical, healthcare, mining, plastics and pharmaceuticals and ensure health regulations are met for the safety of workers. Benefits include:
- Cost-effective – its long working life and reliability overshadow the initial investment.
- Time-saving – time and energy spent cleaning is minimised
- Eco friendly – removal of dust, debris and harmful substances creates a healthy and environmentally friendly workplace.
- Cleaning power – deep cleaning assists in asset protection and longevity of the building.
- Health – all work environments are polluted with allergens, bacteria and microbial contaminants, successfully and efficiently removed with HEPA filters.
Industrial vacuum cleaners are an investment for any industry and help keep your businesses doors open with adherence to health and safety codes and regulations. Provide a safe environment for workers and operators and contact us today to find out more about our products and services.
