Dust Control Tips

Dust Control Tips

Following are some helpful ideas to minimize the spread of dust when building or remodeling around your home. You may be familiar with some of these techniques.

Avoid sweeping with a broom. Use a shop vacuum cleaner if at all possible. Change the filter regularly. Install a damp sponge over the exhaust port as a secondary filter. Be careful of the potential for electrical shock hazard. Clean the sponge regularly and make sure it remains damp.

Secure the area where the dust will be generated. Tape plastic over all openings, including doors leading into and out of the area. Tape plastic over heating supply and return air ducts. Do not carry debris through the house. Safely discard debris out a window if at all possible.

When dust generating activities are outside, close all windows and doors so that dust will not be carried indoors. Clean up dust as soon as possible to avoid tracking it indoors. Rinse areas with water if possible.

Use tools that have vacuum attachments whenever possible. Change filters regularly.

Consider setting up a 'negative' ventilation system to suck the dust out of the work area. This is an effective method when using a high CFM fan and proper cross ventilating techniques. This type of dust control system is somewhat easy to setup. Seal off the work area. Install the fan at an exterior door or window and seal the remainder of the opening with cardboard. At the opposite end of the work area, provide an opening through which fresh air can enter the work area. When you turn the fan on, it creates a draft across the work space. This air movement generally takes much of the airborne dust and exhausts it through the fan. If you employ such a method, be sure that the dust is not drawn back into the house. Pay attention to wind direction.

For additional reading, consult with your local library. Look for books concerning "Dust Control" and "Negative and Positive Ventilation Techniques".

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