It’s no secret - dust needs to be managed. Not just to keep equipment running properly and the site clean, but to avoid fines from the HSE and prevent operators from inhaling unsafe dust particles. The most dangerous types of dust are so small they are invisible to the human eye. 

Breathing job site dust is a silent killer. It can build up in your lungs over long periods of time before you start feeling the effects, and by then, it’s too late. Only tiny amounts of dust need to enter your lungs to cause long-term damage. 

When you deal with high levels of dust on a regular basis, you need a proper vacuum. With so many professional models to choose from, it’s difficult to know which is best for your needs.

As we’ll discuss, not all dust is created equal. The types of materials being worked on have different classifications based on how hazardous they are. When it comes to choosing the right vacuum, it’s important to understand how each is rated for the safety of you and your team.

Using an unrated vacuum only makes the problem worse. Their filters aren’t rated to capture toxic dust and send dust into the air, where it hangs for up to 8 hours. Not only is this dangerous, but failing to maintain a safe work environment is illegal, and failure to pass a spot inspection can lead to heavy fines. 

At MAXVAC, our line of Dura Vacuums collect and eliminate dust at source. Eliminating dust at the source has key benefits to your business apart from protecting your long-term health.

It saves you time and money. Instead of spending time cleaning up after the work is done, the clean up is done already. This means you finish every job faster, increase your efficiency, and can move on to the next project.

Extracting dust prolongs equipment life. Drills, saws, and other power tools get clogged with dust and break down. Now they need constant repair or replacement. Because you’re vacuuming dust at the source, it never gets a chance to clog up your tools.

No or low dust means better visibility. Eliminating a dusty environment means your vision isn’t impaired by low visibility. This allows you to grind, cut and saw with precision.

The MAXVAC Dura range of vacuum cleaners provides the perfect solution for every use.

They are designed to be extremely light and compact, with powerful suction, and come in a variety of capacities suitable for every scenario. All MAXVAC Dura vacuums come with a complete accessory kit, including filters, bags, and attachments.

Next, let’s look at the different filter types and features to help you choose the right vacuum for your specific needs.

WHAT CLASS OF FILTRATION DO I NEED?

All of the Dura Range vacuums come fitted with HEPA filters, and IFA approved filter bags for ultimate protection. You need to ensure that the vacuum you choose is certified for the application you wish to use it for and to meet the Health and Safety standards in place.

L Class filters are considered ‘entry-level’ and are similar to the kind found in common household vacuums. They’re rated for softwood sawdust and other low hazard dust.

M Class filters are the minimum legal requirement for professional workspaces. M Class dust extractors are necessary when working with brick or concrete, MDF, hardwoods, paints, stone, cement, filler, and clear coats. The dust generated is considered moderately dangerous to operators.

H Class filters are used for the most hazardous dust. This includes highly carcinogenic dust from working with asbestos, mould, lead, copper, and silica. H class filters provide the highest level of protection, removing 99.997% of extracted dust.

FEATURES THAT MATTER

Power Take-Off

Most of our professional dust extractors have a power take-off feature. You can plug your power tools directly into the vacuum. When you power on your attached tool, it will automatically power on the vacuum. 

Power off your tool, and the vacuum automatically powers down as well, but before it does, it will run for a few seconds more to clear out any final dust and debris from the hose. This saves valuable time, as you don’t have to keep going back to the machine to power it on and off. 

Filter Cleaning

Keeping your filter clean as you work is critical. A clogged filter will struggle to pull air and can cause the motor to burn out. A clean filter ensures maximum airflow and extends the life of your equipment. You have a few options in our Dura Vacuum line:

●    Fully Automatic Smart Filter Clean - Automatically sends a burst of air back through the filter, keeping it clean of dust and particulate matter buildup. 

●    Semi Automatic Filter Clean - Sends a cleaning burst of air through the filter on demand through a button press.

●    Manual Filter Clean - Filters can be easily cleaned after daily use by using an air compressor and/or running the filter under cold water.

Wet/Dry 

Many professional workplaces require the extraction of mixed materials - both wet and dry. It’s important to use the appropriate filter whether you are extracting wet or dry material. Our Dura Vacuum line has an automatic cut off feature to prevent motor damage by making sure the liquid level doesn’t get too high in the drum.

Additional Features

At MAXVAC, we develop our dust extraction systems with you in mind. All of our vacuums are extremely durable and can withstand the toughest treatment. The motor housing is also built to hold up to significant impact. The wheels are strong and can be used on a variety of surfaces without breaking.

Airborne dust is a serious health concern. With the right vacuum and accessories, you can eliminate dust at the source. If dust has already settled, it can be quickly and safely removed from the floor and other surfaces.

When it comes to protecting the workforce, the public, and yourself from hazardous dust, knowledge is power.