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Surface Protection FAQ's

Q. Can you use the floor film on carpet?
A. No, the adhesive for the floor protection film is made specifically for hard surfaces and does not have the proper adhesive to adhere nicely to carpet.

Q. Can you use carpet film for the hard surfaces?
A. No, the carpet film adhesive is too aggressive for hard surfaces and we recommend the use of our hard surface film only for that application.

Q. If the carpet is glued down, how long should I wait until I apply the film to the surface?
A. We recommend 72 hours, as specified by the glue manufacturers who state that it takes at least 72 hours for the glue to cure. A warmer environment or humidity can extend the length of cure time for the glue. We recommend that you test the moisture level of the glue before applying the film.

Q. Is the use of an applicator necessary?
A. For the larger sized rolls, such as the 36-inch or wider, we recommend that you use an applicator. The applicator allows one to apply the film more quickly, therefore decreasing labor time. The use of the applicator also allows one to apply the film more smoothly for better adhesion. We also recommend it for the 24' width but it is not necessary.

Q. Does the window film need tape to the hold the film in place?
A. On indoor applications, tape is not necessary. For outdoor applications we do recommend using tape due to wind, weather and other environmental factors.

Q. Does the Temporary Wall System come with poly?
A. No, we do not include regular poly with our Wall System.

Q. Is the film reusable?
A. No, it is for one time use only. After the allotted time, replace the film with another application of film if necessary to keep the area protected for a longer period of time.

Q.What is the difference between the Value Film, Profilm and Premium Film?
A. The value film is for lighter foot traffic. The Profilm and Premium film are for heavier traffic, yet the ProFilm is for 30-day use and the Premium Film is for 45-day use.

Q. What is the difference between blue window film and clear window film?
A. The blue window film is for UV protection and is more frequently used in areas where sunlight is more consistent

ZipWall® FAQ's

Q. What is the recommended space between poles?

A. The poles can be spaced 10 to 12 feet apart if there is little or no air movement. The stronger the air movement - such as a site open to the outside - the closer the poles should be placed to one another. If there are strong gusts putting pressure on the plastic sheeting, you may need to bring them as close as five to six feet apart.

Q. Plastic sheeting: Do ZipWall® products come with plastic Sheeting?

A. ZipWall products do not include plastic sheeting because of the variety of sizes and thicknesses our customers require. You can usually find the plastic sheeting that is right for your job on the SPYCOR.com web-site, at paint stores, home centers, hardware stores and specialty stores in your area.  

Q. Plastic sheeting: What size roll should I buy?

A. We recommend that you get plastic on a continuous roll that is long enough to reach from the beginning of the wall you are making to the end. With a continuous roll you will not have any breaks or seams that need to be sealed with tape. The width of the plastic should be at least a foot larger than the height of your ceiling where the wall will be installed. For example, if you have an eight foot ceiling, be sure your plastic is at least nine feet wide.

Q. Plastic sheeting: What is the recommended plastic thickness?

A. The keyhole-snapping feature of the head and plate will comfortably accept any plastic up to 8 mils thick. We suggest the use of the lightest plastic your application calls for. The lighter the plastic the easier it is to handle and the less expensive it is. Super light plastic sheeting (under 1 mil), can be hard to control. These super light plastics are generally so light and so full of static electricity that they want to cling to everything.

Q. What is the ZipWall® jack?

A. The jack is the red housing containing the spring and plunger that screws onto the top of the Kit 20 pole. It has two very important functions:

(a) It holds the plastic to the top of the pole

(b) Its special non-skid plate presses the plastic to the ceiling, while the spring creates tension between the floor and the ceiling. This holds the pole in place as it supports the plastic wall. With the SLP (Spring Loaded Pole) the functions of the jack are incorporated into the pole.

Q. How does ZipWall® system work with negative air?

A. The ZipWall system was originally designed for applications using negative air and handles it very well. Because negative air creates pressure against plastic, it tends to tug on the poles. Thus, you may need to place the poles closer together. With moderate pressure you will find that 6 to 8 feet spacing between poles is a comfortable range. For very high pressure situations you may need to place the poles as close as four feet apart.

Q. Can the ZipWall® poles be used outdoors?

A. ZipWall requires a ceiling. Thus, it can be used on porches and balconies provided they have ceilings. It should not be used if there are high winds which can knock it down. This can cause damage and we suggest caution.

Q. On what ceiling types does the ZipWall® system work best?

A. It works on all types of ceilings, including plaster, drywall, textured or popcorn, and suspended. For suspended ceilings it is important that the plate (on top of the pole) be placed on the grid that holds the ceiling tiles in place.

Q. What are the working height ranges of the SLP and the Kit 20?

A. The working height range of the SLP (Spring Loaded Pole) is from 4'7" to 12', and for Kit 20 is from 6'9" to 21'. These heights include the jacks, which, when attached to the poles add another foot to their height.

Q. What do the ZipWall® Poles and Jacks weigh?

A. Each SLP weighs about 1.5 lbs. Each 20 foot pole and jack combination weighs 3 lb 6 oz. This light weight makes carrying multiple poles and jacks to and from the job site very convenient.

Q. How much weight can the ZipWall® pole hold.

A. The weight the poles and jacks can hold depends on the strength of the person tightening the pole, this includes the new SLP. The average person will twist the poles tight enough so the pole can hold 60 to 80 lbs. However, with a stronger tightening twist, a person can produce a hold of about 110 lbs. (Caution: Do not use for holding anything that could fall and cause injury or damage).

Negative Air Machine/Air Scrubber FAQ's

What is the difference between a Negative Air Machine vs. an Air Scrubber?
In general, these names are just a marketing terminology. When Air Filtration Machine is used to create negative pressure in containment, it is often called Negative Air machine. When used for recirculation and purification of air in open area, it could be called Air Scrubber or Air Filtration Machine. OmniAire machines are built to provide a high quality service in any environment and application. Your specific requirements regarding airflow, type of project, accessibility are the important factors in choosing right equipment for you

Why do you need to use a Negative Air Machine in a Hospital, or Governmental Environment?
For the safety of the users and the acceptance of the equipment on governmental, hospital and many other projects, equipment has to meet the requirements of the applicable electrical codes. To verify the UL & CSA/IEC safety compliance and listing, each machine has an identification label with name of NRTL which performed the test and the manufacturer file number.

Why do you need to use a Negative Air Machine in a Construction, Abatement, or Remediation Environment?
Use of negative pressure containment with HEPA air filtration prevents spread of asbestos fibers, mold and other contaminates to the outside of contained work area, All exhausted air is purified by HEPA negative air machine to create negative pressure and required air changes (ACH) inside the contained work area. In order to create a negative pressure environment more air must be exhausted from the space then leaking in. . See our Air Flow Calculator to assist you with your airflow requirements.

How often we need to be changing primary/secondary and HEPA filters?
The frequency of changing filters depends on:
  • Amount and size of airborne dust particulates
  • Airflow requirements
  • High static pressure drop across the filters (see User Manual)
  • Risk of cross contamination from one project to another

Dustlock primary/secondary filter should be replaced when its orange, downstream side shows signs of discoloring by dust. Our dual density poly media captures particulates in full depth of the filter media rather than on the surface, as pleated filters do. The media is treated with tactifier to prevent release of captured dust and antimicrobial additive to prevent growth of virus and bacteria. Frequent replacement will help to maintain high airflow and protect the more expensive HEPA filter.

The HEPA filters should be replaced when the airflow decreases below your requirements or when pressure (“WC) across the filter increases to recommended replacement pressure – See User Manual. Some of our OmniAire air filtration machines are equipped with a simple Filter Change light to indicate that filters should be checked or replaced.

HEPA filters become even more efficient when loaded with particulate matter, but the airflow resistance increases and the airflow could be reduced to zero. Average HEPA filter life is 800 t0 1000 operation hours.

What is a HEPA Filter?
High-efficiency particulate air or HEPA is a type of air filter. Filters meeting the HEPA standard have many applications, including use in medical facilities, abatement of asbestos, mold and lead, restoration after water damage and many other. The filter must satisfy certain standards of efficiency such as those set by the United States Department of Energy (DOE). To qualify as HEPA by US government standards, an air filter must remove 99.97% of all particles greater than 0.3 micrometer from the air that passes thru the filter.

Will A Negative Air Machine Remove Odors from the Environment?
The odor and VOCs can be removed from air with OdorGuard600 and Vapor Trap carbon web filter added to OmniAire machine. For odors associated with water damage, sewer flood, fires and mold, use our PEROx air purifier to destroy safely the source of odor without using chemicals. PEROx unit contains Ionized-Hydro–peroxide generator which is very effective in destroying all types of VOCs, chemical fumes, decay odors, mold spores, virus and bacteria. This purification process is safe for workers and inhabitants.

How do I determine the negative air machine need for my project?
Use the Negative Air Machine “Air Flow Calculator” located in the Information section on the bottom left navigation.Enter your containment area Length, Width, & Height.Use the standard air change every 10 minutes (also known by 6 ACH) Choose the machine or combination of machines needed for you project.

What else do I need to operate my negative air machine?
All negative air machines/ air scrubbers come ready to operate with both a primary filter and a HEPA filter.SPYCOR recommends a case of the primary filters (also known as “primary/secondary” or “First Stage” filter).Since these filters stop most of the particulates, they often become dirty faster.

Do I need to exhaust my negative air machine?
Some codes require the exhausting of negative air machines, but it is also worthy to note that the air exhausting from the machine is 99.97% clean at .3 microns using the standard HEPA filter provided or 99.99% filtered when using a Medical Grade HEPA filter. SPYCOR does sell accessories that will allow you to create intake or exhaust duct work.

I am using a negative air machine in a hospital, how will I know if I'm up to code?
A link the CDC guidlines for US and the CCDR guidlines for Canada that instruct persons/ companies engaged in construction of medical care facilities can be found in the left hand navigation of the SPYCOR.com site under "Information", Medical. Once on the page, click on the US or Canadian code. For Negative Air Machine purposes 6ACH (air changes per hour) is a good guideline, but you should contact your hospital adminstrator for their specific guidlines. Some good questions to ask include:
  1. How many Air Changes per Hour our required by the Hospital?
  2. Does the medical care facility require ventilation of the exhaust from the jobsite?
  3. Does the medical care facility require a Standard HEPA filter at 99.97% efficeincy at .3 microns, or a Hospital Grade HEPA filter at 99.99% efficiency? (Most Omniaire Negative Air Machines can be fitted with a Medical filter prior to shipping, check product pages)
What are the most commonly used Negative Air machines in a hospital or medical environment?

Spycor sells and array of negative air machines for uses in many industries. Our most commonly sold negative air machines being used in a medical environment (occupied healthcare facility) are the MF100MED, OA600VMED, A600 & the OA2000VMED. All of these machines have Medical Grade HEPA filters which are different from standard HEPA filters. Medical Grade HEPA Filters have a rated efficiency of 99.999%.


What are the most common negative air machines being used for silica during construction?

All of Spycor's negative air machines an be used effectively for the removal of silica during construction. Our most commonly sold negative air machines for construction include the following. For smaller projects such as a kitchen or bathroom; the OA600V, OA600N, PRED750 and the A600. For larger residential construction projects and commercial construction projects, the OA2000V and the OA2200UL are most commonly purchased. Most of Spycor's Negative Air Machines come equip with a HEPA filter. For the removal of silica dust, be sure that you have a HEPA filter with your machine.

What are the most common negative air machines being used for asbestos removal during construction?

All of Spycor's negative air machines an be used effectively for asbestos abatement during construction. Our most commonly sold negative air machines for asbestos are the OA2200C, OA2200UL, OA2000V and OA2000C. All of these machines are effective in use during asbestos abatement and are also very cost effective machine. Be sure to use a qualified asbestos abatement technician whenever asbestos is present in the work environment. Asbestos abatement is NOT to be completed as a DIY project.

What is a negative air machine?
A negative air machine or air scrubber is a machine that creates negative pressure inside of a contained area such as a hospital room or another closed off construction area. It does this by pulling air into the machine and ducting air outside of the room. Since the room is contained air is leaving the room faster than it can be replaced thus creating a negative pressure environment within the contained area. This is a very effective way to pull airborne particles out of any contained area leaving the environment cleaner. Negative air machines can be placed inside of the contained area and use ducting to push clean air outside of the contained area. Or, the machines can be placed outside of the contained area and use ducting to pull the air from the contained environment. Both setups have the same effect. Negative Air Machines can be used with Standard HEPA Filters, Medical Grade HEPA Filters, Bag Filters for Dust Collection, or Carbon Filters (for odor), depending on your construction or isolation needs.

Access Door FAQ's

Q.  How do I determine the rough opening needed for my Access Panel?
A.  The rough opening for the access panel can be found in the product specifications located on the product page at the bottom of the description.  A good rule of thumb is to use a ¼ inch larger than the width and height of the door.  (I.e. a 6” X 6” door should have a rough opening of 6 ¼” X 6 ¼”)
Q. Does SPYCOR sell custom access panels to fit my rough opening?
A. Yes, SPYCOR can have access panels’ custom made to your specific dimensions. Choose the door style that you would like to have replicated, and click on the “Special Order Sizes" link at the bottom of the description.  Fill out the form and a customer service representative will contact you via e-mail or phone with a quoted price.  Turnaround is typically 7-10 business days to ship the product from time of ordering.
Q. How do I choose a lock or latch for my Access Panel?
A. On each Access Panel page there is a link located at the bottom of the product description that says “Lock / Latch Pictures.”  Click on the link and choose the latch you would like.  Once you determine your lock or latch, choose that latch in the "product options" section of the product page.  (Please note that all locks and latches do not fit on all doors, only the ones specified in product options)
Q. When will my Access Panel ship?
A. Standard access panel orders ship within 24 hours of the order receipt with the exception of some large rectangular doors (not square) or doors that have special lock/latch configurations.  All ‘non standard’ doors including special orders will ship within 10 business days. 

Manufacturer Support

www.acudor.com

Differential Pressure Monitor

Why do I use a Differential Pressure Monitor in a Containment Area?
When using negative pressure containment, it is important to monitor the pressure inside the containment in reference to the outside area. However, because the typical negative pressure required is usually only 0.020”WC, it can be difficult to find equipment sensitive enough to measure and monitor your containment area. Omnitec Design has two options to meet this need. Both the Watchman Differential Pressure Monitor and the self-contained Omniguard 5 Pressure Recorder are designed to provide highly accurate monitoring and alarm functions while still being easy to setup with a simple push-button calibration.

When do I use a Differential Pressure Monitor?
A differential pressure monitor is a very important tool that can help ensure the integrity of a containment. Dealing with hazardous debris from abatement/remediation jobs can be a sensitive task that demands safe practices by workers to guarantee their safety, and those who may come into contact with potentially harmful material. Differential Pressure Monitors may be deployed for a whole array of industries. These include restoration & construction, industrial or commercial areas, healthcare facilities & labs, and by first response teams for facility monitoring or epidemic control.

OmniAire PAC Used for Patients Isolation Rooms FAQ's

What is special about OmniAire PAC HEPA Air Purifiers?

OmniAire PAC are design for use in medical environment and labs, where removal of aerosolized sub-micron particulate and pathogens is critical. HEPA air purifiers used in healthcare facilities provide continuous air purification and required air changes per hour (ACH). Our PAC machines are used to create isolation rooms with negative pressure (AII) or positive pressure (PE). They could be also connected to anteroom for operating rooms or portable isolation enclosures. OmniAire PAC air purifiers use certified HEPA filter 99.99% @0.3 micron efficiency and UV-C germicidal lights (UVGI) to comply and exceed 2003 CDC Guidelines for Environmental Infection Control in Health-Care Facilities.

How to monitor the differential pressure?

The room pressure for AII or PE is 0.01 to 0.03”WC in reference to corridors. This is a very low pressure range and requires high accuracy instrument. We have available OmniGuard 4 Differential Pressure Recorder or the Watchman Differential Pressure Monitor.

How We Benefit From Using PAC machines for Patient Room Cleanup?

Turnaround Time - We are concerned with providing the highest levels of protection for hospital workers and patients. After hospital cleaning staff carry out infectious disease control cleanup procedures (the removal of all physical items) in the infected areas, the room can then be put back in service faster if the air is purified and sterilized using an OmniAire PAC with PEROx air purifier module. This results in minimal room shut down and disruption which is a major concern for all hospital administrations.

Which OmniAire PAC model would be the best for our facility?

OmniAire PAC air purifiers are available with air flow capacities 200 to 1100 and 300 to 1850 cfm. Both models are capable to provide a wide range of air flow set by variable speed controller to meet your 12 ACH requirements. These portable machines with casters or larger set of wheels are easy to move from room to room as needed.

How many PAC machines it would require to have 12 ACH flow rate?

CDC guidelines for isolation rooms requires 12 ACH air flow rate or more in isolation rooms (PE or AII). After calculating cubic feet of the room (length x width x height) multiplied by 12 (ACH) calculates minimum required airflow of cubic feet per hour. This divided by 60 (minutes gives you required air flow of cubic feet per minute (cfm) Our Airflow Calculator will quickly assists you with this calculation end the cfm required..

How do I Choose a PAC Machine?

If this airflow calculation is for example up to 800 cfm, choose equipment which is rated to deliver about 1600 cfm. This takes in consideration leakage of air into the room, machine running at less then full speed and gradual loading of filters with dust. Larger safety margin is better. For a requirement of 400 to 600 cfm, the OmniAire 1200PAC with 1100 cfm maximum airflow would be right size of the machine... When switching patients in a room, how long should we run the PAC HEPA system between the patients? When changing patients in a room, it is recommended by CDC to run our PAC machine with at least 99.97% HEPA for 30- 40 minutes at rate of 12 ACH per hour. Adding additional time or higher air flow adds safety. Adding PEROx Air Porifier Module with Hydro-Peroxide generator would shorten your turnover time and increase safety for patients and the nurses.

Are all HEPA filters the same quality?

Only individually tested and certified HEPA filters should be used in critical medical applications. All HEPA filters used in OmniAire PAC machines are individually tested and certified for 99.99% efficiency at 0.3 micron, exceeding CDC recommendations.

How often should we change primary and HEPA filter?

It depends on the environment, type of dust and other contaminants. In hospital environment, the primary pleated filter is usually replaced every two months when machine is used or when put in storage for extended time. HEPA filters are usually changed every 12 to 24 months, depending on the environment. Pressure gauge on the PAC machine provides good indication of filters loading . Consult Operators Manual for recommended filters changes based on pressure readings.

How UV-C germicidal lights help to control virus and bacteria?

The CDC recommends UV-C germicidal lights for destroying viruses such as Tuberculosis. UV-C wavelength destroy bio-contaminants by penetrating the cell’s membrane destroying the cell’s DNA HEPA filter which is downstream from the UV light, captures all live and dead virus cells and the UV-C germicidal lights continuously irradiate the HEPA surface provide additional safety against biological contaminants.

How long the UVGI lights last?

UVGI lights life span is measured in hours they operate. All UV lights slowly degrade in their power output. Our UVGI lights should be replaced after 15,000 hours, which is close to 2 years of nonstop operation and the lights have only 75% of their initial intensity.

How PEROx Air Purifier module works?

PEROx purification process utilizes Ionized-Hydro-Peroxides™, friendly oxidizer plasma, made from oxygen and humidity. Hydro-peroxides rapidly destroy bacteria, virus, VOCs and odors passing thru our unit and continue to seek contaminants in surrounding air and on all the surfaces. The lifespan of these oxides is about 15 minutes after which the unused oxides convert back to H2O and O2. and is safe for a human exposure. This powerful and safe purification process can be added to our portable HEPA Negative Air Machine when needed. See more on PEROx module and how effective is Hydro-Peroxide on MRSA, Bird Flu and similar dangerous virus and bacteria.

Fire Extinguisher Cabinet FAQ's

How do I order a fire Extinguisher Cabinet Correctly?

It is not uncommon with all of the different cabinet choices on the market for a cabinet to be ordered and shipped only to find there was a discrepancy that could have been avoided. By asking a few simple questions, you can significantly reduce the chances of error.
  1. What capacity and type of fire extinguisher? (A 10 lb Carbon dioxide extinguisher will require a much larger cabinet than a 10 lb a.b.c. extinguisher).
  2. What type of material do they need? Steel, stainless steel, aluminum, etc.
  3. Do they want recessed, semi-recessed or surface mounted cabinets?
  4. What type and size of trim projection would they like? Flat, square or rolled
    edge? 5/16", 1 1/2", 2 1/2" etc.?
  5. How much wall depth do they have?
    (They may ask for a fully recessed cabinet but not have the wall depth to
    accommodate that type).
  6. What style of door do they want? Full window, partial window, no window?
  7. Do they need a lock or lettering? Each cabinet can be different so verify any
    options that they may require, lock, alarm, specific lettering type, etc.
  8. Is this cabinet being installed in a fire rated wall? (In order to maintain the
    integrity of a fire wall, you may be required to install a fire rated cabinet).
  9. Do you need to meet A.D.A. requirements? (Some cabinets may protrude too far into the corridor to meet A.D.A. guidelines.)

Rental Product FAQ's

Can I rent a Mobile Dust Containment Unit for a job in a hospital?
Yes. Spycor has rental units available on a first come first serve basis. We rent both Mintie ECU3 Mobile Dust Containment Unit Bundles that have the Mintie ECU3, The MP1 Mobile Platform, and the Ermator A600 Negative Air Machine. Spycor also rents each piece separately to suit each job. Spycor also rents the HEPACart HC74U-L mobile dust containment unit. For a full line of Spycor'd dust containment rental products please view our ***Product Rental*** found on our category list on the left hand side of each of our web-pages at www.spycor.com.

What are the benefits of renting a dust containment unit?
  • Costs limited to duration of your project
  • Eliminates maintenance & cleaning costs
  • Eliminates Storage Issues
  • Ships direct to your job-site with Rental time starting the day after delivery.
  • Also, you can "Try Before You Buy!"

When do I rent a dust containment unit & when do I buy a dust containment unit?
Whether you rent or buy a dust containment unit depends on several factors and is really up to the person paying for and using the product.

BUYING a dust containment unit users are generally using the dust containment carts several times a year in roughly the same geographical location. Hospitals and companies that service hospitals in the same geographic area find that it is usually more cost effective to buy an ECU3 Dust Containment Unit rather than rent one.

RENTING a dust containment unit is often preferred in situations where working with a unit is a "one time" job or something not done to often. Larger contractors who work in multiple cities or have contracts also find that it is easier and more cost effective to simply have the ECU3 show up on a job-site when their employee's are ready to do a job. The employee is not charged with moving the large and often bulky products in a truck or on a plane. The rental unit is there when they arrive and they can put it back in a case and slap on a label for FedEx to pick it up when they are finished. Renting also provides the user with assurance that they are getting a product that is ready to operate. They don't have to clean it, store it, or worry about upkeep.

How does Spycor's Dust Containment Unit rental work?
  1. It’s Easy! A Credit Card & a Signed Rental Agreement is all that is required.
  2. Choose the rental option that best suits your needs. Our technical staff can help you decide (843) 388-5833.
  3. Checkout online or by phone with the Spycor Rental Team. Pay up-front for the first week and you will be billed on a recurring weekly basis until your project is complete.
  4. Rental period begins the day after you receive shipment & ends the day you ship your rental back to Spycor.
  5. Returning is easy! Just call Spycor and we will send you labels. FedEx will come and pick up the rental or you can drop off a convenient FedEx location.

Next

Environmental Containment Units

Why is the use of an Environmental Containment Unit necessary?
The national standards writing and regulatory organizations (JCAHO and CDC) have determined that a significant number of patients with immunocompromised conditions are very susceptible to airborne microorganisms that attach themselves to dust particles. When opening ceiling systems in these patient care units and areas where these patients are transported and treated the introduction of dust from the opening can cause an infection and in 80% of the cases these patients will die of that infection.

What departments in a hospital can use the Environmental Containment Unit?
That will all depend on the type of patient care units in the hospital. If the hospital has a critical care units (ICU, CCU, MICU, etc.), nurseries, operating rooms, bone marrow transplant units, oncology, etc. there are many departments that need to use an ECU when performing maintenance, repair and minor construction projects.
  1. When cleaning lighting fixtures in sensitive areas.
  2. When repairing piping in the ceiling cavities.
  3. Repair of information system cabling.
  4. Repair and installation of telemetry devices.
  5. Installation of additional cabling and fiber optics.
These are just a few of the applications

Does the Environmental Containment Unit permit us to re-lamp a 2x4 fluorescent fixture when installed tight to the ceiling?
Yes the size of the ECU is designed to permit full access to a 2x4 ceiling grid with room to spare so any activity necessary in a standard grid system is possible.

How tight of a seal does the Environmental Containment Unit provide at the ceiling?
The ECU is designed with a spring loaded top section that will adjust for ceiling that are not quite level or take up minor variances in the ceiling tiles. It also has a closed cell foam piece at the top which also provides an additional seal. While the seal may not be light tight it is sufficient to provide the positive seal to allow the negative air machine or HEPA vacuum to keep the environment inside the ECU negative.

What type of testing has been performed on the Environmental Containment Unit?
Clinical testing of the ECU has been performed by a leading environmental specialist, Andrew J. Streifel. In his report, Mr. Streifel indicates that NO particulate was released into the surrounding environment when the ECU is properly used.

How is the Environmental Containment Unit cleaned?
The ECU can be cleaned using any standard disinfecting agents used in health care. The use of a petroleum based solvent is not recommended as the envelope is made of a flame retardant PVC material. When working in patient occupied areas we highly recommend vacuuming the floor of the unit prior to opening the door so that particulate that could have settled on the floor does not get tracked out of the ECU. If necessary a tacky mat can be used immediately outside of the unit.

What happens if the envelope becomes torn or punctured?
A patch kit is available that can be used to repair the damage. This repair is similar to fixing an innertube for a bike tire.

Are replacements parts and components available?
Yes, a full line of replacement parts such as containment envelops are available to replace severely damaged components.

Can the Environmental Containment Unit be transported in a semi-collapsed state?
Yes, the ECU is manufactured with high quality ball bearing wheels that make the relocation and transport extremely easy. When multiple access activities are being performed it is unnecessary to completely collapse the unit as rolls very well fully assembled except for the height. The window system is also designed so that the user can see the floor area as they are pushing the semi assembled ECU.

How are the HEPA negative air machines or HEPA vacuums attached?
There are built in ports on the side of the ECU with bungee draw cords. The draw cords permit the use of up to a 10" diameter connection to the negative air machine. Fold down flaps are also installed on the inside of the ECU so that the unused port can be sealed.

AnteRoom for Airborne Infection Isolation

Why is the ECU AnteRoom the best choice for creating short-term airborne infectious isolation of patients and casualties of a bioterrorism event or other public healthcare emergency?
  1. Convenience. The ECU AnteRoom is a convenient alternative to building fixed anterooms for creating airborne infection isolation (AII) during a healthcare emergency. By pairing a collapsible, portable anteroom with a HEPA-filtered negative air machine, the unit enables healthcare facilities to respond rapidly during a crisis, and can easily be deployed within the facility or distributed throughout the region. With the ECU AnteRoom, a standard patient room can be converted into an AII room in minutes. Pairing a HEPA-filtered negative air machine with the unit completes the process. With proper engineering analysis, it can also be used to convert a larger area, such as an Emergency Department, by positioning it at all points of ingress and egress.
  2. Compliance. The ECU AnteRoom is a solution that satisfies HRSA Critical Benchmark #2-2 and is in complete compliance with Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in its Guidelines Environmental for Infection Control in Health-Care Facilities for smallpox and viral hemorrhagic fever (VHF). According to these guidelines, the most prudent way to create airborne infectious isolation for patients is through the use of a negative-pressure anteroom configuration. As many healthcare facilities do not have adequate isolation room capacity for emergency situations, the ECU AnteRoom quickly and safely resolves their challenge.
  3. Cost-efficiency. The ECU AnteRoom is a multifunctional containment tool that can provide substantial long-term cost savings. Unlike some emergency response equipment, the ECU AnteRoom won’t sit idle in a corner of a storage space. It has been designed to be used to safely contain airborne particulates when performing everyday maintenance or construction activities in patient-occupied areas. Everyday usage not only lowers the cost of purchase and increases the return on investment, but also reinforces training and improves emergency response capability.

How does the ECU AnteRoom differ from portable air scrubbers placed inside the patient room?
The short answer is convenience, compliance and cost—and method. The ECU AnteRoom takes a different approach to creating short-term airborne infection isolation (AII) rooms by pairing a HEPA-filtered negative air machine with the portable anteroom unit and positioning it immediately outside the room being converted. When used for short-term AII, the ECU AnteRoom creates three distinct advantages for healthcare facilities. First, the ease and convenience of deploying the unit enables healthcare facilities to respond rapidly and effectively to airborne infection isolation needs during emergency situations. Second, the HEPA-filtered negative air machine source attached to the unit draws air from both the hospital corridor and the patient room into the anteroom, creating a functional airlock that prevents infectious airborne particulates from escaping. Finally, and most important, the ECU AnteRoom provides the airborne infection isolation compliance for smallpox and viral hemorrhagic fever (VHF) as recommended by both HRSA Critical Benchmark #2-2 and CDC EIC Guidelines. These convenience and compliance benefits are further enhanced by substantial long-term cost savings that can result from the ability of the ECU AnteRoom to be used for everyday construction and maintenance activities.

Using portable air scrubbers to create airborne infection isolation can present a number of challenges for healthcare professionals, particularly during unexpected healthcare emergencies when response time is critical. To create a true, negatively pressurized AII environment, portable air scrubbers require conversion kits that enable the exhausting of filtered air outside of the room. (This ducting to the outside typically involves breaching the building envelope, which carries its own challenges and risks.) Unless the conversion kits are pre-installed, rapid deployment of portable air scrubbers during a public health emergency is extremely difficult if not impossible.

The importance of proper ducting to the outside when using portable air scrubbers for AII cannot be overstated. Without it, there is a significant risk that portable air scrubber solutions may create a positive pressure environment in the patient room when the return air vent is blocked off to prevent recirculation of airborne infectious particulates throughout the portion of the hospital serviced by that air handler. Alternatively, if the discharge of a portable air scrubber (typically over 500 cfm) is ducted into a return air duct designed to handle much less volume, one of two problems may result. Either (1) the back pressure may cause the unit to exhaust much less air or (2) the extra pressure may push air and latent particulate from the ductwork into surrounding areas, causing a change in the pressure relationship and an increase in airborne particulate in these areas. Once properly vented to an outside space, portable air scrubbers (and their lengths of ducting) must be strategically positioned within the patient room to avoid impeding access to the patient (or treatment) and, more important, to prevent potentially infectious airborne particulates that may escape the draw of the HEPA-filtered machine. Otherwise, disturbances in the airflow may be caused by airflow from an supply air vent, ambulatory patients or caregivers entering or exiting the room. The ECU AnteRoom when paired with a HEPA-filtered avoids all these potential hazards and inconveniences by eliminating the need to discharge air outside of the building to create the negative pressure environment.

The following drawings demonstrate these effects more clearly.





Is it safe to recirculate HEPA-filtered air back into the hospital from the Negative Air Machine?
Yes. The CDC EIC Guidelines expressly permit recirculating HEPA-filtered air in patient- populated hospital areas. (“Guidelines for Environmental Infection Control,” MMWR, Vol. 52, June 6, 2003, 12) A typical hospital corridor is filtered at 80% efficiency; much lower than when filtered through a HEPA filter, which captures 99.97% of all airborne particulates. HEPA-filtered air is of same quality as that used in bone marrow transplant rooms, cardiac and orthopedic operating rooms.

The ECU AnteRoom isolates airborne infectious contaminates and filters them through HEPA- filtered negative air equipment, after which the air can be safely recirculated back into the hospital corridor. This system eliminates the need to have the filtered air ducted into an existing return air or exhaust system, as required when using a portable negative air machine inside the patient room.

Does the ECU AnteRoom need to be tested with a differential pressure monitor after it is initially set up?
Yes. The CDC EIC Guidelines require every isolation room to have its pressurization checked before a patient is placed in the room, and then daily when the room is occupied by an infectious patient. This test can be accomplished using a flutter strip, smoke tube, or a handheld manometer.

How does the ECU AnteRoom meet the new CDC Environmental Guidelines for Infection Control in HealthCare Facilities?
The CDC recommends the use of airborne infectious isolation rooms, preferably with an anteroom, for person with diagnosed or suspected airborne infectious diseases. The ECU AnteRoom is a short-term anteroom, and functions in the same way as a permanent installation anteroom, with a HEPA-filtered negative air machine replacing the air intake grill.

When using the ECU AnteRoom to convert a standard room into a short-term isolation unit what must I do to the return air inlets?
To keep any infectious particulates from entering into the return air system and being recirculated back into the general air stream, the patient room return air grills will need to be blocked off with a nonporous material or covered with a HEPA filter medium. The use of HEPA filters will depend on the volume of supply air into the room. If the supply volume is too great, either the negative air machine exhaust volume will need to be increased or the return grilles will need to be covered with the HEPA so some air is being exhausted from the room. This is a condition that should rarely exist as the negative air machine exhausts over 425 cubic feet per minute.

Will the ECU AnteRoom violate the NFPA’s Life Safety Code referenced by the Joint Commission and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services?
No. The ECU is only 28” wide, and in a standard 8’0” corridor there will still be plenty of room to maneuver beds, gurneys, environmental service equipment, crash carts, etc. Given the short-term nature of the solution, and the wheels on the ECU, moving it will not be a problem in times of crisis or special needs. The healthcare organization will need to implement interim life safety measures and have an action plan to move the ECU in the event of a fire. The ECU containment envelope material is constructed using a durable, 8 mil PVC fabric that is rated flame-resistant by the California State Fire Marshall.

How can the room be resupplied with the ECU AnteRoom in place?
The ECU AnteRoom has four doors built into the unit, one on each side. One wide door leads into the room and is typically secured in the up position; the two narrow side doors allow for flexibility in placement of the negative air machine on one side, while the opposite door is used for exiting and entering; and the fourth door is a wide door in the front of the ECU opposite the patient room door which permits a gurney, supply cart or housekeeping cart to be rolled into the room. The narrow width of the unit typically requires both wide doors to be open simultaneously. To prevent the opportunity for potentially harmful airborne contaminants from being released into the occupied space, this wide door should not be used if the room is occupied by a patient requiring isolation. The room should to be stocked with typical supplies at the time the patient is being placed in the room. If the room needs restocking the patient will need to be masked and the room ventilated through the HEPA filter of the ECU for approximately one hour before the large door is opened for carts. Minor restocking of smaller items can be hand carried through the zippered opening on the side opposite the negative air machine or hand carried (such as meals) into the ECU through the side door before opening the patient room door.

How can you tell when the negative air machine HEPA filter needs to be changed?
There is a static pressure gauge built into the negative air machine, which gives a constant visual indication of the condition of the filter.

Odor, VOC and Bio-Contaminant Purifiers

What do Ionized hydro peroxide purifiers do?
Ionized hydro peroxide purifiers rapidly destroy bacteria, virus, VOCs and odorsIndependent studies by labs and universities confirmed following results:
  • 99.99% reduction in surface bacteria/virus
  • Over 80% VOC reduction 97% airborne bacterial reduction
  • 99% reductions of E-Coli, Listeria, Strep and Bird Flu
  • 85% odor reduction
  • 97% airborne mold reduction US Military approved for mold protection in field hospitals
  • Hospital approvals Infectious Diseases – U.S. and International 99% reduction of Staph (MRSA)
  • 99% food surface microbial reduction
  • Tested and approved by the Chinese Government for protection against the SARS virus
  • Approved by the USDA, FSIS and FDA for use in food processing
What is a PEROx Air Purifier?

PEROx air purifiers provide a multitude of benefits in a wide range of industries. PEROx PG machines are designed to be used effectively at abatement and remediation sites for odor, VOC, and mold control as well as sterilization after final clean-up. Our air purifiers may also be found in bio-contamination sites such as crime scenes, medical facilities, and lab environments to control virus and other dangerous biohazards.

In what applications do I need to use a PEROx Air Purifier?

PEROx air purifiers are a powerful tool at fire and flood restoration projects, mold abatement sites, and for control of VOC’s, odor and bio-contaminants. Highly portable PEROx PG units are designed to be connected by flex duct to the exhaust from OmniAire machines or to the intake side of any air mover. PEROX 1000 units contain an integrated 1000 CFM blower and can be set up and running in seconds. The PEROx purification process utilizes Ionized hydroperoxides oxidizer plasma, which rapidly sanitizes the air passing through and continues to seek bio-contaminants in surrounding air and on hard surfaces. Our portable units can safely operate in occupied areas and control odors during the restoration process and during the final cleanup.

What is Photo Hydro Ionization?

The oxidizer plasma created in the PEROx air purifiers cell is made from oxygen and humidity in the air using a process called photo hydro ionization. Our process creates positively charged particles which both repel each other forcing distribution, and attract to surfaces making sanitizing hard to reach spaces more efficient. The ionized hydrogen peroxide disperses like a gas and attaches to all surfaces in the containment area destroying bio-contaminants immediately. Since these positively charged droplets are attracted to all surfaces PEROx technology is ideal for attacking odors at the source. Because ionized hydroperoxides are not affected by temperature or humidity, PEROx air purifiers can be used in a wide range of applications and environments.

Is using the PEROx Photo Hydro Ionization Environmentally Safe?
When the job is complete, unused oxides convert back to H20 and O2 within 15 minutes with no chemical residue or additional decontamination. This makes the PEROx one of the most environmentally friendly air purifier methods on the market. Our purification process constantly occurs in nature and has been used in thousands of HVAC installations with no known health risks. Independent safety tests performed on hydroperoxide gas molecules have shown concentrations of 0.01 ppm are an effective infection control and microbial threat agent. Government safety guidelines on hydroperoxide gas state that 1 ppm is the maximum allowable limit of concentration, therefore 0.02 ppm is 1/50th or well below the government safety limit. Testing of hydroperoxide generators in PEROx units showed:
  • Hydro-Peroxides outdoor level – 0.01
  • Hydro-Peroxides inside unit off – 0.00
  • Hydro-Peroxides inside unit on – 0.01
Ozone levels have also been tested over 6 consecutive days, including sunny and rainy days. Levels of Ozone ranged from 0.01 to 0.02 ppm. Levels inside the tested area were comparable to outside levels. Levels of 0.02 are considered very low.