Class H vacuum cleaner: characteristics and area of use
Dust from classes L, M, and H can be collected with one of these vacuum cleaners. These include all dust harmful to health with an OEL value greater than 0.1 MG/m3, all carcinogenic dust, and dust contaminated with germs and bacteria .
Specifically designed for applications in fields such as small industries, the trade of chemicals, plastics, pharmaceuticals, paper, textiles, and tradespeople such as roofers and painters.
A class H vacuum cleaner has a minimum filtration level of Hepa H13.
Appropriate personal asbestos protection is essential.
Body protection is the most important form of personal protective equipment (PPE), along with a protective mask, for protection against asbestos fibers. Compliance with EN ISO 13982-1 (Type 5, solid particle-tight) is required for protection against asbestos fibers.
But did you know that? Using a Class H vacuum cleaner often requires the use of a protective mask and a disposable coverall. However, for an
asbestos coverall to meet Type 5 standards, laboratory tests allow up to 15% leakage into the disposable garment. Following the Ministry of Labor's decree mandating sealed seams, the INRS (National Research and Safety Institute for the Prevention of Occupational Accidents and Diseases) recommends disposable clothing with properties that guarantee optimal protection.
Professional Class H vacuum cleaner brands
Nilfisk Class H Vacuum Cleaner
The strengths of Nilfisk Attix Class H
Push and clean system for manual filter cleaning (on PC versions). Standard antistatic preparation.
Variable speed drive on 2H versions. Safety protection against filter/hose clogging. Continuous speed control (according to current standards).
Multifit connection: several flexible hose diameter options to suit different needs; diameters 27, 32, 36, 38 and 50 mm.
Class H certified filter, efficiency greater than 99.999%.
Versions 30-0H PC and 50-0H PC delivered complete with all accessories.
The Nilfisk Attix 33-2H and 44-2H ranges with optional automatic filter cleaning system, as well as the Aero 26-2H and 26-W2H ranges, remain safe bets.
All class H vacuum cleaners are individually tested with their filter and are provided with their certification.
The "flowsensor" systems incorporate an audible alarm that warns when the velocity of the residues falls below the minimums of 20m/s.
The use of suction hoses of different diameters is easily adjustable on the main control panel.
Numatic Class H Vacuum Cleaner
Testing and Certification of our Class M and H vacuum cleaners. All Numatic Class M and H vacuum cleaners (EN60335-2-69) meet the Sodium Chloride (NaCl) test.
Each device is individually certified: it has its own Filtration Conformity Certificate.
Class H - EN60335-2-69 for HZ390S, HZ390L and HZQ 900 twin-motor vacuum cleaners.
Equipped with an H13 filter only for MFQ370
Procedure for the DOP TEST
1. The vacuum cleaner equipped with the HEPA filter to be tested is positioned inside the test chamber. 2. Once the vacuum cleaner is connected and switched on, the test chamber is sealed.
3. At the other end of the test chain, a Sodium Chloride solution is sprayed at approximately 7 bars in aerosol form.
4. The tiny droplets will, through the suction of the device, gradually move towards the test chamber.
5. During passage through the long tube, the mist formed of Sodium Chloride will dry out to leave only sodium chloride crystals of 0.3µ in diameter.
6. At the heart of this test is a hydrogen flame photometer which allows testing of the air circulating during the operation.
7. By measuring the concentration of Sodium Chloride crystals present in the air sucked in and expelled by the vacuum cleaner, an exact calculation of the filtration level of the device is carried out.
8. Each result is individually recorded on a test certificate that validates a filtration level for particles of 0.3µm at over 99.995%. This certificate of conformity is attached to the tested device.
Frequently asked questions about class H vacuum cleaners
What is a class H vacuum cleaner?
Class H vacuum cleaners belong to the category of industrial vacuum cleaners, designed to vacuum dust and debris that pose a high health risk. They are classified according to their ability to filter the finest particles, based on strict European standards. Class H corresponds to the highest level of filtration, with a minimum efficiency of 99.995% for particles smaller than 1 micron.
What types of dust can a class H vacuum cleaner pick up?
Class H vacuum cleaners are specially designed to vacuum up the finest and most dangerous dust particles, such as:
• Carcinogenic dust (asbestos, lead, etc.)
• Mold spores
• Mineral fibers
• Very small particles (flour dust, etc.)
They are therefore essential for work involving the handling of hazardous materials , such as asbestos removal, interventions in hospital settings or milling activities.
What are the standards for class H vacuum cleaners?
Class H vacuum cleaners must meet very strict regulatory requirements, defined at the European level. In particular, they must comply with the following standards:
• EN 60335-2-69 standard: Safety specifications for industrial and domestic vacuum cleaners for the extraction of hazardous dust
• EN 1822 standard: Very high efficiency air filters (EPA, HEPA and ULPA)
These standards govern filtration performance, safety of use and verification tests to be carried out on these devices.
What maintenance is required for a class H vacuum cleaner?
Regular maintenance of a Class H vacuum cleaner is essential to preserve its performance and safe operation. Here are the main steps to follow:
1. Empty the waste collection tank after each use
2. Clean the filters according to the manufacturer's recommendations (usually every 6 months)
3. Check for damage to the hoses, nozzles and other accessories
4. Perform periodic safety checks (leak test, airflow check, etc.)
5. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations regarding maintenance and parts replacement
Neglected maintenance can lead to a decrease in filtration efficiency, or even risks of dust dispersal.