What does negative air pressure refer to in the context of asbestos work?

Negative air pressure in the context of asbestos work refers to a situation where the air is being filtered out faster than it is being filtered in. This is a crucial safety measure in environments where asbestos is present because it helps to contain airborne contaminants within a controlled area, preventing their escape into other areas.

By maintaining negative air pressure, an enclosure or work area for asbestos abatement ensures that any potentially harmful fibers are drawn into the filtration system and not allowed to spread beyond the designated work zone. This helps protect both the workers inside the containment area and individuals in surrounding areas by minimizing exposure to asbestos fibers.

In operations dealing with hazardous materials, like asbestos, it is essential to control air flow carefully. Positive or stagnant air pressure could lead to contamination spread, while proper negative air pressure effectively manages this risk.