What does HEPA stand for in the context of air filtration?

HEPA stands for High-Efficiency Particulate Air. This term is significant in the context of air filtration because HEPA filters are designed to trap a high percentage of very small particles, including asbestos fibers, dust, pollen, smoke, and other pollutants. Specifically, to qualify as HEPA, a filter must capture at least 99.97% of particles that are 0.3 microns in size, which is a critical factor when it comes to maintaining clean air in environments, especially during activities involving asbestos, where the minimization of airborne contaminants is essential for health and safety.

The effectiveness of HEPA filters makes them an important component in various applications, including air purifiers, vacuum cleaners, and HVAC systems, particularly in settings that require stringent controls over air quality. Their ability to significantly reduce airborne contaminants is why they are widely recommended in asbestos-related work, helping to protect workers and the public from exposure to harmful particles.