What is the minimum time a negative air machine should run?

The minimum runtime for a negative air machine is essential for ensuring that the air in an affected area is adequately cleaned of airborne asbestos fibers and other contaminants. Running the machine for at least four hours allows sufficient time for the air exchange process to occur, effectively removing hazardous particles from the environment.

During this time, the machine creates negative pressure, ensuring that contaminated air is drawn into the system and filtered properly before being expelled, thus minimizing the spread of asbestos. This duration is aligned with commonly accepted safety practices in asbestos abatement, as it helps to establish a clean, safe environment before any work begins or before re-entering the area.

Shorter runtimes may not provide enough time for effective air filtration, potentially leaving harmful contaminants in the air. Therefore, four hours is recognized as a balanced minimum to help ensure safety while maintaining operational efficiency in asbestos abatement tasks.