What color HEPA filter must you use during lead clearance activities?

What color HEPA filter must you use during lead clearance activities?

• A. Blue
• B. Black or Purple
• C. Green
• D. Red

Answer: (B)

During lead clearance activities you need a vacuum that uses a true HEPA filter, and the filter must be one that is designated for lead-dust work. The color coding black or purple is used to identify filters that meet the required HEPA performance and are approved for capturing lead particulates, providing a quick visual check that you’re using the correct filter. Using a non-HEPA or non-designated lead-filter could let fine lead dust escape, which would fail to meet clearance standards. The other color options don’t indicate the lead-approved HEPA filter, so they aren’t appropriate for this purpose.

During lead clearance activities you need a vacuum that uses a true HEPA filter, and the filter must be one that is designated for lead-dust work. The color coding black or purple is used to identify filters that meet the required HEPA performance and are approved for capturing lead particulates, providing a quick visual check that you’re using the correct filter. Using a non-HEPA or non-designated lead-filter could let fine lead dust escape, which would fail to meet clearance standards. The other color options don’t indicate the lead-approved HEPA filter, so they aren’t appropriate for this purpose.