What is the purpose of a negative air pressure unit in an asbestos worksite?

A negative air pressure unit is used in asbestos abatement to create a controlled environment that helps contain asbestos fibers within a specific area. By maintaining negative pressure, the unit ensures that any airborne asbestos fibers are drawn into the filtration system and not allowed to escape into adjacent areas. This is crucial for protecting the health of workers and minimizing contamination of the surrounding environment, which could pose health risks to others.

While ventilation for workers is important, the primary goal of the negative air pressure unit is specifically related to containment. It does not serve the purpose of cooling air or filtering out smoke from combustion, which are unrelated functions. Thus, the focal point of utilizing a negative air pressure unit in asbestos work is to prevent the spread of hazardous materials outside the work area.