There are several important components needed for successful containment. One of the most important components is the use of an exit/decon chamber. These chambers are attached to the main containment chamber and function as a transitionary space between the contained area and the unaffected areas. It provides a space for the technician to don and doff their personal protective equipment to prevent contaminants from being released from contaminated suits and gloves upon exit. It also provides a spot for bags of debris and contaminated equipment to be placed and decontaminated prior to removing it from containment to help prevent cross-contamination of the unaffected areas. MOST importantly, an exit/decon chamber serves as an airlock to prevent the loss of lower partial air pressures (negative air) upon entry and exit.
A technician may realistically exit the containment 20 to 30 times in a single shift to dispose of debris, retrieve tools or equipment, and take breaks due to excessive heat from working in personal protective equipment. Without an exit chamber in place, every time the technician leaves the containment, the partial pressure is lost, and, in some cases, the containment may become positively pressurized, which can force contaminants out of the contained area. When an exit/decon chamber is not used, cross-contamination of unaffected areas is highly likely. To truly demonstrate how much pressure is lost, I always encourage remediation technicians to use a manometer to monitor their containment upon entry and exit–with and without an exit chamber. Bottom line… if you are not using an exit chamber, then don’t bother creating negative air!
Rachel Adams
Rachel Adams, I.H., M.T. (ASCP), RPIH, MWR has been involved in the water damage and environmental health industries for more than 30 years. She holds a dual Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Health Sciences and Medical Technology (Toxicology) from Purdue University and is certified by the American Society of Clinical Pathologists. Rachel also holds a Master Water Restorer designation from the IICRC through her training, dedication, and field experience. Rachel is the Director of Education for Clean Care Restoration Academy located in Panama City, Florida. She served on the Board of Directors for the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC) and was appointed to serve as the Technical Advisory Committee Chair for the development of the IICRC Applied Microbial Remediation Technician (AMRT) which she still serves today. She is an Associate member of the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) and the American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA).
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