The Dust Stops Here: Air Scrubber Selection for Countertop Fabricators

Frederick M Hueston  StoneForensics.com

Hey there, fellow stone countertop pros! Let’s chat about something that’s super important but often overlooked in our line of work – air scrubbers. If you’re in the business of crafting those gorgeous stone countertops, you know all too well the hassle of dealing with airborne silica. It’s not just a nuisance; it’s a serious health concern. So, let’s dive into what you should be looking for when shopping for an air scrubber to keep your workspace safe and compliant.

First things first, why bother with an air scrubber? Well, if you’ve been in this game for a while, you’ve probably heard all about the dangers of silica dust. This stuff is no joke – it can lead to some pretty nasty respiratory issues if you’re breathing it in day after day. Plus, OSHA’s been cracking down on silica exposure in recent years, so it’s not just about health – it’s about keeping your business above board.

Now, when you’re out there looking for an air scrubber, here’s what you need to keep an eye on:

HEPA Filtration This is the biggie. You want a scrubber with a true HEPA filter. These bad boys can capture particles as small as 0.3 microns with 99.97% efficiency. Silica particles can be tiny – we’re talking as small as 0.5 microns – so you need something that can really get the job done.

Airflow Capacity Think about the size of your workspace. A small, portable unit might be fine for a compact shop, but if you’re working in a larger space, you’ll need something with more oomph. Look for the CFM (cubic feet per minute) rating. As a rule of thumb, you want a scrubber that can cycle the air in your workspace 6-8 times per hour.

Multi-Stage Filtration The best air scrubbers don’t just rely on HEPA. Look for models with pre-filters to catch larger particles and maybe even activated carbon filters to deal with odors. This multi-stage approach not only cleans the air better but also extends the life of that expensive HEPA filter.

Portability Unless you’ve got a massive shop, you’ll probably want something you can move around. Look for units with wheels and handles. Trust me, your back will thank you.

Noise Level We all know fabrication shops aren’t exactly quiet, but you don’t want an air scrubber that sounds like a jet engine. Check the decibel rating – anything under 70 dB is pretty good for our kind of work environment.

Energy Efficiency These things are often running all day, so an energy-efficient model can save you a bundle on electricity bills. Look for Energy Star certified models if you can find them.

Durability Our work isn’t exactly delicate. You need a scrubber that can handle a bit of dust and grime. Look for models with sturdy construction and good reviews from other fabricators.

Ease of Maintenance Changing filters and cleaning the unit shouldn’t require an engineering degree. Look for models with easy-access panels and simple filter replacement processes.

Smart Features Some newer models come with built-in air quality sensors and automatic adjustments. While not essential, these can be handy for ensuring you’re always operating at the right level.

Compliance Make sure whatever you buy meets OSHA standards for silica dust control. The last thing you want is to invest in equipment that doesn’t keep you compliant.

Now, I know what you’re thinking – “This all sounds great, but what about the cost?” Look, I get it. Good air scrubbers aren’t cheap. But think of it this way – it’s an investment in your health, your employees’ health, and the longevity of your business. Plus, when you factor in potential fines for non-compliance and the cost of health issues down the road, a good air scrubber starts to look like a bargain.

One last tip – don’t just rely on the air scrubber. It should be part of a comprehensive dust control strategy. Use wet cutting techniques when you can, make sure your workers are wearing proper PPE, and keep your workspace clean.

Remember, at the end of the day, we’re all in this to create beautiful countertops for our customers. But we can’t do that if we’re not taking care of ourselves and our teams. So take the time to research and invest in a good air scrubber. Your lungs (and your business) will thank you!

Any of you folks out there have experiences with air scrubbers you want to share? I’m always keen to hear what’s working (or not working) for other fabricators out there in the trenches. Stay safe, and keep crafting those gorgeous countertops!