When to choose an H class extractor
What H class means
H class is the highest dust extraction class. It applies to dust with a workplace exposure limit below 0.1 mg/m³, and to any carcinogenic or pathogenic dust regardless of its limit. H class extractors filter 99.995% of particles.
Dust types that require H class
- Asbestos
- Mould spores
- Lead, cadmium, nickel and zinc chromate
- Mineral fibres such as ceramic fibres
- Artificial mineral fibres such as glass wool
- Bitumen
- Carcinogenic and pathogenic dusts
If the dust you are dealing with is not on this list, M class is almost certainly the correct choice. Hardwood, MDF, plaster, concrete, brick and respirable crystalline silica all fall under M class.
Asbestos vacuums and H class extraction
An asbestos vacuum is an H class dust extractor. There is no separate classification. Festool H class dust extractors are approved for dust category H, including asbestos dust.
Asbestos removal in Australia is regulated work and most of it requires a licensed asbestos removalist. Check current requirements with SafeWork Australia or your state regulator before starting. An H class extractor forms part of a compliant setup, not a substitute for one.
Work safer
A double-layer safety filter bag is prescribed for class H dust. The second bag surrounds the filter bag so it can be sealed and disposed of without exposing you to what you have just collected.
Work faster
The flat filter and smooth container walls let the filter bag unfold fully, so it fills evenly and uses close to its full volume. Combined with a large container and suction that holds as the bag fills, that means fewer bag changes on a job where every bag change is a controlled procedure.
Unsure which class your work requires? Read the L, M and H class guide.