Why is the Pullman-Holt 1.5 Horsepower 4 gallon Dry HEPA 390 ASB Canister Vacuum such a useful and critical tool for any contractor? The answer lies in the specific features of the vacuum and also in why these features are so important to maintaining government compliance.
This Pullman-Holt model is chrome plated and has a low profile which prevents the unit from tipping when in use. It has the standard onboard tools you would expect – a dusting tool, upholstery tool, telescoping steel wand, 2 position ergonomic slide floor tool and crevice tool all come with the unit. It operates quietly at 65 db. Other features include a 4 gallon canister, a 6′ crushproof hose, a foot activated on/off switch, a quiet but powerful 1.5 horsepower motor that provides the suction of larger vacuums and of course, a 25′ cord and cord storage. All useful features, but none of these are what make this canister vacuum so special.
The most important feature: This industrial vacuum cleaner is to be used with individually tested HEPA filters that have a minimum efficiency of 99.99% at.3 microns based on the particle count test method IEST-RP-CCOO7.
Why is that so important?
The efficiency of the filters mean that this vacuum is designed for professional cleaning, and more importantly, to meet the EPA RRP rule.
The EPA’s RRP rule states that HEPA vacuums are now required when working near lead paint. The Renovation, Repair and Painting Rule (RRP) went into effect April 22, 2010 and requires many types of contractors to be certified at lead-safe work practices when working in a home or any child-occupied building built prior to 1978. This rule was designed to prevent a dangerous environment due to lead dust while on the job. The EPA, as well as several states, now require the use of a HEPA vacuum to ensure lead-safe work practices. These include:
- Sanding, grinding & cutting
- A HEPA Vacuum must be connected to all electric power tools.
- A HEPA Vacuum must be used during cleanup on all objects and surfaces. All Carpets must be cleaned with a HEPA Vacuum connected to a powered beater-bar or brush roll.
As a contractor, it is important to be certain that you have a HEPA vacuum that can capture lead dust particles because you must be in compliance with the RRP. Obviously, it also means that you have a much safer work environment. If you didn’t have a HEPA filter that comes with a test and certification label, as the Pullman-Holt does, you couldn’t be certain, or prove that you are in compliance with this new legislation.
So, the Pullman-Holt 1.5 HP 4 Gallon Dry HEPA 390 ASB Canister Vacuum is an ideal fit for RRP because it has the ability to perform the key lead-safe work practices listed above, and because it is a portable, economical, easy to use piece of machinery. As of April 22, 2010, it will be very important for almost any contractor to have one of these on hand. And if you are a retailer, it will be very important to have these available for sale in large quantities as many professionals will not be able to function without one!