Mobile Containment

How to Choose Mobile Containment Equipment

Mobile containment isolates a contaminated work area and gives workers a controlled path in and out. The right setup depends on the contamination type, the duration of the job and whether the site has running water and drainage.

Decontamination Showers

• Tank fed portable showers. Self contained units with onboard fresh water and waste tanks. Drop on any site.
• Hose connected showers. Tap into site water supply for unlimited capacity. Need waste tank or sewer drain access.
• Single stage vs three stage. Three stage units include a clean room, a shower and a dirty room (PPE removal area), required by OSHA for some asbestos and lead work.

Containment Chambers

Modular framed enclosures wrapped in poly sheeting create negative pressure work zones. They scale from a 4 by 4 foot point of work hood to a full room enclosure. Pair with a HEPA negative air machine to draw air through the enclosure and exhaust it through the filter train.

Compliance Considerations

Asbestos work falls under OSHA 1926.1101. Lead remediation is governed by EPA RRP and OSHA 1926.62. Mold remediation follows the IICRC S520 standard. Each spec mentions specific containment, decontamination and personal protection requirements; check the latest standard before each job and document your setup.

Pair containment with an air scrubber for negative pressure ventilation, and a dehumidifier on water damage and mold jobs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a three stage decontamination shower?

A three stage decon shower has a clean room, a shower compartment and a dirty PPE room. Workers leave contaminated PPE in the dirty room, shower in the middle compartment and dress in clean clothes in the clean room. OSHA requires this setup for many asbestos and lead jobs.

Do I need a self contained shower or hose hookup?

Self contained tank fed showers work anywhere. Hose connected showers need site water and a drain or waste tank. For long jobs and remote sites, hose connected showers eliminate refilling. For short jobs and sites without water, self contained units are the practical pick.

How long does it take to set up a mobile containment system?

A trained two person crew can set up a basic three stage decontamination shower in 30 to 45 minutes. Containment chambers depend on size; small point of work enclosures take 15 to 30 minutes, full room enclosures with negative air can take 2 to 4 hours.

What is required to comply with OSHA asbestos rules?

Compliance includes negative air pressure inside the work area, three stage decontamination of workers, sealed double bagged waste, daily air monitoring and worker medical surveillance. Always consult the current OSHA 1926.1101 standard for full requirements.