Dust control is a critical component of many construction and renovation projects, particularly when cutting, grinding, or demolishing materials that generate large amounts of fine particles. In this guide, we break down the basics of dust filtration, explain how air scrubbers work, and introduce the air scrubber units available from Control Hire.

What is Dust Filtration on Site?

Dust filtration refers to capturing and removing airborne particles from construction sites using purpose-built ventilation equipment. These particles can include dust, concrete debris, silica, and other hazardous materials. If left unchecked, they can cause serious health issues for workers and contribute to contamination, poor air quality, and reduced project efficiency.

Dust control is especially important when working indoors, in enclosed spaces, or in sensitive environments like hospitals, data centres, and commercial fit-outs.

What is an Air Scrubber?

An air scrubber is a portable filtration system used to remove dust and other contaminants from the air on job sites. It draws ‘dirty’ air in through one side, passes it through a series of filters, and then releases clean, filtered air out the other side.

The filtration process usually involves:

• A pre-filter to capture large debris
• A HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filter to remove smaller particles, including silica and allergens
• Optional activated carbon or ULPA filters for odours or ultra-fine particulates

Air scrubbers can be used in negative pressure setups to isolate work zones, or in positive pressure setups to keep clean areas protected.

Why Use Air Scrubbers in Construction?

Air scrubbers are commonly used in demolition, refurbishment, and internal fit-out projects. Their key benefits include:

• Health and Safety: Reduces airborne silica and fine dust exposure
• Compliance: Meets WHS air quality guidelines and silica dust regulations
• Efficiency: Keeps the work area cleaner and safer, reducing downtime and clean-up
• Flexibility: Easy to move, install, and use in a range of construction environments

Control Hire’s Air Scrubber Range

Control Hire provides a full range of portable air scrubbers designed for different site sizes and dust control requirements. Each unit is available for short-term or long-term hire, with flexible options to suit fit-out, demolition, and construction programs.

Air Scrubber 3400

This compact air scrubber is ideal for small and medium-sized rooms, internal works, or low-dust applications. It delivers high airflow performance while remaining lightweight and easy to deploy.

• Airflow: Up to 3400 m³/h
• Filtration: Multi-stage filtration including HEPA
• Best for: Renovations, bathrooms, and confined areas

Air Scrubber 5000 m³/h

A mid-sized, high-volume unit suitable for general construction, site preparation, and active demolition environments.

• Airflow: Up to 5000 m³/h
• Filtration: Pre-filter + HEPA for silica and fine dust
• Best for: Fit-outs, commercial projects, and demolition zones

Air Scrubber 15000 m³/h

This is the most powerful air scrubber in the Control Hire fleet. It’s built for large-scale sites or high-dust activities where fast and efficient air exchange is critical.

• Airflow: Up to 15,000 m³/h
• Filtration: Multiple filter stages including HEPA and carbon options
• Best for: Warehouses, tunnels, and multi-room projects

All units are fitted with durable casings, intuitive controls, and easy filter access for maintenance. They can be used standalone or connected to ducting systems for zoned applications.

When Should Air Scrubbers Be Used?

Air scrubbers are essential in any of the following:

• Internal demolition or strip-outs
• Grinding, sanding, or saw-cutting concrete and plasterboard
• Healthcare or food facility refurbishments
• Work near sensitive equipment or clean zones
• Sites with poor natural ventilation

They can also support dust control when used alongside other equipment such as vacuums, extraction fans, and negative pressure barriers.

Air Scrubber Setup Tips

• Position the unit as close as possible to the dust source
• Keep a clear airflow path on intake and exhaust sides
• Replace filters regularly to maintain suction and air quality
• Use ducting where needed to control air movement between rooms

Summary

Effective dust filtration protects your team, your project timeline, and your compliance requirements. Control Hire’s air scrubber range offers a simple, scalable solution for keeping construction air clean and breathable. Whether you’re fitting out a commercial space or managing a major demolition job, our 3400, 5000 m³/h, and 15000 m³/h models give you the flexibility and performance to stay in control of your site’s air quality.

Get in touch with Control Hire to arrange a quote or book your air scrubber today.