Choose your language to read your local installation instructions:

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for filter changes

We recommend suitable protection equipment is used when changing out dust loaded filters. There are potential health risks when replacing contaminated filters. No matter if you are considering a filtration system upgrade, or you are simply following your maintenance schedule, do not hesitate to contact us. We can help with any questions on how to carry out safe filter changes.

Your PPE should include a recommended minimum of: Face mask, eye protection, protective gloves, Protective suits. For added security, tape can be used to close gaps between suit / gloves and suit / shoes.

This list is intended as guidance only, ensure that any site-specific health and safety requirements are followed.

Step 1: Handle new filters with care and inspect for damage

Move the new filters (still in their packaging) to the area where you are going to carry out the filter replacement.
Visually inspect the new filters for defects. If defective filters are found, they should be replaced. Any defective filters should be retained in their original packaging.

Step 2: Shutdown the HVAC system

Consult your appropriate health and safety professionals or in-house safety officer before beginning the filter change-out to ensure all proper procedures are followed.
Before replacing the contaminated filters, the airflow through the filtration system must be stopped by shutting down the HVAC system.
Close upstream and downstream dampers (if equipped).
AAF recommends that personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, clear safety goggles, and respirators are worn when changing filters.
Ensure you have trash bags to dispose of the used filter(s). Suitable fasteners should be available to seal the bags.

Step 3: Removal of the contaminated filters

Check, that the HVAC System is turned off and made safe before filter housing doors are opened.
Wipe down the access door before opening the filter housing.
Remove the filters carefully from the filter housing to avoid exposing the service personnel and the local environment to contaminants.
Put the used filter immediately into the pre-prepared trash bag after removing it from the filtration housing and seal off the bag before moving on to remove the next used filter.

Step 4: Dispose of the contaminated filters

Check that all used filters are safely stored and sealed in the leak-free trash bags.
Remove all used filters from the area and dispose of them according to local regulations.

Step 5: Decontamination of the filter housing & access door

Clean the filter housing according to the manufacturer instructions.
Visually inspect for any debris inside the filtration housing (remove if any). Inspect for damage to the housing, report any findings to the responsible authority.
Decontamination of the access door is to be carried out (if applicable).

Step 6: Installation of new filters

Ensure the area is clear of any obstacles which may damage the filter throughout the installation process.
Remove filter from packaging, lifting carefully by the filter frame (not by the media). Ensure the filter is not exposed to contamination.
Locate the arrow indicator on the filter and install by aligning the arrow with the airflow within the system.
Install the new filter into the filtration housing ensuring it is installed in the correct filter stage.
Tighten the locking mechanism of the filter to secure the filter in place and prevent any leakages. Filters should be fixed securely but not overtightened to prevent gasket or frame damage.
Remove all packaging and any debris from the filtration housing.

Step 7: Seal back the filtration housing

Replace the housing access door carefully and tighten the housing locking mechanism to ensure the door is fully sealed.
The filtration system is now ready for operation. Open upstream and downstream dampers (if equipped).