--- title: EPA RRP definition of a HEPA VAC and how to choose one description: The EPA has established a specific definition for a HEPA Vac under the EPA RRP Rule. A Shop vac equipped with a HEPA filter will not do. image: https://www.shawnmccadden.com/hs-fs/file-16125234-jpg/images/shop_vac-wr.jpg --- [![Shawn McCadden](https://www.shawnmccadden.com/hs-fs/hub/81069/file-1539748069.jpg)](https://www.shawnmccadden.com/) # Welcome to RRPedia Your Interactive Resource for EPA RRP Information ## ![RRPedia logo](https://www.shawnmccadden.com/hs-fs/file-1549005086-jpg/images/RRPedia_Logosmall_-wr-1.jpg)Looking for accurate information about the EPA RRP rule? RRPedia has been created by Shawn McCadden to help remodelers and others affected by the New EPA Renovation Repair and Painting Rule.  ## Please read *[RRPedia Use and Contribution Information](https://www.shawnmccadden.com/using-and-contributing-to-rrpedia-/) *before using or contributing to RRPedia.   --- # You Can Browse For RRP Topics By Using The Tags List To The Right ## [EPA RRP definition of a HEPA VAC and how to choose one](https://www.shawnmccadden.com/rrpedia/bid/38718/EPA-RRP-definition-of-a-HEPA-VAC-and-how-to-choose-one) Posted by [Shawn McCadden](https://www.shawnmccadden.com/rrpedia/author/shawn-mccadden) on Mon, Apr 19, 2010 @ 02:01 PM - [Tweet](https://twitter.com/share) #### ![Shop vac](https://www.shawnmccadden.com/hs-fs/file-16125234-jpg/images/shop_vac-wr.jpg)The EPA has established a specific definition for a HEPA Vacuum under the EPA RRP Rule.  A Shop vac equipped with a HEPA filter will not satisfy the requirements of the RRP Rule.  Using the wrong vacuum for RRP work could subject you to a $37,500 fine per violation per day of use of the wrong vacuum.  #### Here is the EPA definition of a HEPA vacuum taken from the rule itself: *![Hepa vac](https://www.shawnmccadden.com/hs-fs/file-15729224-jpg/images/back_pack_hepa_vac-wr.jpg)"Final rule requirements. Vacuums used as part of the work practices being finalized in this final rule must be HEPA vacuums which are to be used and emptied in a manner that minimizes the reentry of lead into the workplace. The term "HEPA vacuum'' is defined as a vacuum which has been designed with a HEPA filter as the last filtration stage. A HEPA filter is a filter that is capable of capturing particles of 0.3 microns with 99.97% efficiency. The vacuum cleaner must be designed so that all the air drawn into the machine is expelled through the filter with none of the air leaking past it."* #### The rule also further specifies the use of a beater bar when vacuuming carpets or rugs during final cleaning.  *"After the sheeting has been removed from the work area, the entire area must be cleaned, including the adjacent surfaces that are within 2 feet of the work area. The walls, starting from the ceiling and working down to the floor, must be vacuumed with a HEPA vacuum or wiped with a damp cloth. This final rule requires that all remaining surfaces and objects in the work area, including floors, furniture and fixtures, be thoroughly vacuumed with a HEPA-equipped vacuum. When cleaning carpets, the HEPA vacuum must be equipped with a beater bar to aid in dislodging and collecting deep dust and lead from carpets. Where feasible, floor surfaces underneath area rugs must also be thoroughly vacuumed with a HEPA vacuum."* #### Renovators should think about the kind of work they do and related cleanup requirements before purchasing a HEPA vac.  It might even be wise to have more than one depending on the purpose it would be used for.  For example, a small HEPA vac might be easy to carry and adequate for small and or quick cleanups.  But, dragging a small vac with wheels around a large work area might be cumbersome and dragging it around through dust and debris might contaminate the vac.  On the other hand, a back pack style HEPA vac would be great for vacuuming the walls and or floors of a large work area. #### [Click here](https://www.shawnmccadden.com/Choosing-The-Proper-Commercial/Industrial-HEPA-Vacuum-Cleaner/) for an article about HEPA Vacuums, things to consider before purchasing one and some helpful links to manufacturers offering HEPA vacuums. #### [EPA Waffles on Which Vacuums Can Be Used to Clean Up Lead:](http://www.jlconline.com/cgi-bin/jlconline.storefront/EN/UserTemplate/69?c=2ffdea612e95959a378d70524c180929#EPA) This JLC article by Ted Cushman discusses challenges manufacturers are having verifying compliance of their HEPA vacs with the EPA requirements.  In addition to the high price tag that comes with a HEPA vac, these same challenges are also making it difficult for renovators trying to choose which vac to purchase. 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[Worker Training (15)](https://www.shawnmccadden.com/rrpedia/topic/worker-training) ### I just wanted to say thank you for your efforts to keep us informed.  *"Thank you again for the hundreth time for keeping a vigil on this business nightmare. Your site is one of the best resources we have to stay on level ground"*  **Christian Peter**   *"I am quite impressed with all the confusion out there at Shawn McCadden’s clear and concise voice that continues to help contractors and those involved in this industry truly understand the rule. His efforts should be applauded."*  **Christopher Wagner, LBPFiles**   *"RRPedia is an accurate and contractor friendly interpretation of the very complex and confusing EPA RRP rule"* * * *"Thanks for taking the time to write the blog.  It's about the only place one can go to get some serious info on this dreadful subject"*   *"I would like to begin by thanking Shawn for all of his postings and education that he has been sharing with the remodeling industry. He has personally been extremely helpful in guiding me through various interpretations of the RRP rule, his advice and knowledge are priceless."* **Michael A. Mahoney*** * ### Suggest or Contribute a RRPedia Topic ### Want a Simple Summary of the EPA RRP? #### Shawn McCadden has created an EPA RRP Summary for Remodelers. *"Hi Shawn, **Nice RRP write up on the website.   I've already forwarded a link to it to a number of local builder types."*   #### [Click here to go to the summary.](https://www.shawnmccadden.com/epa-rrp-summary-for-remodelers-by-shawn-mccadden/)  You can also download it if you want your own copy. ### Add this widget to your Web page, blog, or social networking site. A widget is a CDC.gov application that displays the featured content directly on your web page. Click the buttons to see the next tip to prevent lead poisoning.