The EPA requires that firms performing renovation, repair, and painting projects that disturb lead-based paint in pre-1978 homes, child care facilities and schools be certified by EPA and that they use certified renovators who are trained by EPA-approved training providers to follow lead-safe work practices. These practices include using a HEPA vacuum.
Some contractors I know as well as a few handy homeowners have asked me whether or not adding a HEPA filter to their shop vac will make it a HEPA compliant vacuum.
The answer is no, the law requires your HEPA vacuum to be a compliant HEPA vacuum which is sealed properly by the manufacturer. To be a compliant vacuum the unit has to be properly sealed and designed so that all the air goes through the HEPA filter.
HEPA Filters and RRP compliance
Adding a HEPA filter to your shop vac is not going to make you compliant with the E.P.A and lead to a $32,500 fine.
A HEPA vacuum is a vacuum cleaner designed with a high-efficiency particulate air filter [HEPA] 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 HEPA filter.
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