Hospital Surge Capacity Readiness: Keeping Patients Safe with Containment Solutions (ICRA 2.0)

Respiratory illnesses are on the rise across North America. A surge of COVID-19 cases combined with viral strains of the flu and RSV has made it a particularly fierce season for all kinds of respiratory infections. Healthcare facilities are seeing an increased need for critical services and supplies and are quickly running out of space, while the number of patients with respiratory infections is only expected to grow.

Infection control risk assessment (ICRA) requirements call for six feet of spatial separation between infected sources and susceptible hosts, so building cubicles and barriers may be necessary in waiting rooms, triage areas, and treatment spaces. In addition, it's best practice to use single-bed room accommodations for patients whenever possible. If single rooms aren’t available due to capacity constraints, it's important to ensure the same ICRA spatial separation recommendations are met. 

Containment Products

Modular temporary containment barriers like our Shield Wall™ system are gaining traction in the healthcare construction industry due to their adaptability. The system can be configured to create anterooms or standalone patient areas. Temporary containment solutions are easy to set up and an excellent option for quickly creating emergency quarantine areas and patient intake spaces, especially when combined with a HEPA air filtration device. Modular containment systems like Shield Wall™ are durable with fully wipeable interior and exterior surfaces, making them easy to sanitize and an ideal solution for critical care environments.

HEPA Air Filtration Systems 

Containment barriers are effective for enclosing a space but can’t eliminate what’s already in the air.  Portable air filtration units can be added for infection control and to reduce healthcare associated infections (HAIs).  They contain HEPA filters tested and certified to provide 99.97% or higher efficiency overall against 0.3-micron particles. Using temporary containment walls combined with a HEPA air filtration system like our HEPA-CARE® portable models, healthcare facilities can quickly convert almost any room into a CDC-compliant patient isolation room. Our available ceiling-mounted models place the filtration system completely out of the way of patients and staff, while portable air scrubbers (PAS) like our PRED750 are lightweight filtration options that can be brought into small spaces with minimal disruption.

Assessing Your Current Response Plan 

Preparation is essential for maintaining healthcare facility operations and delivering quality patient care amid any crisis. Periodically reassessing preparedness levels can help healthcare facilities identify gaps and prioritize future purchasing requirements. 

Abatement Technologies offers a complete range of products designed to help adapt existing healthcare spaces and combat surge capacity restraints. Our fully-trained Aire Guardians are ready to help recommend an affordable preparedness package to cover the needs of your facility in supporting both your staff and your patients.

Contact us today to learn more about how our solutions are essential in managing surge capacity. 

7 Ways to Use SHIELD WALL™ for Temporary Containment

Temporary modular walls have grown in popularity in recent years as a reliable alternative to traditional solutions, like drywall and poly sheeting. Due to their reusability, flexibility, and cost savings, temporary wall systems are a great solution for a variety of projects. 

At Abatement Technologies, our SHIELD WALL™ containment solution has been successful in a wide range of commercial construction projects–both inside and outside of healthcare. Here’s a quick look at some examples of how industry experts are leveraging  SHIELD WALL™ temporary walls to protect people from airborne contaminants during construction in occupied settings. 

Hospitals and Long-term Care Facilities

Infection control and reducing healthcare associated infections (HAI’s) has become a central concern in healthcare construction. In the US and Canada, code compliance is required in all healthcare facilities. Many regulations and standards require containment barriers, like our SHIELD WALL™ solution, to prevent pathogens from entering patient care areas. For a complete solution, SHIELD WALL™ is used in conjunction with our high-efficiency, HEPA-filtered portable air scrubbers, and monitoring equipment to effectively isolate, capture, and control airborne dust particles and pathogens. Additionally, SHIELD WALL™can be easily configurable to create anterooms and patient isolation rooms.

Schools

Schools and college/university campuses environments support a range of interests and activities for a large and diverse population. When construction or renovation needs arise, they often can’t be put off until a break or summer recess, requiring construction to occur in occupied spaces. During these projects, it’s important to minimize the disruption of construction noise and prioritize safety for all. Our SHIELD WALL™ temporary containment solution not only blends in with its surroundings, its superior sound attenuation significantly reduces noise to allow projects to move forward without disruptions. 

Data Centers

Data centers are not only massive investments, they’re integral to the operations of many organizations. With various pieces of sensitive equipment and hardware, even the tiniest particle of dust can cause serious damage, risking the integrity of stored data. Because of this, it's important that a modular containment solution, like SHIELD WALL™, is used to prevent any damage to the equipment. And to further protect equipment, SHIELD WALL™ is used in conjunction with air filtration devices to keep the area pressurized and monitored, ensuring electronics are dust free for optimal performance. 

Airports

Airports today have become more than just a center of transportation—they’ve become a hub of commerce and development. In fact, according to the FAA's Air Traffic Organization (ATO), approximately 2,900,000 passengers fly in and out of U.S. airports on any given day. And, to keep up with the traffic, airports are constantly undergoing renovation and construction. However, while construction is underway, navigating flight checkpoints and finding the right terminal can be challenging for even the most seasoned traveler, especially those unfamiliar with the terminal’s design. Simple signage and barriers can be confusing, and don’t always discourage people from entering.

 With a containment solution, like SHIELD WALL™, airports can effectively conceal construction areas to appear as if it’s a regular wall within the airport. This eliminates potential confusion and helps travelers safely navigate around the construction site. 

Malls

Modular wall systems in retail and mall construction is a practical way to keep the stores not involved in the project open to the public, without sacrificing the aesthetic of the store fronts. Instead of the traditional drywall with branded logos, temporary containment walls offer retailers a reusable option that doesn’t sacrifice the safety of shoppers. If branding the area under construction is required then custom graphics can be easily applied to the temporary walls letting shoppers know what’s “coming soon”.

Residential Buildings 

When renovations are required in residential buildings, like apartment complexes and other multifamily housing, concealing the construction area is essential in protecting the safety of tenants. And, minimizing noise and disruptions is a valuable bonus. Our SHIELD WALL™ temporary containment solution not only effectively protects tenants from breathing in any potential harmful pathogens, its superior sound attenuation protects tenants from noise disruptions.

Office Spaces 

Think outside of the box, or in this case, outside of the cubicle! During construction and renovations, it’s important to find a balance between getting the work done in an efficient manner without disrupting office production. As the central location for many companies, a productive work environment leads to successful operations. Because of this, it's crucial to maintain a quiet workplace throughout the duration of the project. 

Additionally, SHIELD WALL™ is so flexible that it’s not just used for construction purposes. Many facilities have used the modular system to easily construct temporary cubicles for additional overflow work space.

A versatile solution for any industry 

From malls to healthcare to multifamily housing, schools and office buildings, and even data centers, temporary containment wall systems are designed to protect. Our SHIELD WALL™ containment system is trusted by leading contractors across North America to protect people in occupied spaces from potential infections and disruptions of renovation. 

Ready to learn more about how SHIELD WALL™ can help you get the job done? Contact us today! 

Renting Smart with Abatement Technologies

Contractors looking to build their equipment inventory inevitably end up asking themselves – do I rent or buy this piece of equipment? Concerns like budget and storage constraints can make buying new equipment a burden. And, for the contractors who rarely use certain pieces of equipment, renting can be the most cost effective option. 

But because of the nature of construction, it’s important that contractors have access to the equipment they need, when they need it. And because construction projects can be unpredictable, rental companies need to have a full inventory that is ready to ship out at a moment's notice. 

Abatement Technologies: A One-Stop-Shop 

For companies like Century Building Materials, having an equipment provider that operates with the same sense of urgency is a must. And, leveraging Abatement Technologies as a one-stop-shop for their rental equipment needs, Century Building Materials is able to single-source a wide range of equipment, cutting down on the time and effort needed when working with multiple vendors. 

Abatement Technologies helps supply rental companies with equipment like:

  • Negative air machines  
  • Portable air scrubbers
  • Monitoring equipment
  • Containment barriers
  • And more!

Meeting Renter Needs

By helping rental companies offer innovative products to renters, Abatement Technologies helps ensure renters are meeting industry standards and requirements. Specifically, in healthcare, it’s essential that contractors take the proper measures to protect patients. For some, this can mean updating practices and equipment. 

For many years the materials needed to contain construction areas were disposable materials, like drywall and lumber. However, by renting a modular containment wall system, like SHIELD WALL™, the wall can be returned at the end of the project and rented repeatedly.  

Around the Clock Customer Service

Abatement Technologies offers rental companies the support needed to provide high quality equipment to customers, at any time. And, with Abatement’s rapid order fulfillment capabilities, rental companies can ensure products are readily available for customers whenever and wherever they need them. With a knowledgeable staff on hand, Abatement Technologies offers a consultative approach to its customer service to find the right solution for each need.  

Century Building Materials and Abatement Technologies - A Case Study

Want to learn more about how Abatement Technologies supports an equipment rental company? Click here to read about Century Building Materials’ partnership with Abatement Technologies to readily provide rental equipment to its customers. 

Winter Maintenance Guide: Frozen pipes

A Winter Maintenance Guide to Preventing Frozen Pipes 

As the weather gets more frigid with each passing day in many parts of the world, it's important to be prepared for freezing temperatures. Frozen pipes are notoriously known to cause a significant amount of damage every year, and can result in thousands of dollars in damages if not handled correctly. When water freezes and expands, pressure builds, and vulnerable pipes are likely to burst. The smallest crack in a pipe can spew hundreds of gallons of water, resulting in flooding, mold, and structural damage. Unlike winter storms, bursting pipes are largely preventable with the right preparation. Here are a few tips on how to prevent frozen pipes, how to thaw frozen pipes before they burst, and how to avoid water damage before it’s too late:

Preventing Frozen Pipes

When temperatures drop below -6° C for at least six consecutive hours, pipes are at a risk of freezing. In order to mitigate the risk, it’s crucial to consider the following:

Insulate pipes: Pipes that are exposed, pipes that run through exterior walls, and pipes that are located in unheated crawl spaces, attics, and basements are all highly susceptible to freezing. To build thermal protection around pipes, it’s important to use materials like tubular foam, pipe wrap, and heat cable to raise water temperatures by -15.56° C.    

Seal leaks: Air leaks around electrical wiring and vents allow frigid temperatures to make their way around vulnerable pipes. Look for cracks around the building and tightly seal with caulk, weatherstripping, or additional insulation materials to keep cold air outside.

Keep consistent temperatures: Thermostats should be kept at a consistent temperature throughout the day and night. Dropping the temperature indoors at night may offer a lower heating bill, but adjusting below 12.78° C during extreme cold can cause a devastating strain on both pipes and furnaces.   

Thawing Frozen Pipes

If only a few drops of water trickle out of a faucet when it’s freezing outside, there’s a good chance the pipes are frozen. In this stage, it’s not too late to take action before they burst:  

Apply heat: Slowly apply heat using an electrical heating pad, a space heater, or hot towels. Be cautious of using appliances in areas of standing water to avoid electrocution. Start by warming the pipe as close to the faucet as possible, gradually moving towards the coldest portion of the pipe.   

Keep water running: While treating the pipes, keep faucets turned on to allow a consistent flow of water. As the frozen area begins to melt, running water will assist in preventing pressure buildup and blockages that can cause a burst. 

Check all faucets: If one pipe is frozen, it’s likely not an isolated situation. Check all faucets around the building for dripping water and repeat the heating process until all water pressure is restored.  

After Pipes Burst

When frozen pipes go undetected and untreated, ice blockages will likely cause pipes to burst. After the burst occurs, it’s critical to take immediate action. 

Contact a water restoration expert: When it comes to mold and bacteria, time is the enemy. Everything that comes into contact with water must be properly dried, cleaned and disinfected within 48 hours to avoid residual damage. Trained professionals know the quickest, safest, most efficient ways to salvage the building and its contents by measuring and recording temperature, moisture, and humidity.  

Shut off water: Locate the main water supply and shut it off to stop the heavy flow of water. Leave faucets on to relieve the pipe of remaining pressure and cold water. If the leak occurred near any electrical sockets or fuse boxes, it’s crucial to turn electricity off.  

Remove standing water: The longer water stays in the building, the higher potential for mold and mildew issues. Remove as much water and moisture from the area as possible, while waiting for the experts, using a durable dehumidifier and high-speed air mover. Carpeting, drywall, rugs, cloth, and other porous materials are the most vulnerable to damage. 

But if disaster does strike, check out our blog on Disaster Restoration Solutions.

Choosing the Right Containment Cart for the Job

When it comes to construction in critical environments, nothing is more important than safety. In fact, awareness of healthcare-related infections has grown over the last several decades and construction, especially when accessing a ceiling, in critical settings is now recognized as one of the causes of the airborne transmission of pathogens. Because of this, regulations were put in place to prevent the spread of pathogens when doing maintenance in a ceiling

Containment Cart Requirements 

Why use a containment cart? Because disturbing a single ceiling tile can release spores of environmental fungi. Contractors and healthcare facilities alike must exercise caution by following ceiling access regulations, detailed by the ASHE ICRA 2.0 matrix. 

Further, the right containment cart has the ability to meet all industry standards and certifications. In order to stay compliant, equipment must be also able to meet the Joint Commission enforced CDC guidelines, which includes an assessment to evaluate a patient's risk of infection due to exposure from airborne microbes.

AIRE GUARDIAN® Containment Carts

At Abatement Technologies, each of our containment cart models are ICRA-compliant, so contractors can feel confident that they are purchasing the right equipment for each job. Abatement Technologies’ AIRE GUARDIAN® line-up consists of three different containment carts. While each cart has similar benefits, there are a few key differences. 

AG8000: The AG8000 is the largest most rugged mobile containment cart offered in the AIRE GUARDIAN® series, and was specifically created for contractors or maintenance teams working on projects in healthcare facilities. With its unique upper header design, the AG8000 can safely support a worker on a ladder, ensuring OSHA compliance and extending height access for contractors as they work above ceiling tiles. With the AG8000, contractors can easily work in the plenum, above the ceiling deck. With an optional extension, contractors can work on more ceiling tiles at a time with wider coverage (5 sqft).

The AG8000 can be used in a variety of construction and maintenance activities, such as: ceiling tile replacement, electrical wiring installation, HVAC equipment, ductwork, and much more.

AG5000: The AG5000 was designed to be the perfect blend of durability and transportability. Since the cart is collapsible, it decreases the amount of storage needed between jobs, and makes it small enough to put in the bed of most standard size pickup trucks to move to and from the jobsite. Furthermore, due to the increased transportability of the AG5000, contractors have the flexibility to use the containment cart in job sites other than a hospital setting. 

Similar to the AG8000, the AG5000 is another hard-sided containment cart option. Not only are hard-sided containment carts more aesthetically pleasing, but they are also more durable and long lasting. Additionally, the hard-sided surface can comply with more hospital requirements. 

AG3000: The soft-sided AG3000 is a great economic containment cart option. Because of this lower price, customers frequently purchase this model in bulk to add to their fleets. This model is smaller than both the AG8000 and AG5000, which makes it even easier to transport. Additionally, this containment cart’s easy assembly and disassembly means it only requires one worker, which can cut down on labor costs.

Contain, Pressurize, Monitor 

When containment carts are used in conjunction with portable air scrubbers, a workspace can become a fortress under negative pressure. Negative pressure confines the harmful dust particles to the construction area, further ensuring that patient occupied spaces are not infiltrated. And, by leveraging a room pressure monitor, an optional accessory for each of Abatement Technologies’ containment cart models, contractors can ensure that the space remains under negative pressure for the duration of the project - preventing dust particles from escaping beyond the containment cart. 

Our Aire Guardians at Abatement Technologies specialize in assisting with dust control (ICRA) requirements for healthcare construction and renovation and can assist you in making the best product selections customized for the needs of your project. 

Ready to learn more about Abatement Technologies’ containment cart solutions? Contact us today!

 

ICRA 2.0 – Controlling the Spread of HAIs During Construction in Critical Healthcare Environments

Each year, thousands of patients fall victim to healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) caused by dust and other airborne contaminants released during construction activities. To support patient safety, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has created requirements for healthcare facilities to perform an Infection Control Risk Assessment (ICRA) before any renovation, construction, or maintenance project begins. 

The ICRA 2.0 matrix includes the steps for assessing the impact of construction activities in the surrounding areas. It takes into account dust, ventilation, pressurization, noise, vibrations, and other potentially harmful factors. The matrix lays out the inspection and management of the environmental conditions categorizing activities by project type – from Class I for low risk groups to Class V for maintenance and construction activities in high risk groups. Because Class V is the highest risk group for procedural, invasive, sterile support, and highly compromised patient care areas, it has more strict requirements when it comes to infection control.

 

ICRA Class V: Critical Environments

When performing Class V projects, a containment barrier is always needed to meet National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 241 requirements. Containment barriers are designed to separate construction areas from patient occupied spaces. These barriers also enable contractors to put the site under negative pressure, which is another ICRA requirement. Once the contained area is under negative pressure, there should be a visual pressure indicator and the air must be HEPA filtered or discharged directly outside.

In addition, it’s important for contractors to use an anteroom that is large enough for equipment staging, cart cleaning, and workers to clean and change before entering occupied spaces.

 

Selecting an ICRA-Compliant Solutions Provider 

Because of the sensitive nature of critical care environments, it's crucial to find a reputable solutions provider with a team of experts that are knowledgeable on ICRA 2.0 requirements. At Abatement Technologies, our selection of HEPA filtration equipment, portable containment solutions, temporary barrier walls, and pressure monitoring equipment make us the perfect one-stop-shop for all construction needs. And, with our knowledgeable team of Aire Guardians working around the clock, we’re equipped to find a solution that’s right for each project and budget.

Let us help you with your containment needs!  Contact us today to learn more about our products and expertise.

Key Tools for Mold Remediation and Air Quality

While molds are an important part of the environment, its growth indoors can cause serious health problems. Unexpected events, like leaks from pipes and flooding from storms, can create standing water, which allows mold to grow in just 24 to 48 hours. Because of its fast spread, mold can be nearly impossible to prevent. That’s why it's important to focus on controlling its path—in the safest possible way.

Remediation specialists need the tools to not only keep themselves safe, but also the people in surrounding areas. With the proper protective equipment and the necessary tools, contractors are able to meet standards and safety regulations to effectively protect against infections and mold induced reactions.

Here are key tools remediation specialists will need to get the job done safely:

Personal Protective Equipment

Contractors rely on personal protective equipment (PPE), like respirators, gloves, and fitted goggles combined with high-efficiency particulate absorbing (HEPA) filters, cleaners, wet vacuums, and disinfectants to effectively and safely remediate mold.

Beyond PPE, contractors also need to take additional steps to contain harmful particulates and protect air quality. Taught by various organizations, like the IICRC, industry training and best practices often involve the following products: reusable containment barriers and negative air machines.

Reusable containment barriers

To protect others in and around the affected area, it’s important to isolate the contaminated area by closing off HVAC grills, sealing off cracks and crevices, and setting up containment barriers.

Traditional containment has been done by using poly sheeting and drywall with insulation. But, these materials are not reusable and are often disposed of at the end of the project. With the rising cost of construction-related materials and the huge labor shortages, companies are turning to reusable containment barriers, like our SHIELD WALL™ solution. It’s quick and easy to install and can be used over and over again.

By combining the containment walls with air filtration devices and a differential pressure monitor, remediation experts can create a negative pressure environment within the contained area for a complete containment solution.

Portable HEPA Filtration System

Portable air scrubbers—or negative air machines—are used in conjunction with containment to remove contaminated air from a sealed containment area through ductwork. The filtered air is exhausted outside of the contained area, creating negative air pressure inside.


There are several varieties of air filtration devices available on the market today, but it’s important to know which device is the most effective option. The best choices are units equipped with true HEPA filters. A true HEPA filter can capture 99.97% of 0.3-micron particulates, including mold spores, dust, and other allergens, and an even higher percentage of larger particles.


At Abatement Technologies, our PRED750 can be used alone or in conjunction with central air filtration to effectively remove harmful particles from the air. The portable air scrubber is equipped with a high-efficiency HEPA filter and is the most mobile HEPA filtration device in its class. 

Want to learn more about Mold & Indoor Air Quality?

In our recent white paper “Mold & Indoor Air Quality: An Abatement Technologies White Paper,” we discuss:
1. How mold grows
2. The effects it can have on our health
3. Steps and standards for mold remediation
4. And the tools needed for the job

Download the white paper here.

The challenge of removing ceiling tiles while mechanical, electrical, and plumbing work is performed in sensitive environment

Doing mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) work in ceilings can be painful – literally and figuratively. And the figurative sense increases in healthcare environments where regulations are very stringent, and for a good reason.

Increases in hospital acquired infections (HAIs) have led to an increased awareness of the importance of indoor air quality in hospitals which has led to new safety requirements across in both the US and Canada. Hospitals have also developed their own regulations, and these all filter down to contractors and subcontractors – MEPs included.

MEP work above the ceiling grid comes under scrutiny because harmful particulates, such as mold, dust, and Aspergillus, can get knocked down and circulate through the air, possibly harming immunocompromised patients. Something as simple as general maintenance to the lighting in the ceiling can pose a serious threat to patient safety. As a result, this routine task requires contractors to contain the area to ensure no harmful particulates escape.

So what can MEPs contractors do?

The go-to solution for containing ceiling work are mobile containment carts. There are several options to choose from, including soft-sided ones that are a great economical choice, however there are many benefits to choosing a hard-sided containment cart such as our AG5000 or AG8000. 

Containment carts offer extendable tops that reach to the ceiling grids to seal off the space. Contractors can then create negative pressure within these units to prevent particles from escaping. With see-through walls, infection control specialists can maintain a clear line of sight to patients and emergency signals even when the units are in place.

What to look for in a containment cart?

From decades of working in the industry, we’ve developed long-lasting relationships with industry experts and designed our units not just with current regulations in mind, but with an eye for long-term best practices. Here are a few things to look for in a mobile containment cart.

1.  Hard-sided vs. soft-sided

Hard-sided units offer a host of benefits over soft-sided alternatives. First, they offer superior longevity and durability thanks to their more robust materials. Second, most people find them to be much more aesthetically pleasing. Finally, hard-sided units comply with a greater number of current hospital requirements. And if the current trends persist, we believe even more facilities will begin requiring hard-sided units.

2. Safety First

When we were first designing our carts, we knew the safety of the worker or contractor was equally as important as the safety to the patients.  Contractors and facility maintenance staff working in the ceiling need to know they can safely do so from a ladder. Our AG8000 is a rugged and durable cart that is easy to use,and has built-in safety and performance features, such as a unique upper header designed to support a ladder at the ceiling height.

3. Transportability

Our latest design, the AG5000 was created based on feedback from many contractors that were looking for a cart that could easily fit in the back of a pick-up truck and could easily be stored after use. Role in the AG5000! This unit was designed with the perfect blend between transportability and durability. Compactable down to 20” in height, you’ll be able to easily set up, tear down, and transport this portable containment cart.

Discover the go-to solution for containing MEP activities in critical environments

Containing MEP activities in healthcare and other sensitive environments isn’t exactly an optional add-on. It’s a requirement. Abatement Technologies offers well-built, cost-effective solutions for working about the ceiling grid so that MEP contractors can meet the existing requirements. 

If you want to learn more about our options at Abatement, you can check out the details in our online catalog or contact a sales rep for more information. 

4 FAQs About Temporary Containment Wall Systems

FAQ #1: What are temporary containment wall systems?

During construction projects, contractors can spend a lot of time and money building temporary containment walls to keep dust and harmful particulates from leaving the construction area. Like our solution, SHIELD WALL™, many temporary wall system panels are built on galvanized steel frames that provide extra durability for years of reuse. Unlike traditional drywall and poly sheeting methods, which are typically disposed of after each project, temporary wall systems help companies save money in as little as three uses depending on the scope of the project. But, it's not just reusability that makes temporary walls the best option for your project. Many walls on the market today provide additional protection like sound attenuation and fire ratings, but it's important to know what you really need to get the job done - Without over selling. 

If you’re new to our blog and would like more information on SHIELD WALL™ for construction containment, click here.

FAQ #2: Do I Need a Fire Rated Containment Wall System?

No. Contrary to popular belief, a cumbersome, heavy and expensive fire-rated wall is not always necessary. According to the National Fire Protection Association’s 241 guidelines, a non fire-rated temporary containment solution is permitted when there is a working sprinkler system in place. However, if the sprinkler system is deactivated or affected in any way, a fire watch protocol should be established until it’s operational again. That being said, it's important to be aware of the fire resistance of the product you are using. For instance, SHIELD WALL is ASTM E-84, NFPA Class A & IBC Class A.

When making your decision on the right materials for the job it’s important to understand your local regulations and reach out to experienced suppliers for detailed information on temporary panel usage.

FAQ #3: Do temporary containment walls block sound?

Yes, many temporary containment walls have sound attenuating capabilities. In fact, in critical environments, such as healthcare facilities, construction noise can be intolerable and disruptful to patients. To help, hospitals are starting to rely on reusable containment walls to reduce noise in occupied adjacent areas so that renovation projects aren’t disruptful to patients, employees, and customers alike. After all, a loud environment can be distressing for patients and can prevent them from getting the rest that is necessary for recovery. 

Additionally, in commercial spaces such as corporate offices, data centers, colleges and universities, airports and shopping centers, sound attenuation decreases disruptions, and allows for a “business as usual” atmosphere.. And as an added bonus, modular walls are more aesthetically pleasing than alternative solutions. With a professional, sleek appearance, modular wall systems give facilities the ability to conceal the construction area from occupied areas in a way that traditional methods often can’t support.

FAQ #4: What should I look for in a temporary wall provider?

It’s clear that modular wall containment systems have many advantages over traditional methods, such as drywall. Aside from providing sound attenuation and fire resistance capabilities, modular wall systems boast several benefits like cost effectiveness, ease of use, and sustainability. In order to find a solution best suited for your needs, it’s important to choose a solutions provider that can help you find the best financial route and provide guided buying expertise. By selecting a company that offers a consultative approach to sales, you can ensure that you’ll find  a long-term solution to your short-term projects.

Looking for more? Check out Reusable Modular Walls Are Becoming The New Standard

Meet Aire Guardian Sue Hoffmann

Meet Sue Hoffmann – Regional Sales Manager 

When Sue Hoffmann first interviewed with Abatement Technologies, she had previously worked as a business analyst and was completely new to the world of air quality. 

Now, nearly 20 years later, Sue is a seasoned Aire Guardian that has helped countless hospitals and contractors protect patients and staff with our world-class air filtration products..

We sat down with Sue to learn more about her impressive career with the company. 

Learning from the best

“This is my 19th year with the company. When I first started, I quickly found that it was a great place to learn from some of the very best in the field. Leadership was very hands-on, and I was able to learn vast amounts about everything from production, to technology, to finance and more. I very much enjoyed it all.”

Selling products you believe in

We manufacture powerful, high-quality, and reliable filtration products that our clients trust to improve air quality and safety in their indoor environments. Our commitment to quality is a big part of what’s kept Sue so passionate about Abatement Technologies for nearly two decades.  

“In order to be comfortable selling something, I need to believe in the product. If I believe in it, then I can sell it. That’s why our product quality is so meaningful to me. We offer some of the best in the market, and when I sell to clients, I’m confident they’re getting the best solution for their needs.”

Building strong client relationships  

Abatement Technologies is not only trusted for our technology, but also for our expertise. Our Aire Guardians ensure that each client gets a solution that’s right for their project and right for their industry. This expertise is particularly crucial in healthcare, where regulations around construction are strict and non-compliance can jeopardize patient safety.    

Over the years, Sue has built a solid reputation among hospitals, contractors, and infection control specialists as the go-to-expert for their indoor air quality needs. And for Sue, helping these clients is the best part of her job. 

“I love working with my customers. They're amazing. I deal specifically with hospitals, as well as general contractors working in hospitals. It’s so important to be knowledgeable about their unique pain points—from the risks that air quality issues pose to vulnerable patients, to the ins-and-outs of compliance with infection control standards. One of my proudest moments was when a contractor called me and said, ‘I have my first hospital job, and I don't know what I'm doing. But I was told to call you.’ And I said, ‘No problem, let’s get started!’”

Supporting employee goals, in and out of work

For years, Sue served as our National Sales Manager. She worked directly with clients, managed a large team of sales consultants, conducted training, handled budgeting, and much more. But as Sue’s priorities changed, she needed a position with the flexibility to work remotely. So, the company made it happen.   

At some point in your life, your focus becomes more about happiness than money. I was working from our office in Georgia, but I really wanted to move back to Florida, where I’m originally from. When I made the decision to move, the company offered me a Regional Sales Manager position with the ability to work remotely. Now, I’m happily living in Florida, and my new role allows me to focus on what I really love—helping my clients.”

Are you interested in starting a career with Abatement Technologies?  Learn more here