Pro-Team aviationvac Supplementary Manual

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QUEST
Quality Environmental
Services & Technologies, Inc.
SUMMARY REPORT
November 1, 2006
Vacuum Cleaner Testing 
for Soil Removal Effectiveness 
and Airborne Particle Emissions
Quality Environmental Services & Technologies, Inc. (QUEST) is pleased to submit this 
summary report detailing the results of recent vacuum cleaner soil removal effectiveness and 
filtration  efficiency  testing.    This  research  was  conducted  for  the  purchasing  department  of  a 
major University.  Since the University must avoid the potential appearance of endorsements, 
the data is provided by generic heading.  Vacuum cleaner types tested are listed as “Backpack A, 
Backpack B,” etc.
QUEST specializes in indoor air quality and particulate analysis.  Our research and development 
capabilities include assessing the risks associated with environmental contaminants (biological, 
chemical, and particulate) as well as investigating and recommending remediation options for 
these contaminants.
For this study, QUEST has tested a total of thirteen vacuum cleaner units.  The University and a janitorial 
supplier provided the vacuum cleaners, filters and tools.  Twelve vacuum cleaner units were tested for both 
soil removal effectiveness and filtration efficiency, plus one for soil removal effectiveness only.  QUEST 
used the floor-tools, adapters and filter-bags provided with each vacuum cleaner.
In the designing of testing procedures, the following test methods were reviewed and sections included as 
appropriate.  Standard Laboratory Test Method for Evaluation of Carpet-Embedded Dirt Removal 
Effectiveness of Household Vacuum Cleaners (ASTM Method F 608-89);  Standard Test Method for 
Measuring Air Performance Characteristics of Vacuum Cleaners (ASTM Method F 558-88); Specification 
for Air Performance Measurement Plenum Chamber for Vacuum Cleaners (ASTM Method F 431-87); 
Specification for Test Carpets and Pads for Vacuum Cleaner Testing (ASTM Method F 655-89); and 
ServiceMaster Vacuum Cleaner Testing Protocol.
Vacuum Cleaner Testing for Soil Removal Effectiveness and Airborne Particle Emissions  
     
 
 
      QUEST, Inc.