This element is a protein called DerP1, a protease enzyme found in the feces of dust mites. The house dust mite, is a cosmopolitan guest in human habitation. These mites thrive in modern, fully carpeted, double-glazed, draught-proof homes and lives comfortably at 25 deg Celcius and a humidity of 75%.

Dust mites live on shed human skin cells, predigested by a fungus called Aspergillus repens. It is particularly common in carpets and bedding. General cleaning does not remove these mites. In this article, we will take a look at effective ways to control dust mites.

Most of us take the following measures to control dust mites using regular cleaning equipment and chemicals:

1. Regular vacuum cleaning (especially with high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters)
2. Regular damp dusting of surfaces
3. Replacement of carpets with vinyl or tile floors
4. Covering of mattresses and pillows with impervious materials
5. Use of chemicals (acaricides) to kill mites
6. Use of fungicides to kill Aspergillus
7. High efficiency particulate air filters (HEPA)

HEPA rating is a confusing term as so many manufacturers and end-users misuse it to sell their products. In Europe, HEPA is a range of filtration from 85% to 99,995% of particles 0.3 microns in size or larger. (HI0-HI4) For anything better than HI4, the rating scale changes to ULPA (Ultra Particulate Air) 99.9995% to 99.999995% @ 0.3 microns is considered ULPA in Europe. In the United States, a HEPA filter is understood to be at least 99.97% efficient at 0.3 microns. Higher efficiencies can be specified, such as 99,999% but there are no classifications applied. (e.g. H13) as in Europe.

It is also essential to distinguish between HEPA-tested and rated vacuum cleaner and a HEPA filtered vacuum cleaner.

1. HEPA tested and rated vacuum cleaner.
   HEPA tested and rated vacuum cleaners achieve total filtration of 99.99954% at 0.3 microns.
2. HEPA filtered vacuum cleaner
   A HEPA filtered vacuum cleaner - only the filter system has been tested, not the entire vacuum system.

HEPA tested and rated vacuum cleaners have been tested for any leaks that might occur - i.e. the possibility of minute leaks in the vacuums system and filters where the air might bypass the filters. That includes the canister as well.

HEPA filtered vacuum cleaners on the other hand have just been tested for the filters itself and not the canisters.

When purchasing cleaning equipment, clients should take these factors into consideration. Questions that should be asked should include the following:

Which type of application needs to be cleaned? Must the environment be clean and dust-free?

HEPA filtered vacuums works well in commercial applications where the indoor quality of the air should be clean. In cases (for example laboratories) where the air must be both clean and dust-free, a HEPA tested and rated vacuum would be best to use.

Please consult with your cleaning equipment supplier when deciding upon the best equipment to use for your application. It might be worth your while to invest a bit more in order to obtain a clean and dust-free environment.

Ricky Bodmer

Ricky Bodmer is Director at Tennant South Africa. Tennant SA distributes commercial, industrial and janitorial products in Southern Africa. What is today one of the most dynamic cleaning equipment supply companies in South Africa, results from the combination of Sorma S.A. (Pty) Ltd. and the cleaning equipment division that was formerly trading under the Goscor Industrial banner.

The merger of the total product range under Sorma S.A. in 1999 , has enabled the company to offer a comprehensive product range from commercial vacuum cleaners and detergents to industrial road sweepers. Our leading brands , namely TENNANT, ELGIN, GHIBLI and ITALIMPIA have been represented in South Africa for numerous years and over time these products have upheld their reputation for reliability and performance.

Supplying solutions for most cleaning requirements by providing equipment for mechanised or manual cleaning and supplying a professional after sales service has and will ensure our premium place in the market. Working closely with various contract cleaners in order to be part of a comprehensive solution has also cemented our position in the market place. With our head office based in Chloorkop, just North of Kempton Park, branches in Durban , Cape Town and Port Elizabeth and a capable network of distributors we are able to offer these cleaning solutions and equipment on a national basis.