From Wipes to Control – Safe Liquid Collection in Cleanrooms
Content
The Problem
In many cleanrooms and process environments, daily cleaning and disinfection are carried out using wipes and liquids – often strong chemicals such as acids, bases, and alcohols. The goal is to eliminate microorganisms, but the agents used can be hazardous themselves.
Personal protective equipment usually complies with EN 14126, EN 14605, and current GMP guidelines: Gloves, coveralls, respirators, shoe covers, masks, and established procedures are in place. However, the technical collection of the used liquids – and wipes that unintentionally end up in the vacuum cleaner with chemical residues – is rarely at the same standard.
This means that hazardous vapors and aggressive substances may spread as fumes or aerosols, damage equipment, and cause cross-contamination – often without being detected.
If liquid collection is not under control, you risk:
- Cross-contamination between liquids, equipment, and surroundings
- Hidden vapors and residual contamination that are not effectively removed – potentially affecting room classification (e.g., ISO 14644-1 or GMP Grade)
- Material damage and accelerated wear of containers, hoses, and filters due to repeated contact with corrosive liquids
Especially when using undiluted chemicals for sterilization, decontamination, or neutralization, it is crucial to remove the liquid safely and in a controlled manner – not simply vacuum it with a conventional wet vacuum that neither retains vapors nor is constructed from chemical-resistant materials.
The solution
At Particulair, we offer a solution that is both accessible and easy to implement. We recommend a chemical-resistant wet vacuum cleaner equipped with ULPA and charcoal filters from Canadian manufacturer Tiger-Vac – a global supplier with many years of experience in handling hazardous liquids in sterile and controlled environments.
Tiger-Vac has developed a complete range of wet vacuums specifically designed for collecting corrosive liquids and associated fumes. The models and their accessories are intended for the chemical industry, laboratories, pharmaceutical companies, biotech, and high-end process environments that demand safe liquid collection and filtration of the airstream – without leakage and with verified safety.
Our recommendation for this case is the CWR-ARU-15 (TC) POLY MRAC, described below.
This model is built from corrosion-resistant materials and equipped with a ULPA filter and activated charcoal filter. It is suitable for ISO Class 7 cleanrooms and environments requiring high operational reliability and minimal residual contamination.
Conclusion
When the final stage of cleaning is performed with the wrong equipment, the entire effort is compromised. A cleanroom is only as safe as its weakest link – and in many cases, that link is the vacuum cleaner.
At Particulair, we offer tried-and-tested solutions already used by hundreds of laboratories, pharmaceutical facilities, and biotech companies around the world. Not as a luxury choice – but as a necessary step in complying with regulations, protecting employees, and ensuring proper documentation.
The right solution is neither complicated nor expensive. It’s available. And it makes a difference in the places that matter most – even if they go unseen.
External links to legal regulations
Terra Universal – Activated carbon in controlled environments
Explains how carbon filters capture toxic, corrosive, and odorous fumes – including in humid and chemically aggressive environments.
EN 1822 & ISO 29463 – ULPA/HEPA
Comparison of requirements for HEPA and ULPA filters in cleanrooms – including testing and classification methods.
U.S. Pharmacopeia USP
Official guidance on cleaning protocols and low particle generation in controlled areas – supports safe handling procedures.
CWR-ARU-15 (TC) POLY MRAC - Built for the Task
The wet vacuum we recommend for the safe collection of hazardous liquids and vapors in cleanrooms and sterile environments is the Tiger-Vac CWR-ARU-15 (TC) POLY MRAC. This model was developed for pharmaceutical and chemical industries and is used worldwide for the safe handling of acids, bases, and corrosive liquids in controlled environments.
Why we recommend this model:
- ULPA U15 filter with 99.9995% efficiency at 0.18 microns (tested per EN 1822 and IEST-RP-CC001)
- Option for various types of activated charcoal, such as KINA3® (for HF and HCl vapors), Mersorb (for mercury vapors), or A-3 (for organic gases)
- Tank and components made of acid-resistant polyethylene and nylon, including hoses and connectors
- ISO Class 4–7 compatible – suitable for cleanrooms and controlled environments
- EMI/RFI-shielded and antistatic – grounded and with conductive surfaces
- Tilt cart for safe emptying and ergonomic handling
The vacuum is delivered with a complete accessory kit and can be equipped with the charcoal filter best suited for the current vapors.
Do you have questions about material compatibility, vapor retention, or filtration in cleanrooms and sterile environments?
We help you find a solution that meets both your process needs and documentation requirements.
Contact us directly – we’re ready to assist
Got a question? Contact us in a way that’s convenient for you.
Contact us
E-mail: sales@particulair.com
Telefon: +45 7023 1203
NR.VAT: DK 34129894
We usually reply within one business day – excluding weekends and public holidays.