What is the purpose of maintaining negative pressure during lead abatement?

Maintaining negative pressure during lead abatement is critical for effectively containing lead dust within the designated work area. By creating a pressure difference compared to surrounding areas, negative pressure ensures that air flows into the work area rather than out of it. This containment is essential because lead dust can be harmful to both workers and occupants of nearby spaces, potentially leading to serious health risks. By controlling the airflow in this way, the risk of lead contamination in the broader environment is minimized, creating a safer condition for both the workers involved and anyone in proximity to the site. This practice is a key element of effective lead management procedures and is recognized as a best practice in environmental health and safety protocols.