What is a 'dust barrier' and what features are essential for effectively controlling dust in ICRA?

• A. A dust barrier is a temporary physical barrier isolating work areas; essential features include sealing to prevent leakage, negative pressure, controlled openings, and proper entry/exit procedures.
• B. A dust barrier is a permanent wall with no doors.
• C. A dust barrier is a digital firewall for IT systems.
• D. A dust barrier is a signage post.

Answer: (B)

Dust barriers in ICRA are temporary physical enclosures that isolate a work area from patient care spaces to prevent dust and contaminants from spreading during construction or renovation. The most effective barriers tightly seal the edges to prevent leakage, create negative pressure so air moves into the barrier rather than out, and include controlled openings such as doors or pass-throughs that are kept closed when not in use and used with proper entry/exit procedures. This combination keeps the work zone contained while allowing safe access for personnel and ensuring proper decontamination and PPE practices at entry and exit. A permanent wall with no doors cannot adapt to changing work areas or provide the controlled access needed for containment, and a digital firewall or simple signage does not physically contain dust.