What should be done to the calculated number of negative air machines?

The rationale for adding one additional machine to the calculated number of negative air machines relates specifically to ensuring the safety and effectiveness in managing airborne asbestos fibers in the work environment. The intent behind this practice is to account for potential inefficiencies and system performance variations that can arise during an asbestos abatement project.

By adding an extra machine, you create a buffer that helps ensure consistent negative pressure in the containment area, which is critical for preventing the release of asbestos fibers into the surrounding environment. This approach helps to accommodate unforeseen circumstances, such as machine malfunctions or level fluctuations in air quality, thereby enhancing the safety of the personnel and the effectiveness of the containment strategy.

Other options may seem practical, such as subtracting one for efficiency or rounding down, but these approaches could lead to insufficient air control, which puts both workers and the public at risk. Using the exact calculated number without adding a buffer does not provide the additional safety measures that are necessary when dealing with hazardous materials like asbestos, where even minor miscalculations can lead to unsafe conditions.