Local Exhaust Ventilation Testing

A Local Exhaust Ventilation system is equipment that controls, captures or contains pollutants released at the point of the emission source The LEV system will then transfer any pollutants, where they can be safely collected or released.   

LEV Testing Services are undertaken to ensure that the system is operating as originally intended.  This also ensures your LEV system complies with legal requirements, statutory regulations and industry guidelines outlined by the HSE. This test is also sometimes referred to as a COSHH Test.   

A typical inspection will cover the following;  

• Examining the entire system to check mechanical function and cleanliness  

• A detailed look at all parts of the system, including the fans, hoods and filters  

• Airflow measurements  

• Alarm checks  

On completion of an inspection, you will receive a comprehensive report outlining the measurements, observations and findings, including any faults or issues regarding your system.   

There are many types of materials and substances used or created in the workplace that could harm you or your staff.  The risks associated with exposure to hazardous substances can vary depending on the substance, the level of exposure and the individual.

From dust, fumes and gases that you breathe in, to liquids, gels, or powders that you handle, potentially harmful substances are everywhere, so keeping your LEV Inspections up to date can help to minimise the risk of serious long-term side effects from exposure to these substances.

There are lots of workplaces and sectors that need to comply with COSHH Regulations such as factories, quarries, mines, woodworking and plastics factories, but there are others that you may not be aware fall under these regulations, including:

If your system fails the inspection, you should ensure the problem is resolved quickly and efficiently to ensure your continued compliance with the COSHH Regulations. . In most cases, any faults can be easily repaired or faulty components replaced, and in very rare cases, the entire fume extraction system may need replacing. Our LEV Engineer Surveyor will discuss findings with you.  

To help avoid the failure of your LEV System, we recommend that daily and weekly checks are implemented in addition to periodic LEV Servicing.   

Normally an inspection is needed every 14 months, however some systems and trades may require testing as often as every month or six months. Our team will be able to advise how often your system will require an inspection.

For example:

• Metal/shot blasting of raw castings require monthly inspections

• Non-ferrous metalworking requires an inspection every six months

Most other systems would require an examination every 14 months, but please speak to our team to confirm how often your LEV will need inspecting.

The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulation was put in place to help prevent or reduce the risks associated with handling, storing or transporting potentially harmful substances. COSHH states that ‘every employer shall ensure that the exposure of their employers to substances hazardous to health shall be prevented, or where it is not reasonably practicable, adequately controlled.’ To control the hazard, a Local Exhaust Ventilation system should be implemented.

At BES Group, your safety is our priority with our team of specialists who work across the UK mainland and Northern Ireland, keeping local exhaust ventilation systems in full working order and compliant with the COSHH Regulations.

The following regulations, as well as COSHH, impose duties to provide and maintain an LEV system:

• The Control of Asbestos at Work Regulations 2012

• The Control of Lead at Work Regulations 2002

• Health issues including respiratory problems, skin problems and cancer.
• Accidents in the workplace including fires, explosions and poisonings.
• Legal liability after the injury or death of a member of staff exposed to harmful substances or unregulated equipment.

To assist the LEV Inspection, the LEV Surveyor may request the following information:

• COSHH Risk Assessment as required by Regulation 6 to identify the hazardous substances associated with the process and any residuals that may cause a health hazard within the LEV system.
• Identification of any mechanical safety risks associated with either the process or the LEV system.
• The commissioning report and the design data showing the Intended Operating Performance for the LEV System.
• The LEV User Manual.
• The LEV Logbook.
• The previous Thorough Examination and Test Report.
• Records of Air Sampling relevant to the LEV System.
• Procedures identifying how the users of the system interact with the process.
• Confirmation that there have been no changes to the LEV System, layout or process since the last inspection.