It is essential to use local exhaust ventilation systems as a control measure to capture and transport harmful substances released from a production process before they enter a workplace atmosphere and environment. 51³Ô¹ÏÍøprovides a comprehensive range of LEV testing services across a range of extraction systems, in accordance with HSG258 guidelines, to help you make certain that the workplace is safe and compliant.
What is Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV) testing?
Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV) Thorough Examination and Test (TExT) is a legal requirement under the HSE's Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) regulations.
How often should local exhaust ventilation be checked?
According to COSHH regulations, your equipment must be examined and tested at least once every 14 months to ensure compliance with health and safety standards. Some systems including shot blasting may require more frequent examination intervals such as 6-monthly. Test reports often form part of a company's insurance requirements and are essential to avoid prosecution, insurance invalidation, and employee illness.
What are the legal requirements for LEV testing?
Under the Health and Safety Executive guidance HSG258 Controlling airborne contaminants at work, a guide to local exhaust ventilation, it is the employer's responsibility to know and understand:
- the parts of the local exhaust ventilation system and its function
- how to use the local exhaust ventilation system
- how to recognize a damaged part
- that the local exhaust ventilation system is delivering its design performance and is effectively controlling emissions and exposure.
Our LEV testing capabilities
51³Ô¹ÏÍøperforms LEV testing and examination, undertaken by qualified occupational hygienists holding the BOHS proficiency module P601 or higher BOHS qualification. The tests typically involve the following three stages:
- Stage 1 - a thorough visual examination
- Stage 2 - a measurement of the technical performance
- Stage 3 - assessment of the local exhaust ventilation system's control effectiveness
Our experts test all makes of fume and dust extraction equipment and produce a detailed examination and test report for each system in line with HSE guidance. The reports consist of an executive summary, a prioritized action plan summary, and a detail of the system that provides effective control of airborne contaminants.
Specialist expertise and commissioning of new LEV systems
51³Ô¹ÏÍøhas extensive specialist experience in testing, examining, and commissioning LEV systems. Key technical managers hold the P601, P602, and P604 qualifications meaning we are also fully trained in the design, performance evaluation, commissioning, and management of LEV systems.
We are accustomed to liaising with all LEV project stakeholders including installers, particularly where modifications are required for improvement. We have contributors to the Institute of Local Exhaust Ventilation Engineers (ILEVE) forum.
The 51³Ô¹ÏÍøadvantage
51³Ô¹ÏÍøprovides a comprehensive range of Local Exhaust Ventilation testing services across a range of extraction systems, in accordance with HSG258 guidelines. We help you make certain that your employees are protected and your workplace is safe and compliant with COSHH regulations.
Our highly qualified occupational hygienists hold the BOHS proficiency module P601 or higher BOHS qualification and have over 20 years of experience in delivering LEV testing.
To arrange LEV testing on your site, or if you have any further questions, please contact us.
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