Guide To LEV Testing

You might have heard of LEV testing if you work in an environment which uses a fume extraction system – such as a warehouse or a factory. So, what exactly is LEV testing, and what does LEV actually stand for? Our ultimate guide has you covered.

What does LEV stand for?

Firstly, it’s important to understand exactly what LEV means. LEV refers to Local Exhaust Ventilation – a term for a piece of equipment that extracts workplace fume and dust. Harmful or dangerous gases, dusts and fumes are removed from in order to keep both workers safe, and work-based equipment free from any damage.

Without an effective fume extraction system in place, there could be many disadvantages and concerns for both businesses and the employees working for the business, such as:

• Poor health
• Negative impact on the environment
• Damage to equipment leading to company downtime

Find out more about what a fume extraction system is from our detailed guide.

What is an LEV inspection?

On the other hand, an LEV inspection – also known as LEV testing – refers to the legal requirement for an employer to maintain working conditions for employees. The Health and Safety Work Act 1974 states that any employer who uses LEV techniques within the workplace must have that LEV equipment tested at least every 14 months. This local exhaust ventilation testing is designed to ensure the equipment is working effectively and safely in the workplace.

How does LEV testing work?

As an employer, your local exhaust ventilation testing would involve a thorough examination of all of your equipment, including:

• Hoods
• Filters
• Ducts
• Measurement of the technical performance
• Assessment of effectiveness of LEV system

Once this equipment has been examined, the LEV testing company, Purex, will confirm the system is suitable for purpose or, will be able to make detailed recommendations regarding next steps. If the examination concludes that your LEV equipment is not working safely or correctly, this will be recorded – and relevant measures to ensure your equipment is working efficiently will be recommended. All LEV testing is carried out in accordance with HSE guidance, which governs LEV testing.

What are the COSHH LEV regulations?

COSHH 2002 (Control of Substances Hazard to Health) regards the exposure of dust, fumes and harmful gases in a workplace a key element of their regulations. COSHH set out to limit the exposure presented, as well as providing preventative guidelines to ensure effectiveness is consistently maintained.

COSHH regulations state that companies must take the necessary steps to prevent, control, maintain and monitor dust and fume exposure in the workplace – which is detailed thoroughly in regulation 9. LEV testing complies with COSHH regulations, ensuring that your fume extraction equipment is working in the best way possible for both your business and your staff.

How to book your LEV test

Ready to book in for your LEV equipment test? Simply enquire with us today – our simple form requires your details, and provides an information box for you to specify your situation and requirements in more detail.

Alternatively, if you’re looking to simply find out more about LEV inspections, either use our informative LEV testing page – or get in touch with an expert member of our team.