What’s The Difference Between Local Exhaust Ventilation And General Ventilation?

Improper ventilation in the workplace can affect a number of businesses and employees across the UK which, if not properly extracted, can lead to a number of complications, such as illness or environmental problems. For example, breathing in harmful contaminants can cause health issues, such as occupational asthma and lung disease, as well as many other airborne illnesses.

So, what’s the difference between local exhaust ventilation (LEV) and general ventilation? And how do you know your current ventilation system is safe? Our guide explains all.

What is an LEV?

Local exhaust ventilation (LEV) systems are technological equipment designed to remove harmful or dangerous contaminants from the environment. This could be particles such as:

• Smoke
• Vapours
• Dust
• Gasses
• Musts and more

An LEV rids the air of toxic fumes which are frequently produced during the creation process of products. A number of industries and companies can benefit from the use of fume extraction systems, such as laser coding, electronics, dental, beauty, 3D printing and many more industries.

LEV vs general ventilation

General extraction systems are usually unfiltered so will take the air from the process and simply displace that dirty air elsewhere. This could be outside affecting neighbours, lead holders, and member of the general public.

This is the key difference between the two systems. LEV systems are specifically designed to extract the contaminants from the source, whilst cleaning the air and ensuring it is contained from the environment.

LEV systems are also specialised in causing minimal distraction to the workplaces, are easily to relocated whereas general ventilation equipment are much more complex and expensive installations. This can lead to significant disturbance while installing and changing the layout.

LEV products from Purex

Here at Purex, we have a range of LEV products that boast a range of benefits – however, if you are wondering why you should choose Purex specifically, you will find our products are:

• Simple to install and quiet in operation
• High performance brushless motors
• Easy to relocate
• Adjustable airflow
• Automatic electronic flow control – which maintains a constant extraction rate even if the filter blocks

Unsure whether your business can benefit from fume extraction systems? Find out more information by contacting our helpful team online for a quote today. Alternatively, check your existing fume extraction system by booking an LEV Test with our team.