COSHH LEV Testing
Regular COSHH LEV (Local Exhaust Ventilation) testing is essential for ensuring your dust and fume extraction systems are functioning effectively and safely.
By law, under COSHH regulations, employers must ensure LEV systems adequately control hazardous airborne substances to protect employee health.
Regular testing not only identifies inefficiencies or faults that could compromise safety but also ensures compliance with legal requirements, avoiding costly fines or operational downtime.
For our customers, COSHH LEV testing guarantees a cleaner, safer workspace, prevents equipment damage, and demonstrates a commitment to health and safety standards, fostering trust and productivity in your workforce.
What are the UK regulations that require LEV testing?
In the UK, COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health) Regulations 2002 require employers to prevent or control exposure to hazardous substances in the workplace. If Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV) systems are used to control exposure, they must be regularly tested to ensure effectiveness. Specifically, COSHH Regulation 9 mandates thorough examination and testing of LEV systems at least once every 14 months (or more frequently for higher-risk environments).
This ensures systems meet safety standards, protect worker health, and comply with legal requirements, preventing exposure to harmful dust, fumes, or vapors.
How COSHH LEV Testing is Undertaken for Dust and Fume Extraction Systems
COSHH LEV (Local Exhaust Ventilation) testing is a systematic process designed to assess the effectiveness of dust and fume extraction systems in controlling hazardous substances. Here’s how the testing is typically conducted:
1. Visual Inspection
System Components: Inspect the LEV system, including hoods, ductwork, filters, fans, and exhaust outlets, for signs of wear, damage, or blockages.
Compliance Check: Verify the system’s design and setup align with the initial installation and COSHH requirements.
2. Airflow Measurement
Hood Capture Velocity: Measure the airflow velocity at the hood openings to ensure they effectively capture contaminants.
Duct Airflow: Use devices like anemometers or pitot tubes to measure airflow rates within the ducts.
Pressure Testing: Check static and differential pressure across the system to identify potential airflow restrictions.
3. Smoke Testing
Capture Efficiency: Use a smoke generator to visualise how well the system captures and transports airborne particles from the source.
Leak Detection: Identify leaks or areas of inefficiency in the ductwork and connections.
4. Filter and Containment Testing
Filter Inspection: Check filters for clogs, damage, or reduced efficiency.
Containment Assessment: Ensure contaminants are properly filtered and either disposed of or released safely.
5. System Performance Evaluation
Compare test results to the system’s design specifications and the minimum performance requirements outlined by COSHH guidelines.
Identify any deviations or inefficiencies requiring correction.
6. Reporting
Test Results: Provide a detailed report, including airflow measurements, test findings, and areas needing improvement.
Recommendations: Suggest necessary adjustments, maintenance, or repairs to ensure compliance and optimal performance.
Documentation: Supply records for regulatory compliance and future reference.
7. Maintenance Suggestions
Recommend a maintenance schedule for regular filter replacements, system cleaning, and ongoing testing to maintain efficiency and compliance.
By following this comprehensive process, COSHH LEV testing ensures dust and fume extraction systems operate effectively, protecting worker health, complying with legal requirements, and preventing costly disruptions.
