Keeping your workplace safe is a top priority for any business. One key part of this is making sure the air is clean and safe for your workers to breathe. Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV) systems are crucial in workplaces to regulate and remove harmful dust, fumes, and gases from the air.
Regular LEV testing is not just important; it’s the law. It is essential for contributing to a safer, healthier, and more productive workplace. LEV testing will help protect your workers, keep your business legally compliant, and show that your business cares about health and safety.
What Is LEV Testing?
LEV systems are designed to catch harmful substances in the air before anyone can breathe them in, causing lung health complications. LEV systems are often found in factories, workshops, and labs, anywhere where dust, smoke, or chemicals might be released during work.
LEV testing is the process of checking that these systems are working properly. If the system is not working, dangerous substances could stay in the air, putting your workers at risk.
Why Is LEV Testing So Important For Workplace Safety?
There are several core reasons why LEV testing is so important to maintaining workplace safety:
1. Protects Your Staff’s Health
Breathing in harmful substances can lead to serious health problems, including lung disease, asthma, and even cancer. According to HSE, occupational lung disease leads to an estimated 12,000 deaths each year and 400,000 working days lost in Great Britain. Regular LEV testing helps make sure your system is removing these risks from the air.
2. Keeps You Compliant with the Law
In the UK, the law says employers must control and be responsible for workers’ exposure to harmful substances. This is part of the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) regulations.
COSHH Regulation 9 states that LEV systems must be tested at least once every 14 months. High-risk workplaces may need more frequent checks. If you don’t follow these rules, you could face fines or put your workers’ health in danger.
3. Saves You Money Over Time
A broken or poorly working LEV system can cost you in more ways than one. It could lead to:
- Higher repair costs down the line
- Fines for not following the rules
- Sick days and staff shortages
- Damage to your reputation
By spotting problems early, regular LEV testing helps you avoid bigger issues later.
What Happens During an LEV Test?
A LEV test should be done by a trained and certified professional, and adhere to the HSE guidance that governs LEV testing. Here is what to expect:
- A thorough visual and structural examination of the extraction system to ensure that it is in efficient working order and in clean condition.
- During the test, all key components will be inspected, including internal ducts, filter cleaning devices, fan belts and alarms.
- A review of the LEV’s technical performance to check conformity with the benchmark performance in the commissioning report, which will include careful observation as well as performance checks and tests.
- Finally, an overall assessment of the LEV’s control effectiveness will be carried out to ensure the LEV continues to provide adequate control of exposure to airborne contaminants.
A report on the testing results is written, showing the results and any action needed. You should keep this report on file for at least 5 years to prove you’re following health and safety regulations.
How Often Should You Test Your LEV System?
As previously mentioned, LEV systems must be tested at least once every 14 months. However, if your system handles very dangerous substances or runs for long hours each day, more frequent checks may be needed.
It’s also a good idea to do simple checks between professional tests. Look out for things like strange noises, low airflow, or visible dust near extraction points.
What If Your LEV System Fails the Test?
If your LEV system doesn’t pass the test, it must be fixed as soon as possible. A good ventilation provider, like Vent-Tech, can help repair or upgrade your system so that it meets legal standards and keeps your staff and workspace safe.
Choosing the Right LEV Testing Provider
Not all testing services are the same. Make sure you choose a company that:
- Has trained and qualified engineers
- Provides clear reports with advice
- Can offer repairs or upgrades if needed
- Understands your industry and specific needs
At Vent-Tech, we’ve been helping UK businesses stay safe and compliant for over 20 years. Our experts carry out LEV testing across all industries and provide honest, practical advice.
Regular LEV testing is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your team and meet legal health and safety requirements. It helps keep your workplace safe, clean, and efficient while avoiding risks of costly fines later on.
If you haven’t had your system tested in the past year, now is the time to book a check. Get in touch with Vent-Tech today and let our team help you stay safe and compliant.