LEV Frequently Asked Questions

LEV stands for Local Exhaust Ventilation used to remove hazardous airborne contaminates from the environment. It is mandatory to carry out a regular testing of LEV systems to ensure they are performing to the expected requirements.

This regulation is a legal requirement requiring employers to maintain control measures (such as LEV systems) in efficient working order and in good repair, whilst also stating that the systems should be thoroughly examined and tested at regular intervals.

The employer, manger or responsible person within an organisation is responsible for ensuring that the testing is carried out at the correct time.

This would depend on the type of LEV, location and size. Talking to a member of the DCE team about your requirements will give an approximate time.

A thorough examination will be undertaken and tests the LEV against the original commissioning report. It will include airflow and pressure measurements and checks on control effectiveness.

Your report will be with you within 7 to 10 working days and will include and action list for remedial work along with a quotation for these items where needed.

Taking the recommendations from the testing report DCE’s LEV engineers can undertake repair and replacement parts work.

Your next LEV test needs to be booked for no less than 14 months from the last test. An engineer will advise if LEV testing in the workplace environment needs to be more regular. You can book straight away or wait until a reminder is sent to you. Remember it is your responsibility to ensure testing is carried out.

It is essential that such systems operate efficiently at all times to control harmful emissions of dust, mists and gases. It is also mandatory, as per COSHH regulation 9 that the LEV equipment needs to be maintained in good order.

COSHH regulations state that LEV testing should be carried out at no more than 14 months intervals. However the interval may be less dependent on the manufacturing processes and particulates.

Using a third-party testing company whose test engineers carry a P601 qualification ensures that the test is a through and exacting one carried out in accordance with HSG 258 legislation. It will also provide an un-biased approach.

Please have to hand the original LEV commissioning report and performance data. If this isn’t available you may need to go through the process of having your equipment recommissioned.

This stand for thorough test and examination as described in the above answer.

You will see from the action list and quotation in the above answer that we will advise of any remedial work that needs to be carried out to reinstate operating compliance.

The simple answer is yes to ensure that the LEV is performing as designed after the remedial work has been done.

It’s wise, as a responsible person to have an in-house action plan {link} for regular checks and employee training for identification of problems occurring with LEVs.