What is Local Exhaust Ventilation?

Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV) systems are used to reduce exposure to airborne contaminants and hazardous substances in workplaces by capturing and extracting the contaminant at the source of the emission these can include fumes, dust and vapours.

LEV systems must by law be checked every 14 months.

Without the correct local exhaust ventilation inspections, the organisation responsible for the equipment would be in breach of COSHH regulations and could be putting workers at risk of becoming ill or worst contracting lung diseases.

In 2016, a manufacturer was fined £800,000 after three workers developed debilitating lung conditions following exposure to working metal fluid mist. The HSE found prevention measures were ‘inadequate’ and failures in the provision of health surveillance, which would have identified the issue earlier.

How IOM can help:

IOM offers a complete local exhaust ventilation testing and inspection service including the observation of users of the systems to identify any interaction that may be detrimental to the employee’s exposure. We also offer Competent Person Ventilation training to give maintenance engineers the particular skills and knowledge required to maintain ventilation systems.

How our experts can help:

• A typical examination and testing procedure is carried out
• Health surveillance
• Collection of air samples to measure exposure to hazardous substances and assesses the effectiveness of the system as used in the workplace

For more advice, or to speak to an Occupational Hygienist complete the quick quote form below.