LEV Commissioning & Testing

Introduction to LEV

Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV) is an engineering control system used to reduce exposure to airborne contaminants in a workplace by capturing and extracting the contaminant at the source of the emission.

It is the employer’s responsibility to ensure that exposure is reduced to levels as low as is reasonably practicable. This should always follow the hierarchy of control, and in many cases, LEV is the solution.

How often do I need LEV testing?

As LEV is a control measure, under The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations, it must be regularly and thoroughly inspected and tested and states that any employer who uses Local Exhaust Ventilation to control hazardous substances, must ensure that it is operating effectively.

For most systems, the maximum time between tests is no longer than 14 months. But there are exceptions, certain LEV systems, require more frequent inspection (stated in the Regulations) in order to meet this legislation, and visual inspection of the system to ensure integrity.

What does a LEV test consist of?

System performance data will be obtained by HYLEV, on static pressure, transport and face velocities, capture design, practical use and documentation.

Quantitative measurements are only half of the process, also required as part of the LEV Test is a qualitative assessment on the control of potential contaminants by smoke trace indicator testing and Tyndall beam (dust lamp) testing of the process. Measurements obtained are compared with the available original Local Exhaust Ventilation specification and the relevant performance criteria given in HSG258.

HYLEV provides records as specified in HSG258 ‘Controlling Airborne Contaminants at Work – A Guide to Local Exhaust Ventilation’ (HSE, second edition 2011). In doing so, the record will provide evidence in fulfilling the requirements of Regulation 9 of COSHH guidance. HYLEV reports will also assist you in improving these control measures through expert designer recommendations.

Why choose Hylev for your LEV test?

We offer a thorough Local Exhaust Ventilation Testing and inspection service including visual inspection, quantitative measurement and qualitative assessment. Is your LEV system is capable of providing satisfactory control of the hazardous substances as required by COSHH regulations?

Hylev provides comprehensive, informative and reports for Local Exhaust Ventilation Testing and as we are independent of any system provider, we can provide unbiased reports.  We appreciate this is not your expertise, so Hylev will spend time discussing our findings with you so that you fully value our reported findings.

We currently service a wide range of industries from chemical, woodworking, engineering and printing industries large and small, as well as in schools and colleges. Feel confident that Hylev conducts COSHH Local Exhaust Ventilation Testing that is relevant and appropriate to the process you are operating.

Our qualified engineers are trained to British Occupational Hygiene Society (BOHS P601, 602, P603, P604 & W201) standard. We examine and test LEV systems, carrying out checks in accordance with the requirements of section 316 of HSG258.

In addition, we provide maintenance services, including filter changes, for systems not achieving the required benchmark performance. Make full use of our competency assured, design and install improvements, additions or replacement LEV systems, as needed.

Does a LEV system need to be commissioned by law?

Yes, by law Local exhaust ventilation systems require a commissioning document. Hylev have the competence and experience to ensure your system is operating to it design criteria. This process is vital in ensuring that your workforce is protected during the process. Local exhaust ventilation systems (LEV) can vary in size and design, but all of the should be commissioned and have documentation indicating so.

Why choose Hylev for your LEV commissioning?

At Hylev we will review the system benchmark and after determining the design is correct, we will balance the system to meet criteria set. Different processes have different criteria, with Hylev’s experience we can ensure your system is operating to its full potential. Our commission process is documented for future review by anyone requiring the information such as testing engineers or maintenance or service technicians. The information gives them a basepoint on how the system should be performing.

Do you have an existing LEV system without a commissioning document?

Do not worry, whilst the situation is not ideal, Hylev can help. By review of the risk assessment, the process and the existing system Hylev can carry out a post design brief, on which we would base a commissioning procedure. The end result would be a system balanced to its optimum performance and documented evidence for future review by anyone requiring the information such as testing engineers or maintenance or service technicians.