LEV Testing Regulations

Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV) systems are vital in maintaining safe and compliant workplaces where airborne contaminants are present. Whether your business involves welding fumes, wood dust, vehicle exhaust, chemical vapours, or pharmaceutical particulates, understanding and complying with LEV testing regulations is not just a legal requirement — it’s essential for protecting your employees, your equipment, and your reputation.

At Clean Air 24 Seven, our BOHS-qualified engineers specialise in the testing, inspection, and maintenance of LEV systems in line with the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002. Our qualifications include P601, P602, P603, P604, and W501, ensuring every assessment is carried out to the highest professional and technical standards.

We are here to help, if you require any advice, simply call 0203 6408 247

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    What Are LEV Testing Regulations?

    LEV testing regulations refer to the legal requirements for inspecting and maintaining Local Exhaust Ventilation systems in the workplace. These systems are designed to control airborne contaminants such as dust, fumes, vapours, and gases by capturing them at the source before they are inhaled by workers.

    The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) enforces these regulations under Regulation 9 of COSHH, which requires that:

    “Every employer who provides any LEV system to control exposure to hazardous substances shall ensure that it is maintained in an efficient state, in efficient working order, in good repair, and in a clean condition.”

    In simpler terms, your LEV system must be properly tested, maintained, and documented at regular intervals to prove it is performing effectively.

    Why LEV Testing Is a Legal Requirement

    LEV systems are critical for protecting workers from hazardous airborne substances. Failing to comply with LEV testing regulations can lead to serious consequences, including:

    • Legal penalties and enforcement action by the HSE
    • Invalidated insurance policies if systems are not properly maintained
    • Increased health risks such as respiratory diseases, asthma, cancer, and other long-term conditions
    • Downtime and productivity loss due to unsafe work environments or equipment failures

    The HSE requires that all LEV systems are thoroughly examined and tested at least once every 14 months, although some processes may require more frequent checks — for example, where particularly toxic or reactive substances are used.

    What LEV Testing Involves

    A compliant LEV test is a detailed inspection that ensures your system effectively controls airborne contaminants as intended. At Clean Air 24 Seven, our BOHS-qualified engineers carry out a comprehensive performance evaluation of every component, including:

    • Hoods and capture devices – to verify they are correctly positioned and effectively contain contaminants at the source.
    • Ducting systems – checked for damage, blockages, and air velocity performance.
    • Air cleaners and filters – assessed for wear, damage, and contamination.
    • Fans and motors – inspected for efficiency, mechanical integrity, and noise levels.
    • Airflow measurements – using calibrated instruments to ensure the system meets HSE performance benchmarks.
    • Control effectiveness – confirming that airborne contaminant levels are adequately reduced.
    • Visual inspections – for signs of corrosion, dust build-up, or leaks.

    Following each inspection, we issue a comprehensive LEV test report that includes all measurements, findings, and recommendations in line with HSE guidance document HSG258: Controlling airborne contaminants at work.

    For a FREE Quote or Any Advice Simply Call 0203 6408 247

    HSE Guidelines and Standards

    The key guidance document governing LEV testing regulations is HSG258, published by the HSE. It provides detailed advice on the design, use, and maintenance of LEV systems, including:

    • Design principles for effective capture and airflow
    • Performance benchmarks for specific types of contaminants
    • Requirements for record keeping and documentation
    • Frequency of testing for various industrial environments
    • Roles and responsibilities of employers, operators, and assessors

    Under these standards, all LEV testing must be carried out by competent persons — individuals who have the necessary training, experience, and qualifications to evaluate the system accurately.

    At Clean Air 24 Seven, all our engineers hold BOHS P601, P602, P603, P604, and W501 certifications, demonstrating competence in LEV system design, testing, and maintenance. This ensures our clients receive assessments that meet the strictest regulatory and technical standards.

    How Often Should LEV Systems Be Tested?

    According to COSHH Regulation 9, LEV systems must be tested at intervals not exceeding 14 months, but certain types of systems may require more frequent examination. For example:

    • Processes producing respirable crystalline silica dust (e.g., stone or tile cutting) – may require testing every six months.
    • Welding and metal fume extraction – typically requires annual testing.
    • Wood dust extraction systems – must be tested at least every 14 months.
    • Laboratory fume cupboards and chemical mixing systems – may require six-monthly checks depending on the level of risk.

    Your testing frequency should be based on the nature of the process, the substances involved, and manufacturer recommendations. Clean Air 24 Seven can help determine the appropriate schedule for your business through a tailored LEV maintenance plan.

    For a FREE Quote or Any Advice Simply Call 0203 6408 247

    Industries Requiring LEV Testing

    LEV systems are used across a wide range of industries to protect employees from exposure to airborne contaminants. We work with clients in sectors including:

      • Welding and fabrication – controlling metal fumes, particulates, and gases.
      • Woodworking and carpentry – removing fine wood dust and sawdust from cutting, sanding, and finishing operations.
      • Vehicle workshops and manufacturing – extracting exhaust emissions, paint vapours, and chemical residues.
      • Laboratories and chemical facilities – managing vapours and fumes from solvents and reagents.
      • Pharmaceutical manufacturing – capturing dust and active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) during production.
      • Food processing and packaging – managing flour dust, allergens, and other airborne particulates.

    Each environment poses different risks, and our team applies industry-specific expertise to ensure full compliance with HSE and COSHH regulations.

    The Role of BOHS Qualifications in LEV Testing

    Competence is at the heart of LEV compliance. That’s why all engineers at Clean Air 24 Seven hold advanced BOHS (British Occupational Hygiene Society) qualifications, including:

      • P601 – Thorough Examination and Testing of LEV Systems
      • P602 – Design Principles of LEV Systems
      • P603 – Thorough Examination and Testing of LEV Systems in Practice
      • P604 – Performance Evaluation and Management of LEV Systems
      • W501 – Measurement of Hazardous Substances

    These certifications ensure our engineers are qualified to assess, design, and maintain LEV systems across all industrial sectors, providing you with confidence that your systems are compliant, safe, and effective.

    Record Keeping and Documentation

    LEV testing regulations require employers to keep records of all thorough examinations and tests for a minimum of five years. These records must be readily available to HSE inspectors or insurance auditors and should include:

      • Test date and location
      • System identification
      • Performance measurements
      • Observations and recommendations
      • Name and qualifications of the person conducting the test

    Clean Air 24 Seven provides detailed digital and hard-copy reports for every LEV system tested. Our documentation is formatted to meet HSG258 and COSHH record-keeping standards, making compliance easy and transparent for our clients.

    We are here to help, if you require any advice, simply call 0203 6408 247

    Why Choose Clean Air 24 Seven?

    At Clean Air 24 Seven, we combine technical expertise with a customer-focused approach to deliver reliable, compliant, and cost-effective LEV testing services across the UK. Our reputation is built on:

    • BOHS-qualified engineers with advanced technical credentials
    • Comprehensive, HSE-compliant reports
    • Tailored maintenance and re-testing schedules
    • Nationwide coverage with minimal disruption to your operations
    • Commitment to safety, compliance, and sustainability

    Whether you operate a car workshop, woodworking facility, laboratory, or manufacturing plant, our team ensures your LEV systems meet all current LEV testing regulations — keeping your workforce safe and your business compliant.

    Book Your LEV Test with Clean Air 24 Seven

    Compliance with LEV testing regulations is a legal requirement — but it’s also a commitment to a healthier, safer workplace. Partnering with Clean Air 24 Seven ensures your systems are maintained, documented, and optimised to meet the highest standards of air quality and safety.

    LEV Testing Regulations FAQs

    • What are LEV testing regulations?

      LEV testing regulations are the legal requirements for inspecting and maintaining Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV) systems in workplaces that generate harmful airborne contaminants such as dust, fumes, vapours, or gases. In the UK, these regulations are enforced under Regulation 9 of the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002, which requires employers to ensure that LEV systems are properly maintained and thoroughly examined at regular intervals.

    • How often should LEV systems be tested?

      LEV systems must be thoroughly examined and tested at least once every 14 months under COSHH Regulation 9. However, certain processes may require more frequent testing, for example:

      1. Every 6 months for processes producing respirable crystalline silica or using high-risk chemicals
      2. Annually for most welding, woodworking, and metal fabrication systems Your testing frequency should be based on the type of process, the substances involved, and the risk level. A qualified LEV engineer can advise the appropriate interval for your system.
    • Who is qualified to carry out LEV testing?

      LEV testing must be performed by a competent person, as defined by the HSE. A competent person is someone with the appropriate training, knowledge, and experience to evaluate LEV systems accurately. At Clean Air 24 Seven, all our engineers are BOHS qualified, holding certifications such as:

      1. P601 – Thorough Examination and Testing of LEV Systems
      2. P602 – Design Principles of LEV Systems
      3. P603 – LEV System Examination in Practice
      4. P604 – Performance Evaluation and Management of LEV Systems
      5. W501 – Measurement of Hazardous Substances These qualifications demonstrate professional competence and ensure compliance with HSE requirements.
    • What happens during an LEV test?

      A thorough LEV test includes:

      1. Inspection of all components (hoods, ducts, filters, fans, etc.)
      2. Airflow and pressure measurements using calibrated instruments
      3. Visual inspection for damage, leaks, and contamination
      4. Performance verification against design standards
      5. Assessment of control effectiveness in reducing exposure After the test, you’ll receive a comprehensive LEV report with measurements, findings, and any recommendations for repairs or improvements.
    • What information must be recorded after an LEV test?

      Employers are legally required to keep LEV test records for at least five years. Each record should include:

      1. The date and location of the test
      2. Identification of the LEV system
      3. Test results and performance data
      4. Observations and recommended actions
      5. The tester’s name, signature, and qualifications Clean Air 24 Seven provides full digital and hard-copy records that comply with HSE document HSG258 and COSHH Regulation 9 requirements.
    • What are the penalties for not complying with LEV testing regulations?

      Failing to comply with LEV testing regulations can result in HSE enforcement action, including:

      1. Improvement or prohibition notices
      2. Fines or prosecution under COSHH Regulations
      3. Invalidated insurance policies
      4. Reputational damage and increased liability More importantly, non-compliance can expose workers to serious health risks such as occupational asthma, lung disease, or cancer.
    • How long does an LEV test take?

      The duration depends on the size and complexity of the LEV system. A single extraction point can take 1–2 hours, while multi-point or multi-system setups can require a full day or more. At Clean Air 24 Seven, we schedule testing to minimise disruption to your operations, often performing tests outside of normal working hours if required.

    • What industries require LEV testing?

      Any workplace that generates hazardous airborne substances must have its LEV systems tested regularly. Common industries include:

      1. Welding and fabrication workshops
      2. Woodworking and joinery
      3. Automotive workshops and paint booths
      4. Chemical laboratories and research facilities
      5. Pharmaceutical manufacturing plants
      6. Food and beverage processing facilities
      7. Construction and engineering sites

      If your work produces dust, fumes, or vapours, LEV testing is a legal requirement under COSHH.

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