Local Exhaust Ventilation Regulations
At Clean Air 24 Seven, we help businesses across the UK stay compliant with Local Exhaust Ventilation regulations, ensuring safe, healthy, and efficient working environments.
Our BOHS-qualified engineers, certified in P601, P602, P603, P604, and W501, specialise in the design, testing, maintenance, and inspection of LEV systems across multiple sectors — including welding, woodworking, automotive manufacturing, laboratories, and pharmaceutical production.
We are here to help, if you require any advice, simply call 0203 6408 247
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What Are Local Exhaust Ventilation Regulations?
Local Exhaust Ventilation regulations are legal requirements designed to protect workers from hazardous airborne contaminants such as dust, fumes, vapours, and gases. These rules ensure that LEV systems are correctly designed, installed, and maintained to control exposure and keep the workplace safe.
In the UK, LEV systems are governed primarily by the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002, particularly Regulation 9, which requires employers to:
- Ensure LEV systems are thoroughly examined and tested at suitable intervals.
- Maintain systems in an efficient working order.
- Keep examination and test records for a minimum of five years.
Failure to comply can result in enforcement action by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), including improvement notices, fines, or prosecution.
Why LEV Compliance Matters
Protecting Health and Safety
Airborne contaminants such as welding fumes, wood dust, and solvent vapours can cause serious and sometimes irreversible health conditions, including occupational asthma, lung disease, and certain cancers.
A compliant and well-maintained LEV system captures these contaminants at the source, preventing them from spreading and protecting the workforce from long-term harm.
Legal Compliance and Risk Management Under COSHH Regulation 9, employers are legally obligated to ensure their LEV systems are maintained and tested regularly. Regular inspections by competent engineers not only prove compliance but also demonstrate a proactive approach to worker safety.
Improved Operational Efficiency A properly designed LEV system enhances air quality, reduces contamination, and promotes equipment longevity. Clean, efficient systems consume less energy and improve overall workplace productivity.
Key LEV Regulations and Standards Several key regulations and standards apply to LEV systems in the UK. Employers must ensure their systems meet these legal and technical requirements.
COSHH Regulation 9 Employers must have LEV systems thoroughly examined and tested at least once every 14 months, or more frequently for high-risk processes such as welding or wood dust extraction.
HSE Guidance HSG258 The HSE’s publication “Controlling airborne contaminants at work – A guide to local exhaust ventilation (LEV)” (HSG258) provides essential guidance for designing, using, and maintaining LEV systems. It covers key aspects such as hood design, airflow measurement, and system testing procedures.
BS EN 1093 and BS EN ISO 14644 These standards offer guidance on aerosol control and workplace air cleanliness, setting benchmarks for airflow, particle capture, and testing methods.
Our engineers at Clean Air 24 Seven follow these standards rigorously to ensure every LEV system we service fully complies with UK regulations.
For a FREE Quote or Any Advice Simply Call 0203 6408 247
Industries That Require LEV Systems
Many sectors rely on LEV systems to control exposure to hazardous substances. Clean Air 24 Seven works with clients across a wide range of industries, including:
Welding and Metal Fabrication
Welding generates harmful fumes containing metal oxides and gases. LEV systems are essential for capturing these fumes directly at the source, protecting welders and maintaining compliance with COSHH.
Woodworking and Carpentry
Wood dust, particularly from hardwoods and MDF, is a known carcinogen. Effective LEV systems are critical in joinery workshops, furniture manufacturing, and sawmills to prevent airborne dust accumulation.
Automotive Workshops and Manufacturing
Car manufacturing, painting, and repair facilities generate dust, fumes, and solvent vapours. LEV systems help ensure a safe and compliant environment for employees and visitors.
Laboratories and Chemical Mixing Facilities
Laboratories handling volatile chemicals and powders must have efficient LEV systems such as fume cupboards and extraction arms to protect technicians from inhalation risks.
Pharmaceutical Manufacturing
Pharmaceutical production often involves fine powders and active ingredients that pose inhalation hazards. Properly designed LEV systems maintain cleanroom standards and protect both products and personnel.
BOHS-Qualified Engineers
Clean Air 24 Seven employs only BOHS-qualified engineers with extensive practical and technical expertise. Our team holds certifications in:
- P601 – Thorough Examination and Testing of LEV Systems
- P602 – Design Principles of LEV Systems
- P603 – Thorough Examination and Testing of LEV Systems (Commissioning)
- P604 – Performance Evaluation and Management of LEV Systems
- W501 – Measurement of Hazardous Substances
These qualifications ensure we deliver the highest standards of professionalism, technical accuracy, and compliance in every LEV service we provide.
For a FREE Quote or Any Advice Simply Call 0203 6408 247
Comprehensive LEV Services
We offer a full range of LEV compliance services tailored to your site and operational needs.
LEV Design and Installation Our engineers design and install bespoke LEV systems that meet HSG258 guidelines, ensuring maximum contaminant capture and energy efficiency.
LEV Testing and Examination We conduct thorough examinations and tests in accordance with COSHH Regulation 9, measuring airflow, velocity, and control performance to confirm system effectiveness.
LEV Maintenance and Servicing Regular maintenance prevents system failure and keeps extraction at peak performance. We service fans, filters, ducts, and hoods to maintain consistent airflow and efficiency.
LEV Commissioning All new or modified systems are commissioned by our qualified engineers, who verify performance, provide user training, and produce full commissioning reports.
LEV Reports and Certification Following each inspection, we issue a detailed report and certificate of compliance. Reports include test data, system schematics, photographs, and any remedial recommendations.
LEV Testing Frequency Under UK law, LEV systems must be tested at least every 14 months. Some processes, however, require more frequent testing due to the higher risks involved:
| Process Type | Minimum Testing Frequency |
| Welding, metal grinding and cutting | Every 6 months |
| Wood dust extraction systems | Every 12 months |
| Laboratory fume cupboards | Every 14 months |
| Pharmaceutical or chemical powder handling | Every 6–12 months |
Failure to carry out testing within the required timeframe can result in non-compliance and enforcement action by the HSE.
We are here to help, if you require any advice, simply call 0203 6408 247
What to Expect During an LEV Test
A thorough LEV examination involves several steps to ensure full compliance and functionality:
Visual inspection – checking hoods, ducts, filters, and fans for wear or damage.
Airflow measurement – verifying capture and duct velocities using calibrated instruments.
Smoke or dust testing – assessing how effectively contaminants are captured.
Performance comparison – benchmarking results against design specifications.
Report and certification – issuing documentation confirming system performance and compliance status.
These examinations provide assurance that your system is protecting workers and meeting all COSHH obligations.
Why Choose Clean Air 24 Seven
- BOHS-qualified engineers (P601–P604, W501)
- Nationwide coverage across the UK
- Fast turnaround for LEV reports and certificates
- Compliance with COSHH Regulation 9 and HSG258
- Detailed, user-friendly reporting and documentation
- Preventive maintenance plans for continuous compliance
We understand the critical role LEV systems play in worker safety and production quality. Our goal is to provide efficient, compliant, and cost-effective solutions for every client.
Stay Compliant with Clean Air 24 Seven
Clean, safe air is essential for any working environment. At Clean Air 24 Seven, we make LEV compliance simple and reliable, ensuring your systems operate efficiently and meet all regulatory standards.
Local Exhaust Ventilation Regulations FAQs
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What are Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV) regulations?
Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV) regulations are legal requirements under the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002, specifically Regulation 9. These rules ensure that any LEV system designed to control hazardous dusts, fumes, gases, or vapours is properly installed, tested, and maintained. The aim is to protect workers from exposure to harmful airborne contaminants and to ensure that workplaces remain safe and compliant.
-
Why are LEV systems required in workplaces?
LEV systems are required wherever work processes generate airborne contaminants that could be harmful if inhaled. This includes welding fumes, wood dust, paint vapours, solvent emissions, and chemical aerosols. The systems capture contaminants at source and remove them safely from the air. Without LEV, exposure levels can quickly exceed legal limits, leading to serious health risks and potential breaches of COSHH regulations.
-
Which UK law covers LEV testing and maintenance?
LEV testing and maintenance are governed by COSHH Regulation 9, which requires that all local exhaust ventilation systems are thoroughly examined and tested at suitable intervals — at least every 14 months, and more frequently for high-risk processes. Employers must also keep written records of these tests for a minimum of five years.
-
Who can carry out an LEV test?
LEV testing should only be carried out by competent engineers with the appropriate training and qualifications. At Clean Air 24 Seven, our engineers are BOHS-qualified, holding certifications in P601, P602, P603, P604, and W501, demonstrating advanced knowledge in LEV design, testing, and performance evaluation. Using qualified engineers ensures accurate assessments and full compliance with HSE guidance.
-
How often should LEV systems be tested?
Under UK regulations, LEV systems must be tested at least every 14 months. However, some industries require more frequent testing:
- Welding and metal grinding: every 6 months
- Wood dust extraction: every 12 months
- Laboratory fume cupboards: every 14 months
- Pharmaceutical or chemical handling: every 6–12 months depending on risk level
Regular testing confirms that the system continues to perform effectively and meets legal requirements.
-
What happens during an LEV examination?
A thorough LEV examination includes several key checks:
- A visual inspection of hoods, ducts, fans, and filters
- Airflow measurements using calibrated instruments
- Performance testing to verify contaminant capture efficiency
- Comparison against design specifications and COSHH standards
- A full written report and compliance certificate issued to the employer
If any deficiencies are found, the report will include recommendations for corrective action.
-
What are the consequences of non-compliance with LEV regulations?
Failure to comply with LEV regulations can lead to enforcement action by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). Penalties include improvement or prohibition notices, fines, and even prosecution. Non-compliance can also expose employees to health risks, lead to reputational damage, and cause costly downtime. Regular LEV testing and maintenance protect both your workforce and your business.
-
What documentation is required for LEV compliance?
Employers must keep detailed records of:
- LEV system design and commissioning data
- Thorough examination and test reports
- Maintenance logs and service history
- Airflow and performance test results
These records must be kept for at least five years and be readily available for HSE inspection. Clean Air 24 Seven provides clear, easy-to-understand documentation to ensure full compliance.
-
How can Clean Air 24 Seven help with LEV compliance?
Clean Air 24 Seven provides comprehensive LEV services including:
- System design and installation
- Thorough examination and testing
- Preventive maintenance and repairs
- Commissioning and performance validation
- Detailed compliance reporting and certification
All work is carried out by BOHS-qualified engineers to ensure full compliance with COSHH Regulation 9 and HSG258 guidance.
-
Which industries are legally required to use LEV systems?
LEV systems are essential in any workplace where hazardous airborne substances are produced. This includes:
- Welding and fabrication workshops
- Woodworking and joinery businesses
- Automotive workshops and paint booths
- Chemical laboratories and research facilities
- Pharmaceutical and cosmetic manufacturing plants
These sectors are subject to COSHH Regulation 9 and must maintain effective LEV controls to protect staff and meet HSE requirements.
-
What are Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV) regulations?
Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV) regulations are legal requirements under the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002, specifically Regulation 9. These rules ensure that any LEV system designed to control hazardous dusts, fumes, gases, or vapours is properly installed, tested, and maintained. The aim is to protect workers from exposure to harmful airborne contaminants and to ensure that workplaces remain safe and compliant.
-
Why are LEV systems required in workplaces?
LEV systems are required wherever work processes generate airborne contaminants that could be harmful if inhaled. This includes welding fumes, wood dust, paint vapours, solvent emissions, and chemical aerosols. The systems capture contaminants at source and remove them safely from the air. Without LEV, exposure levels can quickly exceed legal limits, leading to serious health risks and potential breaches of COSHH regulations.
-
Which UK law covers LEV testing and maintenance?
LEV testing and maintenance are governed by COSHH Regulation 9, which requires that all local exhaust ventilation systems are thoroughly examined and tested at suitable intervals — at least every 14 months, and more frequently for high-risk processes. Employers must also keep written records of these tests for a minimum of five years.
-
Who can carry out an LEV test?
LEV testing should only be carried out by competent engineers with the appropriate training and qualifications. At Clean Air 24 Seven, our engineers are BOHS-qualified, holding certifications in P601, P602, P603, P604, and W501, demonstrating advanced knowledge in LEV design, testing, and performance evaluation. Using qualified engineers ensures accurate assessments and full compliance with HSE guidance.
-
How often should LEV systems be tested?
Under UK regulations, LEV systems must be tested at least every 14 months. However, some industries require more frequent testing:
- Welding and metal grinding: every 6 months
- Wood dust extraction: every 12 months
- Laboratory fume cupboards: every 14 months
- Pharmaceutical or chemical handling: every 6–12 months depending on risk level
Regular testing confirms that the system continues to perform effectively and meets legal requirements.
-
What happens during an LEV examination?
A thorough LEV examination includes several key checks:
- A visual inspection of hoods, ducts, fans, and filters
- Airflow measurements using calibrated instruments
- Performance testing to verify contaminant capture efficiency
- Comparison against design specifications and COSHH standards
- A full written report and compliance certificate issued to the employer
If any deficiencies are found, the report will include recommendations for corrective action.
-
What are the consequences of non-compliance with LEV regulations?
Failure to comply with LEV regulations can lead to enforcement action by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). Penalties include improvement or prohibition notices, fines, and even prosecution. Non-compliance can also expose employees to health risks, lead to reputational damage, and cause costly downtime. Regular LEV testing and maintenance protect both your workforce and your business.
-
What documentation is required for LEV compliance?
Employers must keep detailed records of:
- LEV system design and commissioning data
- Thorough examination and test reports
- Maintenance logs and service history
- Airflow and performance test results
These records must be kept for at least five years and be readily available for HSE inspection. Clean Air 24 Seven provides clear, easy-to-understand documentation to ensure full compliance.
-
How can Clean Air 24 Seven help with LEV compliance?
Clean Air 24 Seven provides comprehensive LEV services including:
- System design and installation
- Thorough examination and testing
- Preventive maintenance and repairs
- Commissioning and performance validation
- Detailed compliance reporting and certification
All work is carried out by BOHS-qualified engineers to ensure full compliance with COSHH Regulation 9 and HSG258 guidance.
-
Which industries are legally required to use LEV systems?
LEV systems are essential in any workplace where hazardous airborne substances are produced. This includes:
- Welding and fabrication workshops
- Woodworking and joinery businesses
- Automotive workshops and paint booths
- Chemical laboratories and research facilities
- Pharmaceutical and cosmetic manufacturing plants
These sectors are subject to COSHH Regulation 9 and must maintain effective LEV controls to protect staff and meet HSE requirements.
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