LEV Exhaust Ventilation Testing

Ensuring Clean, Safe, and Compliant Work Environments with Clean Air 24 Seven

Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV) systems play a crucial role in protecting workers from exposure to hazardous airborne substances such as fumes, vapours, dusts, and gases. At Clean Air 24 Seven, we specialise in LEV exhaust ventilation testing, inspection, and maintenance — helping UK businesses stay compliant, safe, and operational all year round.

Our team of engineers are BOHS qualified and hold certifications in P601, P602, P603, P604, and W501, ensuring your LEV systems are tested and maintained to the highest professional and legal standards.

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

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    What Is LEV Exhaust Ventilation Testing?

    LEV (Local Exhaust Ventilation) systems are designed to capture airborne contaminants at their source before they spread into the workplace. Over time, filters, ducts, fans, and hoods can degrade or become blocked, reducing system performance and putting workers’ health at risk.

    LEV exhaust ventilation testing is the process of examining, measuring, and verifying that your system is effectively controlling hazardous substances. This testing is a legal requirement under the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002, which state that LEV systems must be thoroughly examined and tested at least once every 14 months (or more frequently, depending on use).

    At Clean Air 24 Seven, our detailed LEV testing service identifies any issues that could compromise system performance and ensures your business remains compliant with HSE requirements.

    Why LEV Testing Matters

    Without regular testing, even the best-designed LEV systems can fail to protect employees. Blocked filters, worn ducting, or damaged extraction hoods can drastically reduce efficiency — allowing harmful airborne particles to circulate in your workspace.

    Failing to maintain and test LEV systems not only risks workers’ health but can also lead to:

    • Legal penalties and HSE enforcement notices
    • Increased employee absences due to respiratory or chemical exposure
    • Production downtime caused by unplanned maintenance
    • Contamination of products in sensitive manufacturing environments
    • Reduced equipment lifespan

    LEV exhaust ventilation testing from Clean Air 24 Seven provides the assurance that your systems are working as intended — protecting your people, your processes, and your reputation.

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

    Who Needs LEV Exhaust Ventilation Testing?

    LEV systems are widely used in a variety of industries where airborne contaminants are generated. Our qualified engineers regularly carry out testing for:

    Welding and Metal Fabrication Welding processes generate metal fumes and gases that can cause long-term respiratory issues. Properly maintained LEV systems are essential to extract welding fume at the source, ensuring compliance with HSE’s Welding Fume Exposure Control guidance.

    Woodworking and Carpentry Wood dust is a known respiratory sensitiser and carcinogen. LEV systems in joineries, sawmills, and furniture workshops must be tested regularly to ensure that sawdust and fine particulates are effectively captured and removed.

    Automotive Workshops and Manufacturing From vehicle painting to engine testing, car workshops and manufacturing plants generate exhaust fumes, oil mists, and dust. Regular LEV testing helps ensure these contaminants are safely controlled, protecting mechanics and technicians.

    Laboratories and Chemical Mixing Chemical vapours and solvent fumes pose serious health hazards. Fume cupboards, extraction arms, and other LEV systems used in laboratories must undergo periodic testing to verify airflow rates and ensure containment of hazardous substances.

    Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Pharmaceutical processes often involve fine powders and chemical substances that can be hazardous when inhaled. Regular LEV testing safeguards both product integrity and operator safety, maintaining cleanroom standards and compliance with GMP requirements.

    If your business uses any type of process that releases airborne contaminants, LEV exhaust ventilation testing is not just recommended — it’s a legal obligation.

    What’s Included in Our LEV Exhaust Ventilation Testing Service

    At Clean Air 24 Seven, we carry out a comprehensive, COSHH-compliant examination of your LEV system. Each test is conducted by BOHS-qualified engineers with the expertise to assess and interpret system performance accurately.

    Our testing process includes:

    Visual Inspection We check for physical damage, blockages, corrosion, and wear throughout the LEV system — including hoods, ducts, filters, and fans.

    Performance Measurements Using calibrated instruments, we measure airflow velocities, static pressure, and capture efficiency to verify whether your system meets design specifications.

    Smoke and Airflow Tests These visual checks confirm that contaminants are being effectively captured at the source and transported through the ducting system.

    Filter and Fan Assessment We inspect filters and fans for signs of deterioration and ensure that they are operating within safe and efficient parameters.

     Docmentation and Reporting After testing, we provide a detailed LEV report that includes:

      • Test results and performance data
      • Identified defects or areas of non-compliance
      • Recommendations for remedial action
      • Photographs and system schematics
      • A clear LEV Test Certificate

    This documentation is designed to meet HSE and COSHH record-keeping requirements, ensuring your business remains fully compliant.

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

    BOHS Qualified Engineers – Certified Expertise You Can Trust

    All Clean Air 24 Seven engineers hold BOHS (British Occupational Hygiene Society) qualifications, demonstrating a high level of technical competence in LEV system design, testing, and maintenance.

    Our certifications include:

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

    These qualifications mean every inspection is carried out by a professional who understands both the practical and regulatory aspects of LEV control. With Clean Air 24 Seven, you’re not just getting a test — you’re getting expert insight into how to optimise your ventilation system for performance, compliance, and worker safety.

    LEV Testing Frequency and Legal Requirements

    Under COSHH Regulation 9, employers are legally required to ensure that LEV systems are:

    • Maintained in efficient working order
    • Thoroughly examined and tested at least once every 14 months

    However, certain processes may require more frequent testing:

    • Welding or metalwork involving carcinogens – every 6 months
    • Wood dust extraction systems – every 12 months
    • Laboratory fume cupboards – typically every 6 to 12 months depending on use

    Our engineers can help you determine the correct testing schedule for your equipment and processes, ensuring you meet all HSE expectations.

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

    LEV System Maintenance and Aftercare

    Beyond testing, Clean Air 24 Seven provides ongoing LEV system maintenance, servicing, and remedial works. If an issue is identified during testing, our team can carry out corrective actions — such as duct cleaning, filter replacement, or airflow optimisation — to restore compliance swiftly.

    We also offer:

    • LEV commissioning and design verification
    • Ductwork cleaning and inspection
    • Filter performance assessments
    • System upgrades and improvements

    Our goal is to provide a full end-to-end solution that keeps your extraction systems efficient and compliant year-round.

    Why Choose Clean Air 24 Seven for LEV Exhaust Ventilation Testing?

    • BOHS-qualified engineers – certified in P601–P604 and W501
    • Fully COSHH-compliant testing and documentation
    • Nationwide coverage with flexible scheduling
    • Detailed, easy-to-understand reports and recommendations
    • Trusted by industrial, automotive, and manufacturing clients across the UK
    • Comprehensive aftercare and maintenance support

    When you choose Clean Air 24 Seven, you’re partnering with professionals who take air quality, safety, and compliance seriously.

    Book Your LEV Test Today

    Whether you operate a welding bay, woodworking shop, automotive workshop, or pharmaceutical lab, LEV exhaust ventilation testing is essential for maintaining a safe, compliant, and productive workplace.

    LEV Exhaust Ventilation Testing FAQs

    • What is LEV exhaust ventilation testing?

      LEV (Local Exhaust Ventilation) testing is a thorough examination and performance check of your extraction system to ensure it is effectively removing harmful airborne contaminants such as dust, fumes, vapours, and gases. The process includes airflow measurements, visual inspections, and efficiency assessments to verify that the system is protecting workers’ health and meeting COSHH legal requirements.

    • How often should LEV systems be tested?

      Under the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002), LEV systems must be thoroughly examined and tested at least once every 14 months. However, certain industries require more frequent testing:

      1. Welding fume and metalwork extraction: every 6 months
      2. Wood dust extraction systems: every 12 months
      3. Laboratory fume cupboards and chemical extraction: every 6–12 months depending on usage
    • Who is qualified to carry out LEV testing?

      LEV testing should only be carried out by competent, BOHS-qualified engineers. At Clean Air 24 Seven, our team hold the following BOHS certifications:

      1. P601: Thorough Examination and Testing of LEV Systems
      2. P602: Design, Commissioning and Testing
      3. P603: Management of LEV Systems
      4. P604: Performance Evaluation and Management
      5. W501: Measurement of Hazardous Substances These qualifications demonstrate technical competence and ensure all testing is compliant with HSE standards.
    • What happens during an LEV test?

      A qualified engineer will:

      1. Inspect the system for wear, damage, or blockages.
      2. Measure airflow rates and pressure to check extraction efficiency.
      3. Perform smoke or airflow visualisation tests.
      4. Assess the condition of filters, fans, and ductwork.
      5. Produce a detailed LEV Test Report with performance data, photos, and recommendations. Once completed, you’ll receive a LEV Test Certificate to demonstrate COSHH compliance.
    • What are the consequences of not testing LEV systems?

      If LEV systems are not tested or maintained:

      1. Employees may be exposed to harmful dust, fumes, or vapours.
      2. The business could face HSE improvement or prohibition notices.
      3. Insurance claims may be invalidated due to non-compliance.
      4. Production downtime and costly repairs can occur if systems fail unexpectedly.

      Regular testing protects your workforce, reduces downtime, and ensures legal compliance.

    • What type of businesses need LEV testing?

      Any business that generates airborne contaminants should have regular LEV exhaust ventilation testing. This includes:

      1. Welding and metal fabrication workshops
      2. Woodworking and joinery shops
      3. Automotive repair and paint facilities
      4. Laboratories and chemical mixing areas
      5. Pharmaceutical and food manufacturing plants If your processes create dust, fume, smoke, mist, or vapour — you need LEV testing.
    • What should an LEV report include?

      A compliant LEV report includes:

      1. Details of the system and components tested
      2. Airflow and pressure measurements
      3. Test methods and equipment used
      4. Photographic evidence and diagrams
      5. Identified defects or non-conformities
      6. Recommended corrective actions
      7. LEV Test Certificate with results summary

      Clean Air 24 Seven provides clear, HSE-approved reports to keep your compliance records up to date.

    • How long does LEV testing take?

      The duration depends on the number and complexity of extraction points. A single LEV system may take a few hours to test, while larger sites with multiple extraction units can take a full day or more. Our engineers work efficiently to minimise disruption to your operations while ensuring every test is completed thoroughly.

    • How can I prepare for an LEV test?

      To make your LEV testing run smoothly:

      1. Ensure access to all extraction points and equipment.
      2. Provide any previous test reports or design documentation.
      3. Notify staff that testing will be taking place.
      4. Make sure systems are operational during the visit.

      Our engineers will handle the rest, providing clear guidance and professional service throughout.

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