When workplaces generate hazardous dusts, fumes, vapours or mists, Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV) systems actively protect employee health. However, simply installing an LEV system does not meet legal requirements. UK law requires employers to carry out Local Exhaust VentilationTesting & Auditing, and ignoring this duty can lead to serious legal, financial, and health consequences.
This article explains why LEV testing is mandatory, outlines what COSHH Regulation 9 requires, and shows how regular LEV Testing & Auditing helps businesses stay compliant, protect staff, and prepare for inspections.
What Is LEV and Why Is It Used?
Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV) systems remove airborne contaminants at source, stopping hazardous substances from spreading throughout the workplace. Many industries rely on LEV systems, including:
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Welding and fabrication workshops
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Woodworking and joinery facilities
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Laboratories and pharmaceutical environments
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Manufacturing and food production sites
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Paint spraying and coating operations
When LEV systems do not operate effectively, workers breathe in harmful substances. Over time, this exposure can lead to long-term respiratory disease, occupational asthma, cancer, and other serious health conditions.
Why LEV Testing Isn’t Optional Under COSHH Regulation 9
Under the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations (COSHH), employers must control employee exposure to hazardous substances. COSHH Regulation 9 places a clear responsibility on employers to ensure LEV systems continue to work as intended.
The regulation requires employers to:
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Thoroughly examine and test LEV systems at least every 14 months
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Maintain systems in efficient working order
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Keep accurate records of LEV Testing & Auditing
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Identify faults promptly and arrange corrective action
Even if an LEV system appears to function correctly, employers must still prove its effectiveness through formal testing and auditing.
What Does Local Exhaust Ventilation Testing & Auditing Actually Involve?
A professional Local Exhaust Ventilation Testing & Auditing process goes far beyond a visual check. It typically includes:
Airflow and Velocity Measurements
Ensuring contaminated air is being captured effectively at the hood or inlet.
Hood and Capture Efficiency Checks
Confirming the system is controlling contaminants at source.
Ductwork, Fan and Filter Inspection
Identifying blockages, wear, corrosion or performance loss.
System Comparison Against Design Specifications
Checking the system still performs as originally intended.
Clear Reporting and Certification
Providing documented evidence of compliance with COSHH Regulation 9.
This formal process is known as a Thorough Examination and Test (TExT) and forms the backbone of compliant Local Exhaust Ventilation Testing & Auditing.
The Risks of Skipping LEV Testing
Failing to carry out required LEV Testing can result in:
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HSE enforcement notices or prosecution
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Increased employee illness and absenteeism
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Invalid employers’ liability insurance
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Failed audits and client compliance checks
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Reputational damage
In many cases, businesses only discover LEV failures after an inspection, incident, or complaint, when the consequences are already serious.
How Often Is LEV Testing Required?
In most cases, COSHH Regulation 9 requires LEV systems to be tested at least once every 14 months. However, more frequent LEV Testing may be necessary where:
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Highly toxic or carcinogenic substances are present
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Systems are heavily used or operate in harsh environments
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Previous tests identified performance concerns
Routine in-house checks should also be carried out between statutory tests to ensure ongoing effectiveness.
Local Exhaust Ventilation Testing & Auditing: More Than Compliance
While legal compliance is essential, regular LEV Testing also delivers wider benefits:
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Improved air quality and staff wellbeing
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Reduced long-term health risks
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Greater confidence during inspections and audits
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Demonstrable commitment to workplace safety
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Early identification of issues before costly failures
In short, Local Exhaust Ventilation Testing & Auditing protects people, processes, and your business.
Final Thoughts
LEV systems are a vital control measure — but without regular Local Exhaust Ventilation Testing & Auditing, they cannot be relied upon. COSHH Regulation 9 makes it clear: testing is not optional, and employers must be able to prove their systems are working effectively.
If your business uses LEV, staying compliant isn’t just about avoiding penalties — it’s about safeguarding health, meeting your legal duties, and maintaining a safe working environment.
Contact our team today to arrange a professional survey and find out how our LEV Testing can protect you for the long term including our other services such as Fire Damper Testing, Air Ventilation System Cleaning and Laundry Duct Cleaning.