Fume extraction systems are a key element of many healthcare, scientific and educational environments, as they help to keep staff, pupils and patients safe from potentially harmful dusts, gases, fumes and other particles which may be present in the atmosphere. This means it’s essential that they are always maintained in good working order. Here Tecomak Environmental Systems outline some of the key elements of fume extract testing.

What is a Fume Extraction System?

Fume extraction systems have powerful fans which suck in air which may have been contaminated with potentially harmful particles or microbes. The extracted air is then cleaned, via a series of filters, before it is released back into the room or into the atmosphere outside.

Where are They Used?

In hospitals, potentially hazardous chemicals are used in day-to-day maintenance, cleaning, sterilisation and operations. It is essential that all the areas where these chemicals are stored have fume extraction systems in place in case any vapours or gases are accidentally released – these could be corrosive, irritating or, in a worst-case scenario, toxic.

Hospital Isolation wards also use fume extract systems – not because toxic chemicals are being used or stored there, but because of the need to maintain a ‘clean’ or aseptic environment for vulnerable patients. And mortuaries and autopsy areas need such systems in place because of the chemicals which are used.

In scientific research labs, harmful fumes are more likely to be generated as the result of chemical experiments – which is why fume cupboards and microbiological safety cabinets need compatible extract systems to remove any harmful microbes.

In the education and commercial sectors, the fumes are more likely be present in Craft and Design Technology workshops as the result of industrial processes, such as welding, soldering, sanding and grinding. Laser technology can also release harmful dust and particles into the atmosphere, while hazardous solvents and cleaning agents are often used with electronic equipment.

How Do You Test Fume Extraction Systems?

For the purposes of testing, any fume extraction system is classified as a Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV) system which means that the COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health) of 2002 come into play.

These regulations mean employers and schools have a duty of care to ensure that staff, patients and pupils aren’t being exposed unnecessarily to any potentially harmful pathogens – otherwise they could be prosecuted by the UK’s Health and Safety Executive (HSE). All LEV systems should be inspected every 14 months, and more frequently if they are in a particularly high-risk location or come in for a lot of use. (More information is also available in the HSE’s guidance document HSG258).

An LEV test involves a complete inspection and examination of all your extraction equipment, including:

• The hood (which is the main entry point for any contaminated air)
• The ducting (which provides a route for the contaminated air captured by the hood to the cleaning filters)
• The filters themselves (which capture the harmful microbes; most LEV systems will have carbon or HEPA filters fitted).

At Tecomak Environmental Services, we test all three of the above elements, checking that they are working in line with the manufacturers’ recommendations, that there aren’t any leaks and replacing any individual items such as air filters.

However, it isn’t ‘one size fits all’ and we also have the experience and expertise to inspect specialist systems. For instance, we can test wood and hotworks systems (where the extraction is usually via a canopy or special arm) as well as any LEVs in workshops where lasers and pottery kilns are in operation.

In science and healthcare environments, we can test where the system is connected to a fume cupboard or biological safety cabinet. In the case of the former, we carry out face velocity measurements and containment tests to check the overall airflow and that any harmful materials are being removed safely and effectively.

Fume Extract Testing, Installation and Repairs from Tecomak Environmental Services

At Tecomak, we can repair as well as test your fume extract systems – usually on the spot. If more work is required, then we can offer system upgrades and, if that is not possible, we can design and install a bespoke system for you. We design and install all types of chemically resistant PVC and polypropylene systems, as well as PVC ductwork.

If you would like to learn more about our fume extract services, follow this link or call us on 01732 852250.