Article Synopsis

This article looks at the three main components of a local exhaust ventilation testing service. The work involved can generally be split into three principal areas – a visual check, an operational check and any subsequent remedial work which might be necessary.

There’s also a look at the services which Tecomak Environmental Services provide in this area.

This article is a three-minute read.

LEV systems are an essential element of any high-risk healthcare environment, as they ensure that patients and staff aren’t exposed to hazardous or toxic fumes. But what is involved in testing a Local Exhaust Ventilation system?

LEV Testing Services from Tecomak Environmental Services

Tecomak Environmental Services provides comprehensive LEV testing and maintenance services in schools and colleges as well as healthcare locations. For more information, follow this link.

1. Visual and Structural Examination

The first key element of any LEV test involves the engineer carrying out a detailed inspection of all the components to check for wear, damage, blockages, and corrosion.

In the case of fume cupboard hoods and other similar devices, the engineer should verify they are in the correct position to ensure effective capture of any potential contaminants. For further details, check out our previous post on fume cupboard tests here.

Ductwork should be inspected for any leaks or signs of any internal build-up of dust deposits, which could lead to blockages.

Air cleaners and filters should be assessed for their condition and efficiency – again, any build-up of contaminants could mean that filters need to be replaced. Alarms and pressure gauges should also be inspected for any signs of failure.

2. A Review of Technical Performance

This involves physically testing the LEV – switching it on – to see how it operates. The performance is measured using calibrated instruments and compared against the system’s original design or commissioning specifications to ensure it is providing adequate standards of hygiene.

Airflow measurements will check not just overall flow rates, but other item-specific tests such as face velocities at the hood, duct velocities, and static pressures at designated test points to verify performance.

Diagnostic tools like smoke or dust lamp tests will visually demonstrate whether contaminants are being captured and contained effectively. And all electric fans and motors should be checked for their noise and vibration levels to ensure they are working efficiently.

3. Documentation and Recommendations

Just as important as what happens during the test is what takes place afterwards. Comprehensive LEV testing services will provide a Health and Safety Executive-compliant report that serves as a legal record. This report must be kept for a minimum of five years.

The report should include:

• All test dates, system identification (for example, a unique ID number), test results, observations, and schematic diagrams/photos. These should also be entered in the system’s user manual and logbook.
• Compliance status – a clear statement on whether the system passes or fails the legal requirements.
• Recommendations – A prioritised plan of action for any necessary corrective actions, maintenance, or repairs.
• Certification – A certificate of compliance should be issued where applicable.

The tester, assuming it is an external one, should also work with the employer (or system owner) to ensure operators are trained in the correct use and daily or weekly checks of the system, which is vital for ongoing compliance.

LEV Testing from Tecomak Environmental Services

At Tecomak, we can ensure your LEV systems operate safely, effectively and complies with all the relevant legal requirements. This includes systems in schools and colleges, particularly those with CDT classrooms which have laser cutters and other high-tech equipment which can produce potentially harmful fumes.

We keep an asset database of all your LEV systems, send you automatic reminders of planned visits and keep archived documentation on your behalf, which means you don’t have to spend so much time on admin.

Our engineers will also try to minimise the time your healthcare facility or classroom is out of action; in the case of hospital LEV testing, long delays could compromise patient care.  So, where possible, if a test reveals an issue, we always endeavour to repair or replace any parts on the spot. And, where we can, we look to combine visits – so, for instance, we could carry out routine fume cupboard maintenance at the same time as any LEV tests.

If you have any questions, you can call us on 01732 852250 or click here and complete the online form.

FAQS:

Q: What are the recommended service intervals for LEV systems?

A: The law requires all Local Exhaust Ventilation systems to be maintained in “effective and efficient working order”, and they are also subject to inspection and testing every 14 months – or more frequently when risk assessments have highlighted a high risk of exposure, or where the system is heavily used. Many LEV systems are inspected annually.

Q: What are the regulations which apply to LEV systems?

A: The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) 2002 Regulations apply. These regulations impose a duty on employers to manage the exposure of their employees to hazardous substances and, where it is not reasonably practicable to prevent exposure, to employ control measures to reduce it to an appropriate level.

We also follow the Health and Safety Executive’s recommended practice as detailed by HSG 258 ‘Controlling airborne contaminants at work’.