Often found in factories, workshops and processing plants, a Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV) system is an engineering method proven to provide a cleaner and safer working environment for those exposed to harmful contaminants in the workplace.

But how does a LEV System work? How does it protect us? And why is it important? Here we answer your most commonly asked LEV System questions.

A LEV system is an engineering control measure designed to reduce employee exposure to airborne contaminants within the workplace. It works by capturing the emission at source and transporting away it to a safe emission point or a filter/scrubber.

There are several types of contaminants a LEV system removes from the air, including:

• Mould spores
• Welding fumes
• Gasses
• Vapour
• Smoke
• Dust
• Ash
• Mist

A LEV system is made up of several elements that work together to extract the air and capture the contaminants at source and then move it away to a safe place. Typically, a LEV System will be situated close to the source (such as a welding machine) and placed at ceiling height.

• A Hood– This is where the contaminants enter the system along with the extracted a
• Ducting– This part of the LEV system safely transports the pollutants to either a filter, a cleaner or an exhaust point.
• Air cleaner, filter, or scrubber – This removes the pollutants from the extracted air.
• Air mover– This is a fan which powers the entire LEV system.
• Discharge– This is the safe point for the contaminants to exit (usually outside the building).

According to HSE, it is estimated that in 2018, 12,000 lung disease deaths were linked to past exposures in the workplace.

A LEV system is designed to protect the health of employees by removing the airborne contaminants and preventing harmful exposure to them.

Although it is not required by law to have a LEV system in place, the law does require employers to take specific measures to protect their employees from harm in the workplace.

Specific legislation such as the Health and Safety at Work Act and COSHH requires employers to protect their employees if exposed to harmful contaminants. In many cases, where other measures have failed, a LEV system is often the solution.

Yes. If you have a LEV System in place, you are required by law to have it tested by an engineer once every 14 months.

We design, develop, and install bespoke LEV systems for all industries. We also perform LEV system testing for both new and existing clients.

Do you think you need a LEV system and want to discuss your requirements with us? Have a LEV system in place that you need testing? Call us today and speak to one of our fully qualified engineers who will talk you through the entire process.