What is Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV) Testing?

LEV testing assesses whether a Local Exhaust Ventilation system continues to perform as intended and contributes to adequate control of exposure to hazardous airborne substances. Known as a Thorough Examination and Test (TExT), it helps employers identify defects and protect employee health.

LEV systems capture or contain contaminants such as welding fume, wood dust, pharmaceutical powders and chemical vapours before people breathe them in.

What does LEV testing involve?

A competent examiner reviews the work being carried out, the substances generated and how the extraction system is used.

At Armstrong Environmental, our LEV Control Review follows four stages:

Desktop review: examine available risk assessments, commissioning information and previous reports.
Visual inspection: inspect system condition, hood positioning and operator interaction.
Technical measurements: assess airflow and other relevant indicators of control effectiveness.
Professional judgement and reporting: evaluate the evidence and explain findings, limitations and required actions.

Airflow readings alone do not demonstrate effective control. An extraction system can move plenty of air while failing to capture contaminants where they are generated.

How often is LEV testing required?

Under the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations (COSHH), most LEV systems used to control hazardous substances must undergo thorough examination and testing at least every 14 months.

Some specified processes require shorter intervals, and risk or operating conditions may justify more frequent testing. Records must be retained for at least five years.

Routine testing does not replace regular checks and maintenance between examinations.

Is LEV testing the same as commissioning?

Commissioning establishes the initial evidence that an LEV system provides effective control and sets performance benchmarks. Routine LEV testing assesses its continued performance.

Where commissioning information is missing or inadequate, retrospective commissioning may be needed to establish a suitable basis for future examinations.

LEV testing from Armstrong Environmental

Armstrong Environmental provides independent LEV testing, commissioning and retrospective commissioning, drawing on HSE guidance including HSG258 and the COSHH Approved Code of Practice L5.

Our team includes LEV Specialists listed on the BOHS Register of Occupational Hygiene Professionals, which is accredited by the Professional Standards Authority (PSA).

Find out more about our LEV testing services or contact our team to discuss your systems.