Filtermist emphasises the importance of LEV testing

One of the country’s leading manufacturers of air filtration and dust control solutions has outlined why Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV) testing is essential for safeguarding workers from exposure to potentially harmful airborne particulates. Filtermist offers LEV testing throughout the UK to evaluate the performance of its customers’ LEV systems and ensure they are compliant with COSSH Regulations.

Clair Banks, Filtermist’s UK aftermarket manager, said: “We are dedicated to ensuring that our customers’ LEV systems function safely and effectively. Extraction for airborne particulate such as oil mist and dust should not be seen as a box-ticking exercise — it is vital that it actually works as required. Frequent LEV testing is both a moral and legal imperative that helps companies remain compliant with the latest legislation and protects the health and wellbeing of their teams.

“Recent data from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) estimates that 12,000 lung disease deaths between 2022 and 2023 were linked to workplace exposures — a stark statistic that highlights the need for stringent LEV requirements. By offering thorough LEV tests, we help our customers ensure the air in their workplace is clean and safe to breathe.”

Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations, state that all LEV systems must be tested at least once every 14 months by a competent person. The legislation applies to all oil mist, fume, smoke and dust extraction units that are classed as Local Exhaust Ventilation.

Site inspections
Filtermist’s P601 qualified engineers examine LEV systems against industry standards and HSE guidelines including HSG258 Controlling airborne contaminants at work: A guide to local exhaust ventilation (LEV). They employ a wide range of methods during their site inspections, including reviewing working practices and processes, checking fans and motor rotation units, and carrying out smoke clearance time tests. Once the engineer has completed their evaluation, they create a digital report which is then forwarded to the customers and kept on file for future reference. If necessary, the report will identify areas for potential improvement and make expert recommendations.

Ms Banks described the potential repercussions of inadequate or infrequent LEV testing, stating: “Companies that fail to examine their LEV systems properly run the risk of prosecutions, employee sickness and reputational damage. At Filtermist, we make it our mission to help clients avoid these serious consequences by inspecting their equipment and making sure that it is compliant with COSHH regulations.”

Established in 1969, Filtermist is trusted by world-leading manufacturers to effectively remove oil and coolant mist, steam and fume from the air in industrial workplaces. Committed to creating happier, healthier and more productive workplaces, the company provides a full turn-key service that includes LEV system design, manufacture, supply, installation, commissioning and aftermarket support.

Businesses looking to ensure that their LEV systems comply with COSHH regulations can schedule a Thorough Examination and Test (TExT) with Filtermist. A site visit by one of Filtermist’s qualified and experienced LEV engineers can be arranged here.