In industries where dust, fumes, vapours or mists are produced as part of daily operations, ensuring the air remains safe to breathe is not just good practice – it’s a legal requirement. That’s where Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV) systems come in. But simply having an LEV system in place isn’t enough. Regular LEV testing is essential to ensure these systems are working effectively to protect your employees and your business.
What Is LEV Testing?
LEV testing is the process of examining and assessing Local Exhaust Ventilation systems to verify that they are operating efficiently and controlling exposure to hazardous substances in the workplace. As defined by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) in guidance HSG258, and enforced under the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002 (as amended), LEV systems must be thoroughly examined and tested at least once every 14 months – or more frequently for certain high-risk processes like metal grinding.
At McCarthy Environmental, our LEV testing service ensures full compliance with these legal obligations. Our BOHS-qualified engineers perform comprehensive examinations in accordance with COSHH and HSG258 standards, delivering detailed post-inspection reports to help you stay compliant and keep your workforce safe.
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Why Is LEV Testing Essential?
1. Legal Compliance
Employers are legally required to ensure their LEV systems are maintained in an efficient state, in effective working order, and in clean condition. Failure to comply with COSHH Regulation 9 can lead to enforcement action, fines, or invalidation of insurance.
2. Protecting Employee Health
Poorly maintained LEV systems can fail to control airborne contaminants, exposing workers to substances that cause serious respiratory conditions, long-term illness, or even life-threatening diseases. Regular LEV testing helps ensure that extraction systems are functioning correctly and controlling hazardous substances at the source.
3. Minimising Business Risk
A failed LEV system doesn’t just risk employee health – it can disrupt operations, reduce productivity, and lead to costly remediation. Regular testing helps detect faults early, allowing time for repairs before issues escalate.
4. Supporting a Safe and Productive Workplace
Properly functioning LEV systems support a cleaner working environment, which contributes to improved employee well-being, fewer absences, and higher productivity levels.
What Does LEV Testing Involve?
At McCarthy Environmental, our LEV testing process includes:
- A thorough visual and structural inspection
- Measurement of airflow and system performance
- Evaluation of control effectiveness
- A full technical report with findings and recommendations
- Issuance of a Certificate of Compliance
Each report serves as a record of legal compliance, and includes airflow measurements, filter conditions, system observations, and any required remedial actions.
What Happens If an LEV System Fails?
If an LEV system does not pass its inspection, our engineers will outline any issues and provide a clear recommendation for remedial works. We also offer re-testing following any repairs or adjustments. Where systems are beyond economical repair, we can propose a suitable replacement tailored to your needs.
Choose LEV Testing Experts You Can Trust
With over 50 years of combined experience, McCarthy Environmental is a trusted name in workplace air quality and compliance. Our impartial, expert approach ensures that you receive the right solution for your business – not a one-size-fits-all recommendation. We work across a wide range of sectors, including engineering, manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, education, and more.
At McCarthy Environmental, we take your compliance seriously – so you don’t have to worry.
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