LEV Assessment

LEV Assessment

A LEV Assessment refers to the inspection, examination, and testing of a Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV) system. LEV is designed to control airborne contaminants such as dust, fumes, vapours, gases, and mists in workplaces, preventing them from being inhaled by workers.

In the UK, LEV assessments are a legal requirement under the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH).

What is Involved in an Local Exhaust Ventilation Assessment?

An LEV assessment (often called a Thorough Examination and Test) checks whether the system is:

1. 1. Designed correctly – suitable for the process and contaminant.
2. 2. Working effectively – actually controlling the hazardous substance at source.
3. 3. Maintained properly – in good condition, clean, and functioning.
4. 4. Compliant with COSHH – records must be kept and made available to HSE if requested.

Legal Requirements

• COSHH Regulation 9 requires that LEV systems be thoroughly examined and tested at least once every 14 months (more often for high-risk processes, e.g. shot blasting).
• Employers must keep records of LEV tests for a minimum of 5 years.

Key Steps of an LEV Assessment

1. Visual Examination

• Condition of ducts, hoods, filters, fans, and discharge points.
• Evidence of wear, damage, blockages, or leaks.

2. Performance Testing

• Airflow measurements (using anemometers, pitot tubes, or manometers).
• Static pressure tests.
• Smoke/dust tests to check capture efficiency at hoods.

3. Assessment Against Design Standards

• Comparing measured performance against the system’s design specification.
• Checking that airflow is sufficient to capture and remove contaminants.

4. Operator Use

• Ensuring workers are using the system correctly (hood position, work practices, etc.).
• Checking training and instructions are in place.

5. Record Keeping

• Test results documented in a report.
• Defects and recommendations for repair or maintenance.
• Evidence of compliance with COSHH Regulation 9.

Outcomes of an LEV Assessment

• Confirmation that the LEV system is effective in controlling hazardous substances.
• Identification of any faults or reduced performance.
• Recommendations for corrective actions (repairs, redesign, additional training, etc.).
• Certification/report to demonstrate compliance with COSHH for HSE inspectors or insurers.