Case Study – LEV Testing

LEV stands for Local Exhaust Ventilation, which is a system used to control exposure to airborne contaminants in the workplace by capturing and removing them at or near the source. Annual testing of LEV systems is essential to ensure their effectiveness in controlling exposure to hazardous substances, such as welding fumes, dust, or chemical vapours. Here’s why annual testing is important:

Performance Verification: Annual testing helps verify that the LEV system is functioning as intended and effectively capturing contaminants before they can disperse into the work environment. This ensures that workers are adequately protected from exposure to harmful substances.
Compliance: Many workplace health and safety regulations require employers to maintain LEV systems in good working order and conduct regular testing to ensure compliance. Annual testing helps demonstrate compliance with regulatory requirements and standards.
Optimization: Testing allows for the identification of any deficiencies or malfunctions in the LEV system, enabling necessary adjustments or repairs to be made to optimize its performance. This helps prevent potential exposure incidents and ensures the longevity of the equipment.
Worker Safety: Regular testing of LEV systems is critical for safeguarding the health and safety of workers. By maintaining effective control of airborne contaminants, annual testing helps reduce the risk of occupational illnesses and injuries associated with exposure to hazardous substances.
Cost Savings: Proactively identifying and addressing issues with LEV systems through annual testing can help prevent more significant problems and costly downtime in the future. It also helps extend the lifespan of the equipment and ensures that resources are allocated efficiently.

During annual LEV testing, various parameters may be assessed, including airflow rates, capture velocities, hood and ductwork performance, filter efficiency, and overall system integrity. Qualified professionals, such as industrial hygienists or ventilation engineers, typically conduct these tests using specialized equipment and methodologies. The results of the testing should be documented, and any necessary corrective actions should be implemented promptly to maintain the effectiveness of the LEV system.