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Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV)

Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV) systems are designed to control and remove airborne contaminants from a workplace, protecting workers' health and ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations. However, to ensure their effectiveness, these systems need to be regularly inspected and maintained. In this blog, we'll discuss the importance of inspecting LEV systems and provide some guidance on how to do so effectively.

Why is inspection of LEV systems important?

The inspection of LEV systems is important for several reasons. First and foremost, it ensures that the system is working effectively and efficiently, protecting workers from exposure to harmful airborne contaminants. Regular inspections can also help to identify any potential issues before they become more serious problems, reducing the risk of downtime or costly repairs.

In addition, the inspection of LEV systems is a legal requirement in many countries, with health and safety regulations mandating that employers maintain these systems in good working order. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in fines or legal action, as well as damage to your company's reputation.

What should you look for when inspecting an LEV system?

When inspecting an LEV system, there are several key components you should examine to ensure that the system is working effectively. These include:

  • Hood or capture device: This is the first point of contact with the airborne contaminants, so it's essential to ensure that it's positioned correctly and captures as much of the contaminant as possible.
  • Ductwork: The ductwork must be free from leaks, obstructions, and damage. You should check that the ductwork is the correct size, has smooth bends, and is well-supported.
  • Fan:The fan is responsible for creating the airflow in the system, so it's important to check that it's working correctly, has the correct speed, and is appropriately sized for the system.
  • Filter or scrubber: This is the final stage of the LEV system, and it's crucial to ensure that the filter or scrubber is working correctly and not saturated. The filter or scrubber should be replaced or cleaned regularly to maintain its effectiveness.
  • Airflow measurements: It's essential to check the airflow velocity and volume to ensure that the system is working efficiently. You should measure the airflow at the capture device, in the ductwork, and at the filter or scrubber.
  • Controls: The controls for the LEV system should be checked to ensure that they are functioning correctly and that workers can easily use them to adjust the system as needed.
How often should you inspect an LEV system?

The frequency of inspections for an LEV system will depend on several factors, including the type of contaminants being captured, the frequency of use, and the environment in which the system is operating. As a general rule, LEV systems should be inspected at least once a year, although more frequent inspections may be required for systems in heavy use or in harsh environments.

In addition to regular inspections, LEV systems should also be tested periodically to ensure that they are working effectively. This can include smoke tests, tracer gas tests, or dust lamp tests, which can help to identify any leaks or issues with the system.

Conclusion

Inspection of local exhaust ventilation systems is essential for protecting workers' health, complying with health and safety regulations, and ensuring the system is working effectively. By examining key components such as the hood or capture device, ductwork, fan, filter or scrubber, airflow measurements, and controls, you can identify any issues with the system and take corrective action as needed. Regular inspections and testing can help to prevent downtime, reduce the risk of costly repairs, and ensure that your LEV system is protecting your workers and your business.

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