Airflow Indicators for LEV systems

Airflow indicators are designed to be used in LEV systems to ensure that the air flow rate in the system is maintained so employees are protected at all times.

Airflow indicator benefits include:

• Flow rates are maintained resulting in protection of employees
• Easy visual readings
• Limits operational downtime
• Assists in ensuring adherence to COSHH regulations
• Low price and easy installation

LEV systems are installed to protect workers from exposure to hazardous substances. They should be tested at least once every 14 months by competent people in accordance with Regulation 9 of COSHH 2002 Regulations.

The HSE strongly recommend the fitting of airflow indicators to help protect employees and to assist both employers and employees in meeting their legal obligations. They deem the fitting of these devices as “reasonably practicable” as they are low in cost and high in reward.

Although not explicitly identified as a legal requirement, employers do have several legal duties including ensuring that the system is continuing to protect the employee. However, if you explore COSHH Regulations in depth there is an implicit legal requirement.

Under COSHH Regulation 7, employers must ensure that LEV systems are always effective.

One of the main reasons why LEV systems do not work effectively, is reduced airflow.

Schedule 2A states that one of the guiding Principles of Good Practice for Control would be to: “Check and review regularly all elements of control measures for their continuing effectiveness.”

Regulation 8 Employers must provide: – “monitoring systems for the effectiveness of controls and prompt remedial action where necessary.” 8 (2)(b) requires that the employee to report any defect in the LEV system to his employer immediately.

Regulation 9 employers must ensure that the system is maintained in an efficient state, in efficient working order, in good repair and in a clean condition.

HSE HSG258 states that users of LEV systems, particularly the operators at LEV hoods, must be able to tell that the hood airflow is still adequate to control exposure.

Note: HSG258 is an ACoP (Approved Code of Practice) and is therefore considered by Courts to be “persuasive in law.”

In summary: if you choose not to fit airflow indicators then you must be prepared to be challenged on this and document the reasons for this within your process risk assessment. 

Working to HSE COSHH guidelines

We will carry out a thorough examination and test (TExT) in compliance with COSHH Regulation 9 as detailed in HSE Guide HSG258 “Controlling airborne contaminants at work – a guide to LEV”.

Our levels of service vary according to your requirements and each visit can be tailored to your individual needs. Some clients choose to combine the annual servicing of their extraction/ventilation system with the LEV testing.

This proves to be very cost effective and also gives you peace of mind knowing that your complete system is being tested and maintained by the UK’s market leader in extraction/ventilation systems.

Airflow indicators

Airflow indicators are a simple yet effective way of instantly monitoring the airflow of your LEV system. An airflow indicator can be fitted to your systems’ ducting and will provide a visual cue if the system is operating correctly and also if it is not (see image below).