Client Overview
A sixth form college has a woodworking area in its art department. Here, students work hands-on with wood materials using machinery such as band saws and table saws, requiring effective dust extraction to maintain a safe and compliant working environment.
The Challenge
The art department needed a modern, compliant wood dust extraction system to serve both the band saw and table saw areas. Their existing setup lacked efficient dust control, and there were concerns around airflow and safety concerning exposure limits for hardwood and softwood dust. The system also needed to operate flexibly—servicing one machine at a time in an “either/or” configuration.
The Solution
We supplied and installed an extraction unit, complete with an integrated cyclone separator. The system was designed for flexible and safe operation, featuring manual shut-off dampers on both the band saw and table saw, which enable an “either/or” setup.
Airflow Indicators were fitted to each branch to ensure duct velocities remain above 15m/s. The table saw’s hood was also modified for improved dust capture. The system returns filtered air back into the workspace, removing the need for external ducting.
The Result
The new system delivers reliable, compliant extraction for both hardwood and softwood dust. With effective airflow control and HEPA-grade filtration, it ensures a cleaner, safer environment for staff and students. The airflow indicators make it easy to monitor performance at a glance, while the compact design and short duct run make it ideal for use in a college workshop.
Beyond the Install
To keep the system running smoothly and within legal compliance, the college can benefit from our ongoing servicing and LEV testing, carried out every 14 months. As with all our installations, we’re on hand for system support, maintenance, and certification to ensure continued protection for years to come.
We supply LEV testing services and all other LEV services at many schools, colleges and universities around the UK, including the following:
