Local exhaust ventilation system over a workbench

Guidance

LEV Testing and Air Monitoring

Local exhaust ventilation testing and air monitoring are complementary: one checks the extraction system, the other confirms that worker exposure is actually controlled.

LEV duty

COSHH Reg 9

TExT

Every 14 months

Guidance

HSG258

Confirms

Exposure control

01

What LEV testing checks

Thorough examination and testing (TExT) of local exhaust ventilation measures capture and face velocities, static pressures and overall condition against the system's commissioning performance. COSHH Regulation 9 requires this at least every 14 months.

02

What air monitoring adds

LEV testing shows the system is moving air as designed; air monitoring shows whether worker exposure is actually below the limit. Only by combining the two can you be confident that the control is effective in practice.

03

Using them together

Where exposure monitoring shows results approaching a limit, LEV testing helps diagnose why — a blocked filter, worn fan or poorly positioned hood. Together they form a complete, defensible control verification.

04

Frequently asked questions

Is LEV testing the same as air monitoring?

No — LEV testing checks the extraction system; air monitoring measures worker exposure. Both are needed for full assurance.

How often must LEV be tested?

At least every 14 months for most systems under COSHH Regulation 9, and we test to HSG258.

Next step

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