Overview

This case study highlights a common issue in ventilation systems:
systems that appear to be working but are not effectively controlling airborne contaminants within enclosed spaces.

LEV Tec Solutions carried out a Ventilation Design Review to assess whether the existing system could achieve effective air movement and contaminant removal.

The Problem: Ventilation System Not Controlling Air Quality

The property utilised an existing extract ventilation system serving an enclosed internal space.

While the system was operational, the client reported:

Air feeling stagnant during use

Lingering airborne contaminants after use

Concerns regarding overall air quality and effectiveness

This raised concerns that the ventilation system was not effectively removing airborne contaminants or maintaining adequate airflow.

On-Site Findings: Why the System Was Underperforming

During assessment, LEV Tec Solutions identified:

Limited air movement within the occupied zone

Ineffective airflow path through the space

Extraction not achieving sufficient capture and removal

System performance restricted despite being operational
Air movement was present, but not at a level sufficient to control contaminants effectively.

Root Causes Identified

Undersized ductwork restricting airflow capacity

System not designed to overcome resistance within the duct route

Inefficient extract positioning relative to airflow patterns

Insufficient make-up air to support system performance

The Risk: Poor Air Quality & Contaminant Build-Up

Without effective ventilation:

Airborne contaminants can accumulate within the space

Air quality deteriorates during and after use

Contaminants may migrate to adjacent areas

Under COSHH principles, exposure must be effectively controlled — not assumed based on system operation alone.

The Solution: Performance-Based Ventilation Design

LEV Tec Solutions provided a clear, performance-led design specification, including:

Upgrade to correctly sized ductwork to improve airflow

Improved extract positioning to enhance capture

Selection of a centrifugal fan suitable for system resistance

Optimisation of airflow path through the space

Improved make-up air provision to support system performance

The Result: Improved Ventilation Performance

Following implementation of the design principles:

Air movement within the space is significantly improved

More effective removal of airborne contaminants

Reduced stagnation and improved air quality

Better overall performance aligned with intended system function

Key Takeaway

Ventilation systems do not guarantee effective control simply by operating.

If duct sizing, airflow design, and system performance are not correct, airborne contaminants will remain and air quality will be compromised.

Most systems are assumed to be working.

Few are actually designed to perform.

Need to Know If Your System Is Performing?

If your ventilation system is running but you’re unsure whether it is effectively controlling airborne contaminants, a structured performance review can identify deficiencies before they become compliance issues.

LEV Tec Solutions provides independent ventilation performance assessments aligned with COSHH Regulation 9 and HSG258 guidance.

0800 046 1607
enquiries@levtecsolutions.com