LEV (Local Exhaust Ventilation) fume extraction systems are designed to remove hazardous fumes directly from the source before they can be inhaled. These systems protect employees from exposure to harmful substances such as welding fumes, soldering fumes, chemical vapours, and solvent-based mists.

Fumes may contain toxic gases, ultrafine particles, and carcinogens. Without proper extraction, exposure can lead to serious health issues including respiratory problems, neurological damage, or cancer. Fume extraction is essential for employee health and legal compliance.

Fume extraction is essential in many industries, including:

• Welding and metal fabrication
• Electronics and PCB manufacturing
• Chemical processing
• Automotive repair and paint spraying
• Laboratory work and research facilities
• Beauty and nail salons (acrylic fumes)

Yes. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) requires employers to control exposure to hazardous substances under the COSHH Regulations. LEV fume extraction systems are a primary method for meeting these legal duties.

By law, all LEV systems — including those used for fume extraction — must be tested by a competent person at least once every 14 months. Certain high-risk environments may require more frequent checks.

A typical inspection from LEV Tec Solutions includes:

• Airflow and capture velocity checks
• Visual inspections of hoods, filters, ductwork, and fans
• Smoke testing or tracer gas testing (where applicable)
• Performance comparison with system design specifications
• A full report and compliance certification

LEV Tec Solutions tests and assesses extraction systems used to control contaminants including welding and brazing fumes, soldering and flux fumes, solvent vapours and VOCs, and other process-generated airborne contaminants. The suitability of any extraction system depends on the substance, process and associated risk assessment.

If testing identifies that your system is not providing adequate control, we will clearly report the findings and recommended actions. Where specialist modification, redesign or installation work is required, this can be undertaken separately by an appropriately qualified specialist contractor before the system is retested.

Design and installation of new fume extraction systems can be supported through appropriately qualified specialist contractors, subject to the requirements, scope and availability of the project. LEV Tec Solutions' own specialist role is independent LEV testing, examination, performance verification and compliance support.

It’s easy — just call us on 0800 046 1607, or email enquiries@levtecsolutions.co.uk , or complete our enquiry form online (LINK). We’ll get back to you promptly to arrange a visit that suits your schedule.