With no specific legal requirement to have airflow indicators fitted to a local exhaust ventilation (LEV) or fume extraction unit, organisations can be forgiven for overlooking their importance.
However, as an employer, you do by law have to ensure your LEV system is kept in good working order. Here’s five reasons why you need LEV monitors:
1. To ensure worker safety
The HSE’s guidance around LEVs is to fit indicators to ensure the system is working correctly, therefore ensuring worker safety. The HSE also states “You should also have a periodic thorough examination and test (at least every 14 months) and must keep this record for at least 5 years. In addition, you should have information on the installed LEV system to confirm it provides adequate protection, which should be kept for the life of the equipment.”¹
2. The only way to immediately check airflow
It is the only way to immediately check airflow, limiting downtime, removing the risk of an unsafe working environment, and giving you peace of mind that your system will pass a thorough examination and test.
3. It’s inexpensive and easy to install
The monitors are not as expensive as you might think. TEL’s monitors can be fitted easily to any ducting or LEV extraction device, from 35mm diameter to a flat surface, checking the airflow is adequate and keeping your employees safe and energy use efficient. Mains or battery powered, they’re a flexible option suitable in any environment with no need for regular checks, as audible and visual alarms warn users of low air flow and low battery.
4. Save energy and money
There are potential cost savings, as early indication of a drop in airflow identifies an issue sooner, such as build-up of material or damage to ducting, that if left, could potentially be more costly to fix or see replacement ducting required. Plus, money won’t be wasted on powering an ineffective LEV or fume extraction unit.
5. Peace of Mind
Peace of mind for your employees that the air they are breathing is clean and not going to cause them any long-term health benefits. And peace of mind for you, that you’re complying to the HSE’s guidance and are providing an adequate duty of care for your employees.
If you’d like to find out more about our LEV monitors, get in touch with the team on 01457 865635 or visit our LEV monitor page
