Local Exhaust Ventilation -

Dusty environments are one of the leading causes of explosions, fires and operator health issues. Adhering to the latest ATEX guidelines can be difficult.

We are here to advise and implement the right system for your operation and get you compliant to the the latest regulations set out to protect the facility where your production is held.

Local Exhaust Ventilation systems are implemented to protect employees from exposure to hazardous substances by capturing them locally at the emission point. Reducing employees exposure to vapour, mist, dust or other airborne contaminants dramatically reduces the chance of long term health issues caused by the inhalation of these substances.

To be effective in protecting your employees, it is important that the system is designed well, is fit for purpose, is regularly maintained and the performance is monitored. Failure to do so can lead to employees being inadvertently exposed, as they have the impression that the system is effective when it is not.

Want to learn more or have a project to discuss? Book a free Microsoft Teams meeting with us today!

How Local Exhaust Ventilation Works

There are 5 main elements to an LEV system;

• A hood or pick up point - this is where dust and contaminants enter the system, drawing them out of the atmosphere.

• Ducting - which safely transports the dust to a filter, cleaner or exhaust point.

• Air cleaner/filter/scrubber - this captures the dust or contaminants within the system before the air is released back into the atmosphere.

• Air mover: a fan to power the system.

• Discharge: a safe point of air exhaust, either back into the working environment or outside the building.

When an LEV system is used to control exposure to dust, the hazards must be thoroughly assessed in order to be controlled. Designing a suitable system that is fit for purpose involves calculating the correct air volumes required, in turn the correct ducting sizes also. The system must then be used correctly by trained employees and regularly maintained to remain effective.