LEV information for employees/users

Key messages for employees

• Get involved in LEV design or selection.
• Make sure you get training (in how the LEV works and how best to use it).
• The LEV you use should have an airflow indicator (or equivalent).
• The LEV should be easy to use properly; tell your employer if it isn't.

Local exhaust ventilation (LEV) in your workplace should carry away any harmful dust, mist, fumes or gas in the air.

To protect your health:

• It needs to be the right type for the job.
• It needs installing properly in the first place.
• It needs regular checking and maintenance throughout the year.
• It needs testing thoroughly at least once every year.
• If you move LEV, make sure it still works.
• It needs an indicator to show it's working properly.
• You need to check that it works properly every time you use it.
• You need to use it properly.

Check for yourself to see how effective the LEV is where you work.

Daily checklist for LEV

• Does the indicator show the LEV is working properly?
• Is it taking away all the harmful dust, mist, fumes and gas? Remember, some of these may be invisible.
• Are you close enough to it so it can do its job properly?
• Are there any signs it is not working properly, like smells or settled dust?
• Are there any unusual noises or vibration coming from it?
• Has it been thoroughly tested, with a 'tested' label that is within date?
• Have you told your supervisor about anything you think may be wrong?

Confused by any of the terms? Why not have a look at the glossary.

Pocket card version of above guidance

• INDG409 - Time to clear the air!
  A workers' pocket guide to local exhaust ventilation (LEV).
• Order a publication offline