What a ‘pass’ really means
A pass confirms that the system met the required performance standard at the time of testing. It represents a moment in time rather than an ongoing assurance of control. LEV performance can gradually decline, influenced by how the system is used, how well it is maintained, and whether it still meets the demands of the task. A positive result today does not guarantee that exposure will remain adequately controlled until the next assessment.
Early warning signs to watch
Results that sit only marginally above the required threshold should be treated with caution. They often point to underlying issues such as design limitations, partial blockages within ductwork, worn components, or subtle changes in the process itself. Addressing these early is typically more straightforward and cost effective than dealing with a full system failure at a later stage.
Questions worth asking
Where a system has only narrowly achieved a pass, it is worth considering a few key questions:
- Has the process evolved since the system was originally designed or installed?
- Are operators using the extraction as intended, and doing so consistently?
- Is maintenance carried out proactively or only in response to faults?
Why the detail matters
The qualitative comments within the test report are as important as the numerical results. Observations such as poorly positioned or missing hoods, damaged ducting, or improvised process adjustments often explain declining performance. They may also reveal that exposure control is less effective than assumed.
LEV testing should not be viewed as a tick box exercise. It provides a valuable opportunity to assess system performance in context, and to identify where improvements in maintenance, training or design may be required. It also plays a central role in managing workplace exposure risks effectively.
Getting full value from your test
To gain real value from your LEV assessment, the results should be considered alongside day-to-day operations. Reports should prompt discussion rather than be filed away. Conversations between operators, maintenance teams and managers can quickly highlight whether processes have shifted, whether controls are being applied correctly, and whether further training or more substantial changes are needed.
Contact us
If you’d like to speak to a member of our environmental team for more information on your LEV requirements and testing, email riskmanagement@thecleargroup.com or visit our Risk Management page to learn more about our services.
