- Thorough visual and structural examination — hoods, ducts, air cleaner, fan, discharge — checking for damage, corrosion, blockage, filter loading and obvious modifications since commissioning
- Measurement of technical performance — capture/face velocities, static pressures at test points, fan motor current, air cleaner pressure drop; compared with the commissioning logbook
- Assessment of control effectiveness — does the system still control exposure to the workplace exposure limit? Smoke tube tests, dust lamp checks and where needed personal sampling provide the evidence
01
The three stages of a TExT
02
What the LEV report must contain
Under COSHH Schedule 4: name and address of employer; identification and location of the LEV; date of last TExT; conditions at time of test; information about the LEV (contaminants, intended performance); methods used; results, including comparison with commissioning data; clear conclusion on whether the LEV is still controlling exposure adequately; details of any deficiencies and recommended actions; name, position and signature of the competent person.
03
Who is a competent person?
HSE requires sufficient theoretical knowledge and practical experience to detect defects and assess their importance. In practice: BOHS P601 (Initial Appointed Person for LEV Examination & Testing) is the recognised qualification, often combined with BOHS P602 for control of exposure. Many UK LEV testing firms also operate to ILEVE registered engineer standards.
04
The LEV logbook — the most-failed item
HSE expects every LEV system to have a commissioning log and an in-use logbook recording filter changes, breakdowns, modifications and weekly visual checks by the operator. Where the logbook is missing, the TExT cannot benchmark performance against commissioning — and the LEV will be reported as a defect even if it tests within capture velocity targets.
05
Frequently asked questions
What is an LEV inspection?
The Thorough Examination and Test (TExT) required by COSHH Regulation 9. A competent person inspects the LEV system, measures its performance against the commissioning data, and produces a report stating whether the system continues to control exposure adequately.
How often is an LEV inspection required?
At least every 14 months. Some high-risk processes — listed in COSHH Schedule 4 — require more frequent testing: blasting of metal castings every 1 month; processes giving off grindstone dust every 6 months; certain fume-generating processes every 6 months.
What's the difference between LEV inspection and LEV testing?
They are the same statutory activity — COSHH Reg 9 'Thorough Examination and Test'. 'Inspection' tends to be used for the visual/condition element, 'testing' for the performance measurement; the report must cover both.
What if the LEV fails the inspection?
The report must clearly state the system is not controlling exposure adequately. The employer must take immediate action — repair, restrict use of the process, or provide RPE — and arrange retest. A failed LEV cannot be used to satisfy COSHH.