A Closer Look at LEV Commissioning Reports: Why They Matter More Than You Think
When it comes to protecting workers from airborne hazards like oil mist, dust, fumes, and smoke, installing a local exhaust ventilation (LEV) system is only half the battle. The other half? Ensuring it works exactly as intended, and that’s where commissioning reports come in.
What Is Commissioning?
Commissioning is the process of testing and verifying that a newly installed or relocated LEV system meets its design specifications and performance requirements. It sets the benchmark for future inspections and ensures the system is effectively controlling hazardous substances.
Think of it as a system’s first health check, documenting airflow rates, pressure levels, and control capabilities to confirm everything is functioning safely and efficiently.
What Should a Commissioning Report Include?
A thorough LEV commissioning report isn’t just a formality, it’s a legal requirement under COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health) regulations. It should contain:
· Basic details: Date of test, duty holder’s name and address, commissioner’s name and employer
· System specifics: Location and ID of the LEV system, the hazardous substance being controlled, and the application it’s used for
· Performance data: Airflow rates, static pressures, hood face velocities, and other critical measurements
· Visual and functional checks: Condition of ductwork, filters, fans, and control panels
This data becomes the reference point for all future LEV tests (known as TExTs), helping engineers determine whether the system is still fit for purpose.
Why It’s Crucial
Without a proper commissioning report, future inspections can become guesswork. If an engineer doesn’t know what airflow the system was designed to achieve, or what substance it was meant to control, they can’t accurately assess its effectiveness. That’s a risk no employer should take.
Moreover, failure to comply with COSHH regulations can lead to enforcement action from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), including fines or operational restrictions.
How Filtermist Does It
Filtermist’s commissioning process is designed for precision and compliance. Their engineers use a digital template, based on HSG258 guidance, to record all test results during system installation or relocation. This report is then emailed to the customer and stored securely for future reference.
Whether it’s oil mist in a CNC shop or wood dust in a school workshop, Filtermist ensures every system is properly commissioned and documented.
Final Thoughts
Commissioning reports aren’t just paperwork, they’re proof that your LEV system is doing its job: protecting people from harmful airborne substances. With the right data in hand, you can maintain compliance, reduce risk, and ensure long term performance.
If you're installing or relocating an LEV system, make sure your commissioning report is as robust as the system itself. Clean air starts with clear documentation.