What is Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV)?
At McCarthy Hire, we specialise in the short and long-term hire of Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV) systems. But what is LEV and why is it so important?
LEV stands for Local Exhaust Ventilation, a system designed to control airborne hazards such as dust, fumes, vapours and oil mist before workers inhale them. These systems work by extracting harmful contaminants directly at the point of creation, for example, during welding, sanding, cutting or other industrial processes, preventing hazardous substances from spreading into the workplace.
It is estimated that 12,000 lung-related deaths in the UK each year are linked to workplace exposures. As the link between airborne contaminants and long-term respiratory problems becomes clearer, the importance of LEV systems in protecting worker health is undeniable.
Why is LEV Important?
Local Exhaust Ventilation is critical because it:
- Protects employee health by reducing exposure to hazardous dusts, fumes and vapours
- Maintains air quality in workshops, factories, and temporary workstations
- Supports regulatory compliance under HSG258 and COSHH standards
- Prevents costly downtime due to ill health or enforcement actions
Without effective LEV, employees are at risk of developing severe respiratory conditions, while businesses risk non-compliance, fines or reputational damage.
Your Responsibilities as an Employer in the UK
Under UK law, employers must ensure that LEV systems are:
- Correctly designed and installed for the specific process and contaminant
- Properly maintained and cleaned to ensure consistent performance
- Thoroughly tested and examined at least every 14 months, or more frequently for high-risk applications
Employers are responsible for protecting workers and ensuring the LEV system is both safe and effective. Failure to meet these obligations can result in serious health risks and potential legal consequences.
Why McCarthy Hire?
McCarthy Hire was established to provide convenient, flexible and cost-effective LEV solutions for businesses of all sizes. We understand that not every company needs a permanent system, and that project-based, short-term, or mobile solutions can provide an efficient way to comply with safety regulations without the upfront investment.
By hiring LEV systems from McCarthy Hire, you gain:
- Fully compliant, professionally maintained units tested and ready for immediate use
- Flexible hire options for short-term, long-term, or mobile applications
- Expert advice and commissioning to ensure your LEV system is optimised for your process
- Nationwide delivery to any site, large or small
Whether you need to control dust, fumes or oil mist, McCarthy Hire provides reliable, safe and compliant LEV systems to protect your workforce, improve workplace air quality and keep your business compliant with UK regulations.
