Greater Manchester has long been one of the UK’s manufacturing powerhouses. From advanced engineering and aerospace components to food production and pharmaceuticals, the region is home to thousands of businesses that rely on skilled workers and highly specialised production processes.
However, many manufacturing activities generate dust, fumes, vapours and airborne contaminants that can pose serious risks to employee health if not properly controlled. This is where Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV) systems play a vital role.
While many businesses have invested in extraction systems to protect workers, ensuring those systems continue to perform effectively is just as important as installing them in the first place.
The Hidden Risks in Manufacturing Environments
Manufacturing processes can expose workers to a wide range of airborne hazards.
Welding operations produce metal fumes, woodworking generates dust particles, and production facilities handling chemicals may release vapours that can be harmful when inhaled over time. Even seemingly routine activities such as grinding, cutting, sanding or mixing materials can create contaminants that are not always visible to the naked eye.
Without effective extraction and filtration, these substances can accumulate in the workplace and increase the risk of respiratory illnesses, occupational asthma and other long-term health conditions.
For employers, this creates both a duty of care and a legal responsibility to ensure adequate control measures are in place.
What Is LEV Testing?
LEV systems are designed to capture airborne contaminants at their source before they spread into the wider workplace.
However, like any piece of equipment, performance can deteriorate over time. Filters become clogged, ductwork can become damaged, and extraction rates may fall below safe operating levels.
LEV testing, formally known as a Thorough Examination and Test (TExT), assesses whether the system is continuing to perform as intended and provide adequate protection for employees.
Understanding Your Legal Responsibilities
Under the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations, employers must ensure that LEV systems are thoroughly examined and tested at least once every 14 months.
The inspection should be conducted by a competent professional who can assess the condition, performance and effectiveness of the system.
Importantly, businesses must also maintain records of examinations and address any issues identified during the inspection process.
Failure to comply can result in enforcement action, fines, and increased scrutiny from regulators.
Why Manufacturers Are Facing Greater Scrutiny
Worker health has become an increasing area of focus across UK industry, with regulators continuing to highlight the dangers associated with exposure to hazardous dusts and fumes.
Manufacturers are under growing pressure to demonstrate that they are actively managing workplace risks rather than simply reacting when problems arise.
Regular LEV testing provides evidence that systems are functioning correctly and helps businesses identify potential issues before they affect employee safety or production efficiency.
For manufacturers operating in competitive sectors, maintaining high health and safety standards can also support recruitment, staff retention and customer confidence.
LEV Testing Is About More Than Compliance
Many businesses view LEV testing as a regulatory requirement that needs to be completed every 14 months. While compliance is important, the benefits extend far beyond satisfying legal obligations.
A properly maintained LEV system can:
- Improve workplace air quality
- Reduce employee exposure to harmful contaminants
- Minimise downtime caused by equipment issues
- Support productivity and operational efficiency
- Demonstrate commitment to worker wellbeing
- Reduce the likelihood of enforcement action
In many cases, testing can reveal developing problems before they become costly repairs or operational disruptions.
Protecting Manchester’s Manufacturing Workforce
Manchester’s manufacturing sector continues to play a significant role in the regional and national economy. As businesses invest in new technologies and production capabilities, protecting the workforce remains just as important as improving productivity.
Regular LEV testing forms a key part of that responsibility.
By ensuring extraction systems are examined, maintained and tested at the required intervals, manufacturers can help create safer working environments, remain compliant with regulations and safeguard the long-term health of their employees.
In an industry where precision matters, workplace safety should never be left to chance.
