ELLESMERE PORT, UK. June 4, 2026 – Manufacturing and industrial businesses are being warned not to treat Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV) testing as a “box-ticking exercise”, as workplace air quality specialists highlight the serious health risks linked to poorly maintained systems.
Experts at Pennaire Filtration say many businesses are still failing to properly maintain LEV systems despite strict legal responsibilities designed to protect workers from hazardous dust, fumes and airborne contaminants.
LEV systems are used across industries including manufacturing, welding, woodworking, pharmaceuticals, and construction to extract potentially harmful airborne particles before they can be inhaled by workers.
Under COSHH regulations, employers are legally required to ensure LEV systems are thoroughly examined and tested at least every 14 months, maintained correctly and supported with accurate records.
However, Pennaire Filtration says many companies continue to overlook ongoing maintenance and fail to act on recommendations identified during inspections.
“The biggest mistakes we see are poor maintenance, systems not being used correctly and businesses failing to act on recommendations from previous reports,” said Ollie Brown, Installations and LEV Service Engineer at Pennaire Filtration.
“In some cases, companies still view LEV testing as a compliance exercise rather than understanding the wider health, safety, and operational risks involved.”
The company says uncontrolled exposure to dust and fumes can lead to serious long-term health conditions including occupational asthma, respiratory diseases, and skin conditions.
“Without regular testing, systems can deteriorate over time. Blocked filters, worn fans, or duct leaks can all reduce effectiveness and increase exposure to harmful substances,” Ollie added
“They’re not small risks. If an LEV system isn’t working properly, employees can be exposed to contaminants every single day without realising the long-term impact it may have on their health.”
Pennaire Filtration also warns that a system technically passing an inspection does not always mean workers are fully protected.
“A system might technically pass, but if it’s poorly positioned or not suited to the task being carried out, workers can still be exposed,” Ollie explained.
“That’s why businesses need practical advice and ongoing support, not simply a pass-or-fail certificate.”
The company says a thorough LEV report should include airflow readings, system condition assessments, clear pass or fail criteria, and practical recommendations to improve performance and safety.
Businesses that fail to remain compliant risk enforcement action, financial penalties, reputational damage, and potential compensation claims if employees develop workplace-related illnesses.
Pennaire Filtration is encouraging businesses to take a more proactive approach to workplace air quality management, particularly as awareness around occupational health continues to grow across UK industries.
“The companies that truly understand LEV testing see it as an investment in protecting their workforce, reducing downtime, and improving operational efficiency,” Ollie said.
“It’s about creating safer workplaces and preventing avoidable health risks before they become serious problems.”
For more information about LEV testing and filtration services, visit Pennaire Filtration.
