Dust Control Environmental’s Aftermarket Manager, Lois Walker, details why – now more than ever – routine LEV maintenance is vital in meeting tightening regulations and protecting workplace health.
With the latest global developments, there is little doubt that costs will start to rise again. It is sensible to review business spending and look for leaner ways of operating. However, cutting back on LEV maintenance and statutory testing is a false economy. The risks to safety, compliance and long-term costs will far outweigh any short-term savings.
As Lois Walker, Dust Control Environmental’s Aftermarket Manager explains, staying on top of LEV maintenance is no longer just about compliance – it is a key part of controlling costs and protecting day-to-day operations.
Not only is LEV maintenance a legal requirement, but it can also become a financial drain if systems are not maintained correctly.
With many years of experience, Dust Control Environmental (DCE) can advise on why staying on top of LEV maintenance is a smart and economically sound investment.
Minor issues become major costs
Issues such as clogged filters, failing fans or ill-fitting ducting can reduce LEV efficiency and quickly escalate into expensive repairs or even full system downtime.
By maintaining a stringent and compliant testing regime, problems can be identified early, before more costly damage is done.
Downtime disrupts everything
If your LEV system fails due to neglect, work stops – and so does productivity. Profits can quickly start draining away. Planned LEV maintenance keeps systems running smoothly and greatly reduces the risk of unplanned plant shutdowns.
Caring for worker health – reducing sick hours
LEV systems play an essential role in protecting your workforce from harmful airborne particulates. Many industrial processes generate dust, fumes or vapours that, without effective extraction, can pose serious health risks.
If your LEV system is not working correctly, these hazards are not being properly controlled. This may lead to increased employee illness, as well as potential reputational damage.
A well-maintained and efficient LEV system can help reduce operational hours lost to sickness.
Protecting your investment
A dust-controlled environment helps prevent the ingress and settling of particles on surfaces. This protects machinery and tooling, while also saving time and money on housekeeping and cleaning.
Compliance is becoming more strict
As understanding of occupational illnesses linked to hazardous substances continues to grow, the HSE is increasingly targeting industries where LEV is essential.
Thorough examination and testing of LEV systems is a legal requirement under COSHH regulations and must be carried out at least every 14 months. It is no longer something businesses can afford to overlook. To avoid fines, investigations and unnecessary downtime, maintaining LEV compliance is paramount.
The bottom line
A well-maintained LEV system is not just a legal obligation – it is a strategic financial advantage. By protecting against unnecessary maintenance, downtime and illness, regular upkeep can deliver consistent month-on-month and year-on-year savings.
Here to make you LEV happy
If you have any questions about LEV testing, regulations or maintenance, please get in touch with DCE’s experienced Aftermarket team – they will be happy to help.
You can also download the DCE Aftermarket brochure from the DCE website for more detailed information.
