Can Plastic/UPVC and PP Ductwork be used for connection to Fume Extraction systems?
For some fumes non metal duct of the correct specification may be acceptable. The properties of the fume concerned needs to be checked for compatibility with the specific duct construction (i.e. temperature, corrosion, fire risk etc). There are three main reasons why it is not suitable, these are: (1) Risk of Static generated sparks igniting an explosion The 2 types of “Plastic” ductwork, UPVC & PP, generate static which can spark and ignite fumes. You must check if the subst
Can Plastic/UPVC and PP Ductwork be used for connection to Dust Extraction systems?
No, plastic ducting is not usually suitable for movement of particles (i.e. dust /shavings) as these may require a higher velocity than the duct is designed for and may pose ignition, fire and explosion risks. BS EN 12779:2004 and HSE WWIS 32 require that ductwork for wood dust should be conductive e.g. steel, because wood dust is potentially explosive and there is a risk of a static ignition source with non conductive ducting. There are four main reasons why it is not suitab
Can I have an Open Filter Unit in the Workshop?
ALL Open Bag Filter Units pose an explosion risk which increases with the airflow through the unit. Therefore the larger units pose a higher risk than smaller units. Even the smallest open bag filter units must not be
situated within 3 metres of operatives, walkways or
combustible materials unless the filter is protected by
a suitable screen. The following are strict HSE guidelines applying to the safe location of open bag filter units: Open Filter Bag Units with airflo

What are the Noise Regulations?
The Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005, effective from April 2006. The following table highlights the differences between the old (1989) and the new regulations.
Is the sound level section of my P&J LEV report a noise assessment survey?
NO, it is not a full sound level survey. During the LEV Inspection P&J do not undertake a full noise survey, but the measurements are taken in the manner that is recommended for a full survey and using a type 2 Sound Level Meter which is calibrated on site prior to use in accordance with recommendations, as would be done if undertaking a full type 2 sound level survey. The method used is appropriate for establishing whether or not a full noise level survey should be undertake
What is the purpose of the P&J LEV plant regular maintenance log?
The purpose of the maintenance log is to enable you to comply with the requirement in the COSHH Regulations 2002, as amended 2004, that all LEV [Dust & Fume Extraction] is visually checked, where possible and without undue risk to staff, at least once a week. The aim is to ensure that all visible items are functioning correctly. This will identify any potential problem as early as possible and provide a record of the fact that you have been undertaking the legally required ch
What Information is required in a Commissioning (Initial) Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV) assessment
To comply with Regulation 9 of the COSHH Regulations 2002, as amended 2004, a thorough examination and test of LEV must be carried out at least every 14 months [Local Exhaust Ventilation plant - dust/fume extraction]. Section 181 of the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) Approved Code of Practice requires that the report contains at least the following information: Name & Address of the employer responsible for the plant Identification of the LEV plant Location of the LEV plant

Can the Commissioning (Initial) Assessment of my Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV) be done at the same
It is preferable to have the Commissioning (Initial) Assessment completed once the extraction system has settled into normal operation conditions. The HSE guide to The Maintenance, Examination and Testing of Local Exhaust Ventilation [dust & fume extraction systems] states that the Commissioning or Initial Appraisal will be carried out soon after installation. It may be necessary to allow the plant to settle into normal operating conditions for a short period before the initi
What Information is required in a Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV) assessment report?
To comply with Regulation 9 of the COSHH Regulations 2004, a thorough examination and test of LEV must be carried out at least every 14 months [Local Exhaust Ventilation plant - dust / fume extraction]. The Health & Safety Executive (HSE) Approved Code of Practice requires that the report contains at least the following information: Name & Address of the employer responsible for the plant Identification of the LEV plant Location of the LEV plant Identification of the Process