Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV) is one of the most common and effective engineered controls used in work areas such as workshops and laboratories to minimise exposure to respirable hazardous substances such as dust and fumes. This document aims to provide guidance to ensure that LEV is identified correctly, used effectively, and maintained appropriately to ensure they provide the level of protection needed for users.

This guidance document is intended for all persons who may manage, maintain, or use general LEV systems such as capture hoods, downflow benches, snorkels, etc. and provides information on the safe use, maintenance and testing of LEV in use across the University. These more general types of LEV are used in laboratories but are more commonly found in workshops, and also in animal handling facilities for allergen protection.

This guidance document does not cover the specific requirements for microbiological safety cabinets and fume cupboards. Please refer to the Fume Cupboards Code of Practice for advice on fume cupboards. Advice on microbiological safety cabinets is provided in the Biological Safety Code of Practice.

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