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COSHH Regulation 9

COSHH Regulation 9 states that where engineering controls are provided to meet the requirements of regulation 7, the employer shall ensure that thorough examination and testing of those controls is carried out. In the case of local exhaust ventilation plant, at least once every 14 months…..

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Every year thousands of people are injured at work. Some of this is from breathing in dust and fumes and other hazards in the air at work. For this reason, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) estimates that 12,000 deaths a year are from exposure to chemicals and dust. The LEV Regulations, also known as COSHH Regulation 9 covers the use of LEV systems. COSHH Regulation 7 requires that:

“Every employer shall prevent or, where this is not reasonably practicable, adequately control the exposure of their employees to substances hazardous to health”

COSHH Regulation 9 and Local Exhaust Ventilation: Safeguarding Workers from Hazardous Substances

The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations, is a pivotal piece of legislation in the realm of workplace health and safety, and encompasses various facets of risk management associated with hazardous substances. One crucial aspect is Regulation 9, which specifically addresses the control measures required to mitigate the risks posed by these substances. Within the context of COSHH Regulation 9, local exhaust ventilation (LEV) emerges as a vital tool for safeguarding workers’ health by effectively controlling exposure to hazardous substances.

Understanding Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV)

Local exhaust ventilation (LEV) is an engineering control measure designed to remove or control hazardous substances, such as dust, fumes, gases, vapors, and mists, directly at their source. This method prevents the dispersal of contaminants into the work environment and minimizes employees’ inhalation, skin contact, or ingestion of these harmful substances. LEV systems comprise a range of components, including hoods, ducts, filters, fans, and exhaust outlets, working in harmony to ensure the effective capture and removal of hazardous agents.

Relevance of LEV within COSHH Regulation 9:

The LEV Regulations, in particular, COSHH Regulation 9 require that hoods are labelled after examination

COSHH Regulation 9 places a significant emphasis on risk assessment and the subsequent implementation of control measures to manage the risks associated with hazardous substances. In this context, local exhaust ventilation (LEV) stands out as a critical tool that aligns perfectly with the hierarchy of control measures prescribed by COSHH.

Hierarchy of Control: The hierarchy of control, as outlined in COSHH, places a premium on eliminating or minimizing risks at their source. LEV systems exemplify this principle by targeting the origin of hazardous substances, capturing them before they disperse into the workplace. This proactive approach aligns with the highest level of control, emphasizing prevention over mitigation.

Effective Risk Management: Regulation 9 necessitates employers to prioritize the most effective control measures. LEV systems, when properly designed, installed, and maintained, provide an efficient means of reducing exposure to hazardous substances. By actively removing contaminants at their point of generation, LEV helps to maintain exposure levels below permissible limits, contributing to comprehensive risk management.

Preventing Occupational Illnesses: The overarching goal of COSHH is to prevent occupational illnesses arising from exposure to hazardous substances. LEV systems play a pivotal role in achieving this objective by minimizing workers’ contact with harmful agents. By controlling exposure, LEV contributes to the reduction of both short-term and long-term health risks, safeguarding the wellbeing of employees.

Key Components and Considerations of LEV Systems:

For LEV systems to effectively control exposure to hazardous substances, several key components and considerations come into play:

Hoods: Different types of hoods are designed to capture contaminants at their source, whether they are generated from processes, machinery, or tasks. Proper hood selection and placement are crucial for capturing the maximum amount of hazardous substances.

Ducting: Ducts transport captured contaminants away from the work area and can include bends, branches, and dampers. The design of ducting systems ensures efficient airflow and prevents re-entrainment of contaminants.

Air Cleaning Equipment: Filters, scrubbers, and other air-cleaning devices remove or neutralize contaminants from the air before it is released back into the environment. The effectiveness of these devices impacts the quality of air within and outside the workplace.

Fan Systems: Fans provide the necessary airflow to draw in contaminants and expel them from the workplace. Proper fan selection and maintenance are essential for the efficient functioning of the LEV system.

Monitoring and Maintenance: Regular monitoring, inspection, and maintenance of LEV systems are paramount. COSHH Regulation 9 underscores the importance of maintaining control measures, and LEV systems are no exception. A poorly maintained system may not effectively control exposure, jeopardizing worker safety.

Training and Usage: Employees must receive training on the proper use of LEV systems and understand their significance in protecting their health. Proper use of LEV, including positioning and adjusting hoods, can enhance the effectiveness of the control measures.

Benefits and Challenges

Implementing effective LEV systems in accordance with COSHH Regulation 9 yields several notable benefits:

Worker Health: LEV systems directly contribute to reducing the risk of occupational illnesses, such as respiratory disorders, skin irritations, and more severe health conditions caused by prolonged exposure to hazardous substances.

Compliance: COSHH places a legal obligation on employers to control exposure to hazardous substances. By installing and maintaining LEV systems, employers demonstrate their commitment to complying with these regulations and ensuring worker safety.

Enhanced Productivity: A healthy workforce is a productive workforce. By investing in LEV systems, employers can potentially reduce absenteeism due to work-related illnesses, enhancing overall productivity.

Morale and Reputation: Demonstrating a genuine concern for employee safety can enhance morale and contribute positively to a company’s reputation both within and outside the organization.

However, challenges do exist in the successful implementation of LEV Systems

Design Complexity: Designing an effective LEV system requires a thorough understanding of the processes, substances, and potential contaminants. An improperly designed system may not effectively control exposure.

Installation and Maintenance Costs: LEV systems require initial investment for installation and ongoing maintenance to ensure optimal functioning. However, these costs are often outweighed by the potential benefits and long-term cost savings from preventing illnesses and legal penalties.

Training and Awareness: Ensuring that employees understand the importance of LEV systems and how to use them correctly is crucial. Adequate training and ongoing awareness programs are necessary for success.

Conclusion:

COSHH Regulation 9 plays a pivotal role in managing risks associated with hazardous substances in the workplace, and local exhaust ventilation (LEV) is a powerful tool within this framework. By actively capturing and removing contaminants at their source, LEV systems align with the hierarchy of control measures, prioritize prevention, and contribute significantly to the health and safety of workers. Proper design, installation, and maintenance of LEV systems ensure their effectiveness,

Synergy Environmental Solutions can provide LEV testing by P601 qualified engineers. Ensure your company complies with COSHH Regulation 9 and your staff are safe with our LEV testing service.