If your business uses local exhaust ventilation (LEV) equipment to control exposure to dust, fumes, or vapours, you are legally required to have it thoroughly examined and tested every 14 months under the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH).
But how much does LEV testing cost, and how can you ensure you are not overpaying?
What is LEV Testing?
Local exhaust ventilation (LEV) is a system used to extract airborne contaminants -- dust, fumes, mists, gases, or vapours -- at source before they can be inhaled by workers. Common examples include:
- Welding fume extraction systems
- Woodworking dust extraction
- Laboratory fume cupboards
- Paint spray booth extraction
- Grinding and sanding extraction
- Chemical process ventilation
Under Regulation 9 of COSHH, LEV systems must be thoroughly examined and tested at least every 14 months by a competent person. A written report must be kept for at least 5 years.
How Much Does LEV Testing Cost in the UK?
LEV testing costs vary depending on several factors:
- Number of extraction points -- most providers charge per extraction point or per system
- Complexity of the system -- simple single-point extraction vs. multi-branch ducted systems
- Location -- engineers travelling to rural or remote sites may charge a call-out premium
- Provider -- prices vary significantly between inspection bodies
Typical Price Ranges
| System Type | Typical Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Single extraction point (e.g. bench grinder) | £75 -- £150 |
| Small system (2-5 extraction points) | £200 -- £450 |
| Medium system (6-15 extraction points) | £400 -- £900 |
| Large/complex system (15+ points) | £800 -- £2,500+ |
| Fume cupboard (laboratory) | £120 -- £250 per unit |
| Paint spray booth | £250 -- £600 |
Prices are indicative. Always request itemised quotes from multiple providers.
What Affects LEV Testing Prices?
1. Size and Complexity of the System
A simple single-point extractor on a grinding booth takes far less time to test than a multi-branch ducted system serving an entire fabrication workshop. Most providers price per extraction point or per system -- confirm which basis applies when requesting quotes.
2. Type of Contaminant
Systems handling hazardous substances (isocyanates, carcinogens, or biological agents) may require more extensive testing and additional specialist competence, affecting price.
3. Accessibility
Ducting routed through tight spaces or at height requires additional time and sometimes specialist access equipment.
4. Travel and Call-Out Fees
Providers based far from your site may charge travel or call-out fees on top of inspection costs. Local providers or those with regional engineers can often offer better value.
5. Provider
This is often the biggest variable. Different UKAS-accredited inspection bodies have different pricing structures, and there is no fixed market rate. Comparing quotes is the single most effective way to reduce your LEV testing costs.
What Does LEV Testing Include?
A compliant COSHH LEV thorough examination and test includes:
- Visual inspection -- condition of hoods, ductwork, fan, motor, and filtration
- Airflow measurement -- checking face velocities and capture velocities at each hood
- Static pressure readings -- across the system to identify blockages or leaks
- Filter/arrestment efficiency check -- confirming filtration is performing to specification
- Smoke testing -- confirming contaminant capture at the source
- Written statutory report -- detailing all measurements, findings, any defects, and recommended remedial actions
The written report must confirm whether the LEV is performing as required, or state what remedial action is needed and by when.
Who Can Carry Out LEV Testing?
LEV testing must be carried out by a competent person with the knowledge, training, and experience to examine the specific type of system. In practice, this means using a specialist inspection body or occupational hygiene consultancy.
For LEV systems containing particularly hazardous substances, additional specialist competence may be required.
UKAS accreditation is the benchmark for independent verification of an inspection body's competence. Using a UKAS-accredited provider gives you confidence that the examination meets the required standard.
How to Reduce Your LEV Testing Costs
- Compare quotes -- prices vary considerably between providers. Use Compare-Engineering.com to get quotes from multiple accredited bodies in one step.
- Bundle multiple systems -- if you have several LEV systems or other statutory inspection requirements (LOLER, PSSR), bundling with one provider often reduces costs.
- Schedule in advance -- last-minute or overdue examinations may attract premium rates. Set calendar reminders at 12 months to allow lead time.
- Review your system -- redundant extraction points still need testing. If equipment has been decommissioned, remove those extraction points from service first.
Compare LEV Testing Quotes Today
Compare-Engineering.com is the UK's first and only comparison platform for statutory engineering inspections, including LEV testing under COSHH. Submit one request and receive quotes from multiple UKAS-accredited inspection bodies -- free, with no obligation.
Compare-Engineering.com -- Compare. Inspect. Save.