Fume Cupboard Testing
Why Fume Cupboards Are Tested
A fume cupboard is only as good as its containment, which is why COSHH requires it to be thoroughly examined and tested.
Our P601-qualified examiners measure face velocity across the sash, check the airflow alarm and confirm the cupboard actually holds the contaminant back, judged against its own benchmark rather than a guess. The result is a clear report and your COSHH compliance evidenced.
Fume Cupboard LEV
Regulation
COSHH 2002
Examination interval
Max 14 months
Examiner
BOHS P601
Tested
On site
Report turnaround
Within 3 days
What's included
What's covered in fume cupboard LEV testing
Face Velocity
We measure face velocity at several sash positions, the core indicator of whether the cupboard pulls contaminant away from the user. Low or uneven face velocity is the most common finding.
Airflow Alarm
We check the airflow monitor and alarm function. A faulty or ignored airflow alarm leaves the user with no warning when containment drops, so we test it works.
Sash and Containment
We check the sash operation and the sash stop, and confirm containment by smoke or visualisation. A sash stop missing or defeated, and poor containment at the sash, are defects we regularly report.
Inflow Uniformity
We assess inflow uniformity across the face, so there are no weak spots where fume can escape.
Fan, Ductwork and Benchmark
We check the ductwork, fan and discharge, then measure the cupboard against its own benchmark rather than a rule of thumb, and state plainly whether it is containing.
How it works
Your fume cupboard LEV test, start to finish
Every scheme your equipment is required to meet under UK regulation carried out by accredited engineers and backed by compliant reports.
1
Book
Let us know how many cupboards and where, and we lock in a date and a fixed quote, usually same day.
2
On-site examination
A P601-qualified examiner attends and measures each cupboard under working conditions.
3
Compliant report
You have your LEV report within three days, with face velocities, alarm checks and defects.
4
Reminders
We keep your next due date on file and remind you before it comes round.
OUR STANDARDS
Where containment is proven, not assumed
We take our responsibilities seriously, upholding the highest standards of professionalism, quality and safety across every aspect of our operations.
Quality Assurance
Precise measurement from P601-qualified examiners who test against the cupboard's own benchmark, not a rule of thumb.
Responsibility
A structured test that proves containment and keeps your lab compliant with COSHH.
Care
The user's safety at the sash comes first. Our reports give an honest verdict and genuine reassurance.
GET IN TOUCH
Request Fume Cupboard LEV Testing
Tell us how many cupboards and when. We'll confirm availability and a competitive quote, often the same day.
Call us
0208 050 3958
Based in
Reading, Berkshire: serving the South of England
● Hampshire
● Oxfordshire
● Northamptonshire
● Cambridgeshire
● Surrey
● Buckinghamshire
● London
FAQ
Your Fume Cupboard Testing Questions, Answered
How often does a fume cupboard need testing?
At least every 14 months under COSHH, though many labs test annually as good practice. A fresh examination is also needed after any change to the cupboard, the ductwork or the way it is used.
What face velocity should a fume cupboard achieve?
It depends on the cupboard and the work, but a face velocity in the region of 0.3 to 0.5 m/s is typical. We measure it across the sash openings and against the cupboard's own benchmark rather than a single fixed number.
What does the LEV report include?
A diagram of the system, the airflow and capture measurements taken at each point, a comparison against how it should perform, and a clear statement of whether it is controlling exposure, along with any defects and what to do about them.
Do you carry out LEV testing on site?
Yes. Our examiners come to your premises across Berkshire and the surrounding counties and test the system in place, under normal working conditions, with reports issued promptly.
Do I legally need an LEV test?
If you rely on an LEV system to control exposure to a hazardous substance, the law requires it to be thoroughly examined and tested, and failing to do so is a criminal offence. A competent person's report, kept on record, is how you show you are compliant.