Wood Dust Extraction
Wood Dust Extraction Under COSHH
Wood dust is hazardous to health, and hardwood dust is carcinogenic, so COSHH requires the extraction controlling it to be thoroughly examined and tested.
We check the system end to end - capture at each machine, the transport velocity through the ducting, the filter and the discharge - working to the BOHS P601 standard, and tell you plainly whether it is keeping dust under control.
Wood Dust 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 wood dust LEV testing
Capture at Each Machine
We measure capture at each machine hood, from saws to planers and sanders, where the dust is actually generated. Poor capture at the busiest machines is where control usually slips.
Transport Velocity
We check the duct transport velocity to confirm dust is being carried away rather than settling. Settled dust in the ducting from low transport velocity is the classic wood-extraction fault.
Balance and Blast Gates
We check the blast gates and the balance between branches. Blast gates left open, starving other branches of airflow, are a common finding.
Filter, Cyclone and Fan
We assess the filter or cyclone condition and discharge, and the fan performance and static pressures. Overloaded filters reducing extraction are among the issues we see most.
Ductwork and Combustible Dust
We inspect the ductwork for wear, leaks and build-up, and flag any visible accumulation of combustible dust around the plant, then measure the system against its benchmark.
How it works
Your wood dust extraction 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
Send us the workshop and the machines on the system, and we confirm a date and a fixed price, usually same day.
2
On-site examination
A P601 examiner attends and tests the extraction in place, machine by machine.
3
Compliant report
Within three days you get your LEV report, with capture and velocity readings and any defects.
4
Reminders
We hold your due date and prompt you before the system needs testing again.
OUR STANDARDS
Testing led by real measurement
We take our responsibilities seriously, upholding the highest standards of professionalism, quality and safety across every aspect of our operations.
Quality Assurance
Accurate readings from P601-qualified examiners who measure to standard and keep current with LEV best practice.
Responsibility
A thorough test that shows whether dust is being controlled and keeps your workshop compliant with COSHH.
Care
We care about the people breathing the air in your workshop, and our reports tell you plainly where you stand.
GET IN TOUCH
Request Wood Dust LEV Testing
Let us know the machines and your workshop, and we'll confirm availability and a competitive quote, usually same day.
Call us
0208 050 3958
Based in
Reading, Berkshire: serving the South of England
● Hampshire
● Oxfordshire
● Northamptonshire
● Cambridgeshire
● Surrey
● Buckinghamshire
● London
FAQ
Wood Dust Extraction Testing: Common Questions
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.
Does wood dust extraction carry a fire and explosion risk too?
It can. Wood dust is combustible, so alongside the COSHH health duty we look at transport velocity and the condition of the plant, and flag where fire or explosion controls clearly warrant attention.
How often should wood dust extraction be tested?
COSHH sets the limit at no more than 14 months between thorough examinations and tests, and most operators test annually to stay safely within it. A test is also needed after any modification or event that could affect how well the system captures dust.
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.
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.