The topic of ‘local exhaust ventilation’ (LEV) has been brought into focus by the Health & Safety Executive, with three guideline publications recently issued and a new website being developed to provide advice. Companies must ensure the efficient carrying away of potentially harmful dust, mist, fumes or gas in the air. Ineffective measures can cause occupational asthma and other lung diseases, and failure to provide effective ventilation systems can result in prosecution under the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations.
The seminar takes place at EEF West Midlands’ offices in Edgbaston, Birmingham, on Wednesday 2 July from 8.30 to 10.30am, with an optional breakfast from 7.30am. It is organised by SES, the specialist health and safety division of EEF West Midlands. EEF is a stakeholder partner of the Health & Safety Executive.
“While the HSE is developing extensive guidance on the topic, many companies will find it difficult to understand precisely how to respond,” comments SES Director Peter Garrett: “The seminar will focus on the key considerations, such as the right sort of equipment, the best methods of installation, and the training of staff to monitor performance properly.”
The seminar will be specifically useful to companies where dust and fume removal is a daily challenge, including those operating in the rubber, steel fabrication, surface coating, wood, furniture and motor body shop sectors. It will include a presentation from the Health & Safety Executive's LEV specialist, Ian Gardener, and practical demonstrations of the equipment that HSE inspectors use during their enforcement visits.
LEV is not a challenge that is restricted to the manufacturing sector, and organisations for other sectors are encouraged to attend. “Dust and fumes present a potential risk to staff and other people in many sectors – even including schools and colleges – and they should take equal care to understand what needs to be done,” added Peter Garrett.
The fee for the seminar is £80+VAT for SES members and £90+VAT for non-members.