Local Exhaust Ventilation Fundamentals for WSH Professionals

Course Overview

This course equips WSH Officers and Safety Coordinators with essential knowledge to conduct routine checks and assess the ongoing performance of Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV) systems. While periodic assessments by competent persons are mandated, WSHOs play a critical role in identifying early signs of malfunction or inefficiency and determining when to escalate to a specialist. This course provides practical guidance on inspection cues, common LEV components, and action thresholds.

Course Learning Outcome

This course offers WSH professionals an applied understanding of LEV systems. It focuses on what to look out for between formal inspections (typically every 12–24 months), how to perform routine visual and functional checks, and how to recognise red flags that may signal system failure or inefficiency. Participants will learn how to communicate effectively with LEV service providers and understand what constitutes acceptable LEV performance. The course reinforces the safety officer’s role in proactive air contaminant control, especially in workshops, laboratories, and production facilities.

Objectives

• Understand the key components and function of a typical LEV system
• Perform routine user-level LEV checks (e.g., airflow, duct integrity, hoods)
• Identify early warning signs of malfunction or poor performance
• Determine when and how to escalate issues to a competent person or SME
• Interpret basic LEV performance indicators (e.g., face velocity, static pressure)
• Reinforce workplace compliance with WSH guidelines for air contaminant control