Airflow monitoring devices recommended for fume extraction equipment

Flextraction recommends that companies fit an airflow monitoring indicator to all hoods on its LEV fume and dust extraction systems to ensure that the velocity of the air entering the hood is adequate. It is not against the law not to have these indicators; however the law states that employers must correctly maintain their LEV Systems.

Flextraction is offering to visit companies with LEV systems, who have not fitted air flow monitoring indicators, but who are seeking to do so, to give them a ‘free of charge' assessment and advice on how they can meet the HSE recommendations. Most indicators are simple gauges that show if there is adequate air flow or not and should be used in conjunction with good operator practice.

In addition to the simpler airflow indicators, Flextraction is introducing in the near future an electronic airflow monitoring indicator, which not only visually shows the operator if the air flow is correct, but has an additional audible alarm to warn the operator if there is a fall in the air velocity. It is small in size, easy to install on the hood or at an LEV point on the extraction hose. Places where the operator can easily see it. Flextraction will calibrate the devices, which are battery powered, on installation.

Lee Darton, Flextraction's sales manager said:  "Airflow monitoring devices are the most simple and economic way of monitoring the efficiency of LEV systems. They are easily retrofitted to existing hoods or at a point where the operator can see it. It is also very important that the operator also moves the hood to within the correct working zone.

"It is our understanding that there would be around 4,000 fewer occupational deaths in the UK from Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, if operatives were no longer exposed to dusts, smoke and fumes. I am told a high percentage of deaths are related to the inhalation of welding fumes. Any action against a company with an under performing LEV system can prove to be very expensive, whereas the installation of a low cost air flow indicator could have solved the problem."

 

Flextraction Ltd
10, Digby Drive
Leicester Road Industrial Estate
Melton Mowbray
Leicestershire
LE13 0RQ
UK

T: 01664 410 641
F: 01664 480 244