In today's blog we'll explain how to maintain an extraction system- keeping it running optimally, keeping your workplace safe, and maintaining legal compliance.
Very few things in life can operate optimally without some sort of care throughout their life.
Your car needs an annual oil change and filter replacement at least, mountain bikes need a gear and brake tune up every spring and don't get us started on the never-ending maintenance that a house or business premises requires.
Little wonder then that your workplace extraction system is no different; even brand new, top-spec, high-performance extraction systems need a bit of TLC to keep them in good shape.
Why is it important to maintain an extraction system though?
What does it involve?
And who can do it?
Read on to find out.
Your extraction system is relatively simple, however, it still needs looking after.
Whether it is designed to extract smoke and fume, swarf and shavings, or mists and vapours - it will suffer wear and tear through general daily use.
Unfortunately, accidents happen in the workplace, which can cause damage to your extraction system, similarly your employees may try to use your extraction system for something other than its intended purpose. For example using a simple fume extraction system to hoover up shavings or debris - which could damage the ducting, filters, or capture system.
A schedule of basic pre-use and weekly checks, as well as cleaning and housekeeping regimes, and preventative maintenance, will all contribute to maintaining your extraction system and keeping it running smoothly.
An optimally running extraction system ensures that all the airborne contaminants that you set out to remove when you installed the system continue to be collected, thereby either eliminating employee exposure, or greatly reducing it.
This keeps your employees healthy and safe; it also keeps the HSE happy as you'll be satisfying the requirement and duty to maintain equipment provided to control workplace hazards and reduce risk.
It also goes without saying that when you maintain an extraction system, you'll be extending the service life of the equipment and reducing your long-term repair and replacement costs.
Running costs will also be reduced as the motor unit won't be fighting against blockages, restrictions, or other impairments that reduce efficiency of the overall system.
Most extraction systems consist of a motor and fan, nozzles or ports, ducting, filters, and an exhaust - either to a collection system, or venting to atmosphere.
These individual elements suffer different sorts of wear and tear over time; however this can be mitigated easily.
The first thing you need to do in order to maintain an extraction system is give it a basic, yet regular, check over - a bit like checking tyre tread and fluid levels on your car.
So, at the start of each working day your operatives should check for any signs of visible damage, including any accumulations of dust, as these will indicate a leak somewhere.
Also check the system's ability to remove dust, particulates, debris or other media - it should have sufficient air velocity and therefore suction to remove whatever it was designed to.
If not, this indicates a blockage or leak.
Look outside, where the exhaust is located. If there's lots of dust or other extracted substances on the ground and surfaces, it indicates a fault with the filter system which will need urgent repair.
It's a good idea to record that these inspections have been carried out as they may be relied on in any litigation claims brought against you for illnesses such as occupational asthma.
Make sure your extraction system is kept clean.
Ensure the ducting is free of excessive buildup of dust as this will reduce deterioration of surface finishes as well as help you to spot any leaks.
You should remove the filter media and either clean or replace them if they are blocked; they may also suffer from degradation and allow contaminants to pass through them, reducing the safety of the overall extraction system.
Periodically, and based on your manufacturer's guidelines, you should carry out basic servicing.
This will include opening the inspection hatches on fixed ducting to remove any build ups of extracted substances which line the ducting and reduce airflow; any minor damage may also be repaired.
As mentioned earlier, filters will need to be replaced from time to time.
Remember: duct tape should not be used as a permanent repair solution or way to maintain an extraction system!
It quickly degrades when outdoors and if the extracted substances are large or abrasive.
It's useful for sealing joints in interior insulation but shouldn't be used in place of metal as it so often is!
It's important to maintain an extraction system properly, and this means calling in the experts from time to time - usually annually but also in the event of a breakdown or damage.
A professional service will include a thorough inspection of the extraction system by a competent person and involves at the very least air velocity checks, inspection of the motor, fan and exhaust systems, and checking the filter.
Any damaged or worn components or parts will be replaced to ensure optimal and efficient running of your extraction system.
When the service visit is complete, you'll get a full report of any findings including defects found, and a summary of the work carried out.
You'll also be advised on any work that may be required in the future to keep your extraction system in top condition.
All extraction systems need looking after, whatever substance your extraction system removes.
Parts wear out, damage can occur out of nowhere, and misuse can result in severe failure.
While it's possible to maintain an extraction system yourself, this will only be at a basic level.
For major repairs and thorough testing and maintenance, however, look no further than Fumex.
Our team of in-house experts and engineers are ready to keep any industrial extraction system working at their best - even if it's old, or not one of our own designs or installations.
If you need to maintain an extraction system, you need Fumex, so get in touch today.
