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Smoke Clearance Testing

Your extraction system is only worth using and maintaining if it works effectively. Verify that your extraction system is properly removing all airborne contaminants with smoke clearance testing from Fumex.

Where is Smoke Clearance Testing Required?

Any sealed area that is served by an extraction system should be assessed for removal of airborne contaminants such as particulates, fume, and vapour. Spray booths are a prime example of a work environment that requires a smoke clearance test. The isocyanates in automotive paint are particularly harmful, and the rate at which they are released from the spray gun can easily overwhelm a poorly designed or maintained extraction system. As such, HSE guidance HSG261 stipulates that spray booth ventilation systems should be assessed via a smoke clearance test every 14 months, in line with the COSHH Regulations.

Why Test

Employers throughout the UK have a duty to protect their employees from harm, by either eliminating or reducing safety and health risks caused by their endeavours.

Many workplace activities generate harmful arisings such as dust, fibres, particulates, mists, vapours, or fumes. The paint used in automotive spray booths, for example, contain isocyanates which, when inhaled, can cause chest tightness, persistent coughs, wheezing, breathlessness, and flu-like shivers.

Long-term exposure can cause permanent, severe asthma. Asthma attacks can be triggered by everyday smells or mere cold air – and as such can be completely debilitating. So, to ensure that your extraction system is removing ALL airborne contaminants in the workplace, rather than simply making a lot of noise and being expensive to run… You need to carry out smoke clearance testing.

The Fumex Solution

Our industry-leading smoke clearance testing service is pleasingly simple yet strikingly effective.

1. We start with switching off the ventilation system linked to the assessment work area.
2. Next, we fill the area with harmless, artificial smoke.
3. We wait until the area is filled with smoke – usually about two minutes – before switching off the smoke machine.
4. Then we start your extraction system, as well as our timer.
5. With your extraction system running, we inspect the extraction system seals, ductwork, and housing for any visible leaks.
6. Once the area is clear of smoke, we stop the timer and finish the test.
7. When we’re satisfied that the test has been successful, we’ll issue you with a certificate for you to display at the entrance to the work area.

Act Now

If you’re utilising sealed work areas such as spray booths, you’ll likely be creating a breathing atmosphere that is harmful to your employees. You’re also going to be on the HSE’s radar and due a visit to inspect your workplace.

You can have confidence that your employees are safe, and keep the HSE happy, when you know your extraction systems are working properly. While a comprehensive inspection and maintenance regime will go a long way (and are also required by safety law)… There’s only one way to get robust assurance and an industry-recognised certification. Give us a call to book a smoke clearance testing service today.

smoke clearance testing
turning on the smoke machine
the room after a couple of minutes
a room full of smoke
smoke clearance testing in progress
inspection seals and ducting for leaks
smoke clearance test completed
certificate for display