What Is On-Tool Extraction?

In this article the air quality safety specialists at WTS examine the use of on-tool extraction systems to help business owners and operators understand what they are, where they should be used, the requirements for maintenance and testing, and who is responsible for ensuring this is carried out correctly.

What is an on-tool extraction system?

On-tool extraction is a type of local exhaust ventilation (LEV) which is fitted directly on to tools and equipment to provide local dust control to protect workers.

There are a number of similarities between LEV and on-tool extraction, but some important differences also. Fixed LEV systems, with extraction units, hoses and hoods are static, fixed in one place. An on-tool extraction system differs in that the separate components of the dust control system can be removed and used interchangeably. For example, you could use the same on-tool extraction hose or extraction unit with different tools in a workshop, factory or construction site. The system’s portable nature appeals to companies who want to be able to use it in a variety of ways.

Fixed System Extraction
Fixed on-tool extraction systems are often more appropriate when they are used for the same tasks repeatedly, for example in a car respraying workshop or in a carpenter’s shed.
Variable System Extraction
Variable extraction systems allow the extraction unit to be switched between a range of different tools and hoses depending on the task which is being done, such as on a building site.

What parts make up an on tool extraction system?

On-tool extraction is a great choice for many businesses, but all of the separate parts have to work properly as a unit to be effective. Many manufacturers provide a “kit” of parts which are all designed to work together. It is also possible to combine parts from different makers, as long as they are compatible. You should also make sure that if you are buying parts from different sources that all conform to standards and will do the job properly. If you buy a badly-designed or cheap part, this can have a huge effect on the overall system performance, and potentially expose workers to increased risk.

Make sure that whatever substance you are trying to eliminate from the air is being properly contained within the hood, and filtered into the extraction unit. If your hood has been damaged or isn’t entirely compatible with the tool design, performance can be greatly impacted. The UK’s Health and Safety Executive offer excellent guidance in their CIS No.69 booklet, “Controlling construction dust with on-tool extraction”.

What are my legal duties regarding on-tool extraction?

Any company which uses an on-tool extraction system to control dust has a legal duty to ensure that it is properly maintained and performing to an acceptable standard. This is a legal requirement under the COSHH legislation. Guidance focuses on the extraction part of the system which is covered in detail by the legislation, although other elements of the installation should also be maintained properly.

How often should the extraction system be examined and tested?

UK safety guidelines state that on-tool extraction units need to be properly tested and examined at least every 14 months. Note, this is the maximum period between inspections.

Depending on the wear and tear to the unit, you might decide to perform inspections more regularly to ensure people are properly protected. A good way of keeping track of when extraction units have been tested is to use simple sticker labels attached to the equipment. This method is particularly appropriate in situations where the equipment is being used by lots of different people.

Who is responsible to testing on-tool extraction?

As the employer, the buck stops with you when it comes to organising the periodic testing and examination of an on-tool extraction unit. It’s also your job to make sure that the person you ask to do the inspection and testing work has the right skills, knowledge and experience to do it properly. LEV specialists, manufacturers or installers can usually help with recommendations if you have nobody suitably experienced within your organisation.

If you are hiring extraction equipment for temporary use, ask the hiring company whether it has been tested first. As they are the owners of the equipment it’s their responsibility to arrange for this to be done, not yours. If you are hiring equipment for an extended period, make sure that the next test doesn’t fall due during the hire period, or get it tested first. If a test expires when the equipment is still on your site, you have to ensure that it’s not used. Get the hire company to organise testing of the equipment, or ask them to deliver a replacement as soon as possible.

Maintaining extraction systems

As well as the detailed testing and inspection checks, companies should also develop processes for ongoing maintenance. This is to make sure that equipment is in good working order before each use. The maintenance regime will depend on business needs but could include inspection before use, weekly maintenance or testing of the control systems to make sure the unit is still operating properly.

The types of regular maintenance checks could include:

Checking the airflow indicator or cleaning function is working by creating an artificial blockage in the system.
Replacing filters regularly.
Regular cleaning to stop any dust or grease build-up.
Checks that all parts of the unit are in the correct position or are securely fastened together.
Visual inspection to make sure there are no broken or damaged parts.
Appropriate collection bags are being used and are in good condition.
The right parts are being used for each task.

If you have any doubt about the sorts of checks and maintenance required for your on-tool extraction system you should always seek advice from the manufacturer.

Specialist LEV testing and exhaust ventilation inspections

WTS offer a comprehensive range of LEV testing and exhaust ventilation inspection solutions to support business owners and operators. Our experts can provide advice and support to help you identify the most appropriate strategies for the on-going management of your LEV systems.

With offices in London serving the South and South East England, Manchester (North West), Birmingham (Midlands), Bristol (South East England and Wales), Leeds (North and North East) and Glasgow (Scotland), supported by regional teams of specially trained technicians, in-field specialists and consultants we can offer professional, cost effective indoor air quality solutions across the whole of the UK and internationally.

Contact us today to learn how our LEV testing and inspection solutions can help you keep your staff and other people safe.