Breathe easy with Plymovent
June 30th 2005

Hazardous dust, gas and fumes can be found in all types of working environments, spanning factories and warehouses to cement works and quarries – and everything in between. Unless prevented or controlled these substances can damage the health of all those exposed, causing problems, such as skin irritation, asthma and even cancer from carcinogenic substances Legislation, such as COSHH Regulations 1994, places the responsibility on all employers to ensure that the exposure of their employees to hazardous substances is either prevented or, if this is not possible, adequately controlled

If production of the substances cannot be eliminated the exposure must be controlled. This can be done by enclosing the working area preventing the hazardous substance from entering the atmosphere, by dilution ventilation or through the provision of ‘at source’ extraction equipment

At-source equipment, such as local exhaust ventilation systems (LEVs) provide the most effective form of control as they actually capture the contamination as soon as it is generated, ensuring it is removed from the work area before it can be inhaled

At-source systems vary in size, ranging from a single mobile unit to extensive systems providing control throughout a whole factory

PlymoVent is a leading manufacturer and supplier of at-source extraction equipment and is able to provide effective, economical solutions to the problem of providing a safe working environment. For example, the company’s MultiFumeCaddie® has been designed specifically for effective cleaning of acute air problems or, being a mobile unit, where work is being carried out in various locations within a factory. The MultiFumeCaddie® filters particles, like welding fumes and dust, in two or three steps. A washable prefilter captures the initial particles, any stray particles are then caught by a fine filter. Up to 99% of particles are captured during the first two stages. However, should any of the contaminant be missed, there the option to include a third process where an active carbon filter captures any further particles

The versatility of extraction systems allows them to be custom designed to meet the specific needs of the user. A further advantage that their flexibility allows them to be moved to the actual source of the contamination

Lightweight mobile and portable units, such as PlymoVent’s MultiFumeCarry®, are ideal for use on site by contractors and service engineers. By simply plugging the unit into a single-phase earthed power outlet, field workers are able to ensure a good working, clean environment. The MultiFumeCarry® is equipped with a standard 5m length of extraction hose, giving the operator greater flexibility for working in enclosed spaces

As well as overcoming the problem of air pollution, extraction systems can bring additional benefits – reduced operating costs, increased productivity, reduced absenteeism, an increase in the quality of production and so on

PlymoVent provides a comprehensive service, offering advice and technical support for solving all exhaust fume problems. With over 25 years’ experience in producing clean, fresh air in the workplace, PlymoVent’s wide range of extraction systems, filters and accessories meet the strictest health codes and COSHH Regulations.