BOHS P600 Foundation Course – Methods for Testing Performance of LEV
The BOHS P600 qualification was introduced as the foundation-level entry point into the BOHS Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV) qualification pathway. The course provides delegates with the fundamental knowledge and practical skills required to understand how LEV systems operate and, more importantly, how to assess their performance using commonly used LEV test instruments.
P600 is designed for individuals who are new to LEV or who require a structured introduction before progressing to the higher-level BOHS proficiency qualifications such as P601, P602, P603 and P604. The course focuses on airflow visualisation techniques, measurement principles and the practical use of LEV test equipment including Pitot tubes, manometers, smoke generators, dust lamps and anemometers.
Course Syllabus & Dates/Venues
OXYL8 P600:
What is P600?
P600 – Methods for Testing the Performance of Local Exhaust Ventilation Systems is a BOHS Level 3 qualification designed to provide a foundation understanding of LEV systems and the methods used to assess their performance.
The course introduces delegates to:
- Basic LEV system components
- Airflow visualisation techniques
- Quantitative airflow measurements
- LEV testing equipment
- Practical performance assessment methods
The emphasis is on developing a practical understanding of how LEV systems are assessed in the field rather than on detailed design calculations or statutory examination requirements.
Practical LEV Testing Skills
A significant proportion of the course focuses on the practical use of common LEV test instruments.
Delegates typically gain experience using:
- Smoke tubes
- Smoke generators
- Dust lamps
- Pitot tubes
- Micro-manometers
- Rotating vane anemometers
- Hot-wire anemometers
These instruments are used throughout the LEV industry for commissioning, routine performance checks and statutory Thorough Examination and Test activities.
Progression to Higher-Level Qualifications
P600 is often regarded as the first stage of a professional LEV development pathway.
Typical progression routes include:
P601
Thorough Examination and Testing of LEV Systems
P602
Basic Design Principles of LEV Systems
P603
Control of Hazardous Substances using Respiratory Protective Equipment
P604
Performance Evaluation and Management of LEV Systems
Although P600 is not a formal prerequisite, many delegates find that it provides valuable preparation for the more technically demanding Level 4 qualifications.
Important Limitation of P600
One common misunderstanding is that passing P600 qualifies an individual to undertake statutory Thorough Examination and Testing (TExT).
This is not the case.
P600 is a foundation qualification and does not confer competence to carry out statutory LEV examinations under COSHH Regulation 9. The qualification is intended to provide underpinning knowledge and practical experience that can then be developed through further training, supervised practice and progression to Level 4 qualifications such as P601.
Key LEVCentral Takeaways
- P600 is the BOHS foundation qualification for LEV testing.
- It provides an introduction to airflow measurement and testing techniques.
- Delegates gain experience using standard LEV test instruments.
- The course is ideal for those new to the LEV profession.
- P600 provides a stepping stone to P601, P602, P603 and P604.
- The qualification does not confer competency to undertake statutory TExT activities.
- Practical understanding of airflow measurement is a major focus of the programme.
- P600 remains one of the most popular entry routes into the LEV profession.
Thought Leadership
The introduction of P600 arguably filled one of the most significant gaps that previously existed within LEV training. Many engineers entering the profession understood how to operate test equipment but had never received formal instruction on why particular measurements were taken, how instruments should be selected, or how airflow behaviour influences contaminant control.
By providing a structured foundation in airflow measurement and visualisation techniques, P600 helps develop the practical understanding required for a successful career in LEV. In many respects, it represents the first step towards becoming a competent LEV professional and remains one of the most valuable courses available to individuals beginning their journey into the field.
