Our DSEAR assessment includes:
- Site Risk Assessment
- Identification of dangerous substances that may apply under DSEAR
- Hazardous Area Classification drawings (if required)
- Advice on area signage and labelling requirements.
- Basis of Safety for each site process
- A prioritised & realistic action plan to mitigate any risks
- Follow-on support such as bespoke DSEAR training course
DSEAR stands for the Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002.
Dangerous substances can put peoples’ safety at risk from fire, explosion and corrosion of metal. DSEAR puts duties on employers and the self-employed to protect people from these risks to their safety in the workplace, and to members of the public who may be put at risk by work activity
If you require a DSEAR Assessment please get in touch.
Understanding DSEAR regulations
DSEAR is, in effect, a risk assessment. As part of these assessments, a hazard must be present – this is usually the presence of a flammable atmosphere and an effective source of ignition. Our DSEAR Assessment aims to provide a coherent focus for controlling risks from
- substances with flammable, explosive, corrosive and oxidising properties
- substances which can create explosive atmospheres
- controlling work activities involving other substances that could create a fire, explosion or similar energetic (energy releasing) event e.g. runaway exothermic reactions, decomposition of unstable substances, dust explosions.
- to reduce the occurrence of industrial incidents caused by fires and explosions
When undertaking a DSEAR Assessment, the following ‘how likely’ questions are usually asked: who could be hurt, how severely, what can be done to prevent it?
What areas are considered under DSEAR?
A DSEAR assessment defines a place where an explosive atmosphere may or may not occur. By defining potentially hazardous zones, special safeguards can be created in order to protect business, people, workplace and the environment. A Hazardous Area Classification is used to identify these places and areas whereby control measures must be put in place (if necessary) and therefore, these classifications make up an integral part of the DSEAR Assessment.
What Substances are included under DSEAR?
Dangerous substances are substances used or stored at work that could, if not properly controlled, lead to potential hazards when present in explosive atmospheres. DSEAR compliance, therefore, requires that the risks from such dangerous substances be removed or controlled to protect people from explosions and fire.
Dangerous substances may include flammable gases, mists or vapours or combustible dust. Examples found at work include:
- solvents
- paints
- flammable gases
- dust from machining and sanding operations
- dust from foodstuffs
- pressurised gases
We offer a range of testing services, including combustible Dust & Powder testing, that can aid you in DSEAR compliance.
How often should a DSEAR be undertaken?
A DSEAR assessment should always be reviewed if you believe that your current DSEAR may be invalid. Although this could include the standardised 3-5 year time frame, it is recommended that a review should occur if you have recently had a near miss or if you have made even minor changes to your process.
Why Sigma-HSE?
Our consultants undertake DSEAR assessments in a holistic way to cover employees and non-employees across UK sites. Through our actionable insights, we determine what practicable recommendations should be made for your company to optimise safety and reduce the level of risk to people, business, workplace and environment.
The Sigma-HSE Advantage
From Hazardous Area Classifications (HAC) to NEIRAs, Sigma-HSE is your single solution provider for DSEAR compliance. Whether it’s a new design or a review of existing processes, our dedicated team of specialist consultants are committed to helping you ensure and maintain compliance without the exorbitant fees and delay to your operations.
- HAC (Hazardous Area Classification)
- Dust Hazard Analysis
- Electrostatic Hazard Analysis
- Emergency Relief Sizing
- Basis of Safety
- Emergency Procedures
- DSEAR management systems - maintenance, training & competence
- Permit to work
- Management of Change
- SOP’s (Standard Operating Procedures)
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Ensure compliance through a thorough assessment
DSEAR compliance is an important aspect to keeping people, business and the environment safe from fire and explosions. Learn more about
how we can assist you today.
