Do you need a DSEAR Assessment?

DSEAR puts duties on employers and the self-employed to protect people from risks to their safety from fires, explosions, and similar events in the workplace. This includes members of the public who may be put at risk by work activity.

• Solvent
• Paints
• Varnishes
• Vapours
• Mists
• Flammable gases
• Dust
• Substances corrosive to metal
• Flours

You’ll need to comply with DSEAR if you’re responsible for a workplace where dangerous substances are present, used or produced. Essentially, you’ll have to ensure you’ve carried out a DSEAR Assessment if work is being carried out by an employer (or self-employed person) and…

• A dangerous substance is present (or is liable to be present at a workplace)
• The dangerous substance could be a risk to the safety of people due to fires, explosions, or similar energetic events or through corrosion to metal.

Realistically, “dangerous substances” can be found in almost any workplace – meaning most employers and business owners must ensure their workplace is compliant. Examples of where you may find these substances are…

• Storage of petrol as a fuel for cars, boats or horticultural machinery
• Use of flammable gases, such as acetylene, for welding
• Handling and storage of waste dust in a range of manufacturing industries
• Handling and storage of flammable wastes such as fuel oils
• Chemical manufacturing, processing and warehousing
• Transporting flammable substances in containers around a workplace
• Use of flammable solvents in laboratories
• Deliveries from road tankers, such as petrol and bulk powders

At Citigroup, we advise conducting a DSEAR assessment every 3-5 years to ensure compliance with regulations. Nevertheless, some businesses may require more frequent assessments. It is always better to err on the side of caution. If you need clarification, please contact us, and we will gladly discuss what is most suitable for your needs.

An assessment involves several steps, including: 

• Identification of hazardous substances – This involves identifying all of the dangerous substances that are present or used in the workplace. These can include flammable gases, liquids and solids, oxidising agents, and substances that can create dust clouds that can ignite. 

• Identification of potential ignition sources – This involves identifying potential sources of ignition, such as electrical equipment, hot surfaces and sparks. This is necessary because if a flammable substance is present in the presence of an ignition source, it can cause an explosion or fire. 

• Determination of the likelihood and consequences of an explosion or fire – This involves assessing the likelihood that a hazardous substance could come into contact with an ignition source and the potential consequences of an explosion or fire if it were to occur.

• Zoning of hazardous areas –  Based on the results of the assessment, the workplace is divided into zones, which are classified according to the level of risk they pose. Each zone has its own set of requirements for managing and controlling the risks associated with hazardous substances.

Zone 0 – A place in which an explosive atmosphere consisting of a mixture with air of dangerous substances in the form of gas, vapour or mist is present continuously or for long periods or frequently.

Zone 1 – A place in which an explosive atmosphere consisting of a mixture with air of dangerous substances in the form of gas, vapour or mist is likely to occur in normal operation occasionally.

Zone 2 – A place in which an explosive atmosphere consisting of a mixture with air of dangerous substances in the form of gas, vapour or mist is not likely to occur in normal operation but, if it does occur, will persist for a short period only.

Zone 20 – A place in which an explosive atmosphere in the form of a cloud of combustible dust in air is present continuously, or for long periods or frequently.

Zone 21 – A place in which an explosive atmosphere in the form of a cloud of combustible dust in air is likely to occur in normal operation occasionally.

Zone 22 – A place in which an explosive atmosphere in the form of a cloud of combustible dust in air is not likely to occur in normal operation but, if it does occur, will persist for a short period only.

• Implementation of control measures – Finally, the assessment identifies appropriate control measures to mitigate the risks identified during the assessment. These measures may include the use of ventilation systems, explosion-proof equipment, and monitoring systems.

To conclude, a DSEAR assessment is an important tool for managing the risks associated with dangerous substances in the workplace. By identifying potential hazards and implementing appropriate control measures, it helps to ensure the safety of everyone in the workplace.

Here at Citigroup, we’re committed to guiding you through the process of ensuring that your workplace or business is compliant with DSEAR requirements. 

We know that as a business owner, it’s likely you’re short for time and could find yourself feeling overwhelmed or confused by health and safety requirements. Fear not – because that’s where we come in. 

Give us a call on 01924 235 057 or drop us a message here, and we’ll be more than happy to help.