DSEAR Assessments
Ensuring Compliance and Workplace Safety
The Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations (DSEAR) 2002 require businesses to manage and control risks associated with hazardous substances. These regulations protect employees and the public from fires, explosions, and structural damage caused by dangerous materials.
At Nexus Safety, we provide detailed DSEAR assessments, ensuring compliance while fostering a safer, more efficient working environment.
Why Do You Need a DSEAR Assessment?
DSEAR applies to workplaces handling flammable liquids, compressed gases, combustible dusts, or corrosive chemicals. Employers must conduct risk assessments to identify hazards, evaluate risks, and implement control measures under Regulation 5.
DSEAR applies when:
- Dangerous substances are present or could be present.
- There is a risk of fire, explosion, or structural corrosion.
Partnering with Nexus Safety ensures compliance while enhancing workplace safety.
What Our DSEAR Assessment Covers
1. Risk Identification
We assess hazardous substances, their physical properties, and how they interact with equipment and processes.
2. Hazardous Area Classification (HAC)
Areas where explosive atmospheres may occur are classified in line with industry guidance including BS EN 60079, IGEM guidance, Energy Institute (EI 15) and HSE L138.
Zones are determined by the type of substance (gas, vapour or dust) and the likelihood and frequency of an explosive atmosphere being present. The table below explains the standard zone classifications. A more detailed assessment, considering release grades, ventilation and process conditions, is carried out as part of the DSEAR process.
Hazardous Area Classification Zones
| Zone | Atmosphere | Description | Presence of Explosive Atmosphere |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zone 0 | Gas/Vapour | Area where an explosive atmosphere is present continuously or for long periods | Area in which an explosive gas atmosphere is present continuously, or for long periods, or frequently |
| Zone 1 | Gas/Vapour | Area where an explosive atmosphere is likely to occur in normal operation | Area in which an explosive gas atmosphere is likely to occur occasionally in normal operation |
| Zone 2 | Gas/Vapour | Area where an explosive atmosphere is not likely in normal operation, and if it does occur, will exist only for a short time | Area in which an explosive gas atmosphere is not likely to occur in normal operation, but, if it does occur, will exist for a short period only |
| Zone 20 | Dust | Area where a cloud of combustible dust is present continuously, for long periods or frequently | A place in which an explosive dust atmosphere, in the form of a cloud of dust in air, is present continuously, or for long periods or frequently |
| Zone 21 | Dust | Area where a cloud of combustible dust is likely to occur in normal operation | A place in which an explosive dust atmosphere, in the form of a cloud of dust in air, is likely to occur in normal operation occasionally |
| Zone 22 | Dust | Area where a cloud of combustible dust is not likely in normal operation, and if it does occur, will persist only for a short time | Area in which an explosive dust 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 |
3. Control Measures
We develop risk reduction strategies to keep hazards As Low As Reasonably Practicable (ALARP) by:
- Minimising dangerous substance quantities.
- Enhancing ventilation and containment.
- Managing ignition sources with ATEX-compliant equipment.
4. Emergency Preparedness
We review and help develop emergency plans, covering:
- Evacuation procedures.
- Spill containment.
- Alarm and notification systems.
5. Documentation and Compliance
We assist you in compiling risk assessments, control strategies, and emergency plans.
We align with:
- DSEAR 2002 Regulations – Managing risks from hazardous substances.
- HSE L138 – Guidance on hazardous area classification and risk management.
- BS EN 60079 Series – Standards covering classification of explosive atmospheres and requirements for electrical and non-electrical equipment used within hazardous zones.
- COSHH 2002 – Managing health and safety risks from hazardous substances.
- HSG 51 - The storage of flammable liquids in containers up to 1000 litres
- HSG 176 - The storage of flammable liquids in tanks (exceeding 1000 litres)
- IGEM/SR/25 Edition 2 - Hazardous area classification of natural gas installations
- EI 15 (5th Edition) – code of safe practice Part 15: Area classification for installations handling flammable fluids.
- ATEX Directive 2014/34/EU – Equipment certification and safety requirements for explosive atmospheres.
This ensures compliance while integrating industry best practices.
Why Choose Nexus Safety?
Industry experience across manufacturing industries, pharmaceutical, aerospace, defence, energy, chemical, civil service, and education sectors.
Tailored Assessments
Customised for your industry and specific risks, adhering to industry best practice and guidance.
Actionable Solutions
Practical recommendations for your operations.
Ongoing Support
In depth handover calls, follow-up reviews, compliance updates, and training options available.
We are Your Connection to Compliance and Workplace Safety
Contact us today to schedule your DSEAR Assessment.