FOCUS DSEAR challenges
there are alternative approaches to hazardous area classification, which would reduce the risk to life and significantly reduce business costs as a result. Amongst other considerations, it should include: • the hazardous properties of the substances
• the processes involving the use, handling and storage of the substance
• the quantities of explosive, oxidising, extremely flammable, highly flammable or flammable substances stored
• presence of ignition sources in areas where these materials are stored and used
•
likelihood and persistence of explosive mixtures
• persons at risk in areas where potentially explosive atmospheres exist, and the training requirements of these individuals
• potential harm to the environment through contamination or release due to inadequate storage arrangements
• category 1: flashpoint <23°C and initial boiling point ≤35°C
• category 2: flashpoint <23°C and initial boiling point >35°C
• category 3: flammable liquids with a flashpoint of ≥23°C and ≤60°C; and combustible liquids with a flashpoint above 60°C
The second step in the process will be to assess the physical and chemical properties of the substances, preparation and the work processes involving them to ascertain if they create a safety risk to persons as a result of fire, explosion or similar energetic event. If so, a dangerous substance is present, and a risk assessment should be carried out.
Risk assessment
To enable employers to determine what measures are necessary in order to eliminate or reduce the risk of fire, explosion or similar event occurring, a risk assessment is designed to highlight the extent of the hazardous area and its classification. Wherever dangerous substances, processes or operational equipment are introduced into the workplace, a risk assessment should be carried out prior to work operations commencing.
It should be undertaken following a series of guidance notes and published documents; however, the risk assessor should also fully understand the business operation before beginning the assessment. In many circumstances,
42 MARCH 2020
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• control measures in place to reduce the risk of fire and explosion as far as is reasonably practicable
• where appropriate, determining hazardous area classification and extent – determining this in real terms is the primary purpose of the assessment
• classification of equipment and machinery suitable for use in the classified zones
To assist the risk assessment process, the HSE Hierarchy of Controls process (see image on opposite page) can be applied. During completion of DSEAR risk assessments at a multitude of commercial businesses, various practices and processes deemed inadequate or inappropriate have been encountered that require additional action to be taken to achieve compliance. It is not uncommon to come across high risk activities which have been continuing for many years without a review or risk assessment of that particular piece of machinery, work process or storage arrangement risk. These activities are commonly essential roles for business operations, however in some situations alternative approaches are available to adapt protocol where immediate hazardous area classification exists. The practical application of the Hierarchy
of Controls can be applied in the first instance when reviewing potential solutions. Below is a working example which can be applied to most processes, practices and storage arrangements.
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