ATEX DSEAR Risk Assessment Considerations

“We all have to carry these out wherever any risk under these regulations may be present: We hope that these pages assist you.”

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The risk assessment should include the hazardous properties of the substance, the way they are used or stored, the possibility of hazardous explosive atmospheres occurring and cover all potential ignition sources.

The main aim is to ensure that the safety risks from dangerous substances are eliminated or, where this is not reasonably practicable, to take measures to control risks and to reduce the harmful effects of any fire, explosion, etc.

Substitution is the best solution but is not always possible. Where risk cannot be entirely eliminated, control and mitigation measures are required.

Control measures include ventilation, avoiding ignition sources, and keeping incompatible substances apart.

Mitigation measures should be used to prevent fires and explosions from spreading, reduce the number of employees exposed and, in the case of process plant, provide plant and equipment that can safely contain or suppress an explosion, or vent the substance to a safe place. The design, construction and maintenance of the workplace and work processes, including all relevant plant, equipment, control and protection systems should be included.

In addition, workplaces where explosive atmospheres may occur must be classified into zones based on their likelihood and persistence.

These areas must also be protected from sources of ignition by selecting equipment and protective systems meeting the Equipment and Protective Systems Intended for Use in Potentially Explosive Atmospheres Regulations, 1996.

These zones should also be marked "EX" and be verified as being safe by a person or organisation competent in the field of explosion protection. All personnel working in these areas must be provided with appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and clothing that does not create a risk of electrostatic discharge igniting the explosive atmosphere.