DSEAR - Compass HSC

Safe Storage of Chemicals: What Every Business Needs to Know

Brian Lambert (CMIOSH-IMaPS) — Tue, 15 Jul 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Safe Storage of Chemicals: What Every Business Needs to Know

Essential guidance for preventing risks and ensuring compliance

Most businesses, regardless of size, use or store chemical substances — from small containers of cleaning agents to large volumes of hazardous materials. The way these chemicals are stored is critical to preventing fires, explosions, and health risks.

If your workplace holds chemicals that are flammable or highly flammable, you have additional legal responsibilities to ensure safe storage and handling. Failure to comply with these standards can result in serious incidents and HSE enforcement action.

Why Chemical Storage Matters

Incorrect storage of chemicals can lead to:

Fire and explosion hazards
Toxic exposure to employees and the public
Environmental contamination from spills and leaks
Criminal liability for company directors and managers under UK health and safety law

HSE Guidance for Chemical Storage

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) provides clear, detailed guidance for anyone responsible for the storage and handling of dangerous substances. Here are three essential resources:

1. HSG71 – Chemical Warehousing

HSG71: The storage of packaged dangerous substances

For all sizes of storage facilities
Covers warehouses, open-air storage compounds, and chemical production sites
Focuses on control measures to eliminate or reduce risks to people and the environment

2. HSG51 – Storage of Flammable Liquids in Containers

HSG51: Safe storage of flammable liquids

Applies to workplaces storing flammable liquids up to 1,000 litres
Provides practical guidance on container safety, ventilation, and segregation

3. HSG140 – Safe Use and Handling of Flammable Liquids

HSG140: Safe use and handling

For workplaces handling flammable liquids during processing and spraying operations
Explains fire and explosion hazards and how to manage risks effectively

Key Principles for Safe Chemical Storage

No matter the size of your operation, these five rules are essential:

Keep incompatible substances apart
Provide spill containment (bunds, drip trays, etc.)
Remove ignition sources from storage areas
Ensure good ventilation to prevent vapor build-up
Carry out a risk assessment under COSHH and DSEAR regulations

Are You Compliant with COSHH and DSEAR?

The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) and the Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations (DSEAR) impose strict requirements on chemical storage and use. Non-compliance can lead to HSE improvement or prohibition notices, fines, and in serious cases, prosecution.

Is Your Chemical Storage Safe and Compliant?

Compass HSC can help you assess your chemical storage arrangements, ensure compliance with COSHH and DSEAR, and protect your people and property from serious risks.

Book a Chemical Storage Audit

About Brian Lambert

Brian Lambert (CMIOSH-IMaPS), the founder of Compass Health & Safety Consultancy (HSC), is a Chartered Member of IOSH and an accomplished IMaPS professional. With decades of industry experience, Brian is dedicated to guiding businesses of all sizes through the complexities of health and safety management.

His approach is built on integrity, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to raising the standard in health and safety. As a trusted advisor, Brian’s insights help organisations enhance compliance, reduce risk, and boost operational efficiency.

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Health & Safety Distance Learning, a Modern Solution for Workplace Training.

Brian Lambert (CMIOSH-IMaPS) — Tue, 01 Aug 2023 12:46:38 +0000

Health & Safety Distance Learning, a Modern Solution for Workplace Training.

There have been recent significant changes in the way we approach learning and development. As we embrace digital advancements, flexibility becomes the cornerstone of effective training solutions for both employers and employees.

At Compass HSC, we understand the need for adaptable learning methods that cater to diverse schedules and preferences. Our innovative Distance Learning Courses utilise cutting-edge tools, remote classroom sessions, and interactive digital resources, making learning accessible and engaging.

Transitioning to this modern approach not only enhances convenience but also optimises costs. With our Distance Learning option, you can access a wide range of Health and Safety courses from the comfort of your own space.

Discover the benefits of our new approach and join countless satisfied learners who have found this format to be their preferred choice for professional development.

Why choose distance learning?

No contact training (remote session)
Course program will be agreed to fit in with the needs of the delegates
Structured and easy to follow programmes
Classroom Sessions delivered live via Zoom
Significantly cheaper than classroom-based training
Comprehensive course materials
Tutor support via e-mail

Health and Safety made simple! Give the team a call today to discuss your training needs.

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Our Health & Safety Training Courses

IOSH Working Safely

Covering the essentials of health and safety in the workplace. This course is aimed at all workers in all types of organisations. Provides the knowledge and tools required to work safely, internationally recognised, and respected certification.

IOSH Managing Safely

Our Managing Safely ® course will help you improve the safety awareness culture in your organisation, see your productivity increase and enhance your reputation within your supply chain by embedding safety and health across the whole organisation.

IOSH Safety, Health and Environment for Construction site managers

IOSH’s globally delivered Safety, Health and Environment for Construction Site Managers course provides essential knowledge for anyone who oversees or manages safety, health and environmental risks associated with construction activities.

COSHH (Control of substances hazardous to health regulation)

This COSHH training course is designed to give workers knowledge of the health risks surrounding work with hazardous substances, including how to undertake a COSHH assessment, and the control measures required.

Risk Assessment

The course helps you to understand each of the key steps of a risk assessment, including how to identify risks, manage hazards and determine the likelihood of harm, so that you are confident in carrying out a risk assessment in your own premises.

Fire and Fire Management

We offer a range of fire safety courses to equip you and your colleagues with the skills required to provide a safe working environment, protecting people, property and assets whilst avoiding loss.

Construction (Design and Management) Regulations

The purpose of this course is to give a practical summary of the legal duties placed on designers of all disciplines in meeting with their legal CDM 2015 duties as seen through the eyes of a fully experienced Principal Designer.

Asbestos Awareness

An introduction to the hazards presented by asbestos-containing materials. In addition, the course looks at the legal requirements for working with or near asbestos. The requirements for asbestos surveys and the further requirement to manage asbestos.

For our full catalogue check out our training section or contact the team.

Get in Contact

Get in contact with the team for more information on any of our courses.

Contact the team at info@compasshsc.co.uk to check our availability.

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If you cannot see the course you are looking for, do not worry, we can still help, contact the team to find out more.

As always, thank you for taking the time to read over my post, for any enquiries about training or any other health and safety matter, please contact the team on 01253 735 755 or send us an email at info@compasshsc.co.uk

�Thank you for taking the time to read over this post.

Kind regards,

Brian Lambert

Managing Director

Compass HSC

The post Health & Safety Distance Learning, a Modern Solution for Workplace Training. first appeared on Compass HSC.

Understanding and Managing Dangerous Substances in the Workplace

Brian Lambert (CMIOSH-IMaPS) — Fri, 07 Jul 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Understanding and Managing Dangerous Substances in the Workplace

We understand the importance of protecting the health, safety, and welfare of all individuals in the workplace. One critical aspect of workplace safety is the proper management of dangerous substances.

These substances, if not controlled effectively, can pose significant risks such as fire, explosion, and corrosion of metal.

In this blog, we highlight key points to focus on when it comes to managing dangerous substances in your workplace.

Identifying Dangerous Substances

Dangerous substances can come in various forms, including flammable liquids, solvents, powders, and dusts. Identifying these substances is essential as they pose significant risks.

If your workplace involves the storage, use, or generation of vapours or dust environments, you likely fall under the scope of the Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations (DSEAR) [^1].�

Legal Obligations as an Employer

As an employer, your first legal duty, defined under the Health and Safety at Work Act and subsequent statutory instruments, is to prioritise the health, safety, and welfare of everyone at work.

The DSEAR regulations specifically require employers to identify all dangerous substances present or used in the workplace. Conducting a risk assessment is essential to evaluate the likelihood of substance release in normal and abnormal conditions, as well as assess the consequences of fire or explosion events.

Discover how to effectively manage dangerous substances in your workplace with a FREE initial consultation.

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The Unique Approach of DSEAR Risk Assessments

DSEAR risk assessments differ from general risk assessments. Their main objective is to protect lives and determine the need for special measures. These assessments require specialist skills and knowledge to understand how chemicals behave under varying conditions.

At Compass HSC, our team possesses extensive experience and expertise in conducting DSEAR risk assessments. We understand the complexities involved and our team can guide you effectively through the process. [2]

Understanding Chemical Characteristics

A solid understanding of key chemical terms is crucial for a competent DSEAR assessment. Important characteristics include vapour density, flash point, boiling point, vapour pressure, and dispersion rate.

Additionally, other factors such as containment, quantity, frequency of use, and usage methods must be considered in the assessment.

Determination of Hazardous Area Classifications:

Carrying out a DSEAR assessment aims to determine the risk of fire or explosion, leading to the implementation of special precautions. The classification of hazardous areas is defined by standards such as BS-EN 60079, which provides detailed information on equipment selection, protection, inspection, and maintenance of electrical installations in hazardous areas [^1].

If you would like more technical information on determining hazardous areas, we have a separate article dedicated to this topic. It covers zone classifications, assessment processes, and factors to consider when classifying hazardous areas. Read our technical article.

Not quite sure where to start? Contact the team for a free consultation!

At Compass HSC Ltd, we have extensive experience and expertise in conducting Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Risk Assessments. With a background in the chemical process manufacturing sector, we understand the complexities involved in managing dangerous substances.

Your Safety is Our Priority: At Compass HSC, we go beyond expectations to ensure your workplace’s safety. With our proven track record and commitment to excellence, you can trust us as your reliable partner in managing health and safety risks. Don’t compromise when it comes to workplace safety.

Choose Compass HSC today and protect what matters most.

Get started with your free consultation. Give us a call or send an email to get started. Our team are ready to help.

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Compass HSC – DSEAR Consulting

Compass HSC – Understanding Hazardous Area Classifications and the DSEAR Assessment Process

[^1]: Health and Safety Executive (HSE) – Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations (DSEAR).

[^2]: Health and Safety Executive (HSE) – DSEAR risk assessments.

[^3]: Health and Safety Executive (HSE) – DSEAR: Understanding the basics.

The post Understanding and Managing Dangerous Substances in the Workplace first appeared on Compass HSC.

Understanding Hazardous Area Classifications and the DSEAR Assessment Process

Brian Lambert (CMIOSH-IMaPS) — Fri, 07 Jul 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Understanding Hazardous Area Classifications and the DSEAR Assessment Process

Managing dangerous substances in the workplace requires a comprehensive understanding of hazardous area classifications and the DSEAR (Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations) assessment process. Proper management of dangerous substances is crucial to mitigate risks such as fire, explosion, and corrosion of metal.

In this article, we will delve deeper into the key aspects of managing dangerous substances in your workplace, focusing on the Determination of Hazardous Area Classifications and the DSEAR Assessment and Determination Process.

Discover how to effectively manage dangerous substances in your workplace with a FREE initial consultation.

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Identifying Dangerous Substances

Dangerous substances can come in various forms, including flammable liquids, solvents, powders, and dusts. Identifying these substances is essential as they pose significant risks.

Understanding Chemical Characteristics

To conduct a competent DSEAR assessment, it’s crucial to have a solid understanding of key chemical terms. Some important characteristics include: [3]

Vapour density: The density of a chemical’s vapour compared to the density of air.
Flash point: The lowest temperature at which a substance emits enough vapour to ignite.
Boiling point: The temperature at which a substance changes from a liquid to a gas.
Vapour pressure: The pressure exerted by a substance’s vapour in equilibrium with its solid or liquid form.
Dispersion rate: The speed at which a vapour or dust cloud spreads throughout an area.

In addition to these characteristics, other factors such as the containment of substances in storage tanks, the quantity and frequency of use, and how substances are used must be considered in a suitable and sufficient assessment.

Determination of Hazardous Area Classifications:

The primary objective of a DSEAR assessment is to identify the risk of fire or explosion and implement necessary precautions. Hazardous areas are categorised based on the presence of gases, vapours, mists, or combustible dusts.
These areas are defined by standards such as BS-EN 60079, which provide detailed information on equipment selection, protection, inspection, and maintenance of electrical installations [^1].

Hazardous Area Classification Categories

To determine the hazardous area classification, various factors such as the nature and quantity of the dangerous substances, ventilation, and the likelihood of their release are considered. The classification is as follows:

Gases, Vapours, and Mists:

Zone 0: An area where an explosive atmosphere of dangerous substances in the form of gas, vapour, or mist is continuously present or present for long periods.
Zone 1: An area where an explosive atmosphere of dangerous substances in the form of gas, vapour, or mist is likely to occur under normal operating conditions.
Zone 2: An area where an explosive atmosphere of dangerous substances in the form of gas, vapour, or mist is not likely to occur under normal operating conditions, or if it does, it will only be for a short duration [^1].

Dusts:

Zone 20: An area where an explosive atmosphere in the form of a cloud of combustible dust in air is continuously present or present for long periods.
Zone 21: An area where an explosive atmosphere in the form of a cloud of combustible dust in air is likely to occur under normal operating conditions.
Zone 22: An area where an explosive atmosphere in the form of a cloud of combustible dust in air is not likely to occur under normal operating conditions, or if it does, it will only be for a short duration [^1]

You can read more about these zones on the British Standard Institution (BSI) website [^1].

DSEAR Assessment Process:

The DSEAR assessment process involves a systematic evaluation of fire and explosion risks associated with dangerous substances. The process can be broken down into the following key stages:

Stage 1 – Assessment Survey: Identify potentially flammable or explosive substances present in the workplace, considering their type, quantity, and characteristics.
Stage 2 -Formation of Flammable Atmospheres: Determine the factors that could lead to the formation of potentially flammable atmospheres under normal and abnormal conditions, including material properties, process conditions, and potential ignition sources.
Stage 3 – Control and Mitigation Measures: Identify and evaluate existing control and mitigation measures in place, such as ventilation systems, isolation procedures, and personal protective equipment.
Stage 4 – Effectiveness of Mitigation Measures: Assess the effectiveness and maintenance of the identified control and mitigation measures, ensuring they are suitable and sufficient for managing the identified risks.
Stage 5 – Dispersion Characteristics: Evaluate the dispersion characteristics of potentially flammable atmospheres, considering factors like ventilation, confinement, and the release rate of dangerous substances.
Stage 6 – Special Precautions: Determine the necessity of any additional special precautions, such as explosion relief venting, inerting, or the use of explosion-resistant equipment.
Stage 7 – Hazardous Area Classification: Establish the hazardous area zone types based on the identified risks and create a hazardous area classification drawing, indicating the extent of each zone.
Stage 8 – Electrical Equipment Protection: Define the level of protection required for electrical equipment installed in hazardous areas, considering factors like motors, junction boxes, lighting, and wiring systems.

You can find more detailed guidance on the DSEAR assessment process on the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) website [2]

Conclusion:

By following a systematic approach to DSEAR assessments, businesses can effectively manage the risks associated with dangerous substances, promoting a safe working environment for employees.

Understanding hazardous area classifications and conducting thorough DSEAR assessments are essential for managing dangerous substances in the workplace. For expert guidance in navigating these complexities, Compass HSC Ltd, a trusted consultancy with extensive experience in conducting DSEAR risk assessments, can provide practical and reliable advice. Safeguard your workplace by choosing Compass HSC Ltd as your reliable partner in managing health and safety risks [^5].

Not quite sure where to start? Contact the team for a free consultation!

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Compass HSC – DSEAR Consulting

Compass HSC – Understanding and Managing Dangerous Substances in the Workplace

[^1]: British Standards Institution (BSI) – BS-EN 60079: Classification of areas – explosive gas and dust atmospheres.

[^2]: Health and Safety Executive (HSE) – DSEAR risk assessments.

The post Understanding Hazardous Area Classifications and the DSEAR Assessment Process first appeared on Compass HSC.

May H&S Newsletter

Brian Lambert (CMIOSH-IMaPS) — Fri, 29 May 2020 07:00:44 +0000

Introduction

Hello and welcome to the May edition of the monthly health and safety newsletter.

Another month passes and Covid19 dominates the news and social discussions. I hope you are all well and coping with the restrictions on our lives both at work and at home.

Inside this issue:

Covid-19 – Update
Building Regulations
IOSH Distance Learning
In Court�

Coved 19 update:

Despite daily Coved 19 briefings and the National broadcast by the Prime Minister
on Sunday 10th May there is still much confusion across the UK both socially and
in work sectors as well as across National regions and indeed the British Isles with
Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales all taking a different path to the Prime Minister.
I highlight the current situation as detailed and publicised by the Government in
conjunction with medical and health experts.

People who can’t work from home should be “actively encouraged” to go to work.
That was one of the key messages from Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s on Sunday,
together with being told to avoid using public transport to get there.

Mr Johnson mentioned construction and manufacturing as examples of the sorts
of industries where restarting would now be explicitly encouraged.

Coved 19 and Schools:

Education Secretary Gavin Williamson was joined by deputy chief medical officer
for England, Dr Jenny Harries on Saturday. These were the main headlines:

Mr Williamson says, as part of a cautious phased return, children in reception, Year 1 and Year 6 will be allowed to return to school on 1 June, but only if rates of infection are decreasing;
He says policies such as reduced class sizes, keeping children in small groups and “rigorous hygiene” will create a “safer system” when schools open;

Construction site 15-minute rule:

The Coved 19 guidelines have stipulated that it was acceptable in some circumstances that construction workers could work side by side, or back to back for up to 15 minutes where for reasons of health and safety or practicality that was the only way that the task could be carried out.

However, on the 25th May, the Government has now removed any restriction on
social distancing providing it can be done safely.

Go to this link for the full details.

Grenfell Tower and Building Regulations:

Everyone is aware of the Grenfell Tower Tragedy, and the subsequent public enquiry that is being carried out, phase 1 of the enquiry looked at the fire and how it spread and how the emergency fire fighting teams responded and whose conclusion were published on the 30th October 2019.

Phase 2 which has currently been suspended due to Coved 19 is focusing on the refurbishment and design and specification of the cladding system, and the role that all companies and organisation had in the refurbishment. Although there is still much the enquiry has to do in order to complete the investigation, and publish its findings we can already be certain of some of the recommendations to be made and no doubt I implemented before the year is out.

New buildings above certain heights ( 11m) will almost certainly require sprinklers to be fitted, and that external cladding will have to be zero fire rated, meaning that even when the heat is applied the cladding will not ignite and allow the fire to spread.

IOSH Managing safely:

Compass HSC is as many of you know a licensed provider of this 3 days certified course widely recognised across the UK as a highly credible management certificate by the Health and Safety Executive, and safety organisations such as the British Safety Council and RoSPA.

We have recently developed a distance learning version of the course as a response to Coved 19. Compass HSC uses Moodle as its Virtual Learning Environment, or VLE. Students on our courses will use Moodle to access course resources, lectures and submit assignments.

Each of our courses offers a personalised learning experience that has been tailored perfectly to match the Key Learning Objectives of the Course or Qualification.

All module information in one place
Links to online resources
Activities for you to participate in
Videos of teaching sessions
Important news and announcements
Electronic assignment submission
Gradebook
Mobile friendly so you can use it on your phone or tablet.

Student benefit:

Own account, own pace
You can study at any time (excluding scheduled lessons)
You can study from anywhere
No classroom attendance required
Enrol at anytime
Access to extensive e-learning materials
Re-visit the course content as much as necessary

Company fined for serious breaches of the Dangerous Substances and explosive atmospheres Regulations.

The parent company of Swindon-based Oak Furniture land has been fined nearly £400,000 for failing to protect its employees from hazardous and explosive conditions at its premises in Cheney Manor Industrial Estate.

In court JB Global, which owns the furniture company, pleaded guilty to significant breaches of the Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmosphere Regulations (DSEAR) and the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) following a prosecution by Swindon Borough Council.
Sitting at Aldershot Magistrates’ Court, Judge Pattinson ordered the company to pay fines totalling £398,000 and costs of £94,904.

Investigations into various health and safety breaches at the company began in 2016 following a complaint by a member of staff. After visiting the business, the Council’s Health Compliance Team was alerted to the fact the company was preparing room divider sheets, which was not a registered activity at the warehouse.
Evidence showed the preparation of the sheets was carried out in a highly explosive environment and not enough action was taken to mitigate the risks to employees.
JB Global was prosecuted for failing to prevent/control the exposure of employees to sol-vents and wood dust under DSEAR as well as failing to carry out risk assessments and of failing to prevent exposure to substances hazardous to health under COSHH

Comment
What’s interesting about this case is the level of fine imposed by the Magistrates Court and its relevance to the new sentencing guidelines giving courts greater powers than before. Magistrates Courts were limited to fines of a maximum of £20k or a 6-month custodial sentence.

The DSEAR regs are widely misunderstood, and in the context of this case, wood dust in fine concentration, and in a confined space such as in a duct is highly explosive.
Wood dust inhalation can lead to serious lung disease such as Asthma and cancer in extreme circumstances.

The workplace exposure limit ( max exposure) for softwood is 5mg/m3 over 8 hours
WEL for hardwood is 3mg/m3 over an 8 hour period

These quantities are extremely low almost to be impossible to imagine.

1 grain of sugar weighs approx. 0.2mg—5 grains = milligram-15 grains =3mg

Those of you who work with timber, and particularly in a woodworking machine work-shop need to have a proper dust extraction system fitted to keep wood dust down below the WEL

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