The Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002 (DSEAR) set out the requirements for employers to control the risks to safety from fire, explosions and substances corrosive to metals. Since 2015, the regulations also cover risks caused by substances that are corrosive to metals and gases under pressure.
DSEAR puts duties on employers and the self-employed to protect people from these safety risks in the workplace, and to members of the public who may be put at risk by work activity. It is concerned with preventing or limiting the harmful effects of fires, explosions and similar energy-releasing events and corrosion to metals. Note: Some types of corrosive metals such as steel have the ability to release oxygen. When in contact with organic materials such as waste there is risk of an exothermic reaction leading to fire.
Employers are required to assess the risks of fires and explosion that may be caused by dangerous substances in the workplace. These risks must then be eliminated or reduced as far as is reasonably practicable. The Regulations’ aim to protect workers and other people who may be put at risk, such as visitors to the workplace and members of the public, and they complement the requirement to manage risks under the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999.
Dangerous substances are any substances used or present at work that could, if not properly controlled, cause harm to people due to fire, explosion or corrosion of metal. They can be found in nearly all workplaces and include such things as:
