The Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations (DSEAR) 2002 is a UK law that requires employers to control and mitigate workplace risks of fire, explosion, and metal corrosion caused by hazardous substances. Applicable to workplaces where dangerous substances are stored, used, or produced, failure to comply with DSEAR can lead to costly fines and work-related injuries.
This article briefly discusses (1) 5 steps to maintain a safer workplace and comply with DSEAR; (2) technology to help maintain workplace safety; and (3) free DSEAR risk assessment templates.
5 Steps to Maintain a Safer Workplace
To maintain compliance with DSEAR, here are 5 steps to help keep a safer working environment.
- Before commencing with a new work activity or process, conduct a DSEAR risk assessment to discover what substances involved can cause fire, explosion, or metal corrosion. For employers with 5 or more employees, the risk assessment result must be recorded.
- Establish preventive measures to proactively control the identified risks. The goal is to eliminate or minimize the risk.
- Develop procedures in the event of an emergency. Emergency plans and procedures should help minimize the impact of the incident while ensuring the safety of employees.
- Empower employees to help reduce workplace risks through information dissemination, proper employee on-boarding, and training. Knowledge in dealing with risks can further promote workplace safety.
- Reinforce workplace safety through regular safety audits and inspections. Analyze the results to determine if there are areas for improvement and training opportunities.
Technology for Workplace Safety and DSEAR Compliance
The safety officer is tasked to conduct a risk assessment in order to identify and record risks, determine control measures to be implemented, and ensure that safety measures are being followed to prevent fires or explosions in the workplace. A reliable safety recordkeeping system is needed to help organizations keep track of risks, control measures, and reinforcement of workplace safety. In addition to helping comply with DSEAR, having a good risk assessment system can help proactively improve workplace safety.
Risk assessment apps and cloud software can replace existing workflows involving paper forms, spreadsheets, scanning and faxing. iAuditor, the world’s #1 inspection software, can help promote workplace safety and allows you to:
- Create or modify mobile-ready DSEAR risk assessment templates (no IT skills needed)
- Empower teams to complete DSEAR assessments using a smartphone or tablet
- Attach photos and annotations in the app
- Save time and effort by recording reports online. Preview a sample web and PDF report.
- Use for free with small teams. Unlimited reports and storage for premium accounts.
