Department of Chemistry - Health and Safety Information

Dangerous Substances & Explosive Atmospheres

The Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002 (DSEAR) set out minimum requirements for the protection of workers from fire and explosion from dangerous substances and potentially explosive atmospheres.

DSEAR applies where there is present any substance or mixture of substances with the potential to create a risk from energetic (energy-releasing) events such as fire, explosions, thermal runaway from exothermic reactions etc. Such substances, known in DSEAR as dangerous substances, include:

  • oxidisers
  • explosives
  • petrol
  • liquefied petroleum gas (LPG)
  • paints and varnishes
  • solvents
  • certain types of dust that are explosive (e.g. wood dust)

The main requirements of DSEAR are that:

  • an assessment is made of the fire and explosion risks of any work activities involving dangerous substances
  • measures are undertaken to eliminate, or reduce as far as is reasonably practicable the identified fire and explosion risks
  • residual risks are controlled in order to mitigate the detrimental effects of a fire or explosion
  • equipment is provided and procedures put in place to deal with accidents and emergencies
  • information and precautionary training given

Additionally, where explosive atmospheres may occur:

DSEAR removes the need for licensing the storage of petrol and other petroleum spirits in the workplace.

Guidance on the DSEAR Regulations is integrated into the Hazardous Substances Policy. For further information contact Dr. Margaret Glendenning.