Assess the potential risks when using fuel gases
The Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002 place a statutory requirement on employers to protect against risks from fire, explosion and similar events arising from dangerous substances used or present in the workplace.
An explosive atmosphere is an accumulation of gas, mist, dust or vapour, mixed with air, which has the potential to catch fire or explode.
If you are using fuel gases (propane, acetylene, hydrogen, propylene etc) you must:
- Carry out a risk assessment of any work activities involving those gases
- Provide measures to eliminate or reduce risks as far as is reasonably practicable
- Provide equipment and procedures to deal with accidents and emergencies
- Provide information and training to employees
- Classify places where explosive atmospheres may occur into zones and mark the zones where necessary
Have you:
- Reduced the quantity of dangerous substances used on site to a minimum?
- Introduced leak test procedures to control gas releases at source?
- Ensured that all gas control equipment is in good order and not leaking?
- Implemented standard operating procedures to prevent the formation of an explosive atmosphere?
- Provided sufficient ventilation to remove any release to a safe place?
- Removed all ignition sources? (Are your work and storage areas designated No Smoking?)
- Segregated incompatible gases?
- Established emergency procedures to be followed in the event of an emergency?
Our workshops make delegates aware of the potential dangers when using fuel gases and the graphic consequences of poor practices.
Our Industrial, Laboratory & Cryogenic workshop training materials are RoSPA approved
