Posted By Robert J Martin Hi I have been tasked with carrying out a dangerous substances and explosive atmosphere assessment at a production plant. The plant has hot and cold processes and uses alcohol based raw materials with are mixed at temperature and pressure to produce the final product which is then distilled off. Can I have some recommendations on the key areas to concerntrate on or a good quality risk assessment to follow. cheers

Posted By Phillip Robert, Step 1 - ensure you have an adequate process description and physical prop data. With a good understanding of the process, all of a sudden the job is much easier. Step 2 - carry out an explosion risk assessment. Do this for each unit operation. The answer to the question 'Why is that unit operation safe? 'must be known. Is your basis of safety explosion prevention or protection. How is your basis of safety secured? Is there explosion isolation to prevent propagation required. Step 3 - Carry out an area classification. This is required inside the equipment & the workplace. Remenber this is a risk assessment so always look to eliminate, substitute, reduce etc - it's an iterative process. Step 4 DSEAR requires you to review your SMSs. So things aren't changed willy nilly after your assessment. Step 5 - you'll end up with loads of recommendations - so make sure to prioritise. Hope this helps