Case Studies » Ariens
The Challenge
A visit was made to Ariens (Countax), Oxfordshire in April 2017 to consider compliance in respect of the Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002 (DSEAR). The Great Haseley site is an established manufacturing facility producing garden tractors and ride-on lawnmowers for a range of clients. The DSEAR focus was primarily upon arrangements for flammable substances that may arise in the operation of purpose-designed process facilities used for manufacturing of these vehicles. Other specific areas included potential sources of fuel, flammable storage and other site service arrangements.
The business had been requested to organise a DSEAR risk assessment as part of an insurance audit.
The solution provided
A range of processes involve the use of flammable and non-flammable gases and liquids, and also have the potential to generate combustible / flammable dusts.
A full detailed analysis of the site operations was undertaken to determine where any potential DSEAR risks existed; this was clearly laid out in a comprehensive structured report format. The review looked at current operational practices and the control measures being applied, and procedures the business was working to.
From the above, Hazardous Area Classification was confirmed and HAC diagrams provided to pictorially show the extent of the zones to be applied. Matrix Risk Assessment was carried out, highlighting relevant controls to reduce both severity and frequency of the risk scenarios.
From this a referenced table of recommendations were clearly laid out for the business to follow; these were prioritised to guide the business towards demonstrating a path to reduce risk as low as reasonably practicable (ALARP) while working towards full DSEAR compliance.
