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Case Studies » Culture Coventry

The challenge

A visit was made to two of Culture Coventry’s sites; Coventry Transport Museum, and Herbert Art Gallery & Museum, on 8th December 2015 to consider compliance with the Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002 (DSEAR). Both sites are located in Coventry city centre. Coventry Transport Museum is home to the world’s largest collection of British road transport, including the two fastest cars in the world. The award-winning Herbert Art Gallery & Museum celebrates the city’s culture, history and arts.

It was found that routine operations involve potentially-hazardous substances being handled in quite complex processes and phases. Some of the key areas of focus included:

  • Safely preserving motor vehicles and draining their fuel systems prior to displaying as exhibits
  • Motor vehicle restoration and repair operations within the workshop and other areas requiring evaluation for risk from fire and explosion.

The solution provided

Given that complete eradication of flammable material is inappropriate for site operations, the basis of safety within the Hazardous Areas requires: • Regular cleaning and waste removal (housekeeping) regime; • Adequate containment and separation arrangements; • Avoidance of ignition sources; • Adequate ventilation.

These four areas were reviewed in detail and it was found that overall, there was mixed evidence of good manufacturing practice and management controls. Each area of the site operations were analysed in detail and advice provided to management on opportunities to introduce improvements.

Additionally Hazardous Area Classification was recorded for those areas where a flammable atmosphere may persist either briefly or for longer periods of time as outlined in the regulations – specifically those associated with extensive solvent handling and processing on site.

A detailed report was provided to management to cover the points above and a risk-based approach was adopted to assist in evaluation of hazardous zone classification in line with DSEAR principles and industry practice.

Further remote support has been provided in respect of translating report recommendations into practical assistance.