Case Studies » Exeter Airport
The Challenge
An external audit of this busy regional airport identified that a DSEAR risk assessment was required for the bulk aviation fuelling facility.
The facility stores and dispenses Avtur for commercial jet aircraft and Avgas for piston engined aircraft.
After discussing the scope of works and likely costs, we were awarded the contract to carry out a DSEAR RA and Hazardous Area Classification for the fuel facility. The site survey visit was carried out in August 2018.
The Solution Provided
The survey looked at the key DSEAR risk areas associated with Avtur and Avgas storage and dispensing, both around the bulk storage farm, and also the mobile fuelling equipment used at the aircraft. Each operation was considered in respect of process risk and potential hazards. The scope of the report provided to the client covered both operational and storage issues for the site.
Handling of hazardous substances at the site is typically within contained vessels and potential for formation of a flammable or explosive mixture in air was considered as potentially a possibility but with good controls applied should not present too many risks. Overall it was seen that process operations were well-stewarded with training delivered and purpose-designed equipment subject to periodic review.
From the survey it was clear that the key DSEAR risks for the site operations were mainly concerned with the dispensing of flammable liquids, and although there were a limited number of other materials these were deemed to present limited risks in respect of DSEAR. Recognised standards and guidance were used in determining the appropriate status and extent of DSEAR hazardous zones for site operations. Significant findings from the survey were set out in the DSEAR report, along with recommendations to mitigate fire and explosion hazards or support best practice on-site.
Hazardous Area Classification applies to those areas where a flammable atmosphere may persist either briefly or for longer periods of time as outlined in the regulations – specifically within confines of equipment or around flammable handling or storage locations. All relevant site issues were considered and a detailed DSEAR report, hazardous zoning plan and series of recommendations was issued to management to ensure sufficient control of DSEAR risks is maintained.
What Exeter Airport said:
Thank you for your help and service, this should keep a few people happy Kind Regards Manager Fuel Services
