Do You Need a DSEAR Risk Assessment for Your Business

Workplace safety is not always about what you can see.

Many risks are less obvious, particularly where flammable substances, vapours or dust are present. These can create potentially explosive atmospheres that, if not properly managed, put your people, premises and operations at risk.

The Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations (DSEAR) are in place to help businesses manage these risks safely and responsibly.

This guide explains what DSEAR is, whether it applies to your business, and how you can take practical steps to stay compliant.

What Is a DSEAR Risk Assessment

A DSEAR Risk Assessment is a structured review of your workplace to identify and control risks from dangerous substances that could cause fire or explosion.

It looks at how substances are stored, used and handled, and whether they could create an explosive atmosphere. From there, it sets out clear steps to reduce risk and protect your workforce.

For many businesses, this is not just about compliance. It is about preventing incidents that could lead to serious disruption, damage or harm.

Does Your Business Need a DSEAR Assessment

If your business uses or stores certain substances or carries out specific activities, a DSEAR assessment is likely to be required.

This includes:

• Solvents, paints and varnishes 
• Flammable gases 
• Dust from machining, sanding or food production 
• Pressurised gases 
• Substances corrosive to metal 
• Processes such as spraying, grinding or welding 
• Battery charging areas, particularly lithium-ion batteries 

These risks are often present in manufacturing, warehousing, automotive, construction and food environments, but they can also apply to smaller businesses.

If you are unsure whether DSEAR applies to you, it is always worth reviewing your operations or speaking to a specialist.

Does Diesel Need to Be Included?

Yes. Diesel is now classified as a flammable liquid and must be considered under DSEAR.

If your business stores or uses diesel, even in smaller quantities, it should be included within your risk assessment.

What Happens During a DSEAR Risk Assessment

A DSEAR assessment should be practical, thorough and tailored to how your business operates.

Our Risk Solutions team will:

Review your site and processes
We carry out a full site visit and speak with key team members to understand how your business works day to day.

Identify hazardous substances
We assess liquids, gases, vapours, dust and fumes that could create a risk.

Assess explosive atmospheres
We identify where ignition could occur and what the potential impact could be.

Classify hazardous areas
We create zoning plans to clearly define risk areas.

Provide clear actions and support
You will receive practical guidance, written procedures and support to help you implement improvements and remain compliant.

What About ATEX?

ATEX regulations apply to equipment and environments where explosive atmospheres may be present.

A DSEAR Risk Assessment provides the foundation for ATEX compliance by identifying hazardous zones and ensuring the right controls and equipment are in place.

We can also support with ATEX inspections in line with BS EN 60079, helping you confirm that equipment is suitable and correctly installed.

Training to Support Compliance

DSEAR is not just about documentation. It is about making sure your team understands the risks and knows how to work safely.

We offer training for all levels of responsibility, including:

• Employee DSEAR Awareness 
• Line Manager and Responsible Person Training
• DSEAR Coordinator Training 

If you are building or reviewing your DSEAR arrangements, training is an important step in making sure controls are followed in practice.

Why Acting Now Matters

DSEAR risks are often part of everyday operations, which means they can be easy to overlook.

Taking a proactive approach helps you:

• Reduce the risk of fire or explosion 
• Protect your employees and premises 
• Meet your legal responsibilities 
• Demonstrate strong risk management to insurers 

Most importantly, it gives you confidence that your workplace is safe and well managed.

How We Can Help

Understanding DSEAR requirements can feel complex, but it does not have to be.

We work with businesses of all sizes to assess risks, implement practical controls and provide ongoing support. Whether you need a full DSEAR Risk Assessment, training or advice, we will guide you through the process in a clear and manageable way.

If you would like to discuss your requirements or find out whether DSEAR applies to your business, our team is here to help.

Contact our Risk Solutions team:
 risksolutions@skaltd.co.uk
 01427 420 404