The risk assessment is an identification and careful examination of the dangerous substances present or liable to be present in the workplace; the work activities involving them; and how they might fail and cause fire,
explosion and similar events that could harm to employees and others. Its purpose is to enable what needs to done to eliminate or reduce the safety risks from dangerous substances as far as is reasonably
practicable.
It should take account of such matters as:
1) the hazardous properties of the substances;
2) the way they are used or stored;
3) the possibility of hazardous explosive atmospheres occurring;
4) all potential ignition sources.
The risk assessment must be carried out regardless of the quantity of dangerous substance present, as it will enable a decision whether existing measures are sufficient or whether any additional controls or
precautions are necessary. As well as assessing the normal activities within the workplace, there is also a need to assess non-routine activities, such as maintenance work, where there is often a higher potential for fire and explosion incidents to occur.
The risk assessment must be carried out recording the risks from fire, explosion and other events arising from dangerous substances, including addressing requirements specified by DSEAR.