Case Studies » Clover Chemicals
The challenge
A visit was made to the Whaley Bridge site of Clover Chemicals to consider compliance in respect of the Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002 (DSEAR). The DSEAR regulations came into force in the UK in 2003 and adopt a risk-based approach to protect personnel against fire and explosion hazard.
We met with site management who described processes and procedures used and guided us around the site.
The site produces a range of vehicle and general cleaning products, some containing soaps. There are no chemical reactions using flammable materials. The only reactions are aqueous neutralisations to make soaps. The lowest flashpoint product is screenwash with isopropyl alcohol in maximum package sizes of 5 litres.
DSEAR focus for this assessment was the receipt, storage, transfer and mixing of raw materials and utilities required to support manufacturing.
The solution provided
An assessment of compliance with the DSEAR regulations 2002 was carried and overall risk deemed acceptable, when some actions related to explosion protection and procedures are implemented.
These actions included areas such as:
- A review of site earthing controls
- Implemetation of hazardous area classifications identified in the report
- Improvements to control static
- A review of procedures and training
- Signage and other procedural controls.
The above were clearly laid out in a detailed report for management to implement improvements in line with the priorities identified in the action plan.
