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Case Studies » Trimite Coatings

The challenge

A visit was made to the new Weilburger Paints (part of Trimite) site at Hayes, Middlesex, at the end of January 2016 to consider compliance with the Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002 (DSEAR). The site’s core business is the manufacture of paints for the commercial and retail sector.

There was significant flammable liquid dispensing and mixing on site, along with a small spray booth operation. There was storage and handling of combustible materials. Additionally, accumulation of some combustible / flammable particulate materials, including waste, needed to be assessed as a DSEAR hazard at the premises.

The solution provided

Around 20 persons are employed on-site associated with manufacture. The key focus of the DSEAR assessment was on Highly Flammable and Flammable - Solvents, finished paints and thinners.

Based upon observations at time of survey, site operations routinely involve hazardous substances as defined under DSEAR. It is important to understand that even a few litres of a flammable liquid may result in a much larger, explosive vapour cloud. Similarly release of vapour that is heavier than air may build up in drains or inspection pits etc. – or travel some distance along the ground to a source of ignition.

The site survey identified and assessed a significant flammable component inventory, plus finished solvent borne paints and thinners. A detailed review of all stages of the site operations, including storage and transfers was completed. Both during the site survey and in the issued report a number of key improvement actions were identified to the management.

A large number of areas and processes required Hazardous Area Classification to be properly defined; and supporting diagrams were included in the report.

A comprehensive and fully compliant DSEAR assessment was provided to the business.