Case Studies » Baxter Healthcare
The challenge
A visit was made to Baxter Healthcare Limited site at Thetford, Norfolk, on 1st October 2015 to consider compliance with the Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002 (DSEAR).
They are the manufacturer of some of the leading brands in the intravenous patient care systems on the market.
Routine operations involve potentially-hazardous substances that involve quite complex processes and phases. The site stores and uses a range of flammable gases and solvents; these are used primarily within laboratory operations.
The solution provided
A detailed review of all site operations, including storage facilities was completed and a wide range of observations were made associated to both physical and procedural controls.
This included Hazardous Area Classification which is required where there may be a flammable atmosphere present during normal site operations that may be ignited. A defined process is used to identify concentrations of flammable gas, vapour, mist or dust that are likely to occur as a hazardous substance release in foreseeable circumstances.
The process includes consideration of control measures associated with relevant storage and workplace areas, as part of a formal risk assessment, to help in determining the category of equipment and any additional control measures for safe operation in these hazardous areas.
A detailed report was provided to Baxter personnel for comment and from which minor adjustments were made before final issue of the report during the second week of October. The report included clear guidance on hazardous area classification and an action plan for management to work with.
What Baxter Healthcare said:
The service provided was very responsive and professional, with the site survey completed by knowledgeable and friendly consultants who clearly explained the process and provided practical on the spot guidance and recommendations in a manner that was meaningful and relevant. The report was received promptly and accurately with any queries clarified and followed up to ensure our expectations were met. An overall very satisfactory service that I would highly recommend Thanks, Lynn EHS Manager- UK Pharmacy