DSEAR Regs applicability

[eddy orr]

Could anyone advise on wether or not the DSEAR regulations are applicable to a machinery space in which there is a pressurised hydraulic system (around 200 bar).  The system has mechanical couplings which could leak to produce a  fine mist. The hydraulic oil used is classed as highly flammable (no further details on the flammability, at present). Any precedents, past experience of like scearios would be gratefuly appreciated. Thanks

[colin todd]

You sure the hydraulic oil is highly flammable? Whats its flashpoint.

[SaxonX]

Eddy, If the hydraulic oil is classed as a dangerous substance or if it becomes dangerous through use - i.e. when ejected as an aerosol it's flammability is increased it will be subject to DSEAR.

I'm not sure though as to how far an enforcing authority (in this case the HSE) would/should go in putting control measures in place for "what if" scenarios - I guess it will depend on the potential for injury in each case?

[Paul]

Eddy,

I guess that given it is only ever likely to form an explosive atmosphere when an uncrotrolled release occurs, and as SaxonX says, becomes an aerosol, then you could classify the localised area a zone 2, under DSEAR, but this may require that other equipment in that loacised area needs to be at least of an IP 4 or 5 rating, obviously a very costly exercise!!

Personally I believe that if taken as read, the DSEAR regs can be a little misleading, for example, would you classify a small highstreet bakery as a Zone 21 or 22??  this would propably put most of them out of business, I think not!!  However if you take the guidance word for word then youy clearly would, and I think the HSE are now starting to appreciate this type of scenario.
Hope this helps

Paul

[eddy orr]

Thanks for the replies very helpful,
Will carry out a RA, identifying potential harm and frequency of occurence If tolerable will record findings, if not, Ill try to mitigate the risk to a tolerable level, if I can't I'll have to classify the area as a zone 2 or 22.

[Paul]

Eddy,

Zone 22 is only applicable for Dusts.