Our client, a leading educational institution in the UK, began the design, production, and testing of a novel process to assess conditions and materials for carbon capture and storage applications. This process involved the use of flammable and potentially explosive gases under high temperatures and pressures. Adding complexity, the testing equipment was located within a laboratory in a busy campus building, presenting unique safety and operational challenges.
We recommended a Hazard and Operability Study (HAZOP) combined with a Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations (DSEAR) assessment to evaluate the most current process design. This approach allowed the client to identify and understand risks associated with the process, alongside operability issues that could impede the research project.
Through the HAZOP, we uncovered critical risks to personnel, equipment, and the environment, enabling targeted mitigation strategies. The DSEAR assessment pinpointed potential leak sources for flammable gases capable of creating explosive atmospheres. It also highlighted the need for ATEX-compliant equipment to control potential ignition sources in key areas. Additionally, the DSEAR assessment underscored the importance of both process and organisational control measures to protect staff from risks posed by the innovative process.
We recommended a Hazard and Operability Study (HAZOP) combined with a Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations (DSEAR) assessment to evaluate the most current process design. This approach allowed the client to identify and understand risks associated with the process, alongside operability issues that could impede the research project.
Through the HAZOP, we uncovered critical risks to personnel, equipment, and the environment, enabling targeted mitigation strategies. The DSEAR assessment pinpointed potential leak sources for flammable gases capable of creating explosive atmospheres. It also highlighted the need for ATEX-compliant equipment to control potential ignition sources in key areas. Additionally, the DSEAR assessment underscored the importance of both process and organisational control measures to protect staff from risks posed by the innovative process.
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