November 28, 2003—The UK Health and Safety Executive (HSE) published on November 12 four approved codes of practice (ACOPs) supporting the Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002 (DSEAR). The four ACOPs are intended to help employers eliminate or reduce fire and explosion risks from dangerous substances. The subjects covered are:
- design of plant, equipment and workplaces;
- storage of dangerous substances;
- control and mitigation measures; and
- safe maintenance, repair and cleaning procedures.
The ACOPs contain updated good practice and effectively replace existing safety legislation on flammable and explosive substances that DSEAR revoked earlier this year. A fifth and overarching ACOP on DSEAR is due to be published in December 2003. General information on DSEAR can be found on the HSE Web site.
All of the ACOPs are available from HSE Books, PO Box 1999, Sudbury, Suffolk, CO10 2WA, tel: 01787-881165. Priced publications are also available from certain bookstores.
