Hazard Identification Substance & Ignition Source Mapping
Systematic identification and mapping of every dangerous substance and ignition source on your site. The critical first step in DSEAR compliance — understanding what you have, where it is and what could cause it to ignite.
Hazard Identification Services
Systematic substance and ignition source mapping for your entire facility.
Dangerous Substance Register
Complete inventory of every dangerous substance on site — name, classification, UN number, flash point, LEL/UEL, vapour density, dust explosion characteristics, quantities and locations.
Ignition Source Inventory
Systematic identification of all ignition sources — electrical equipment, static discharge, hot surfaces, mechanical sparks, open flames, vehicles, lightning protection and self-heating.
SDS Review & Analysis
Collection, review and analysis of safety data sheets for every substance. Extraction of DSEAR-relevant data: flash point, auto-ignition temperature, explosive limits, vapour pressure.
Process Flow Analysis
Mapping of how dangerous substances move through your facility — receipt, storage, transfer, processing, packaging, dispatch and waste. Identifies exposure points and release scenarios.
Ventilation Assessment
Assessment of natural and mechanical ventilation in areas where dangerous substances are present. Ventilation effectiveness determines explosive atmosphere formation potential.
Site Hazard Map
Visual representation of substance locations, ignition sources and their proximity on your site plan. Foundation document for ATEX zone classification.
Risk Assessments for Your Sector
Every industry has different hazards. We tailor every assessment to your specific sector and operations.
Factories & Warehousing
Machinery, forklift, racking, noiseTransport & Logistics
Depot safety, loading bays, vehiclesConstruction
CDM, excavations, heights, demolitionSchools & Education
Classrooms, labs, playgrounds, tripsCare & Healthcare
Patient handling, clinical, infectionChemical
Process safety, COSHH, DSEARHospitality
Kitchens, fire, slips, public safetySMEs & Offices
DSE, fire, general workplaceCharities
Events, lone working, volunteersHow We Carry Out a Risk Assessment
Pre-Visit Preparation
We review your site plans, substance inventories, purchasing records and available SDSs before visiting. This ensures we arrive prepared to focus on physical verification.
Site Walk-Through
Systematic physical survey of every area — production, storage, maintenance, labs, loading, waste, offices. We observe operations, inspect labels, check storage and talk to staff.
SDS Collection & Review
We collect or verify SDSs for every dangerous substance found, extract DSEAR-relevant properties and identify any missing or outdated data sheets requiring replacement.
Register & Map
We compile the dangerous substance register and ignition source inventory, mapped against your site plan showing locations, quantities and proximity relationships.
Feed into DSEAR Assessment
The hazard identification outputs feed directly into the DSEAR risk assessment, providing the substance and ignition data needed for explosive atmosphere evaluation and zone classification.
Hazard Identification FAQ
What counts as a dangerous substance under DSEAR?
Any substance that has the potential to create a fire, explosion or similar energetic event. This includes flammable liquids (flash point below 60°C typically), flammable gases, combustible dusts capable of forming explosive clouds, aerosols, oxidising substances and any substance classified as flammable under CLP.
Do you check every area of our site?
Yes. We systematically survey every area — production, storage, maintenance, offices, external areas, waste storage, loading bays and roof plant. Dangerous substances and ignition sources can be found in unexpected locations.
What if we don't have safety data sheets?
We identify missing SDSs during the survey and advise you on obtaining them from manufacturers or suppliers. Current SDSs are a legal requirement under REACH for any hazardous substance. We can help you establish an SDS management system.
Is hazard identification a separate service?
It can be commissioned separately, but it's normally the first phase of a complete DSEAR assessment. The hazard identification provides the data that feeds into explosive atmosphere evaluation, zone classification and control measure assessment.
How long does a hazard identification take?
Depends on site size and complexity. A small workshop might take half a day. A large chemical plant could take several days. We provide time estimates after an initial discussion about your facility.
What about substances brought in by contractors?
We consider contractor-introduced substances as part of the survey — welding gases, cutting fluids, adhesives, cleaning solvents. Your permit-to-work system should control these, and your DSEAR assessment should address them.
How much does hazard identification cost?
Usually part of a complete DSEAR assessment package rather than priced separately. Contact us for a full DSEAR quotation that includes hazard identification.
Need a Hazard Identification Survey?
Get in touch for a free discussion about your facility.