A new Guidance document, Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations (DSEAR) – Info Sheet 79, has been issued by the Health and Safety Service (December 2025). This document is designed to help schools comply with DSEAR and ensure the safety of staff, students, visitors, and contractors. It also includes a DSEAR Risk Assessment record template.
Who is this guidance for?
- All school leaders, site managers, science and technology staff, and anyone responsible for health and safety in school environments.
- Staff involved in the storage, handling, or use of dangerous substances, including those in science labs, workshops and maintenance of swimming pools.
Key points from the guidance
DSEAR applies to any workplace where dangerous substances could create fire, explosion, or similar hazards. Schools must identify dangerous substances present on site and assess the risks of fire, explosion, or corrosion. Control measures must be implemented to eliminate or reduce risks, including:
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- Reducing quantities of flammable substances.
- Ensuring proper ventilation.
- Using intrinsically safe equipment in hazardous zones.
- Storing chemicals in approved cabinets away from ignition sources.
- Implementing dust control in woodworking and food tech areas.
Emergency planning is required, including procedures for spills, leaks, fires, evacuation, and first aid for chemical exposure. Staff must receive DSEAR awareness training, and pupils should be made aware where relevant. Areas where explosive atmospheres could form must be identified and marked. Schools must maintain up-to-date DSEAR risk assessments, Safety Data Sheets (SDS), and records of staff training and emergency drills.
Where to find the guidance:
Info Sheet 79 is available in the Guidance for Schools section on the Somerset Council Health & Safety website.
Further support:
For additional information, refer to the links provided in the guidance, which include HSE DSEAR Regulations, BCGA Guidance for Gas Cylinders, and Swim England Chemical Storage Guidance.
