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DSEAR risk assessments · Sector
DSEAR risk assessments for woodworking and dust extraction
Combustible dust is easy to overlook because it settles quietly on surfaces. Disturbed into a cloud and met with an ignition source, it can explode. The assessment looks at where dust is produced, where it collects and how it is removed.
- CharteredAssessments led by a CMIOSH member
- DSEAR assessments onlyNo fire risk work, no training
- Fixed priceAgreed before we attend
- No equipment salesAdvice you can take at face value
What we assess
Where DSEAR applies on a woodworking and dust extraction site
| Area | Substance | Source of release | Typical classification | Typical controls |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Extraction filter unit | Wood dust | Filters and hopper | Zone 21 inside, Zone 22 around | Extraction maintenance, earthing, housekeeping |
| Sanding area | Fine wood dust | Sanding and dust layers | Zone 22 | Local extraction, cleaning regime, dust-tight equipment |
| Dust collection bins | Wood dust | Emptying and transfer | Zone 22 (local) | Emptying procedure, bin location, ignition sources excluded |
| Ductwork | Wood dust | Leaks and dust layers | Zone 22 (local) | Earthing and bonding, inspection and cleaning |
Classification depends on quantities, ventilation and layout. A real report classifies each source on your site.
On site
What we check
- Processes that create dust and how it is captured
- Extraction, filters and collection arrangements
- Dust layers on surfaces, ledges and equipment, and the cleaning regime
- Earthing and bonding of ductwork and equipment
- Ignition sources near dust, including hot surfaces and electrical equipment
Typical clients
Sites we assess in this sector
Large-scale dust handling such as silos, grain, biomass and bulk powder processing is outside our scope.
Coverage
Where we survey woodworking and dust extraction sites
We visit sites across England, Wales and Scotland. These are some of the areas we are asked about most often.
Questions
Before you ask for a quote
Is wood dust really an explosion risk?
Yes. Fine dust suspended in air can ignite and explode. That is why DSEAR covers dust as well as gases and vapours.
What is the difference between Zone 21 and Zone 22?
Zone 21 is where a dust cloud is likely to occur in normal operation. Zone 22 is where it is not likely, and if it does occur it will only persist for a short time. The classification sets the equipment and housekeeping standard.
Get a quote
Tell us what you store and where
A quick call or email is enough to confirm scope and price. It helps if you can send:
- Site address and type of business
- Flammable liquids, gases or dusts you use or store, with rough quantities
- Safety data sheets, if you have them
- A simple layout plan or a few photos
Contact DSEAR Specialists
Ferryhill
DL17 8DQ
Response within one working day.