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Have your say on dangerous substances in harbour areas regulations

The Health and Safety Executive has launched a consultation on proposals to replace the Dangerous Substances in Harbour Areas Regulations 1987 (DSHAR) with new, concise and more up to date regulations.

The consultation, which began on 28th October and closes on 23rd December 2015, also seeks views on a new shorter Approved Code of Practice (ACOP) to support the regulations.

“The proposals are intended to retain existing levels of health and safety protection in relation to dangerous substances in harbour areas in Great Britain,” explains the HSE.

Should the proposed regulations come into force, they will be re-named the ‘Dangerous Goods in Harbour Areas Regulations’.

A review of DSHAR was undertaken in response to the HSE’s ‘Red Tape Challenge’ to simplify the health and safety regulatory framework. “The review,” says the Regulator, “has also been undertaken because developments in other areas mean that aspects of the existing regulations are now out of date.”

Who will the proposals affect?

The proposals are relevant to anyone involved in the transport, storage or handling of dangerous substances or goods in harbours and ports. This could include harbour authorities, stevedores, masters of vessels and their agents, hauliers or rail operators, as well as those who employ or represent such people.

In addition, the proposals are relevant to anyone involved in loading or unloading explosives anywhere on the coast of Great Britain or in territorial waters.

View the consultative document PDF

How can I have my say?

This consultation began on 28th October 2015 and you have until 23rd December 2015 to have your say. Doing so is easy. Simply respond to the HSE’s consultation using their online questionnaire or download a Word document form to complete.

Responses should be sent by 23rd December 2015 to:

DSHAR review team
Health and Safety Executive
5S.3.18 Redgrave Court
Merton Road
Bootle
Merseyside
L20 7HS

Email: DSHARreview@hse.gsi.gov.uk

For more information, visit the HSE’s website