Controlling of Major Accident Hazards (COMAH) in Guernsey
The Control of Major Hazards Regulations 2015 (COMAH)
- These Regulations are the enforcing regulation in the United Kingdom and have been adopted in Guernsey by the Health and Safety Executive.
- Under the Health and Safety at Work (General) (Guernsey) Ordinance, 1987, a duty holder must, under:
- Part 1 (1) ensure, "so far as is reasonably practicable, the health, safety and welfare at work of his employees".
- Part 2 (2) ensure, "so far as is reasonably practicable, that persons not in his employment who may be affected thereby are not thereby exposed to risks to their health or safety."
Compliance
- If a duty holder complies with the UK Guidance, we would consider that they had discharged their duty under the Guernsey Ordinance adequately
The Aim of the Regulations
- The aim is to prevent and mitigate the effects on people and the environment of major accidents involving dangerous substances.
How the Regulations Operate
- The Regulations operate on two levels depending on the establishment's status which is divided into two categories, 'Lower Tier' and 'Upper Tier', determined by inventory.
- Lower Tier establishments are required to document a Major Accident Policy which should be signed off by the Managing Director.
- An Upper Tire COMAH establishment is required to produce a full safety report which demonstrates that all necessary measures have been taken to minimise risks posed by the site with regard to the environment and local populations.
