Fire Safety / DSEAR Specialist (Contract)
Somerset (On-site, 5 days per week)
Contract until December 2026
Up to £520 per day, DOE
About the Role
We are recruiting for an experienced DSEAR Specialist to join a major, high-profile infrastructure project in the UK.
This is a key role supporting the safe management of dangerous substances and explosive atmospheres across a large and complex construction site. You will act as the Subject Matter Expert (SME), ensuring compliance with DSEAR 2002 and helping drive a strong safety culture across multiple contractors and stakeholders.
Key Responsibilities
* Provide expert advice on DSEAR compliance to project teams and contractors
* Conduct, review, and approve DSEAR risk assessments
* Identify fire and explosion risks and implement effective control measures
* Support development and implementation of DSEAR policies and procedures
* Ensure compliance with relevant regulations, standards, and best practice
* Review contractor assessments and ensure consistency across site
* Support incident investigations related to fire and explosion hazards
* Promote DSEAR awareness and a positive safety culture
* Liaise with regulators and provide assurance on compliance arrangements
Requirements
* Strong knowledge of DSEAR 2002, ATEX Directives, and relevant guidance
* Proven experience carrying out DSEAR assessments and hazardous area classification
* Understanding of explosion risks, ignition sources, and hazardous substances
* Ability to interpret technical/engineering drawings
* Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
* Excellent communication skills, with the ability to explain technical concepts clearly
Desirable
* Degree in Engineering, Fire Safety, Process Safety, Chemistry, or similar
* CompEx (Ex12 / Ex14) or NEBOSH Fire / Process Safety qualification
* Experience in high-risk industries (e.g. construction, manufacturing, energy, COMAH sites)
* Experience auditing Ex-rated equipment
What You’ll Bring
* A proactive, safety-first mindset
* Strong attention to detail and risk awareness
* Ability to work collaboratively across multiple teams
* Confidence influencing stakeholders at all levels