What is ​Control of Major Accident Hazards (COMAH)?

​Control of Major Accident Hazards (COMAH) is the Irish transposition of the EU Seveso III Directive.

COMAH regulations lay down rules to prevent major accidents involving dangerous substances. They also seek to limit the consequences for human health and the environment of these accidents, as far as possible.

The overall objective is to provide a high level of protection in a consistent and effective manner.  COMAH regulations can apply across many different sectors, including

  • LPG
  • Power generation
  • Fuel storage
  • Pharmachem
  • Fertilisers
  • Warehousing

The regulations set out the duties imposed on operators of COMAH establishments. The Health and Safety Authority is the competent authority for the COMAH Regulations. Find further information on their website or by emailing comah@hsa.ie.

When do I need it?

The Chemicals Act (Control of Major Accident Hazards involving Dangerous Substances) Regulations 2015 (S.I. No. 209 of 2015 ) (the “COMAH Regulations”), implement the Seveso III Directive (2012/18/EU) in Ireland.

COMAH Regulations apply to any establishment that presents a major accident hazard because of the presence of dangerous substances in quantities that exceed specified thresholds.

Issuing body

Health and Safety Authority

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