Believe it or not, dust can pose a fire hazard in the workplace, and many employers are unaware of the potential explosive situation. Dust is more than a housekeeping issue.
Any combustible material (and some materials not normally considered combustible) can burn rapidly when in a finely divided, dust-like form. When suspended in air in the right concentration, especially in a confined or semi-confined vessel, area, or building, it can become explosive. Add oxygen, and an ignition source is all that is needed for an explosion to occur.
The force from such explosions can be deadly, and destroy entire buildings. In many combustible dust accidents, employers and workers were unaware that a hazard even existed.
Some of the industries that could have a combustible dust hazard include:
According to the National Fire Protection Association, "Any industrial process that reduces a combustible material and some normally noncombustible materials to a finely divided state presents a potential for a serious fire or explosion."
An initial or primary dust explosion can lead to one or more secondary dust explosions within a facility. This occurs when the first dust explosion in the processing equipment or vessel ruptures the enclosure and ignites nearby settled dust.
Urge your employers to identify and control dust explosion hazards to prevent serious injuries and costly damage. State Fund safety professionals are available to help your clients implement methods for reducing their risk of combustible dust explosions and fire. Contact your nearest regional office for more information.
For additional information, visit the OSHA Combustible Dust Safety and Health page:
http://www.osha.gov/dsg/combustibledust/index.html
