One category of combustible dust is grain dust. Grain dust can be found in grain handling and grain storing facilities. An example of grain dust is dust from wheat, oats, barley etc.

In order for an explosion to occur, three factors must be present: fuel, ignition source and oxygen. In many work environments, combustible dust may act as the fuel that causes explosions.

Dust may be a potential explosion hazard. While dust can cause visibility issues, slippery surfaces and health problems like respiratory difficulties, it can also be the source of explosions.

One of the main sources of fires and explosions is combustible dust. Combustible dust is very dangerous and can come from many different materials. These materials, in their solid forms, can be dangerous if ignited, but in a dust form, they are extremely combustible.

Class/Division of Hazardous Locations

There are products created for specific classes/divisions of work areas. It is, therefore, crucial to have a thorough understanding of the Class/Division system.

Area Classification

GOVERNMENT REGULATIONS FOR EXPLOSION PROOF/ DUST IGNITION PROOF VACUUMS

The Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) has announced random inspections along with the reissue of their National Emphasis Program (NEP) on Combustible Dust.

Once all the combustible dust hazards and locations are identified, it is time to discuss protection and prevention of harmful events that may occur.

Dust Control

Ignition Control

Damage Control

Employers must conduct a hazard assessment of their facilities for combustible dust explosion hazards. They should identify the following:

There are three essential elements that must be present in order to start a fire and for a combustible dust explosion to occur.  These three elements are known as the “fire triangle”; if one of these elements is missing, a fire will not occur.

Picking the right explosion-proof vacuum, grounded vacuum or anti-static vacuum?