Identifying Dust Explosion Risks – An Overview for Risk Managers

Controlling the risk of dust explosions in the workplace involves an understanding of the specific elements that go into creating a hazardous situation. Risk managers are already familiar with the Fire Triangle, which is the combination of elements that together form the necessary building blocks for fire: an ignition source, oxygen and fuel. However, a dust explosion introduces two other elements into the equation.

OSHA Releases Hazard Communication Guidance for Dust Explosion Risk

Risk managers are often aware of the dangers that excessive dust at a job site or facility can pose to the respiratory health of workers. However, there are other, less obvious dangers also related to dust buildup, which can pose a serious hazard not only to the safety of employees, but also to the integrity of a building itself. Specifically, the single largest of these concerns with regards to dust is the increased risk of explosion that can occur in areas that are most heavily affected by buildup.