Combustible Dust
Combustible dusts are fine particles that can present an explosion hazard when suspended in air in certain concentrations and conditions.
A dust explosion can be catastrophic and result in injuries, death, and property destruction. In many combustible dust accidents, both employers and workers were unaware that a hazard existed. As an employer, you're responsible to know the risks of combustible dust and and take action to prevent dust fires at your worksite.
The five elements comprising the “dust explosion pentagon” are:
- Combustible dust
- An ignition source
- Oxygen
- Dispersion of the dust in a concentration above the lower explosive limit (LEL) and below the upper explosive limit (UEL).
- Containment of the dust cloud within a confined area
Complete the form to download the free Safety Alert in English or Spanish for tips and information about the dangers of combustible dust.
