OSHA Bulletin - Combustible Dust in Industry: Preventing and Mitigating the Effects of Fire and Explosions

Recently the US Chemical Safety Board has called on the Occupational Health and Safety Administration to develop and publish a combustible dust standard that includes coverage for metal dusts by the end of 2012. As of today no such standard exists. OSHA Bulletin labeled "Combustible Dust in Industry: Preventing and Mitigating the Effects of Fire and Explosions" is not a standard or regulation. The purpose of the bulletin is to highlight the hazards associated with combustible dust. Work practices and guidelines that reduce the potential for a combustible dust explosion, or that reduce the danger to employees if such an explosion occurs, and training to protect employees from such hazards.

The bulletin covers accidents that occurred, elements needed for a combustible dust explosion, how to access for combustible dust, dust control, and education of management and employees. It's important to know what OSHA has in place currently and hopefully this will help prevent combustable dust incidents until the standards are released.

You can view the CSB video titled, Combustible Dust: An Insidious Hazard, at http://www.farrapc.com/comply/.

Video: Mining Expert Explains the Cost Comparison of Dust Collector Bags vs. Cartridge Filters in Mining

In this video Dave Stock explores the various factors to consider when making the evaluation between using a traditional baghouse or cartridge filter dust collector in a mining application. He will cover the cost involved in both dust collection options.

Dave starts by answering the frequently asked question about bag filter versus cartridge filter costs. Other comparisons involve the often unforeseen or hidden costs such as filter replacement time, production downtime, lost revenue and energy costs.

For more information on dust collector for mining applications such as moisture concerns and proper sizing, click here.