machine or group of machines,” explains Schaffer. “A secondary explosion, which is what occurred in our example discussed earlier, is when dust has accumulated on a variety of surfaces throughout a location. Typically, these explosions are worse and are harder to prevent because the com-bustible material, the dust, is not confined to one area.” Prevention Protocol Professor Bill Kauffman of the University of Michigan is considered an expert on dust explosions. He says there is only one way to prevent dust explosions: Remove the dust. This is why cleaning and maintenance is so important and why our industry can play a key role in helping to prevent dust explo-sions. But, we must be careful because it some-times is the actual cleaning and mainte-nance that can help trigger dust explosions. This is because floor areas in an industri-al facility are typically swept to remove dust and debris. Of course, in sweeping, a certain amount of the dust becomes airborne and can accumulate and contribute to a secondary explosion. Schaffer says a better option would be to use a new generation of wet/dry vacuum cleaners with large squeegee-type wand attachments designed specifically for industrial locations. “These machines can vacuum up and remove sawdust, cement dust and wood and manufacturing dust — as well as heavy debris and liquids when called upon,” notes Schaffer. Some systems are designed with front wheel canisters and large rear wheels to make transport in a large facility easier. “If possible, the units should have an external filter, which is much easier to access, clean or change, and a mounted tool caddy for optional tools, attachments and other cleaning supplies,” adds Schaffer. “The vacuuming option can remove the dust while keeping it from becoming airborne, effectively removing it from the floors, the largest area in the plant.” Other housekeeping steps Schaffer recommends include inspecting and clean-ing high and low areas throughout the plant. Further, plant managers must take steps to keep dust away from ignition sources — often electrical devices. Dust-tight enclosures and other types of devices are available that help seal electri-cal connections, helping to prevent ignition. “Finally, managers must conduct work-force training and education programs for all workers, instructing them on how dust explosions occur,” Schaffer says. “This way, they are more aware of the problem and of steps they can take to prevent explo-sions.” CM Dawn Shoemaker is a freelance writer for the pro-fessional cleaning and building industries. Circle Product Information no. 254 on page 32 Circle Product Information no. 204 on page 32 www.cmmonline.com 41
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