Workplaces & Industries Affected

 

Workplaces should be inspected and tested that handle combustible dusts that are likely to cause dust deflagrations, other fires, or explosions. These dusts include, but are not limited to:

• Metal dust such as aluminum

• Wood dust and magnesium

• Plastic dust & additives

• Coal & other carbon dusts

• Biosolids

• Certain textile materials

• Other organic dust such as sugar, flour, paper, soap, and dried blood

 

Industries that handle combustible dusts include:

• Agriculture

• Food Products

• Chemicals

• Textiles

• Forest & Furniture products

• Metal processing

• Tire & rubber manufacturing plants

• Paper products

• Recycling operations

• Wastewater treatment (metal, paper, and plastic.)

• Pharmaceuticals

• Coal dust in coal handling and processing facilities

Agricultural Products	Metal Dust
Agricultural Dusts	Plastic Dusts
Carbonaceous Dust

 

If your company processes any of these products, there is potential for a “Combustible Dust” Explosion.

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Note: OSHA Standard 29 CFR 1910.269(v)(11)(xii) addresses control of ignition sources at coal handling operations in electric power plants.

The Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) has authority in some areas involving coal crushing and conveying.

See OSHA Instruction CPL 02-01-038 dated June 18, 2003, For additional guidance on authority.