Advances in Layers of Protection for Combustible Dust Hazards

Often considered as two separate scenarios, combustible dust fires and explosions can often be related. Layers of protection are a benefit in the mitigation of both of the potential hazards presented by combustible dust. New solutions in the last few years for hazard assessment, prevention systems, and mitigation systems have helped create new layered approaches to combustible dust. Dust hazard analysis are the starting point with more elaborate alternatives to prescriptive approaches like risk-based analysis. New test protocols for quick water mist suppression systems have provided an improved layer to the traditional fire protection solution for combustible hazards in process equipment. Intelligent and connected mitigation equipment now provides improved reaction times, the ability to remotely monitor, and more reliable communication networks between components.

This presentation will examine the layers of mitigation protection for both fire and explosion hazards. Specifically, it will discuss how these layers relate and when designed together can provide a higher level of safety. Factors such as reliability (SIL), hazard assessment methodology, intelligent “smart” mitigation solutions, the impact of human error, and active vs passive safeguards will be discussed. A case study of a process area will be walked through during the presentation to show how layers of mitigation protection for both combustible dust fire and explosion hazards can improve safety.