(244f) Explosible Dusts, US Codes and Standards of Safe Management Practices

Codes and Standards (C&S) are an important method used by industry, legislators and professionals to track and maintain a continuously expanding and changing experience-based database in support of Best Industry Practice(s). In the area of dust fire and explosion safety, several critical documents define the state of the art. In the United States, industry must comply with OSHA's ?General Duty Clause? as well as specific safety directives. In order to comply, it is critical that industries handling and processing explosible dusts be fully aware of Best Industry Practices as described in pertinent dust Codes and Standards, and follow these recommendations. As a direct result of recent dust explosion accidents in the USA, many states will likely codify standards such as the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), ?Standard for the Prevention of Fire and Dust Explosions, from the Manufacturing, Processing and Handling of Combustible Particulate Solids?, NFPA 654. When conducting a preliminary hazard evaluation of a process or operation, it should be considered best practice in American industry to review all applicable codes and standards and ensure compliance as a minimum effort. This paper will review current US codes and standards regarding safe practices and the often-complex chain of connection between those that are legally required and those that are ?Best Practice?.