The Case for Management Systems in Preventing Combustible Dust Explosions

Warning! This is not a sexy topic. Housekeeping, record retention, and procedures may not excite industry professionals in the same way that the newest engineering controls might, but these are critical and often overlooked pieces of a facility’s Combustible Dust Protection Program. How often does a dust control program exist with well-written procedures, yet the plant floor appears to have seen a powder storm? How many incidents and injuries could be avoided if contractors had the proper training?

This presentation seeks to inform the audience of the required Management Systems which must be in place for safe and compliant operation of a combustible dust handling facility, as described by NFPA 652. This includes Operating Procedures, Housekeeping, Hot Work Permitting, PPE, Inspection and Maintenance, Hazard Awareness Training, Emergency Planning, Incident Investigation, Management of Change, Document Retention, and Employee Participation.

Case studies will illustrate the importance and impact of Management Systems in both positive and negative ways:

• Case Study #1 – How attention to detail and an outstanding Preventative Maintenance reduces the need for Housekeeping and Electrical Classification
• Case Study #2 – The hidden cost of lost documentation and ad hoc process changes when the knowledge walks out the door