Here are the most frequently asked questions about controlling dangerous dusts in order to maintain a safe work environment.

Dust particles become airborne during indoor metalworking processes like welding and plasma cutting. They also become airborne during the manufacturing and processing of food, chemicals, pharmaceuticals and other dry products. Some of these particles are toxic and/or combustible, so it is important to shield workers, products and expensive equipment from them. Here are the most frequently asked questions about controlling dangerous dusts in order to maintain a safe work environment.

What makes a dust dangerous?

When products are manufactured indoors, small particles often become airborne and have the potential to do serious harm to people, products, equipment and/or facilities. Dusts that are combustible can cause fires and explosions. Other dusts can contain ingredients that are toxic when swallowed or inhaled. Others can cross-contaminate other products that are manufactured in the same facility. When combustible dusts are collected from the air into a dust collection system, the system itself can be a source of combustible dust explosions if not properly protected. Besides being required to do so by OSHA, companies are morally obligated to protect workers from these hazards.

Which industries most often deal with dangerous dusts?

Many industries have combustible dust, but the following are at most risk: metalworking facilities, welding shops, woodworking shops, chemical processors, food manufacturers and pharmaceutical companies that make solid dose products (tablets).

Which agencies regulate dangerous dusts?

OSHA is ultimately responsible for protecting employees from dangerous dusts. However, the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) plays a major role in recommending standards and guidelines for managing combustible dusts. If manufacturers don’t follow these guidelines, they can be fined by OSHA, face legal scrutiny and risk a damaged reputation, not to mention harming their employees.

This article originally appeared in the May 2020 issue of Occupational Health & Safety.

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