Combustible dust concerns

We received a few questions from a smaller shop about the proposed new regulations on combustible dust. One was whether small shops need HEPA or better filtration to meet airborne dust limits. What kind of explosion protection is needed for small one- or two-bag standalone collectors? And what kind of vacuum cleaners are approved for workworkers? Even a small "explosion proof" unit reportedly cost $5,000. And all the past cases on OSHA's list seem to be larger companies. Are there cases of dust explosions in smaller shops?

Does anyone have a comment on these questions? Speaking of comments, OSHA is planning another hearing on the subject, in Atlanta on Feb. 17.

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Comment by Karl Forth on March 10, 2010 at 2:07pm: Jon, thanks for the information.

Comment by Jon Barrett on March 8, 2010 at 8:36pm: Maintenance Matters_Layout 1 103009.pdfKarl,
Those are some of the basics, of working with Combustible Wood Dust. Static electricity, is a known cause, to spark an explosion as well. The basic philosophy is if you see the dust, it needs to be cleaned. This will also increase lighting, decrease wear and tear on equipment, decrease utilities, and possibly stabilize insurance rates. This will allow a greater return on investment for the manufacturer, and keep costs low for the customers. See my attached Published Article on some other safety tips.

Jon Barrett
Business Development Specialist
Interior Maintenance Company, Inc.- Providing Safe and Green Cleaning Services For Your Facility!
Cell# 267-886-7903 or # 800-220-6547 Fax# 610-626-8860
Visit us at http://www.imc.cc/
Specialists in Federal, Industrial, and Commercial Air Duct Cleaning, High Surface cleaning, Dust Collector Cleaning, Combustible Dust Cleaning, Laboratory Hood and Vent Cleaning, Kitchen Hood Exhaust cleaning, Grease Trap cleaning, Dry Ice Blasting, Dryer Vent Cleaning, Fire and Smoke Damage Restoration, Trash Chute cleaning, Dumpster/Container cleaning, Conveyor Belt Cleaning, Environmental Decontamination, Microbial Remediation, Building Maintenance and Indoor Air Quality Monitoring, Janitorial Cleaning, Dry Vapor Steam Cleaning and Sanitizing, Gum Removal, Graffiti Removal, and Specialty Anti-Microbial painting

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