Dust Wash

The economical solution for combustible dust cleaning.

Combustible Dust Cleaning Needs

Dangers in Industrial Facilities

Combustible dust, especially PRB coal dust, presents a serious combustible dust hazard in industrial facilities, where accumulation on rafters, electrical equipment, and ventilation systems can create dangerous conditions. Over time, layers of dust particles settle on surfaces, forming a dust cloud that can ignite from even a minor ignition source, such as static electricity, a spark, or overheated machinery. If not addressed through regular cleaning, these conditions can escalate into combustible dust incidents, posing risks to both workers and facility infrastructure.

Maintaining workplace safety requires consistent efforts to keep clean surfaces and prevent combustible dust explosions. Effective combustible dust cleaning methods and specialized agents like Dust Wash, help control dust buildup and reduce the likelihood of a dust explosion. By implementing thorough cleaning protocols and following National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and OSHA guidelines, facilities can significantly lower the risks associated with combustible dust hazards and create a safer, more compliant work environment.

5-Gallon Pails

A convenient option for smaller industries and newer Dust Wash users.

55-Gallon Drums

An economical option for more widespread Dust Wash use.

250-Gallon Totes

A premium option for large industries looking for enhanced safety.

275-Gallon Totes

Engineered for facilities that require extensive safety solutions.

The Dangers of Combustible Dust: Lessons from the Imperial Sugar Explosion

The Imperial Sugar explosion in 2008 was a devastating industrial accident caused by combustible dust accumulation at the company’s facility in Port Wentworth, Georgia. Sugar dust, a highly combustible material, had accumulated in confined spaces, including conveyor belts and high surfaces, due to inadequate ventilation systems and poor housekeeping practices. The explosion hazard was exacerbated by an ignition source, which likely originated from overheated equipment or static electricity. The initial dust explosion triggered a series of secondary explosions, fueled by the dust cloud, leading to the destruction of large sections of the production facility. The incident resulted in 14 fatalities, numerous injuries, and severe damage to the plant. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the U.S. Chemical Safety Board (CSB) found that failure to implement combustible dust cleaning practices and safety measures contributed significantly to the disaster.

A proper combustible dust cleaning service, utilizing Dust Wash, could have prevented excessive dust accumulation and reduced the explosion risk. Unlike plain water, Dust Wash safely captures and removes dust without increasing flare-up hazards. Regular cleaning in high surfaces, confined spaces, and around electrical equipment would have minimized fugitive dust and ensured compliance with OSHA regulations.

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Dust Wash vs. Water

A Safer Approach to Combustible Dust Cleaning

In many production facilities, plain water is commonly used for combustible dust cleaning, but it comes with significant risks. When applied to areas with hot spots, water can cause explosive dust flare-ups, putting workers and equipment in danger. Additionally, high-risk areas often have poor drainage, leading to excessive runoff. When too much water collects in confined spaces, such as a silo, it can accelerate spontaneous combustion, increasing the risk of fire and explosion hazards.

Dust Wash offers a safer alternative for regular cleaning in environments where combustible dust safety is a priority. As a combination Encapsulator Agent and Foaming Agent, it effectively captures dust particles and lifts caked-on deposits from surfaces without creating dangerous flare-ups. Unlike water, Dust Wash minimizes runoff, reducing the risk of water pooling in hazardous areas. By incorporating Dust Wash into combustible dust cleaning protocols, production facilities can maintain safer, cleaner environments while mitigating the risks associated with explosive dust.