What is Combustible Dust

Combustible dust is a particle that can explode in the air under the wrong conditions. A combustible dust explosion can be disastrous and cause severe injuries or death. It is imperative that these hazards be detected, and controls implemented to avoid serious consequences. Combustible dust can consist of flammable particles including but not limited to:

• Grains
• Sugars
• Charcoal
• Aluminum
• Wood Dust
• Rubber
• Chemicals

 

Why is FR clothing essential protection in a combustible dust event?

Flame Resistant (FR) and Arc-Rated (AR) garments can be the difference between going to the hospital with debilitating injuries and going home with only minor injuries or burns. FR clothing keeps industrial employees safe and helps to ensure their future wellbeing and employability.

 

What does the standard say about FR clothing for combustible dust hazards?

NFPA 652 is The Standard on the Fundamentals of Combustible Dust. It provides the general requirements for managing combustible dust fire or explosion hazards. The standard states that when FR clothing is required, it must comply with the requirements of NFPA 2112 and be selected, procured, inspected, worn, and maintained in accordance with NFPA 2113.

 

NFPA 652 Information

Some requirements include:

• N 8.6.1.1* An assessment of workplace hazards shall be conducted as described in NFPA® 2113.

• N 8.6.1.2 When the assessment in 8.6.1.1 has determined that flame-resistant garments are needed, personnel shall be provided with and wear flame-resistant garments.

• N 8.6.1.3* When flame-resistant clothing is required for protecting personnel from flash fires, it shall comply with the requirements of NFPA® 2112.

• N 8.6.1.5 Flame-resistant garments shall be selected, procured, inspected, worn and maintained in accordance with NFPA® 2113.
  
  
• N 8.6.1.6* The employer shall implement a policy regarding care, cleaning and maintenance for flame-resistant garments.
  
  
• N 8.6.2.1* When required by 8.6.1.2, flame-resistant or non-melting undergarments shall be used.
  
  
• N 8.6.2.2* When determined by 8.6.1.1 that flame-resistant garments are needed, only flame-resistant outerwear shall be worn over flame-resistant daily wear.

Learn more about the requirements of NFPA 652

  

The Benefits of FR Workwear and Protective Gear

FR workwear can mitigate the dangers of fires and explosions. The risks of flash fires and explosions are present in many industrial settings. Having the proper safety procedures in place and wearing the correct workwear can significantly reduce the risk of injury and death. FR workwear can give workers time to escape a fire or explosion and decreases the chance of 2nd-degree and 3rd-degree burns. When it to comes to saving lives, no safety procedure or regulation is too great. Following these procedures and using the proper protective equipment can make all the difference if an incident occurs.