Dust Fires…
When we think of fires, we probably picture petrol tankers, plastics, wood, & electrical switchboards.
Rarely do we think of DUST as a fire risk! Ask any grain-company or manufacturer of dusty goods & they’ll tell you differently. For example, fires & explosions in grain silos are quite common. When the grain is disturbed or moved, dust is created & in the right mixture with air, it can be every bit as flamable as petrol. Some huge explosions have occurred over the years.
If you want a real example to try (safely). When you’re next sitting around an open campfire, grab a small amount of plain flour & throw it in the air above the flames. If you get the mix right, it will flare up quite impressively!
Here’s an interesting article from the US about a sugar factory that suffered massive damage. The story outlines their actions to make sure it never happens again & reminds us that fire protection, OH&S & good housekeeping go hand in hand. http://www.nfpa.org/publicJournalDetail.asp?categoryID=1965&itemID=46404
