This article provides ways to prevent industrial fires in the workplace.
Industrial fires are to be taken seriously. You can complete several things at your factory or plant to minimize the possibility of an industrial fire. First, you must understand how they usually start and ask, “What are the prevalent causes of industrial fires?” This article provides ways to prevent industrial fires in the workplace.
Be Careful with Hot Work Activities
Hot work is any activity in or out of the workplace with open flames or generating heat or sparks. This may include heat treating, welding, thawing pipes, grinding, brazing, torch cutting, soldering, and more. These hot work activities become hazardous when molten material and sparks travel, burning inflammable dust in other areas. To prevent hot work fires, attempt these tips:
- Clear areas of flammable materials including gases, dust, and liquids.
- Ensure a safety professional is on-site to supervise the work.
- Train personnel on the hazards associated with hot work and ensure they use proper safety equipment.
- Please avoid conducting hot work if possible.
Combustible Fires
Another cause of industrial fires is combustible fires. Combustible fires are dust or fine materials that can possibly catch fire and explode when combined in the air. Sometimes, non-inflammable materials are flammable when mixed with fine particles and air in a particular concentration.
Moreover, combustible dust occurs in two waves. A primary explosion activates particles to become airborne. Then the dust cloud explodes and provokes a secondary blast, more severe than the first. Combustible dust can also deteriorate entire facilities.
Equipment & Machinery Fire Hazards
Inadequately installed, maintained, or incorrectly operated equipment knowingly causes industrial fires. Even machinery that is not seen as a fire hazard can be risky without maintenance. Fortunately, you can prevent industrial fires by training your employees to detect potential risks and what to do if they see one. You can also keep the equipment and machines clean. Remember to prevent machine overheating by following the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance procedures and guidelines.
Electrical Hazard Fires
Lastly, electrical fires are the most prevalent causes of industrial fires and include wiring that is not up to code, exposed, overloaded extension cords, static discharge, etc. A spark from electrical hazards can even ignite combustible dust, liquids, and gases.
You can easily prevent industrial fires by avoiding overloading electrical equipment or circuits, unplugging unused temporary equipment, and following a regular cleaning schedule to ensure hazardous materials are removed from areas that store equipment.
Therefore, you can prevent industrial fires in the workplace by routinely inspecting for dust residues in open and enclosed areas, executing a hazardous dust testing and control program, or using proper dust collection systems.
Commercial and Residential Fire Prevention from Judd Fire Protection
If you want to ensure your home and business are safe throughout the year, trust Judd Fire Protection, LLC. We have over two decades of experience designing, installing, inspecting, and repairing residential and commercial fire protection systems. We serve clients throughout Maryland, Washington, D.C., Virginia, and West Virginia. If you are interested in finding out more about our services and protecting your home and business, call Judd Fire Protection at 410-871-3480. Follow us on Facebook, X, and Pinterest