(41ad) Case Studies from Dust Hazard Analyses

Dust hazard analyses (DHAs) have been conducted for over 10 years in most industries. The approach and format of these analyses has evolved through the years due to changes in NFPA code as well as recent RAGAGEP from CCPS. The author has reviewed many different DHAs conducted throughout the US and nationally and personally conducted over 100. Presented in the format of case studies, the presenter shares hard-earned lessons learned from her own experience to shed light on some of the pitfalls that can be avoided with proper planning. These lessons learned touch on some of the challenging decisions that are made during the preparation and conduct phases of the DHA. Topics to be addressed include material combustibility, application of worst-case test data, MEC as a basis of safety, mechanical sparks as an ignition source, and choice of risk ranking matrix. The presenter is sharing these lessons learned in hopes of helping others better plan and execute their DHAs to save time and cost by avoiding the same mistakes.