Combustible dusts, according to OSHA, are any combustible solid material composed to distinct particles or pieces, regardless of shape, size or chemical composition that presents a fire or deflagration (exposion) hazard when suspended in air. The National Fire Protection Assoc (NFPA) states that any material that will burn in air as a solid can be explosive in a finely-divided form, and any industrial process that reduces materials into small particles presents a potential for a serious fire or explosion. Facilities that manufacture powders, as well as, those that incidentally generate them through the handling and processing of solid materials are subject to the combustible dust hazard. These materials such as, various metals, wood, plastic, rubber, coal, flour, sugar, and paper. Below are several links that discuss the potential hazards, and prevention of dust explosions.
Sustainable Plant magazine’s June 2012 edition features an in-depth article about the danger of combustible dust.
OSHA Fact Sheet: Hazard Alert: Combustible Dust Explosions
Flexhaust Static Dissipative vaccum hose can be used as prevention measure of dust build up.