Fire and Explosions in Industries-How to Prevent Them

What are the causes of fire and explosion in industries

Fire safety experts consider fire and explosion incidents common in factories. The main causes of fire and explosion incidents in factories are: 

1. Combustible dust: In industries, due to the process, there may be many dust particles suspended. Some dust particles may be combustible, making the industry prone to fire and explosion. These combustible dust particles burn, causing fires and explosions. Fire safety consultants recommend implementing small steps in the daily routine to avoid such incidents.
1. A proper and regular housekeeping
2. By creating a process to collect combustible dust safely.
   
3. By training the workers on the hazards and safety procedures.
   
2. Hot work: Welding, torch cutting, brazing, burning, and heating come under hot work. The temperature of the fire sparks and the heated or molten material may become high to ignite a fire. Some steps that are recommended to avoid such fires are:
1. Insist on permit while doing hot work.
2. Have a supervisor for hot work at all times.
3. Proper housekeeping is essential.
4. Training the workers to avoid fire incidents and safety procedures. 
3. Flammable gases and liquids: Certain liquids have a higher chance of catching fire. The person handling such materials has to be trained in safe storage and handling. The datasheet of the material should be available on the container. The workers must use protective gear while handling such materials. The fire safety system designed by fire safety consultants must be in place. 
4. Equipment and machinery: Improperly installed or poorly maintained machines can cause a fire. Awareness regarding fire hazards goes a long way in preventing such incidents. 
5. Electrical Hazards: Fires due to electrical hazards are common, like exposed wiring and circuit overloading. Some steps to prevent fire incidents are: 
1. A proper design for the electrical installation. 
2. Unplug unused equipment
3. Anti-static equipment use is recommended
   

How to prevent fire incidents in industries? 

Fire Consultants follow the following steps to ensure the prevention of fire incidents.

1. Fire Hazard Study: The fire hazard study involves analyzing the process, area allocation, and risks involved. The study suggests the possible locations of fire incidents and ways to mitigate the risks. 
2. Design: An optimized and holistic design considers all the project requirements. Additionally, all fire safety measures are also included. 
3. Proper Fire protection system: An appropriate fire protection system ensures that fire incidents do not happen. In case a fire incident occurs, systems are in place for the safety of the occupants. Strategically located signages guide the occupants to a nearby collection point.  
4. Workforce Training: The factory workers must be trained in handling fire incidents and trained for general safety and specific training for the area specific to their work. 
5. Proper Housekeeping: Proper housekeeping is an easy way to prevent fire incidents
6. Regular Maintenance of equipment: Well-maintained equipment reduces the chances of fire incidents.
   

Conclusion: 

Fire safety consultants have to work with the architects and consultants in the project to ensure the safety of life and property. Typically, fire safety consultants recommend a combination of active and passive fire safety systems to cover industry fire hazards.