In the investigation, Industrial fires can pose significant risks to both property and lives, making it crucial to understand their major causes. The fire can happen at any place and at any time, it is unpredictable. These fires can be ignited by a range of factors, including flammable dust, equipment and machinery failures, hot work activities, electrical hazards, and combustible liquids and gasses.  Preventing industrial fires requires a comprehensive approach that involves proper maintenance, employee training, safety protocols, and fire prevention measures to mitigate these potential hazards effectively. Here are the common causes of industrial fires and How to prevent them:

1. Flammable dust

It is failed to notice and often being neglected but those small particles can be the main reason for fire especially in metalworking, woodworking, pharmaceuticals and just any other industry you can name. Fire from the dust is not easy to be contained.

Typically, a small fire will come when the dust got into contact with an ignition source. However, it is not an issue, the real problem is a big fire can occur as the dust is airborne, if the clouds of dust accumulate, they can ignite, causing explosions.

2. Equipment and machinery

Also, improper installation, operating and maintenance of the furnaces can become a cause of industrial fires.

 

3. Hot work

Hot work is usually related to welding and many other industrial activities; which – produce sparks and molten material. The temperature of this work can reach greater than 1000°F and can be splatter for more than 35 feet. It is a major culprit as the sparks generated can blaze the dust in the surrounding.

4. Electrical hazards

Electrical fires often occur in manufacturing plants. It includes; overloaded outlets and circuits, extension cords, exposed wiring and even static discharge. Any of the reasons mentioned can initiate sparks. Hence, becoming an ignition source for any flammable and combustible items in the surrounding.

5. Combustible liquids and gasses

Chemical and gasses available in the refinery are highly reactive. They need to be handled with the most proper care and training. As they are highly reactive, they can be a catalyst for the fire and worse – severe explosion. Which means, a catastrophe for anyone within proximity.

Industrial fires can cost companies and governments a huge amount of money; not to mention the loss of life which cannot be converted into monetary terms. With all the widespread usage of chemicals in these modern days, we have to accept the unfortunate truth that we have to pay the price.

AITO Firework provides fire safety consultation that will help you to provide solutions for your business.

Email us now to discuss how our fire safety consultants can assist you to follow the regulations to ensure your business is meeting its obligations.