Issue link: http://palletcentral.uberflip.com/i/1161332
28 PalletCentral • July-August 2019 palletcentral.com • Never permit blow-down of accumulated dust with compressed air. Blowing dust with compressed air will create the very type of dust cloud that presents the greatest explosion hazard. • Provide continuous local exhaust ventilation on all woodworking machines. The local exhaust systems must have a suitable collector. Dust collection systems must be located outside the building, unless the exceptions described in NFPA standards are met. • Segregate combustible and flammable materials such as lumber stock and chemical solvents from each other and from ignition sources. • Ensure that you use equipment with a hazard classification appropriately rated for your work environment. The primary method of controlling wood dust is with LEV, and for these systems to provide maximum protection, they must be properly maintained. Check and clean ducts and dust collectors at regular intervals. Inspect ducts to ensure that they are not loose, broken, or damaged. Check the belt-driven exhaust fans for slippage or breakage. Make sure the duct velocity is maintained at a minimum of 2,500 to 4,000 feet per minute to effectively remove light, dry saw dust, heavy wood chips, and green shavings, and to prevent these from plugging the system. The information contained in this article was provided by OSHA. For more information, visit www.osha.gov, and sign-up for their free online newsletter, OSHA's Quick Takes, for the latest news about enforcement actions, rulemaking, outreach activities, compliance assistance, and training and educational resources. PC INDUSTRY