A methodology for the assessment of dust explosion risks: Integration into a generic assessment system.

Risk management covers the whole business process and has been the subject of numerous publications. This paper covers one critical part of the risk management process, namely the control of hazards specific to the manufacture and handling of chemicals. In particular it discusses the integration of a method for assessing the risks from dust explosions with an existing system that examines chemical reaction hazards. This revision to the original system also allows the assessment of vapour phase explosions, powder handling hazards & occupational hygiene hazards to be performed. COMPASS (Computerised Process Assessment Safety System)(1) was originally conceived to assess only the thermal hazards and risks from chemical reactions. However, the use of a common system based on the properties of materials in combination with defined operations & plant, allows assessment of a wider range of hazards. Methods were available in house for the assessment of risk with the exception of those from dust explosions. A new method was developed for the safe, rapid and cost effective assessment of potential dust explosions for integration into COMPASS. The approach which has been adopted is similar to that used in the Laporte "Vapour Phase Explosion" guide(2). The integration of this methodology into the company systems has resulted in common high standards, guides and codes of practice at all manufacturing sites. The approach enhances awareness of the hazards and the tolerable residual risk results in cost-effective controls. The methodology outlined in this paper was developed for Laporte, and specifically for the fine chemicals group. During the first half of 2001, Laporte was purchased by Degussa.