In the past we’ve discussed the importance of making sure ductwork is cleaned and free of any combustible dust accumulations, but it still continues to be an issue since the inside of the ducts are hidden. One manufacturing plant in Tennessee discovered this the hard way when a fire broke out in their exhaust ductwork.
The fire was found to be in the exhaust ducts that ran the entire length of the building, which caused the building to need to be evacuated and power shut off to reduce any additional risks. The source of the fire in ductwork was accumulations of sawdust that had built up in the ductwork and had come into contact with an unknown ignition source.
Firefighters at the scene had to cut holes in the ductwork to reach the flames, and used over 5,000 gallons of water to put it out. One firefighter was injured when a section of the ductwork collapsed on top of him, but he had been treated and released with minor injuries.
Potential losses to the building have been estimated at over $100,000, and employees have to stay on site to watch for potential flare ups from hot spots left from the fire in ductwork.
Do you need help cleaning the combustible dust in ductwork?
Contact a Hughes Environmental representative to learn how we can help you avoid fire & explosion hazards in the workplace.
