
Control measure
Cordon control: Combustible dust
TRAINING SPECIFICATION
Knowledge and understanding
Control measure element | Learning outcome |
---|---|
Recognise the involvement of dangerous substances that may cause dust explosions and implement appropriate cordons |
Understand:
Refer to – Establish appropriate cordon controls – Incident command training specification |
Practical application
Control measure element | Learning outcome |
---|---|
Recognise the involvement of dangerous substances that may cause dust explosions and implement appropriate cordons |
Demonstrate the ability to:
Refer to – Establish appropriate cordon controls – Incident command training specification |
Control measure knowledge
Combustible dusts may be present in a range of premises including industrial processing plants, food processing plants and storage vessels such as silos. In bulk solid form, these may present minimal risk to fire service operations. However, when disturbed, mixtures could form within a flammable range. It is important for incident commanders to identify potential risk as part of the information gathering process.
Any materials that can burn and that exist in a fine-powdered form may, under certain circumstances, present a risk of explosion. Example materials include:
- Sugar
- Flour or custard powder
- Instant coffee or dried milk
- Grain
- Coal
- Wood
- Certain metals
- Synthetic organic chemicals
There is no established recommended cordon distance for dust explosions. Advice should be sought from a hazardous materials advisers (HMA) or on-site specialist.
See National Operational Guidance: Hazardous materials.
Strategic actions
Tactical actions
Recognise the presence of combustible dust from risk information, responsible person and scene survey
Consult on-site specialists or other advisors regarding risk of dust explosion
- Control measureSubstance identification
- Control measureEliminate ignition sources