Fire and Explosion Hazards

Pre-start Health and Safety Reviews (PSR) for Hazardous Locations or materials storage and dispensing.

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Identifying and Addressing Fire and Explosion Risks in the Workplace

Hazardous classification areas are where flammable liquids, gases, vapours, or combustible dust are present in quantities that pose a fire or explosion risk. These risks are especially common in manufacturing environments, where both employee and workplace safety are impacted. Hazardous locations and hazardous areas are both distinct but related terms.

Hazardous Locations vs. Hazardous Areas: What’s the Difference?

  • Hazardous locations refer to physical places where flammable or combustible substances are actually present
    • Used in real-world scenarios to guide equipment decisions and protective measures.
    • Focuses on what exists now and how to safeguard against it.
  • Hazardous areas, defined by the Canadian Electrical Code, are code-based classifications for spaces where hazardous conditions may exist.
    • Used primarily for compliance and design purposes.
    • Focuses on potential conditions (normal or abnormal) that could lead to a hazard.
Deflagration

Deflagration is a type of explosion where a fire spreads rapidly through flammable gas, vapor, or dust. It has the potential to cause intense heat, pressure, and damage, especially in enclosed space, but it happens without the violent shockwave seen in more severe explosions. This type of event poses a significant safety risk in many of our clients' industrial workplaces.

Conditions for Explosions to Occur:

Three conditions must be present including an ignition source, oxygen and fuel. E.g. Static electricity making and breaking on electrical switches producing sparks and heat sources serve as ignition source.

Conditions for Explosions
Dust Explosion

For combustible dust, two additional conditions must be present including dispersion and confinement.

Our experts can help you assess these risks, identify compliance gaps, and implement effective explosion protection and mitigation measures to safeguard your facility.

Housekeeping That Protects: Reducing Fire & Explosion Hazards

Poor housekeeping is a common contributor to fire and explosion hazards in industrial settings. As part of any compliant PSR, basic preventive measures go a long way:

  • Remove combustible dust, debris and oily residues regularly
  • Store flammable materials safely and away from ignition sources
  • Maintain proper ventilation to prevent vapour or dust buildup
  • Inspect electrical equipment for damage or overheating
  • Control hot work and follow proper lockout/tagout procedures
  • Keep fire suppression systems in working order
  • Train staff to recognize and respond to fire and explosion risks.

Overall, a clean well maintained workspace reduces the risk and helps ensure compliance and safety across your facility.

Housekeeping That Protects

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