After the horrific accident which occurred on Aug 2 2014 (see CL news), the State Administration of Work Safety (SAWS) called for a thorough investigation on workplace conditions nationwide.
On Aug 15th, “Five Provisions on Prevention of Dust Explosion” (SAWS Order 68) was promulgated and took effect immediately and line out the most fundamental and essential principles for enterprises to ensure work safety, including plant design, safety production distance, ventilation and dust extraction facilities, explosion and lightning precautions, preventative measures for spontaneous combustion and labor protection system.
Among all affected industry sectors, magnesium and aluminum production and fabrication is of the highest concern. Fine particles generated from the processing procedures present a serious risk of explosion without a proper dust extraction system functioning. The particles can be ignited causing a chain reaction which spreads extremely quickly. In addition, they can react violently with other chemicals or in contact with water, generating hydrogen and releasing massive heat and energy. Therefore relevant enterprises are required to strictly comply with GB 15577-2007 Safety Regulations for Dust Explosion Prevention and Protection and GB/T 17919-2008 Directives for Dust Explosion Protection for Dust Collectors in Dust Explosion Hazardous Area, to implement the Five Provisions.
The requirements are also applicable to other sectors that pose similar inherent risks and hazard, for example, industries involved with coal dust, flour, starch, wood shavings, cotton, tobaccos, plastics, dyes, etc.
