China issues guidelines on handling dangerous industrial dust in wake of fatal explosion
The directory – the first of its kind for mainland China – specifies 45 types of dangerous dusts and when might explode
China’s work safety watchdog has launched new rules for handling flammable industrial dust following a fatal blast at a metal factory in the eastern province of Jiangsu last year, Xinhua reported.
The regulations issued by the State Administration of Work Safety include a directory that lists flammable dusts used in chemical and trading industries, as well as guidelines to avoid explosions.
The directory, which is the first of its kind for mainland China, specifies 45 types of dangerous dusts and the circumstances in which they might explode.
Employers should also provide training to their employees about the risks of the materials and instruct them on procedures if there is an explosion.
In August last year, a metal products factory in Kunshan exploded when accumulated dust caught fire and exploded.
At least 146 people were killed when dust ignited at the car parts factory owned by Kunshan Zhongrong Metal Products company. The explosion originated in the polishing workshop.