http://www.hemmingfire.com/news/fullstory.php/aid/640/The_importance_of_explosion_proof_vacuums.html
Nilfisk CFM looks at the importance of utilizing explosion proof vacuums when cleaning up combustible dust in the workplace
When the Dust Settles: A Tutorial on Explosion-proof Vacuums
A comprehensive maintenance plan is a solid first step in preventing a combustible dust-related fire or explosion and can greatly minimize the tragic effects of a secondary blast. By letting dust accumulate on surfaces, facilities are literally adding fuel to the fire and efforts should be taken to insure that dust deposits greater than 1/32”, the thickness of a paperclip, are promptly removed, according to OSHA’s Combustible Dust National Emphasis Program. While mops and brooms have their place in industrial facilities, the process is time consuming and often creates dust clouds, adding to the risk. They also are very limited in what they can clean. A properly-equipped, HEPA-filtered industrial vacuum cleaner suitable for collecting combustible dust, can get the job done in half the time and be used to remove dust from machinery, floors, walls, and overhead pipes and vents. (more…)