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Dust explosions can occur when a source of ignition (spark, flame, hot surface) is introduced into an area with a suitable concentration of tiny particles of something that will burn or oxidize. These explosions can be extremely powerful, destroying buildings and killing workers in the immediate area. Though dust explosions are not common, they averaged about ten occurrences each year between 1980 and 2005 in the United States.

There is some disagreement as to what constitutes a dangerous dust-related situation. A heavy concentration of dust in a confined space would certainly be considered risky, but even a small amount of dust in a large area can present a danger of explosion. According to the National Fire Prevention Association, “As little as 1/32 of an inch of organic dust over 5 percent of a room’s surface area presents a significant explosion hazard. That’s a layer as thin as a paperclip.” The association goes on to define combustible dust as “a combustible particulate solid that presents a fire or deflagration hazard when suspended in air or other oxidizing medium over a range of concentrations, regardless of particle size or shape.”

Obviously, horse barns are dusty places, regardless of how regularly and thoroughly they are cleaned. Tiny dust particles are produced whenever someone handles or disturbs hay straw, stall bedding materials, some grains, or dried manure. Add in microscopic flakes of skin from humans, horses, and other animals as well as lint from clothing, blankets, and leg bandages, and the total amount of burnable particles goes way up.

Preventing a dust explosion requires attention to two things: good air flow and lack of an ignition source. To minimize the chance of an occurrence, keep barns, including tack rooms and feed rooms, well ventilated. Enforce a strict smoking ban in and around the barn. Check that all outlets and wiring meet safety codes. Be sure all electrical appliances—radios, clippers, stall fans—are designed for outdoor use and do not have exposed motors or wires.

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