CSB Reemphasizes Need for OSHA Combustible Dust Standard
CHARLESTON, WV – The U.S. Chemical Safety Board released its final report, safety recommendations and accompanying safety video covering a fatal combustible dust explosion at the AL Solutions metal recycling facility in New Cumberland, WV. The report reiterates a recommendation that OSHA promulgate a general industry combustible dust standard, something the agency has been calling for since its 2006 study of such accidents.
The December 9, 2010, accident at the facility that milled and processed scrap titanium and zirconium metal killed three employees and injured a contractor. The incident is one of nine serious combustible dust incidents investigated by the CSB since 2003. These explosions and fires caused 36 deaths and 128 injuries.