Document ID: chunk:federal_register_of_legislation:F2016L00420:front:0:p25
Version: federal_register_of_legislation:F2016L00420
Segment Type: other
Provision Reference: 
Character Range: 66192–69014

used in handling or transferring the chemicals. Oxidisers should be handled in compatible containers and with compatible equipment to avoid a dangerous reaction occurring.
It is important to note that, since oxidisers provide oxygen through the chemical reaction, rather than air being the oxygen source, a risk of fire or explosion can still exist even if these materials are handled under an inert atmosphere like nitrogen.

Fire risks from other chemical reactions
Fires and explosions can occur as a result of chemical reactions. Many chemical reactions are exothermic – that is they give off heat during the reaction. This heat can act as an ignition source igniting any fuels present, pressure can build up in enclosed systems (for example, containers, flasks, pressure vessels) causing the container to rupture or even explode.
You should assess any situation where incompatible chemicals could interact and cause a dangerous or uncontrolled violent reaction.

Dust explosion risks
Dust explosions present a significant risk in some workplaces, however they are often overlooked.  Dust explosions usually occur where combustible dusts (or fibres, for example from paper, grain, finely divided organic compounds and metals) have accumulated and are then disturbed and released into the air, coming into contact with an ignition source. Common ways in which dusts can be disturbed include from wind when opening doors or windows, during cleaning or sweeping up of waste or using compressed air to blow out material accumulated in crevices, gaps or in machinery.
Dusts may also be generated transferring materials, such as filling the hold of a ship or a silo with grain (liberating grain dust).
When the dust cloud comes into contact with an ignition source such as a flame, hot surface or spark, ignition can occur causing an explosion. Dust-air mixtures can be classified as hazardous atmospheres in the same way as other flammable materials like vapours from flammable liquids and gases.
Dust clouds can be generated by pressure from an explosion in another area, causing damage and propagation much greater than the original explosion.

Effect of particle size on dust explosion risk
The size of particles in dust can have a significant impact on the explosion risk.  Smaller particles have a greater surface to mass ratio and present a greater risk, for example a block of metal such as a metal ingot may be practically inert but could be extremely reactive when in the form of filings or shavings, dust or powder.  Similarly, the risk from an aerosol (for instance, fine droplets in air) form of flammable liquid is much greater than for the bulk liquid. Processes that generate fine particles, like grinding and milling of flour and nanomaterials can present significant risks. Special control measures may be