Chapter 22 — COMBUSTIBLE DUST-PRODUCING OPERATIONS

Section 2203 — DUST EXPLOSION PREVENTION

2025 California Fire Code (Title 24, Part 9) · 2025 edition · ingested 2026-07-07 · California

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2203.1 Critical depth layer.

2203.1 Critical depth layer. The maximum dust layer on all surfaces, including but not limited to walls, ceilings, beams, equipment, furniture, pipes and ducts, shall not exceed the critical depth layer specified in Table 2203.1. The critical depth layer is permitted to be adjusted for explosion hazard where further evaluated in accordance with one of the following: 1. Section 7.2.1.3 of NFPA 654. 2. Section 4.1.3.3 of NFPA 664 for wood flour. Accumulated combustible dust shall be collected by one of the methods listed in Section 2203.5. TABLE 2203.1—CRITICAL DEPTH LAYERCol2 ------ TYPE OF…

2203.2 Dust-producing and dust-handling equipment.

2203.2 Dust-producing and dust-handling equipment. Dust-producing equipment and dust-handling equipment, including but not limited to vacuums, dust collection systems, dryers, mixers, blenders, separators, conveyors, storage containers, silos or other similar devices, shall be listed and shall be maintained in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommended standards. 2203.2.1 Signages and markings. Signages and markings shall be provided in accordance with Sections 2203.2.1.1 through 2203.2.1.3. 2203.2.1.1 Deflagration vent discharge area markings. Where dust collection systems and other…

2203.3 Dust-collection and dust-conveying systems.

2203.3 Dust-collection and dust-conveying systems. Dust-collection and dust-conveying systems shall be in accordance with Sections 2203.3.1 through 2203.3.3. 2203.3.1 Dust-collection systems. Dust-collection systems shall be designed to collect dust emissions from dust-producing equipment at the point of generation. Dust-collection systems shall be in accordance with Section 510 of the California Mechani- cal Code . Exception: Closed systems using listed equipment and designed in accordance with manufacturer’s recommendations and specifications, where cleanouts are provided in accordance with…

2203.4 Sources of ignition.

2203.4 Sources of ignition. Sources of ignition shall be controlled in accordance with Sections 2203.4.1 through 2203.4.9.5. 2203.4.1 Classified electrical. Classified electrical shall be in accordance with the California Electrical Code . Electrical motors and electrical components of the equipment shall not be installed in the dust-laden airstream unless listed for Class II, Division 1, locations. 2203.4.2 Static electricity. Bonding and grounding is required to minimize accumulation of static electric charge in the following locations: 1. Dust-producing equipment. 2. Dust-collection…

2203.5 Housekeeping.

2203.5 Housekeeping. Accumulation of combustible dust on surfaces inside buildings shall be maintained below the critical depth layer in Section 2203.1. Pressurized air or similar methods shall not be used to remove dust from surfaces. Accumulated combustible dust shall be collected by one of the following methods: 1. Portable vacuum cleaners listed for use in Class II, Group G, Division 1, atmospheres as defined in the California Electrical Code . 2. Dust collection systems. 3. Other approved means that will not place combustible dust into suspension in air. Exception: Forced-air or similar…

2203.6 Standard operational procedures.

2203.6 Standard operational procedures. Dust-producing equipment and all associated equipment, including dust-collection equipment, shall be maintained in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and specifications and applicable codes. The inspection, testing and maintenance program shall include the following, as applicable: 1. Fire and explosion protection and prevention equipment, as applicable, in accordance with the appropriate NFPA standards. 2. Dust-control equipment. 3. Control of potential ignition sources. on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER. COMBUSTIBLE DUST-PRODUCING…

2203.7 Emergency response plan.

2203.7 Emergency response plan. A written emergency response plan shall be developed for preventing, preparing for and responding to work-related emergencies, including but not limited to fire and explosion. The following information shall be developed into the plan: 1. Identification of dust hazards. 2. Identification and location of all utilities to affected areas. 3. Site plans or floor plans locating utility shutoff controls, including water, gas and power. 4. The potential for explosion. 5. Locations of fire-extinguishing equipment compatible with the hazards present. 6. Any additional…

2203.8 Training.

2203.8 Training. The plans and procedures required in Sections 2203.5, 2203.6 and 2203.7 shall be approved by the fire code official. The plans and procedures shall be reviewed annually and updated as required by process changes. Initial and annual refresher training shall be provided to employees who are involved in operating, maintaining and supervising facilities that handle combustible dust. Initial and annual refresher training shall include: 1. Workplace hazards. 2. General orientation, plant diagrams and plant safety rules. 3. Process description or flowchart. 4. Equipment operation,…