CDPI director and research analyst John Astad will join an international speaking faculty to examine hazards, technology and safety recommendations regarding explosive dust-related incidents.

In anticipation of the event, Astad spoke on the importance of communication between industries and sectors regarding dust explosion safety.

“It is very important for industries to share knowledge, especially across global sectors such as mining, grain, and manufacturing,” he told conference organizer Informa Australia.

“Trade organizations and professional associations can assist immensely in minimizing the risk through training, education and outreach.

“Solely relying on governmental enforcement and inspection activities in minimizing the risk is not sufficient.”

Astad said he was looking forward to the Australian event as it represented a means of widening the global perspective on workplace combustible dust fire and explosion hazards.

“It doesn’t matter what side of the equator an incident occurs on as the process and materials are similar and have a commonality,” he said.

“My research on combustible dust incidents intensified when I noticed global trends throughout all industrial sectors.

“Now the challenge is to communicate the risk on a global basis, sharing ideas and knowledge amongst stakeholders.”