Session 9

Combustible Dust Hazards in Wood Handling Facilities

Combustible dust continues to pose one of the most significant hazards in wood handling facilities, particularly in sawmills and processing operations where fine particulate is constantly generated. This session will explore the explosibility characteristics of wood dust, highlighting just how widely this hazard can vary based on species, particle size, moisture content, and processing methods.

The presentation will also examine the unique risks associated with handling burned or fire-damaged timber salvaged from recent wildfires. As mills increasingly process salvaged wood, new questions arise about how altered material properties influence dust behaviour, ignition sensitivity, and explosion potential.

In addition, attendees will gain insight into the upcoming combustible dust regulations soon to be implemented in British Columbia, including how they may influence prevention strategies, operational procedures, and enforcement expectations across the wood products sector.

Parker MacNeil    

Jensen Hughes 

Parker MacNeil is a lead engineer and key member of the Industrial Process Safety (IPS) team at Jensen Hughes. Parker has extensive experience related to combustible dust hazards, risk analysis, and combustible dust testing.