Combustible Dust Testing Services

Manufacturers and facility operators are being reminded of the urgent need for comprehensive dust hazard testing and prevention programs following recent federal safety citations tied to a deadly industrial explosion.

According to the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), a company operating a facility in Nebraska, was recently cited for willful and serious safety violations after a July 2025 explosion that caused fatalities and extensive damage. Investigators identified combustible dust accumulation, inadequate ignition controls, and worker safety failures. The agency proposed more than $147,000 in penalties.

Reports indicate the explosion killed multiple people, including two children, highlighting the severe consequences of unmanaged combustible dust hazards. Officials also noted prior concerns involving wood dust beyond the facility property line and earlier violations related to dust buildup and hazard communication.

“Combustible dust hazards remain one of the most underestimated industrial risks,” said Joe Frasca, Senior Vice President of Marketing at EMSL Analytical, Inc. “These incidents are often preventable through proper dust testing, effective controls, and ongoing monitoring.”

EMSL Analytical, Inc. offers a full range of combustible dust services to help businesses identify and mitigate risks, including:

• Laboratory explosibility and particle size testing
• Dust Hazard Analysis (DHA) support
• Air and surface dust sampling
• Real-time air monitoring instruments
• OSHA and NFPA compliance support

Combustible dust incidents continue to impact industries such as wood processing, food manufacturing, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and metals, making hazard identification and testing critical for protecting workers and communities.

EMSL has also sponsored an educational video about combustible dust hazards at: https://youtu.be/FI8xWuQ3ukE

To learn more about combustible dust testing resources, please visit www.EMSL.com, call (800) 220-3675, or email info@EMSL.com.

 

About EMSL Analytical, Inc.

EMSL Analytical is one of the leading testing laboratories with locations throughout the United States and Canada. EMSL is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider specializing in fast laboratory results for mold, bacteria, Legionella, USP <797>, pathogens, asbestos, lead, soot, char & ash from fires, VOCs, odors, radon, formaldehyde, indoor air quality, microbiology, environmental, industrial hygiene, radiological, food, beverage & consumer products, and material testing services for the identification of unknown substances. EMSL services both professionals and the general public. EMSL maintains an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies including, but not limited to A2LA, AIHA LAP, LLC. (AIHA EMLAP, AIHA IHLAP, AIHA ELLAP), NVLAP, CDC ELITE, CPSC, CA ELAP, NY ELAP, TX DOH, NJDEP and multiple other state accrediting agencies. Please visit our website at www.EMSL.com for a complete listing of accreditations. In addition, EMSL carries a wide range of Sampling Equipment and Investigative Products for environmental professionals.