Dust Explosion at Biomass Processing Facility: What This Means for ATEX Compliance
A recent dust explosion at a biomass processing company in the Netherlands caused severe structural damage, blowing two exterior walls outward. Witnesses reported plastic fragments and glass scattered outside the building (Source: RTV Drenthe, 26 November 2025). Incidents like this are a strong reminder of how quickly combustible dust can escalate into a life-threatening event, and how essential proper ATEX compliance can prevent these incidents from happening.
How Dust Explosions Occur
A dust explosion occurs when combustible particles are dispersed into the air, creating an explosive atmosphere that ignites due to a heat or ignition source.
These ignition sources can range from hot surfaces- and mechanical sparks to static electricity.
Dust layers present in equipment or on surrounding surfaces can easily be whirled-up and become airborne, creating the perfect fuel–air mix of flammable substances mixed with air.
Long-term accumulation or bulk storage of organic powders can also lead to self-heating and spontaneous ignition due to exothermic reactions.
Biomass: A High-Risk Material
Biomass is a broad category of organic residuals from the Agro nutrients, Feed and Food sectors – such as coffee grounds, grains, corn, roadside vegetation, or cocoa shells. These materials are often grinded and compacted into granules and pellets, creating fine powders that are highly combustible when dispersed.
This makes biomass facilities particularly vulnerable during processing, handling, and transport operations.
Modification of Installations: MOC Is Mandatory
Whenever equipment is modified, relocated, added, or removed, companies are legally required to perform a Management of Change (MOC) procedure.
An MOC includes a full risk inventory and evaluation, ensuring that all newly introduced or altered risks are properly identified. ATEX explosion safety is one of the most critical components of this assessment. Before, during, and after the design phase, the new situation must be evaluated so that the correct technical and organizational control measures can be implemented.
Prior to commissioning, a detailed ATEX inspection is required for all electrical and mechanical equipment located in classified zones.
How Certification Experts Supports ATEX Explosion Safety
Our ATEX specialists assist companies across all stages of explosion safety – from prevention to incident analysis.
Working closely with our experts in Process Safety, Machinery Safety and Workplace Safety, we offer a practical, comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach.
Certification Experts ATEX consulting:
- Training programs covering ATEX awareness up to advanced master-level courses with TÜV certification for specialists.
- Incident investigation on site with a focus on ATEX explosion safety. When needed, we broaden the scope to include process, machine, and occupational safety aspects and can provide a full presentation and report of the findings.
- Guidance & advice during Management of Change (MOC) procedures and ATEX-related safety questions.
- ATEX 114 (Product Directive), full support in the CE conformity process for machines or installations, including the technical File, risk assessment, user manual and certification trajectory.
- ATEX 153 (Hazardous areas, Ignition sources & Safety requirements) – support in creating a safer operational environment, including the explosion protection document, ignition source analyses, and advice on technical and organizational control measures.
Full-service product compliance
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