3 October 2025

From the science of a dust explosion to the practical controls, we’ve covered a lot. As we close this discussion, here is a final guide for anyone operating a biomass pyrolysis reactor. Remember these key facts: – Biochar dust is a major hazard, often more explosive than its feedstock. – The Hierarchy of Controls is

In Part 1, we covered the robust, human-independent controls: Elimination, Substitution, and Engineering. Now, we move to the final two layers of the safety blueprint, the essential, human-driven protocols that keep those engineered systems effective. These layers rely on people and discipline. They are the necessary defense when physical barriers fail. 4. Administrative Controls (The

In our last post, we established that biochar presents a greater hazard than its feedstock. Now, let’s explore the most effective framework for managing that risk: The Hierarchy of Controls. This is the universal blueprint for safety, prioritising the most reliable controls at the top. We’ll apply the most effective levels to biomass pyrolysis dust.

While the combustible nature of biomass dust is well-established, pyrolysis can sometimes increase its explosive properties, something we should keep in mind when doing risk assessments and safety protocols. During pyrolysis, the material’s volatile components are driven off, resulting in a product with a much higher carbon content and significantly reduced moisture. This leads to