Safety Flash
Paper shredder – explosion
Paper shredder – explosion
- IMCA
- Safety Flash
- IMCA SF 21/23
- ExplosionHazardous SubstancesMachinery and Equipment
- ExplosionHazardous substances
- Inspection and maintenance
- Operating and work proceduresRisk assessment
Summary
An office paper shredder exploded after a sheet sprayed with WD-40 silicone lubricant was fed through its blades. Heat or a motor spark ignited accumulated vapours, destroying the plastic bin without injury. The flash discusses inadequate substance assessment and the purchase of proprietary lubrication sheets specified by the manufacturer.
Classifications: Explosion; explosive atmospheres.
Classifications: Hazardous substances; hazardous chemicals; chemical exposure.
Classifications: Inspection and maintenance; asset inspection; equipment maintenance.
Classifications: Operating and work procedures.
Classifications: Risk assessment; hazard assessment.
Summary
Incorrect lubrication of blades in an office paper shredder caused it to explode; the shredder’s plastic bin was destroyed but no-one was harmed
IMCA SF 21/23. Themes: explosion, hazardous substances, machinery and equipment.