Safety Flash
Smouldering fire in tumble dryer
Smouldering fire in tumble dryer
- IMCA
- Safety Flash
- IMCA SF 32/20
- Hot Work and FireInspection and MaintenanceMachinery and Equipment
- FireMechanical failure
- Inspection and maintenance
- Emergency responseFire protectionFunctional testingPreventive maintenance
Summary
A tumble dryer overheated following dust and residue accumulation in its exhaust ducting and failure of its protective heat sensor. Laundry ignited when the machine was opened. The flash describes extinguishing the fire and recommends regular cleaning, improved maintenance access, sensor checks and suitable laundry-room heat and smoke detection.
Classifications: Fire; fire safety.
Classifications: Mechanical failure; equipment failure.
Classifications: Inspection and maintenance; asset inspection; equipment maintenance.
Classifications: Emergency response; emergency preparedness.
Classifications: Fire protection; fire suppression; fire detection.
Classifications: Functional testing; function test.
Classifications: Preventive maintenance; preventative maintenance; planned maintenance.
Summary
Dust accumulation and a failed heat sensor caused laundry to overheat and ignite inside a tumble dryer.
IMCA SF 32/20. Themes: hot work and fire, inspection and maintenance, machinery and equipment.