Management
Plant Production & Software
Risk prevention researcher blows up wood dust to reduce plant accidents
By Bill Esler
FM-Global-combustible-dust.jpg

NORWOOD, Mass. - Jenny Chao, a senior research scientist for insurer FM Global, explains the background that lead to her work studying combustible dust explosions. 

"My area is explosions that affect industries," she tells the New York Times. "I blow things up to try to predict and prevent explosions. I also test products designed to prevent explosions and make recommendations on how clients can avoid risks." 

Chao tests wood dust, grain, flour, cornstarch, and other dust-laden materials at FM Global's research lab in West Gloucester, Rhode Island. The company periodically runs loss prevention webinars related to combustible dust.  

"I also ignite all kinds of flammable gases," Chao says. A recent experiment involved powdered milk manufacture, which produces one of the most combustible off dusts. Bottles filled with sodium bicarbonate were tested as a suppressant for flames. 

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About the author
Bill Esler | ConfSenior Editor

Bill wrote for WoodworkingNetwork.com, FDMC and Closets & Organized Storage magazines. 

Bill's background includes more than 10 years in print manufacturing management, followed by more than 30 years in business reporting on industrial manufacturing in the forest products industries, including printing and packaging at American Printer (Features Editor) and Graphic Arts Monthly (Editor in Chief) magazines; and in secondary wood manufacturing for WoodworkingNetwork.com.

Bill was deeply involved with the launches of the Woodworking Network Leadership Forum, and the 40 Under 40 Awards programs. He currently reports on technology and business trends and develops conference programs.

In addition to his work as a journalist, Bill supports efforts to expand and improve educational opportunities in the manufacturing sectors, including 10 years on the Print & Graphics Scholarship Foundation; six years with the U.S. WoodLinks; and currently on the Woodwork Career Alliance Education Committee. He is also supports the Greater West Town Training Partnership Woodworking Program, which has trained more than 950 adults for industrial wood manufacturing careers. 

Bill volunteers for Foinse Research Station, a biological field station staddling the border of Ireland and Northern Ireland, one of more than 200 members of the Organization of Biological Field Stations.

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