PHOTO SHOWS → CLEAN, WELL-MAINTAINED POWDER COATING BOOTH
→ Vent perforations open → No visible dust accumulation → Grounding points accessible → Low deflagration risk when maintained
What You Are Looking At
- Open-front or enclosed powder coating booth with perforated rear plenum for airflow and powder capture.
- Electrostatic spray guns charging powder particles; grounded parts racks attract powder; overspray pulled through vent filters.
Why This Is a Serious Concern
- Powder coating material is combustible dust.
- A dust cloud + static spark can create a deflagration (flash explosion).
- Clogged filters and blocked perforations:
- reduce airflow,
- increase airborne powder concentration, and
- elevate explosion and inhalation hazards.
- Improper grounding of parts or spray guns is a primary cause of powder-ignition events across the industry.
Good Condition (Acceptable)
- Perforated vent wall clean; holes unobstructed; filters changed per manufacturer schedule.
- All spray guns and parts racks have functional grounding cables/clips attached.
- Floor and horizontal surfaces free of powder accumulation (no piles >1/32 inch).
- Current annual airflow and grounding verification service tag displayed.
- Clear, unobstructed access to exits and booth surroundings.
Fix Needed – HIGH PRIORITY (Dust Explosion Hazard)
- Powder buildup on floor, work tables, walls, or grates.
- Vent/perforated wall clogged, painted over, or showing reduced suction.
- Missing, loose, or broken grounding cables on guns or racks.
- Expired, missing, or illegible inspection/service tag.
- Improper storage of flammable materials near booth.
Corrective Actions & Proper Recommendation
Immediate
- Sweep/vacuum all powder using explosion-proof (Class II) vacuum equipment.
- Reconnect or replace grounding cables on guns and parts racks.
Within 7 Days
- Clean or replace booth filters; clear perforated vent wall.
- Schedule licensed contractor for annual airflow test (≥ 100 fpm face velocity) and grounding verification.
Ongoing
- Maintain a daily cleaning log with photos.
- Inspect filters monthly and replace per manufacturer requirements.
- Annual NFPA 33 compliance check and booth mechanical evaluation.
Report Wording Suggestions
“Good”
“Powder spray booth clean with no visible dust accumulation. Vent perforations open, filters maintained, and grounding cables attached to guns and parts rack. Current annual inspection tag present.”
“Fix Needed – HIGH RISK”
“Powder buildup present and grounding not attached to guns/parts rack. Ventilation/filters obstructed. Significant dust-deflagration hazard. Recommend immediate cleaning and grounding correction today, filter replacement, and annual NFPA 33 airflow/grounding inspection within 7 days.”
LCA Certified Inspector Motto
“Ground it. Sweep it. Vent it. Rec it.”
Disclosure
This card highlights common hazards and maintenance issues found in powder coating spray booths. Requirements for ventilation, grounding, dust accumulation limits, and filter replacement vary by local fire code, manufacturer specifications, and adopted editions of NFPA 33 and OSHA 1910.107. Always confirm local requirements and consult a licensed spray-booth or ventilation contractor when airflow, grounding, or dust conditions are in question.
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