When considering the hazards associated with combustible dust, most organizational leaders are aware of the direct impact that a dust explosion could have on their facility. Even when it is understood that hazards exist within a system and that protection measures have been recommended, a flawed cost-benefit analysis could result in no action being taken.

This is especially true when the recommended action involves the retrofit of engineered protection systems (i.e. explosion vents) onto existing processing equipment such as a dust collector, dryer or bucket elevator. In some cases, it is possible the price for protection could exceed the original cost of the protected equipment itself. The facility is probably even insured for damages caused by such a scenario.