3286 Safe handling and storage of biomass in thermal power stations

Overview:

The rapid growth of biomass use in large-scale power generation has led to much larger storage and handling facilities in the UK and globally. These developments introduce significant safety challenges, including risks of self-heating, fires, and dust explosions. As storage units increase in size, controlling temperature and preventing overheating becomes more complex, and extinguishing deep-seated fires can take considerable time. Effective monitoring systems and clear criteria for material handling are essential.

Biomass also presents hazards such as dust explosions and the release of toxic gases, making safe access to confined spaces critical. Variability in biomass properties - between types, sources, and even batches - complicates design and operational control. Operators must understand the assumptions behind their plant design and work closely with suppliers to ensure consistent fuel quality and minimise risks such as excessive dust, tramp metal, and pre-existing overheating.

EI 3286 Safe Handling and Storage of Biomass in Thermal Power Stations provides detailed guidance aligned with industry standards. It addresses fire and explosion risks, references relevant literature, and includes case studies of incidents. While some guidance is specific to power stations, much of it applies broadly to biomass storage, supporting safer operations across the sector.

This second edition has been heavily revised and expanded, incorporating learnings from biomass-related incidents that have occurred since 2018.