Nigeria Sugar Institute, Ilorin, Nigeria; Department of Pure and Industrial Chemistry, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, P. M. B. 5025, Awka, Nigeria; Corresponding author. Nigeria Sugar Institute, Ilorin, Nigeria.
Toluwalase Ojeyemi
Department of Environmental Toxicology, Texas Tech University, USA; Department of Crop Protection and Environmental Biology, University of Ibadan, Nigeria
Ebuka Chizitere Emenike
Department of Pure and Industrial Chemistry, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, P. M. B. 5025, Awka, Nigeria
Chisom T. Umeh
Department of Pure and Industrial Chemistry, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, P. M. B. 5025, Awka, Nigeria
Abel Egbemhenghe
Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, College of Art and Science, Texas Tech University, USA; Department of Chemistry, Lagos State University, Ojo, Lagos, Nigeria
Bridget Dunoi Ayoku
Department of Pure and Industrial Chemistry, University of Port Harcourt, Rivers state, Nigeria
Tolu I. Ogunsanya
Department of Chemistry, University of Lagos, Lagos state, Nigeria
Samuel Ogunniyi
Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Ilorin, P. M. B. 1515, Ilorin, Nigeria
Joshua O. Ighalo
Department of Chemical Engineering, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, P. M. B. 5025, Awka, Nigeria; Department of Chemical Engineering, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, USA
Adewale George Adeniyi
Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Ilorin, P. M. B. 1515, Ilorin, Nigeria; Chemical Engineering Department, Landmark University, Omu-Aran, Nigeria
Sugar dust poses significant risks in the sugar industry, threatening workers' safety and health as well as the potential for explosions and fires. The combustibility of sugar dust arises from its small, lightweight particles that disperse easily and ignite readily. Effective management strategies are essential to ensuring a safe work environment and preventing accidents. This perspective article provides an overview of sugar dust management in the global sugar industry. Various methods are employed to collect and manage sugar dust, including dust collectors, air handling systems, and proper housekeeping procedures. Advancements like electrostatic precipitators, high-efficiency particulate air filters, and self-cleaning dust collection systems show promise for future management. Utilizing both artificial intelligence and nanotechnology can also contribute to minimizing the concentrations of sugar dust in facilities. Stringent regulations and guidelines exist to control dust explosions in the industry. Implementation of robust safety measures and training programs significantly curbs the economic and environmental toll of sugar dust explosions. The paper concludes with recommendations to address sugar dust challenges, including enhanced regulation, investment in technology and research, and improved collaboration among industry stakeholders. These measures will mitigate hazards, ensure worker well-being, and safeguard the sugar industry's operations.
