Pallet knowledge / Specialist industries and systems

Specialist industries and systems

What is different about pallets of flour, sugar or milk powder?

By PalletChecker · AI-assisted, source-linked guidance

Reviewed 2026-10-03 · Source backed guidance; cargo and site specific assessment required

Applies to: Great Britain; DSEAR workplace assessment

Damage to powder sacks can release combustible dust. HSE identifies flour, sugar and dried milk among food dust explosion hazards. Include pallet handling, puncture prevention, spills and ignition risks in the site DSEAR assessment; a pallet material claim cannot replace that assessment.

What to check next

• Specify support that protects sack bases.
• Use the approved spill procedure and suitable cleaning equipment.

Sources

• HSE: dust explosions in the food industry

How we research and review answers

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