Canada

The union for workers at the Port of Vancouver’s grain export terminals is warning that sliding safety protocols at grain silos could lead to a devastating explosion.

Meanwhile, high volumes of grain dust — more explosive than coal dust — can escalate an ignition into an explosion.

Last year, there were nine grain explosions across the United States. At least two were caused by smouldering grain and another two were caused by equipment malfunction.

In Canada, 11 fire-related incidents have been reported to Employment and Social Development Canada since 2015 by federally regulated employers.