12.4 Electrostatic hazards
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12.4 Electrostatic hazards

  12.4.1 Small particulate matter carried in flue gas can be electrostatically charged. The level of charge is usually small, but levels have been observed well above those encountered with water mists formed during tank washing.

  12.4.2 Because cargo tanks are normally in an inerted condition, the possibility of electrostatic ignition has to be considered only if the oxygen content of the tank atmosphere rises as a result of an ingress of air or if it is necessary to inert a tank which already has a flammable atmosphere (see 5.1).


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