A recent case study impressively shows how inconspicuous material changes in bulk storage can lead to serious dangers. Bridging in the silo is particularly critical: the material appears permeable from the outside, even though it is already blocked inside. The consequences are material flow disruptions, overpressure, production shutdowns, and a massively increased risk potential for people, machines, and the entire facility.
Organizational Failure, Not Technical Defects
This example illustrates a fundamental problem in many companies: a lack of silo inspections and neglected repeat tests. Especially with fine-grained, reactive materials like lignite dust, dangers develop insidiously—often unnoticed for a long time. The problem is not a lack of technical know-how, but rather a lack of structures for regular silo cleaning and condition monitoring.
An internal inspection with silo cleaning every three to four years is not only technically sensible but also legally required under liability law. Those who ignore this obligation risk not only their production in an emergency but also the trust of employees, customers, and investors.
Communication in an Emergency – Reputation Risk of a Silo Accident
A silo accident is not only a technical event but also a reputation risk. Statements like ”We didn’t know about the bridge” signal not safety, but a loss of control. Companies that involve external specialized firms for silo cleaning and inspection early on show responsibility and leadership.
Clear Legal Requirements for High-Risk Operations
Entering and cleaning silos with uncontrolled material quantities is a high-risk operation and is subject to strict regulations, including:
- DGUV Rule 113-004 (Work in containers, silos, and confined spaces)
- TRGS 500/505 (Explosion hazards from dust)
- BetrSichV §§ 6, 11 (Risk assessment and testing obligation)
- ATEX Directive 2014/34/EU (Zone classification)
- TRBS 1201 (Testing of systems requiring monitoring)
- DGUV 112-190/198 (Respiratory protection, protective gloves)
Without a validated risk assessment, the involvement of external specialists, and ATEX-compliant equipment, every operation is an incalculable risk.
From Service to Risk Partnership
The number of specialized firms for cleaning bulk storage silos in Germany is limited. Anyone who doesn’t have a framework agreement with a qualified partner loses valuable time in an emergency. Successful risk partnerships are based on:
- Consistency of expectations: repeated safe operations without incidents
- Expertise leadership: proactive process consulting before escalation
- Availability guarantee: immediate deployment for acute material blockages
Recommendations for operators of industrial silos:
- Set an inspection and cleaning cycle every 3–4 years
- Conclude a framework agreement with an immediate deployment clause
- Document condition reports and risk assessments
- Anchor risk communication organizationally
Technical Responsibility Begins with Awareness
Modern silo safety is measured not only by its technical equipment but also by the ability to recognize invisible risks early. Those who make dangers visible before they escalate not only protect their facility but also strengthen their position as a responsible operator.
Request Expert Advice for Silo Cleaning Now
NT Service GmbH specializes in silo cleaning, silo inspection, maintenance, and accident remediation in industrial bulk storage—from prevention to immediate deployment. We work throughout Europe, are ATEX-compliant, follow the highest safety standards, and provide complete documentation.
