What Does
Fermentation Mean?
Fermentation is a process by which micro-organisms metabolize sugar and convert it into alcohol, gases or acids. This process takes place in the absence of oxygen and is, therefore, an anaerobic process.
Safeopedia Explains Fermentation
From a Health and Safety perspective, fermentation may produce hazardous circumstances in industries such as food, grain storage, biochemical engineering and the production of biofuels. For example, in biofuel production, OSHA requires the proper venting of gaseous by-products of fermentation, and the proper control of biochemical reactions to prevent explosions, fires and exposure hazards. In grain storage contexts, decaying or fermenting silage can produce gases that present a workplace hazard.