This article will discuss some of the key factors that FM Global engineering representatives use in evaluating combustible dust hazards at insured locations. The information is used to develop underwriting information, but more importantly, it is the basis for guidance provided for the client with regard to understand the hazards of combustible dust presented by their operations. Where there are deficiencies relative to FM Global standards, detailed recommendations are provided for correction. Some brief loss background with special emphasis on the chemical industry will be provided, and 10 key factors used to develop these evaluations will be discussed. These same factors can be used by individual companies to focus their efforts in the area of prevention of incidents as a result of uncontrolled combustible dusts. (C) 2010 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Process Saf Prog 30: 82-86, 2011