Anhydrous Ammonia Safety

TS265-UN-23AUG88

Follow these anhydrous ammonia safety guidelines:

• NEVER allow children on or near machine or while running in field.
• NEVER tow anhydrous equipment into public places without authorization.
• Always wear splash-proof goggles, and protective rubber gloves or other material approved to use working with anhydrous ammonia applicators, tools, or implement close to valve, hoses, or distributing components. A full face mask may be worn in addition to goggles but not as a substitute for primary eye protection.
• Always have a container with no less than 19 L (5 gal) of readily available clean water for emergency usage. Carry a squeeze bottle of water with you at all times.
• Verify anhydrous ammonia wagons and/or applicators are safe for road travel and securely attached to vehicles drawing them.
• Turn off all hose end valves BEFORE transporting, servicing or storing. Use all precautionary measures to prevent accidental opening of shut-off valves.
• When transporting anhydrous ammonia verify discharge hoses are securely fastened at both ends. Some states require supply hoses to be secured to nurse tank before transporting. Check state and local laws.
• Never fill tank past 85% capacity.
• Only use approved John Deere and manufacturer's anhydrous ammonia equipment replacement parts.
• Replace anhydrous ammonia hoses in accordance with state regulations and/or manufacturer's recommendations whichever is sooner.
• Before servicing or storage, verify all hose ends and tank valves are CLOSED and anhydrous ammonia hoses are bled. Verify all shut-off ball valves are operating and have released all trapped anhydrous ammonia inside ball.
• NEVER attempt to connect or disconnect coupling until all lines are completely bled and all flow from open bleed valves is stopped.
• NEVER look directly into hoses, quick couplers, meters or shut-off.
• Only personnel trained for and designated to handle emergencies should attempt to stop a leak. Respiratory equipment of a type suitable for ammonia must be worn. All persons not equipped must leave affected area.
• Avoid runoff of contaminated water into steams or bodies of water.
• Report released ammonia to environmental protection or other authorities as required by law.
• Do not park applicator and/or nurse tank in an enclosed area as toxic or flammable conditions can result.
• Stay clear of hoses when anhydrous system is attached. Fertilizer blowing out at high speed can cause eye and other personal injuries.
• Never attempt to clear blockage from any hose until pressure has been bled from the system.