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Any person required to handle, transfer, transport or otherwise work with ammonia shall be trained to understand the properties of ammonia, to become competent in safe operating practices and to take appropriate action in events of a leak or emergency. These notes are a supplement to a thorough understanding of the Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS), state and local regulations, and safety training from your local anhydrous ammonia supplier. They are not intended to replace other sources of safety information. Read safety instructions from anhydrous ammonia supplier and equipment supplier. They are included as a reminder of safe working practices.
1.
Anhydrous ammonia poses three distinct hazards to humans.
a.
It is a desiccant and will aggressively attract water from whatever it comes in contact with. Eyes are particularly vulnerable to damage.
ALWAYS WEAR CHEMICALLY-PROTECTIVE, SPLASH-PROOF GOGGLES
when working on equipment. A full face shield (meeting ANSI Z87.1 requirements) may be worn to protect the face but only as secondary eye protection to supplement primary eye protection. Any exposed skin surface can also be damaged.
ALWAYS WEAR RUBBER GLOVES
when working on anhydrous equipment. It is a good idea to work with skin covered by heavy cotton rather than exposed.
b.
Anhydrous ammonia is typically stored under pressure. When exposed to atmospheric pressure, it boils at ›33° C (-28° F). The vaporization will freeze whatever the liquid anhydrous ammonia is in contact with. Each 0.5 kg (1 lb.) of Anhydrous Ammonia that vaporizes
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is capable of freezing about 1.8 kg (4 lb.) of water.
ALWAYS WEAR RUBBER GLOVES
when working on anhydrous application systems. Exposed skin is vulnerable.
c.
The third danger is to the respiratory system if high concentrations of anhydrous ammonia are breathed in.
STAY OUT OF HIGH CONCENTRATIONS OF ANHYDROUS AMMONIA.
Stay up wind of the fittings you are working on. Properly bleed system to remove pressure and liquid anhydrous ammonia before servicing any of its components (See BLEED ANHYDROUS AMMONIA SYSTEM in the Service section). Plan escape routes from any working position. Before activating the application system, know where your coworkers are.
2.
If you come in contact with anhydrous ammonia:
a.
Get away from the exposure.
b.
IRRIGATE THE AFFECTED AREA WITH WATER IMMEDIATELY AND CONSTANTLY.
Eyes receive first attention with eyelids held open for flushing.
c.
Seek medical assistance.
3.
Caution is required when working around anhydrous ammonia. Disconnected hoses may still have liquid anhydrous in them. Plugged fertilizer tubes may have pressurized ammonia behind the plug. Plan your work with safety in mind, wear protective equipment, and know your escape routes and emergency water sources if an accident should happen.
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