Working With Anhydrous Ammonia

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.

1. Anhydrous ammonia poses three distinct hazards to humans.

   1. It is desiccant and will aggressively attract water from whatever it comes in contact with. Eyes are particularly vulnerable to damage. Any exposed skin surface can also be damaged.

   2. 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 comes in contact with. Each 0.5 kg (1 lb.) of Anhydrous Ammonia that vaporizes is capable of freezing about 1.8 kg (4 lb.) of water.

   3. Danger to the respiratory system may occur if high concentrations of anhydrous ammonia is inhaled.

2. Reduce risk to exposure and injury.

   1. Wear PPE (Personal Protective Equipment).

      • ALWAYS WEAR REQUIRED and APPROVED PPE when working with anhydrous ammonia and anhydrous ammonia equipment.
      • PPE includes but is not limited to CHEMICALLY-PROTECTIVE, SPLASH-PROOF GOGGLES and RUBBER GLOVES. An approved full face shield may be worn to protect the face but only as secondary eye protection.
      
      

   2. Take Precautionary Measures.

      • Plan your work with safety in mind. Plan escape routes from any working position and know the location of emergency water sources if they are needed.
      • 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 at all times.
      • Never fill tank past 85% capacity.
      • Before activating the application system, know the location of bystanders and/or coworkers.
      • If modifying anhydrous ammonia system using a section control system to allow control of flow to individual sections of machine, additional safety measures MUST be taken. These measures include placement of bleed valve(s) at distribution lines between the main control valve and the section control valves. In addition, all anhydrous ammonia hoses NOT OPEN to atmosphere MUST be high pressure rated to ensure safety.
      
      

   3. Transport and Store Safely.

      • Do not park applicator and/or nurse tank in an enclosed area as toxic or flammable conditions can result.
      • Verify anhydrous ammonia wagons and/or applicators are safe for road travel and securely attached to vehicles drawing them.
      • NEVER tow anhydrous equipment into public places without authorization.
      • When transporting anhydrous ammonia, verify discharge hoses are securely fastened to both ends. Some states require supply hoses to be secured to nurse tank before transporting. Check state and local laws.
      • Turn off all hose end and tank valves prior to transporting, servicing, and storing.
      • Properly bleed system to remove pressure and liquid anhydrous ammonia before servicing and storing. Verify all shut-off ball valves are operating and have released all trapped anhydrous ammonia inside ball. Follow all original equipment manufacturer’s instructions.
      
      

   4. Service Equipment Safely.

      • Turn off all hose end and tank valves prior to transporting, servicing, and storing.
      • Properly bleed system to remove pressure and liquid anhydrous ammonia before servicing and storing. Verify all shut-off ball valves are operating and have released all trapped anhydrous ammonia inside ball. Follow all original equipment manufacturer’s instructions.
      • NEVER attempt to connect or disconnect coupling until all flow from open bleed valves is stopped and all lines are completely bled.
      • Disconnected hoses may still have liquid anhydrous in them.
      • Never look directly into hoses, quick couplers, meters, and shut-off valves.
      • Stay upwind of the fitting you are working on.
      • Never attempt to clear blockage from any hose until pressure has been bled from the system. Plugged fertilizer tubes may have pressurized ammonia behind the plug.
      
      

3. If you come in contact with anhydrous ammonia:

   1. Get away from the exposure.

   2. IRRIGATE THE AFFECTED AREA WITH WATER IMMEDIATELY AND CONSTANTLY. Eyes receive first attention with eyelids held open for flushing.

   3. Seek medical assistance.