Anhydrous Ammonia Safety: Protect Workers and Prevent Hazards

As we approach the spring season, many agricultural retailers are preparing their teams for another busy year. One key area of focus is the safe handling and transportation of anhydrous ammonia (NH3), a widely used nitrogen fertilizer. However, working with anhydrous ammonia presents significant hazards that require strict adherence to safety protocols and proper personal protective equipment (PPE).

Anhydrous ammonia is one of the most dangerous chemicals used in agriculture today, and proper training is essential to reduce the risks associated with handling and transporting it. As North Dakota State University’s Ag Machine Systems Specialist John Nowatzki explains, the majority of accidents related to anhydrous ammonia stem from uncontrolled releases—often caused by improper procedures, untrained workers, or faulty equipment. Fortunately, safe practices, proper PPE, and well-maintained equipment can greatly reduce these risks.

Anhydrous Ammonia Safety

Key Hazards of Anhydrous Ammonia

Anhydrous ammonia is a colorless gas that has a very distinct, pungent odor. It is stored under high pressure, which allows it to be transported and used efficiently. However, the gas can be hazardous when mishandled:

  • Skin and Eye Exposure: Anhydrous ammonia freezes on contact with skin, causing chemical burns and permanent tissue damage. It can also severely damage the eyes, potentially causing blindness.
  • Inhalation: The fumes can irritate and burn the respiratory system. At high concentrations, ammonia exposure can be fatal.
  • Pressure Risks: Ammonia is stored at pressures of 250 psi or more, which can cause violent ruptures and releases of ammonia, making safety during storage and transport a top priority.

Protective Equipment Requirements

To handle anhydrous ammonia safely, protective equipment must always be available where ammonia is being applied or transported. OSHA requires that employers provide the necessary PPE to protect workers from potential exposure. Protective gear greatly reduces the chances of injury from an ammonia release. The following PPE is critical for anyone working with anhydrous ammonia:

  1. Goggles: Unvented goggles are essential for protecting the eyes from ammonia exposure. Pesticide-type vented goggles will not suffice, as ammonia can pass through the vents.
  2. Gloves: Rubber gloves that are resistant to ammonia should be worn. The gloves should have long cuffs to prevent ammonia from running down the arms during handling.
  3. Respirators: Respirators with ammonia-specific cartridges are required for exposure to ammonia vapors. For high-level exposures, a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) is necessary.
  4. Protective Clothing: Heavy-duty, tightly woven fabric clothing should be worn to protect the skin from ammonia exposure. Avoid lightweight fabrics, as ammonia can easily penetrate them.

Best Practices for Safe Handling

When working with or around anhydrous ammonia, it is vital to follow the correct procedures and take safety precautions. Here are some best practices for working with NH3 in the field:

  • Always wear gloves and goggles when connecting or disconnecting tanks.
  • Always have backup PPE on hand, including a second pair of gloves, goggles, a respirator with an approved cartridge, and 5 gallons of fresh water for emergency flushing.
  • Ensure you always work upwind of ammonia equipment to avoid inhaling fumes.
  • When transporting ammonia, always carry the hose by the valve body to prevent damage to the valve or seals.
  • Use the proper procedures for connecting and disconnecting nurse tanks and applicators to minimize exposure risks.

Training and Certification

Proper training is critical to ensuring safety when working with anhydrous ammonia. Safety Made Simple offers two specialized courses focused on anhydrous ammonia safety:

  1. Anhydrous Ammonia: General Awareness: This course provides an overview of the hazards associated with anhydrous ammonia and the required safety procedures for handling it.
  2. Anhydrous Ammonia: Use & Transportation in Agriculture: Focused on the safe use and transportation of anhydrous ammonia, this course covers proper storage, handling techniques, and emergency response strategies.

Both courses are designed to give agricultural workers the knowledge and skills they need to stay safe while working with this hazardous substance.

As spring approaches and anhydrous ammonia is prepared for application, it’s crucial to ensure that workers are properly trained and equipped to handle the risks. By following safe practices, using the right protective equipment, and ensuring that employees are fully trained, we can help reduce the likelihood of ammonia-related accidents and keep workers safe.