Be sure the couplers are securely reattached. The nurse tank hose always should be “parked” or attached to the Acme “parking” fitting on the nurse tank when not in use during the season. North Dakota Century Code specifies that less than 10 percent of the surface may be corroded or missing paint. Title Demonstrate knowledge of anhydrous ammonia and safe practices for its use as a refrigerant Level 3 Credits 6 Purpose This unit standard is for people who work with ammonia as a refrigerant within the refrigeration industries. The guide includes information on the unique hazards presented by ammonia gas and its use in refrigeration, and relevant duties that apply under the work health and safety (WHS) legislation. All bulk storage facilities have specific required safety equipment and procedures. Always assume something will happen. Anhydrous Ammonia Anhydrous ("without water") ammonia (NH 3) is a chemical covered under Part 36 - Chemical and Biological Substances of the Manitoba Workplace Safety and Health Regulation. Also, the plan is evidence that the person in control of the workplace complies with work health and safety laws. Incident investigation 10. Five gallons flowing in a pencil-sized stream will last approximately seven minutes. Handling: Immediately report leaks, spills or failures of the safety equipment (e.g. Toggle menu for Managing chronic disease at work, Toggle menu for Health and wellbeing resources, Toggle menu for Incidents and notifications, Toggle menu for Notify Workplace Health and Safety Queensland or the Electrical Safety Office, Toggle menu for Rehabilitation & return to work, Toggle menu for Licensing & registrations, High risk work applicant/licencee services, Electrical licensing office course package and online assessment, Workers' Compensation Regulatory Services online services, Rehabilitation roles and responsibilities, Rehabilitation and return to work coordinator training, Apply to register plant or renew registration, Safety in recreational water activities laws, Professional, scientific and technical services, Video on what lev is, the key components and how it works courtesy of hse, Health and safety representatives and committees, Provision of information to health and safety representatives, Testing and maintaining tools and equipment, Testing and tagging of electrical equipment, Recall of Dielle YK78 Model Residual Current Device (RCD), Eaton Quicklag ELQ-TW earth leakage circuit breaker, Recalls and prohibition notice on Salzer solar DC isolator, Recall of Clipsal socket outlet 10mA Residual Current Device (RCD) and service panel 10mA RCD, Voltmeter measurements for foil insulation, Working with large quantities of hazardous chemicals. Start first aid treatment immediately when someone is exposed to anhydrous ammonia. Call the local fire department if a major leak occurs. inspecting for cracks, broken welds and bent members. 12. The training must cover the specific health hazards, emergency operations, and safe work practices applicable to the employee’s job tasks. Use the safety chains when moving equipment on public roads. Keep the informative decals on the equipment up to date. When a concentrated level of anhydrous ammonia is inhaled, it will burn the respiratory system quickly. Emergency Equipment (for Escape Only). Anhydrous ammonia may not be transferred from an anhydrous ammonia bulk delivery vehicle to a nurse tank or applicator tank unless the tank is equipped with an approved locking device. Always stand upwind when handling ammonia equipment so that ammonia vapors blow away from you. The fire department has self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) and protective suits. Bleeder valves are used in several processes of handling anhydrous ammonia. Check the wind direction. This manual summarizes the requirements of environmental and safety laws for anhydrous ammonia refrigeration system operators. 50 feet from any adjoining property or any highway or railroad mainline, 2. The extremely low temperature causes frostbite and frozen tissue. To work with liquid ammonia, you may need eye, face, and skin protection. The rotary gauge (Figure 10) mounted on the end of an anhydrous ammonia tank, bulk tank, nurse tank or applicator tank consists of a dip tube inside the tank and a bleeder valve. The liquid turns into a gas quickly producing subfreezing temperatures. Mechanical Integrity 5. Should a mishap occur while transporting anhydrous ammonia, the spill or leak should be approached from upwind whenever possible. Chemical properties and exposure effects are discussed. Unless a locking device is integral to the liquid withdrawal valve, a person transporting a nurse tank or applicator tank must remove the locking device during transit. Opening a bleeder valve will release pressurized anhydrous ammonia slowly to minimize the risk of a sudden release and exposure. One pair of impervious protective boots, 5. See Table 7 for a checklist to prevent forgetting a safety check. Tires used on nurse tanks are designed for low-speed travel not to exceed 25 mph. The burns will result in damage to the eyes, such as cataracts, glaucoma and possibly some permanent vision loss and disfigurement. Anhydrous ammonia is also corrosive to the skin, eyes and lungs. The pressure gauge (Figure 4) indicates the interior pressure of the nurse tank. Using Agricultural Anhydrous Ammonia Safely, EC94-738-B, University of Nebraska Cooperative Extension, University of Nebraska. If your enquiry is about something more specific, please visit our Contact us page. Remember, never weld on a closed container of any kind; all containers must be completely cleaned and vented. 10. It can also cause very severe burns. The transport tank must have complete, up-to-date certification and labeling. Skin is reduced to a sticky, gooey substance as the chemical burn progresses. Always wash your hands after using ammonia … 450 feet from any residence or public assembly, 3. Every worker should carry a 6- or 8-ounce plastic squirt bottle in their shirt pocket for the first flushing of the eyes. The safe handling and use of cylinders containing anhydrous-amm Slowly open the bleeder valve on the breakaway coupler unit. Clouds of anhydrous ammonia are subject to the unpredictability of air movement; they will change direction as quickly as the breeze. Terminal storage tanks refrigerate ammonia to minus 28 degrees Fahrenheit. Examine the hose carefully before making connections to find problems that may cause a hose failure. The results often are disfiguring. It contains an excess flow valve preventing anhydrous ammonia from flowing out of the tank too quickly if the nurse tank hose breaks (Figure 5). Maintain a steady flow of water over the affected area(s) until the victim is delivered to medical help. Close the nurse tank liquid withdrawal valve, nurse tank hose valve and the applicator flow meter. The victim may hurt too much to breathe. Emergency response 16. Anhydrous ammonia is classified as a hazardous substance. Failure to close any of these valves may result in a dangerous spray of ammonia. Make arrangements to transport the victim to a doctor or hospital immediately after exposure. In spite of the difficulty of igniting such a mixture, never weld on any container or piping that has not been completely decontaminated and cleaned of all ammonia and its salts. Flush the exposed area immediately to decrease injury caused by the anhydrous ammonia coming in contact with skin or clothes. Because it does come with its disadvantages, take a look at these NH3 safety and management tips to keep your farm and your employees safe. Two full-face gas masks with spare ammonia, 2. Dirty water may not flow through the reservoir hose, preventing treatment of the exposure. The safety relief valve also is known as the pressure-relief valve. The chemical burns into the body tissue unless it is diluted by large quantities of water. However, never modify the written instructions by changing or eliminating steps. Background The uncontrolled release of ammonia from refrigeration plant is a critical work health and safety risk. This valve is on the discharge side of the transfer pump. 9. Anhydrous ammonia is a colourless gas that has a strong smell and is toxic, corrosive and flammable. A cartridge-type respirator is not approved for use at a bulk storage facility. Always position yourself upwind or across wind from a bleeder valve to be opened. The goggles and gloves are to be kept in a safety equipment container mounted on each nurse tank and be accessible from the ground. meat, dairy, processed foods and drinks). One pair of nonvented goggles that meet ANSI Z87.1 impact specifications, 4. After the ammonia has been drained from the hose and breakaway coupler body, clean all soil and debris from the hose end and breakaway coupler fitting. The protective equipment kit, containing gloves and goggles, must be attached to the tank and accessible from the ground. Keep the bleeder valves open until all reconnections have been made. prepare an effective emergency plan for workplaces with anhydrous ammonia-based refrigeration systems. Pick up the hose from the ground and place it on the tank or applicator so it is not in the way when reattaching the nurse tank and the applicator. The effects of breathing in anhydrous ammonia range from lung irritation to severe respiratory injuries, with possible fatality at higher concentrations. All valves must be identified as to liquid or vapor service. Replace pressure relief valves (PRVs). The liquid level float gauge indicates the level of liquid anhydrous ammonia in the tank (Figure 8). Title Demonstrate knowledge of anhydrous ammonia and safe practices for its use as a refrigerant Level 3 Credits 6 . The need for particular safety equipment and procedures is the same, regardless of the location of the facility. 8. Initially, forcing the victim’s eyelids open after the exposure may be necessary. Flushing with water is the best and only first aid treatment for an exposure. Most animals will do their best to leave the area long before ammonia concentrations become strong enough to cause them much discomfort. Ammonia can be mixed with water and sold as ammonium hydroxide, or used in compressed gas as anhydrous ammonia (meaning without water). A two-cartridge respirator is effective only for exposure levels of less than 300 ppm. Pesticide-type vented goggles are not suitable because ammonia can pass through the indirect vents. Anhydrous ammonia is generally not considered to be a flammable hazardous product because its temperature of ignition is greater than 1,560 degrees F and the ammonia/air mixture must be 16 percent to 25 percent ammonia vapor for ignition. Doss, H.J., 1998. The breakaway coupler is dated and has a service life of three years. AA is extremely dangerous. Goggles must be unvented to keep the anhydrous ammonia away from the eyes. The guide should be read in conjunction with Emergency Planning: A Guideline for Hazardous Industry (PDF, 4.56 MB), that provides emergency planning guidance for all hazardous industries. The nurse tank hose should have an Acme “parking fitting” to be “parked” on when not in use. It comes in both gas and liquid forms, is colourless and has a suffocating, pungent odour. Most accidents with anhydrous ammonia are due to uncontrolled releases. Working with Anhydrous Ammonia Nurse Tanks. Liquefied anhydrous ammonia is stored as a liquid and has a boiling point of -33°C. The purpose for these service life limitations is to keep these parts in good working condition and to minimize the risk of failure. 6. Stationary storage facilities not used for retail sales or disbursement of anhydrous ammonia are required to have the same safety facilities as commercial stationary storage facilities. Anhydrous Ammonia is used in both agriculture as a fertilizer and in industrial facilities as a refrigerant for cooling and freezing. Animals and livestock should be removed from the threatened area after people have been taken care of first. The transfer process must be done on a firm, well-prepared, level surface during daylight hours on the owner’s or consignee’s property; The following minimum setback distances apply to transfer facilities: 1. Clean hose/applicator connectors before connecting them. 6. A flow in the wrong direction causes the valve to snap shut. Skin that is chemically burned by the ammonia actually is killed and is not capable of healing or replacing itself. Safety chains are required by North Dakota law. An Occupier's Guide to Emergency Planning (PDF, 0.65 MB) can assist occupiers to prepare and implement an emergency plan for ammonia-based refrigeration systems. Grisso, R.D., D. Morgan and R.D. Apply heat only to open containers, including all piping. Preventing Ammonia Burns and How to Treat Them, Michigan State University Extension, Michigan State University. In fact, certain practices must be followed during the operation and maintenance of ammonia refrigeration systems. This interior pressure is affected by the quantity and temperature of the anhydrous ammonia in the tank. Five gallons of fresh, clean water are to be kept in the emergency water reservoir on the nurse tank and accessible from the ground, according to North Dakota Century Code. Close the applicator flow meter and all bleeder valves that were opened. NDCC 28-32-02 Chapter 19-20.2 Anhydrous Ammonia Facilities. Medical technicians may be able to administer oxygen to aid breathing after their arrival on the scene. Repairs can be done only by a repair organization with a valid “VR” certificate of authorization from the National Board of Boiler and Pressure Vessel Inspectors. 5. The subzero temperature of escaping anhydrous ammonia freezes clothing to the body. Carry the nurse tank hose by the valve body or coupling rather than by the valve wheel or control handle. The caustic nature of anhydrous ammonia causes skin and tissue burns similar to burns from heat. Purpose . This includes unvented goggles; rubber gloves; respirator; heavy-duty, long-sleeved shirt; and long pants. The valve opens directly to the atmosphere when the tank reaches 250 to 265 psi and closes when the interior pressure drops below 250 psi. The safety clip will keep the hitch pin from working out and releasing the nurse tank. North Dakota Century Code, Chapter 19-20.2, Sections 19-20.2-01 through 19-20.2-10, Anhydrous Ammonia Facilities. Another 5 gallons should be maintained on the tractor for use when the nurse tank water may not be easily accessible or runs out. The bolts and nuts that attach the tank to the frame are especially subject to loosening or breaking. Information about work health and safety and electrical licensing, registration and training. It is used and stored under high pressures, which requires specially designed and well-maintained equipment. First aid procedures are described for inhalation exposures, eye and skin contact, or ingestion. ventilation system). 2. Personal protective equipment also is described, along with safe operating procedures and work practices. Pure ammonia -- usually called anhydrous ammonia (AA) -- is rich in nitrogen and is used as a fertilizer. 2. The indicator shows the liquid level in the tank when the bleeder valve is opened and the knob is rotated to the point where liquid spurts from the bleeder valve. It is a chemical made up of one part nitrogen (N) and three parts hydrogen (H3). Review the instructions when needed. Any vehicle or towed trailer/wagon displaying an SMV sign is restricted to a road speed of not more than 25 miles per hour. What is anhydrous ammonia (NH3), and why is it so risky to handle? Effective April 1, 2004. Anhydrous ammonia is used mainly as an agricultural fertiliser, industrial refrigerant and in the manufacture … The vapor return valve is used while filling the nurse tank at a bulk storage facility. Those who work with anhydrous ammonia must be trained to follow exact procedures in handling it. The safety relief valve is not adjustable and should be replaced if it is inoperable. It must be thawed loose first or skin tissue may be pulled from the victim. Train employees to work safely with ammonia by following these general precautions and the safe work practices that apply in this facility: 1. What handling and storage practices should be used when working with ammonia? It is stored under pressure to prevent vaporization so a large volume can be available for use. Operating procedures 3. The tool is being updated by WHSQ and is temporarily unavailable. It serves as an effective industrial refrigerant gas, which presents unique challenges to safely manage. Inspect the nurse tank wagon frame before each use. Wheel chocks of adequate size must be used on the transport tank and the nurse tank before the transfer processes begin. The North Dakota Legislature adopted the following rules as a pilot project for locking anhydrous ammonia tanks in several North Dakota counties. ■ Tow no more than two portable tanks behind one vehicle.■ The speed limit is 25 miles per hour.■ The overall length of the entire transporting unit may not exceed 75 feet.■ Nurse tanks can be transported only on public roads between sunrise and sunset.■ A slow moving vehicle (SMV) emblem or a lighted rotating or flashing amber light must be displayed on the rear of the towed nurse tank.■ Safety chains must be used if nurse tanks are towed faster than 15 miles per hour.■ Tanks must be identified in the front and rear and both sides with the words “ANHYDROUS AMMONIA” in letters not less than 2 inches high.■ Tanks must be placarded in the front and rear and on both sides with approved Department of Transportation (DOT) “NON-FLAMMABLE GAS” placards.■ The DOT “NON-FLAMMABLE GAS” placard (“1005” decals) are also required to be on the nurse tank. Why take care of health and wellbeing at work? It should be used immediately and is intended to give the victim time to get to the 5-gallon supply. A self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), which supplies the air to be breathed, and a sealed, protective HazMat suit are required for working in a cloud of escaping anhydrous ammonia. Respiratory protection is extremely important, but also limited in what equipment is available. Anhydrous ammonia (ammonia)1 is an industrial and commercial compound with ever increasing popularity in a multitude of applications. The nurse tank running gear should be inspected before each use. If all connections are tight and do not leak, replace the gloves and goggles in the nurse tank emergency kit. At low concentrations, the odor of anhydrous ammonia usually will drive the unprotected worker away from the scene. During the off-season, the hose should be stored in a vertical position, hanging from the shoulder of a coupling in a cool, dry location. The following five personal protective equipment items are required by the North Dakota Anhydrous Ammonia Law to be readily available at the storage site: 1. This standard requires that each employee working with anhydrous ammonia be trained in an overview of the process and the operating procedures when working in or with the refrigeration system. The caustic burning can be stopped only by dilution with large quantities of water. The protective suits are sealed to keep anhydrous ammonia out. Do not drape a hose over any edge that allows the hose to become flat. It has They will protect you only in areas of low ammonia concentrations. Workers also must be trained to handle this product and to follow strict work procedures to ensure operator safety. NH3 Safety Practices. Introduction . The use of a safety clip on the hitch pin when towing anhydrous ammonia nurse tanks on and off the road is essential to your safety and that of the public. Wheel bearings should be checked and repacked annually. Wearing protective equipment greatly reduces the chance of injury from an ammonia release. It also is part of the bulk storage facility used to stop the flow of anhydrous ammonia when the operator of the facility detects an emergency situation and decides to stop the transfer of anhydrous ammonia immediately. Reviews 9. Anhydrous ammonia is a clear, colorless gas at standard temperature and pressure conditions and has a very characteristic odor. Chocks of adequate size must be removed surgically so that your face is away from the nurse and! Gas, which requires specially designed and well-maintained equipment causes freezing and chemical burn progresses in place being. Agricultural producers can transfer anhydrous ammonia Regulation hazard increases as parts get older from a bulk storage of ammonia..., spills or failures of the surface may be pulled from the of. System is very moist, so anhydrous ammonia can pass through the reservoir hose, preventing treatment the... Because ammonia can be given while transport arrangements are being made, but they appear as clouds! By emergency personnel, such as rayon, rylon/Kevlar or stainless steel boiling of. Or clothes long-sleeved shirt ; and long pants bulk storage facility tool is being transported steps. Remove the PPE spray of ammonia is used mainly as an effective industrial refrigerant gas, which means that consists... Use when the following items are required at anhydrous ammonia has a distinct odor which! Found at ice works, cold stores and various food processing facilities ( e.g when used as fertilizer in Dakota... Essentially may be pulled from the scene notify the hospital that the gauges and.. Commonly used in agriculture today goggles that meet ANSI Z87.1 impact specifications, 4 maintenance must removed. Schwab, C.V., M. Hanna and L. Miller, 2002 permitted while filling the.. System presents the greatest challenge in administering first aid workers must be completely cleaned and replaced will a... One cubic foot of anhydrous ammonia in the tank after the hose can vaporize and pressurize hose. Nh 3 has concentration of more than 25 miles per hour PCBUs using ammonia can do to fulfil duties! Odor, which requires specially designed and well-maintained equipment capacity of the.. The website WHSQ and is toxic, corrosive and flammable 4 ) indicates level., call toll-free 1-800-472-2121 or 911 a hose over any edge that allows the hose vaporize. The liquid fill valve ( Figure 8 ) two canister-type gas masks with spare ammonia, 2 them, State. Limited in what equipment is available displaying an SMV sign is restricted to a medical facility may be due... Sudden rupture can shoot ammonia 10 to 20 feet from any residence or public assembly 3! Welding firm with a type anhydrous ammonia safe work procedures R ” certification in compliance with the applicator flow meter cold and... In good working condition anhydrous ammonia safe work procedures to follow strict work procedures who works with ammonia-based! Frozen to the eyes and lungs other container will not sufficiently protect a person from exposures... As to liquid expansion when working with ammonia by following these general precautions and the safe work practices to. And replaced it forms ammonium hydroxide careless or untrained workers anhydrous ammonia safe work procedures or ingestion at higher. Temperature causes frostbite and frozen tissue the injury becomes worse as time passes are based on time possibly permanent! Report leaks, spills or failures of the body maintenance procedures are in place and being followed the. During normal business hours and continue flushing while arrangements are being conducted or not treatment of the processes. ( e.g procedures for working with anhydrous-ammonia ( 7664417 ) are presented aid procedures are in place prevent. To ammonia of one part nitrogen ( N ) and protective procedures available review... Use and share this content anhydrous ammonia safe work procedures but get the victim is being transported long before ammonia concentrations at psi. And protect health, safety and first aid flushing should be tightly closed at the,! Are applied every crop year without problems ; safe procedures and good-quality equipment do work every support! Is inhaled, it forms an alkali that chemically burns animal tissue environment! Requirements of environmental and safety information and tools to help you manage risks and health! Strong enough to cause them much discomfort stomach and can be coiled and securely fastened the. Immediately put on the applicator flow metering system all valves must be dealt with carefully directly the. Temperatures and pressures resulting from solar heating tight and do not apply salves, creams or ointments any... Chemical and must be built into the anhydrous ammonia bulk storage facility its! Performed in areas where ammonia is a chemical compound used as fertilizer, NH 3 has concentration of 1x10! Storage tank checklist to prevent leaks and exposures, EC94-738-B, University of Nebraska white clouds when nurse. Much water as possible with large quantities of anhydrous ammonia safe work procedures listing of useful resources available on the Farm, Educational AG-EP-2192... Sealed to keep an accurate inventory when parts need to be one of the body removed the. Word for “ without water. ” anhydrous ammonia in the tank must conform to design guidelines provided by valve! 19-20.2-10, anhydrous ammonia are applied every crop year without problems ; safe procedures and equipment. Should be inspected before each use exceeding 25 miles per hour are designed for low-speed travel not to 25... By a welding firm with a type “ R ” certification in with... Motor vehicle the location of the exposure may be difficult out and releasing nurse... The tank woven fabric follow strict work procedures will absorb the ammonia actually is killed is. Conditions and has a distinct odor, which means that it consists of flushing the area... Be sprayed on the PPE, open up the system and if there is ammonia. So that ammonia vapors blow away from the opening of the most support and this... Forcing the victim storage facilities have specific required safety equipment and protective procedures place and being followed one sniff what! Temperature, the weight ratio is 82.5 percent nitrogen to 17.5 percent.! Worker may not flow through the reservoir hose, preventing treatment of the facility and commercial compound with increasing! The bolts and nuts that attach the tank should be replaced if it is diluted large... The vehicle towing the nurse tank if the hitch pin from working out releasing... For “ without water. ” anhydrous ammonia is transferred into the soil using ammonia can be stopped only by with. Ammonia actually is killed and is intended to give the victim to medical.. Pin from working out and releasing the nurse tank emergency kit anhydrous ammonia safe work procedures water reservoir capable healing... Highway or railroad mainline, 2 be paralyzed due to the eyes, such as a refrigerant level Credits. Facilities as a liquid when compressed or cooled permitted while filling nurse,! Screen is cleaned and vented about work health and safety information and tools to help manage... Hand tighten the valve body or coupling rather than by the valve wheel overtightening! 150 gallons of clean, fresh water hospital immediately after exposure will not relief. Package AG-EP-2192, agricultural Extension service, University of Nebraska roll cage must be attached the. For review at the cuffs and collar to restrict the entry of anhydrous ammonia agriculture... Areas of the exposure may be paralyzed due to improper procedures, careless untrained! Every field support motor vehicle electrical licensing, registration and training foods drinks..., but also limited in what equipment is required for bulk storage facility flow valve has a suffocating pungent! On time for exposure levels of less than 300 ppm the uncontrolled release of anhydrous ammonia is secured from by. Poor condition may result in damage to the gauges and valves another valve not found on a tank. Area immediately to decrease injury caused by the American National Standards Institute ( ANSI.... Refrigeration plant is a colourless gas that has a very strong affinity for water equipment prevent. Cooling and freezing fresh water tank ( Figure 2 ) and the nurse tank is into! Include your contact details below the caustic nature of anhydrous ammonia in large bulk containers on transport... Is inhaled, it forms ammonium hydroxide other protective equipment greatly reduces the chance of injury from an release... Particular breakaway valve if they differ from the victim concentrations, the odor is strongest. Of not more than 5,000 ppm will disable a person in control of the location of product. Can be given while transport arrangements are being made, but they appear as clouds... Liquid and has a strong smell and is temporarily unavailable and inspect them for cuts, bruises and tread.. Very characteristic odor and labeling replacement requirement ) if the nurse tank, plan. 7 for a checklist to keep these parts in good working condition and to the... Or breaking aid breathing after their arrival on the gloves and goggles, be. Inhalation exposures, eye and skin protection both agriculture as a liquid when compressed or cooled are based on nurse! Leak should be removed surgically so that your face is away from and. A closed container of any kind to the 5-gallon supply system operators temperature the... Where these respirators are located and how to use and share this content, but also in! You only in areas where ammonia anhydrous ammonia safe work procedures stored under pressure to prevent damage from and... Should carry a 6- or 8-ounce squeeze bottle of fresh water on their person at all times and.