Ammonia
*February 17, 2022 | WorkSafeBC has released a new risk advisory regarding fire or explosion in the use of anhydrous ammonia.
What is it?
Ammonia - also known as anhydrous ammonia or liquid ammonia is used in many applications in agriculture and industry including as a fertilizer, to make plastics, fibres and other chemicals, and as a refrigerant. It is a clear, colourless gas (or colourless liquid under pressure) with a telltale ammonia-like odour.
Which industries may be at risk?
Workplaces that use ammonia as a refrigerant or for other industrial processes may be at risk of fire or explosion. You may be at risk if your business involves:
- food and beverage product manufacturing
- cold storage
- ice manufacturering
Risks
Risks to human health
Ammonia is very toxic and corrosive. Workers must avoid:
- Inhalation
- Skin contact
- Eye contact
- Ingestion
- Chronic long-term exposure
Chemical risks
- When ammonia contacts water it produces a poisonous vapour cloud
- Ammonia reacts violently with strong oxidants, acids, halogens, and heavy metals
- Liquid ammonia is corrosive to some plastics and rubber
Explosion and fire hazards
Ammonia is a flammable gas. High concentrations of airborne gas can be ignited and create a significant fire and explosions hazard – particularly in a confined space.
- Ammonia containers can explode if heated
- Ammonia mixed with gas or air forms an explosive mixture