Anhydrous Ammonia (NH3) Safety

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Whenever dealing with anhydrous, it is important to have the PPE on. This includes long neoprene gloves, a full respirator mask or ventless googles and a respirator, a long sleeved shirt, and pants. Gloves should be rolled up on the edge to prevent drips running into the gloves.

Proper glove placement for working with anhydrous ammonia.

​Do not wear contact lenses as the gas can become trapped behind the lenses and fuse to the eye. Other safety equipment to always have on hand is a charged cell phone in case of emergency and 5 gallons of water to flush any area of the body that may be exposed to gas. Having a squeezable water bottle with clean water on hand is also suggested.

Connecting to the applicator
Before connecting, always check the wind direction. Whichever way the wind is blowing, face upwind in case of an accidental release and have proper PPE on.

1. Make sure the flow control valve is in the off position and close the bleeder valves on either side of the quick coupler.
2. Check the nurse tank supply hose, both the liquid withdrawal valve and the hose and valve must be closed before connecting to the breakaway coupler. Always handle the hose and valve by the valve body and hose, never by the handwheel – this will prevent from opening a valve accidentally.
3. Connect the hose to the quick coupler fitting and then open the hose and the valve.
4. Open the withdrawal valve up on the nurse tank slowly. Watch for leaks if there are none the valve can be opened completely. By opening the withdrawal valve last, it positions you away from the applicator and at the source valve. If there were a leak in the system, you would be able to close the valve immediately.

In the Field
When not applying NH3, close the liquid withdrawal valve on the nurse tank completely. This includes daily tasks such as quitting for the day, meal breaks, moving to another field, etc. 

Steps to Take in Case of an Accident

1. Get upwind and away from the product immediately
2. Call Horizon Fertilizers and 911 if the situation warrants​

If your body comes into contact with the ammonia gas, get water onto the area ASAP and call 911! Rinse thoroughly with clean water for a least 15 minutes to flush the ammonia off. If vapor gets into your eyes, flush for 15+ minutes as well.

• If clothing becomes crystallized or frozen to the body, flush the clothing with water for at least 15min before removing.
• If using a pressurized hose, add a towel or cloth overtop of the burn area to reduce the pressure of the water onto the injured surface. When transporting someone with a burn, keep a moist towel on the exposed area.
• If you inhale or ingest vapor, drink lots of water. Do NOT induce vomiting.
  • If a person is vomiting, ensure the head is below the waist line to prevent the liquid from going into the lungs
• Do not apply oils, creams, or ointments to the burn area and get immediate medical attention.

At the end of the day, we want everyone to have a safe and successful season! If you have any questions or concerns regards anhydrous ammonia, please do not hesitate to call Gary at our Humboldt office (306)-682-2574.

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