Anhydrous Ammonia

Health hazards v Irritant to mucous membranes v Corrosive effects from high levels v Coughing and bronchial spasms 1a

Health hazards v Edema, strangulation, asphyxia v Rapidly fatal when concentrations are 5,000 to 10,000 ppm v Immediately fatal when concentration is greater than 10,000ppm 1b

Health hazards v Chemical burn from vaporization of liquid ammonia v Workers with chronic respiratory problems/sensitivity should avoid ammonia exposure 1c

Tank preparation for unloading operations v Reliable, trained workers only v Set brake, block wheels 2a

Tank preparation for unloading operations v Caution signs SizeSize –At least 12 inches (30 cm) by 15 inches (38 cm) MaterialMaterial –Metal or comparable material 2b

Tank preparation for unloading operations v Caution signs WordingWording –STOP - Tank Car Connected –STOP - Men at Work LetteringLettering –White on blue background –At least 3.9 inches (10 cm) high –Other words at least 2 inches (5 cm) high 2c

Tank preparation for unloading operations v Tank car must be substantially level 2d

Unloading tank cars v Do not unload unless consigned for delivery and unloaded on private track v Lading must be piped from car to permanent storage tanks when private track is not available 3a

Unloading tank cars v Delivery and removal of loaded unit tanks from a tank car DOT- 106A or 110A is not allowed on carrier tracks v Attendant must be present at all times during unloading, while connections are in place 3b

Unloading tank cars v Equipment for ammonia service PumpsPumps CompressorsCompressors Backflow check valvesBackflow check valves Excess flow valvesExcess flow valves 3c

Unloading tank cars v Connections must be securely attached before unloading starts v Remove unloading connection after completion of loading 3d

Emergency procedures v Ammonia leaks detected by odor v Know employee procedures in event of a leak 4a

Emergency procedures v Ammonia is lighter than air Stay low to the ground, and move upwindStay low to the ground, and move upwind 4b

Emergency procedures v Wear an emergency escape respirator, if available 4c

Summary of main points v Hazards involved v Preparation for unloading of tank car v Unloading procedures v Emergency procedures 5a