Agriculture Safety Spotlight - Anhydrous Ammonia (NH3) Application Tips for The Producer

Nitrogen fertilizer usage in Western Canada has increased from 1.6 Million Tonnes to nearly 2.3 Million tonnes in the last decade, and Anhydrous Ammonia (NH3) makes up a large portion of this increase.

Photo: An Anhydrous Ammonia transport truck operated by Federated Cooperatives Limited.

Anhydrous Ammonia (NH3) is the richest form of nitrogen available for producers. As a fertilizer, it provides essential nitrogen for plants. It is safe to work with NH3 as long as it is stored, transported, and handled properly. Before working with Anhydrous Ammonia, ask your retailer to explain the step-by-step procedures for NH3 application.

Fertilizer Canada recommends these precautions for working with NH3:

1. Always work from an upwind position.
2. Secure the tank when product is being transferred to avoid it rolling away. Use wheel chocks on the nurse wagon, or secure it to application equipment if the transfer is being done in field.
3. Put on your required personal protective equipment (i.e. full-face respirator, one/two piece ammonia resistant suit, neoprene gloves, and proper foot wear).
4. Make sure an ample supply of fresh water is available (minimum 20 litres).
5. Check that additional non-vented goggles, gloves, and a water bottle, are in the tank’s safety kit.
6. Always handle all hoses by the valve body, not the valve wheel.
7. Ensure that bleed valves are closed before opening the main valves, and that they are open prior to disconnecting the couplings.
8. Inspect all hoses before use for cuts, cracks or abrasions. Verify the hose inspection status and hose service date range.
9. Inspect all fittings and gauges before each use.
10. Inspect the nurse wagon running gear such as wheels and tires before each use.
11. Inspect the nurse wagon and applicator hitch for cracks and signs of fatigue, and for the presence of good safety chains.
12. Inspect the nurse wagon for tank mounting bolts and for stress cracks in the frame.
13. Make sure all hitch pins are properly rated, are in good condition, and have safety pins.

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