Safety Corner: Ammonia

What is Ammonia?

Ammonia is one of the most common chemicals in our lives that we use every day without even realizing it! It can be found in cleaning products, fertilizers, refrigerants, plastics, dyes, and pharmaceuticals. However, this versatile compound has some dangerous properties that make it both useful and deadly. The chemical formula NH3 consists of nitrogen and hydrogen atoms, which are highly reactive when combined with water or air. This reactivity makes ammonia extremely flammable and explosive if not handled properly. It is most flammable when its volume in air is 15% to 28%. In fact, it can become even more flammable when mixed with oils and similar lubricating products. Ammonia vapor can cause respiratory issues such as coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and pneumonia. Prolonged exposure to high concentrations can lead to lung damage and even death. It is particularly dangerous in confined spaces at 300 parts per million (PPM) or more.

Ammonia is also a powerful base, meaning it will neutralize acids on contact. It has an incredibly sharp smell that alerts people to its presence in the environment. At just 20 PPM, its scent will send most people away for relief. However, prolonged exposure to this chemical can desensitize one’s sense of smell, making it difficult for people to detect it when working with it frequently. This makes ammonia particularly dangerous because it is so commonplace that we often do not think twice about using or being around it. Ammonia vapor can cause irritation to eyes, skin, and respiratory systems, especially if not ventilated properly.

Ammonia is also a key component in many industrial processes such as fertilizers, plastics, dyes, and pharmaceuticals. It has been used since ancient times to clean and purify surfaces, but its properties make it highly dangerous without proper handling. The chemical reactivity of ammonia means it must be stored separately from water and acids to avoid explosions. Proper storage and use are essential for safe handling. In short, while ammonia is incredibly useful, it can cause severe harm if mishandled or exposed to improperly. Its versatility makes it an important part of our lives, but we should always approach it with caution when using this powerful substance.

Safety Measures for Working with Ammonia Safely

Before working with ammonia, confirm its presence on sites where you work. Do not handle ammonia unless trained and leave the area immediately if you smell ammonia or any other unrecognizable gas. If inhaling ammonia, seek fresh air and medical attention as needed. Flush skin and eye contact areas with running water for 15 minutes before seeking medical help. Report any gas clouds to your supervisor and exit the building or area immediately.

Ammonia is a useful refrigerant and essential chemical in the modern world, but it can be dangerous if proper safety measures are not followed. By being aware of its dangers and following all guidelines, one can work with ammonia safely. Here at Critical Systems inc. we provide tools to help work with ammonia and other chemicals. We have Dry Scrubbers and Wet Abatement Systems that can safely extract and divert ammonia. Additionally, our Gas Systems can process ammonia and many other gases.