By Scout Nelson
With the planting season on the horizon, many farmers and applicators are gearing up to apply anhydrous ammonia (NH3), a potent chemical crucial for crop fertilization. The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) stresses that despite the urgency of spring tasks, safety should never be compromised. The hazards associated with NH3, if not handled correctly, can lead to severe accidents or even fatalities.
To mitigate risks, the MDA provides several safety recommendations:
Proper Protective Gear:
Always wear NH3-rated goggles and gloves to prevent chemical burns and inhalation risks.
Avoid wearing contact lenses as they can absorb NH3 and cause eye damage.
Handling Procedures:
Maintain a minimum of 5 gallons of clean, accessible emergency water in case of exposure.
Treat all NH3 lines as if they are full; exercise extreme caution when connecting or disconnecting equipment.
Always work upwind of NH3 to avoid direct exposure during those connections or when bleeding lines.
Ensure that all connections are secure, and that valves and lines are properly closed and bled before taking breaks or ending work.
Transportation Safety:
When transporting NH3, particularly in nurse tanks, do not exceed a speed of 30 miles per hour to maintain control.
Display a slow-moving vehicle emblem to alert other road users.
Double-check that the tank is securely attached using two independent chains in addition to the hitch pin.
Equipment Positioning:
Keep NH3 equipment away from homes, people, and livestock to prevent accidental exposure.
Maintenance Tips:
Never assume that NH3 lines are empty. Always wear the appropriate safety gear during maintenance checks.
Regularly access safety water and conduct thorough checks to ensure all equipment is in good working condition.
These guidelines are designed to create a safer working environment for everyone involved in the handling and application of anhydrous ammonia. Adhering to these tips can significantly reduce the risk of accidents, ensuring a safer and more productive planting season. For more detailed safety information, please visit the MDA’s official website.
Photo Credits:minnesota-department-of-agriculture
Categories: Minnesota, General