Ammonia is a colourless, pungent-smelling gas commonly used in industrial refrigeration, chemical processing and other plant operations. Exposure to ammonia can cause serious health effects, particularly through inhalation and contact with the eyes or skin.
WHY IS AMMONIA DANGEROUS?
Toxic by inhalation – High concentrations can cause severe respiratory irritation and may be life-threatening.
Corrosive – Can cause serious burns to the skin and severe eye damage.
Flammable – Ammonia can form flammable/explosive mixtures with air under certain conditions.
Gas under pressure – Containers and systems can rupture if exposed to excessive heat.
Vapour exposure – A leak can create a hazardous atmosphere around the affected area.
BEFORE STARTING AMMONIA-RELATED WORK
Review the SDS, JSA/Risk Assessment and approved work procedure
Confirm the required Permit to Work (PTW) is available
Check ammonia/gas detection systems and alarms
Inspect hoses, valves, flanges, fittings and connections
Verify emergency shower and eyewash availability
Ensure adequate ventilation
Establish barricading and access control where required
Confirm emergency communication arrangements
Wear the PPE specified by the risk assessment/SDS
REQUIRED PPE
Chemical-resistant gloves
Chemical splash goggles
Face shield where splash exposure is possible
Chemical-resistant protective clothing as required
Suitable safety footwear
Appropriate respiratory protection when required by the risk assessment
SCBA should only be used by trained and authorized personnel for emergency response/unknown or oxygen-deficient atmospheres, according to site procedures.
IF AN AMMONIA LEAK OCCURS
Raise the alarm immediately
Stop work and move away from the affected area
Move upwind and avoid entering the vapour cloud
Evacuate to the designated safe assembly point
Do not enter the leak area unless you are trained, authorized and properly equipped
Inform EHS / Emergency Response Team
Isolate the source only if trained and it is safe to do so
Keep unauthorized personnel away from the affected area
NEVER:
Ignore an ammonia alarm or suspected leak
Enter a suspected leak area without appropriate respiratory protection
Stand downwind of a release
Work alone during high-risk ammonia activities
Use damaged hoses, valves or incompatible equipment
Attempt emergency response without proper training
Rely only on the smell of ammonia to determine whether an area is safe
FIRST AID
Inhalation: Move the affected person to fresh air without exposing yourself to the contaminated atmosphere. Obtain urgent medical attention.
Eye contact: Immediately flush eyes with plenty of clean water for at least 15 minutes and seek medical attention.
Skin contact: Remove contaminated clothing and flush the affected skin thoroughly with water. Obtain medical attention for significant exposure.
KEY HSE MESSAGE
Identify the hazard → Assess the risk → Control the exposure → Wear the correct PPE → Be prepared for emergencies.
Good process safety is not only about equipment — it is also about people, procedures, inspection, communication and emergency preparedness.
THINK BEFORE YOU WORK – STAY ALERT, STAY SAFE.
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