Microsoft Word - SOP - Hands-On Sessions

Rev. 2 -Final

SPECIAL SAFETY and HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS:

Anhydrous ammonia liquid quickly vaporizes once exposed to normal atmospheric temperature and pressure. When first released while pressurized, the ammonia will begin to boil off at a temperature of -28 º F causing a dense fog to form which will stay low until the ammonia heats up. Once heated, ammonia is lighter than air at most atmospheric conditions. Rain and high moisture can combine with ammonia making it heavier and causing it to stay lower to the ground. It is highly corrosive to skin and can cause irreversible damage to eyes. Initial contact with ammonia and eyes will cause excessive watering of the eyes to the point of being blinding. Avoid inhalation, skin contact, eye contact, and ingestion. Remove from exposure, if inhaled. Flush skin or eyes with water for at least 15 minutes. Do not induce vomiting if ingested; call a poison center. In all cases, medical aid should be sought. Associates who work with ammonia must not have any physical limitations that interfere with the use of full face respirators. Contact lenses should not be worn by those working with ammonia. Ammonia may ignite in confined areas and can react violently with strong acids. Flames should be extinguished and vapors controlled with a water fog or spray. Do not put water on liquid ammonia, this will cause violent boiling. Additional information on ammonia can be found in the Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for anhydrous ammonia - NH 3

Follow Pre-Emergency Readiness Considerations:

Lockout/tag out and test or confined space policy may be needed for this procedure. This procedure requires a minimum of two trained personnel. Head pressure may have to be lowered to allow supplier to pump against it while supplying the ammonia

Make sure that ammonia sensors, relief valves, compressor cutouts, and high level controls are serviced, calibrated and ready for service.

Operating Limits : 3 in Hg to 195 psig Consequences of Deviation : 3 in Hg = compressor suction pressure cutout; 195 psig = compressor discharge pressure cutout and relief valves release at 150 psig (low side) and 250 psig (high side) Actions to Correct Deviation : 3 in Hg = unload/shut down compressor; 195 psig = shuts down compressors.

Procedure: Ammonia Charging Reviewed: 10/26/2023

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