By Jamie Martin
As harvest ends and fall fertilizer applications begin, Minnesota farmers and custom applicators are encouraged to handle anhydrous ammonia (NH3) with extreme caution. This essential fertilizer can be dangerous if safety steps are ignored.
“Anhydrous ammonia is an important fertilizer, but its use isn’t without risk,” said MDA Commissioner Thom Petersen. “Slowing down, wearing protective gear, and keeping water on hand can make the difference between a safe season and serious injury.”
Farmers should always wear NH3-rated goggles and gloves, avoid contact lenses, and keep at least five gallons of clean emergency water ready. Because transfer lines may contain residual ammonia, stand upwind while transferring or bleeding lines, secure valves before breaks, and keep equipment downwind and away from homes, people, and livestock.
For storage and transport, never assume NH3 lines are empty. Wear protective gear when working with tanks or transport units. Storage sites should have a 150-gallon open-top container or a shower and plumbed eyewash, plus a five-gallon container of clean water with each nurse tank. Transport tanks should not exceed 30 miles per hour, must display a slow-moving vehicle emblem visible from the rear, and be secured with two independent chains along with the hitch pin or clip.
In case of an accident, seek medical help immediately, call 911, and report the incident to the Minnesota Duty Officer at 800-422-0798.
Fall nitrogen fertilizer is prohibited in vulnerable groundwater areas under the Groundwater Protection Rule. In other areas, apply NH3 only when soil temperatures average 50°F (10°C) or cooler. Current soil temperatures and vulnerable area maps are available on the Minnesota Department of Agriculture website.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-darcymaulsby
Categories: National