Section 296-307-40027 - Emergency precautions when handling anhydrous ammonia(1) The employer must train employees required to handle ammonia in the safe operating practices and the proper action to take in an emergency. Employees must be instructed to use the equipment listed in subsection (3) of this section in an emergency.(2) If ammonia system leaks, the employees trained for and designated to act in emergencies must: (a) See that anyone not required to deal with an emergency is evacuated from the contaminated area.(b) Have two suitable gas masks in readily accessible locations. Full face masks with ammonia canisters as certified by NIOSH under 42 C.F.R. Part 84, are suitable for emergency action for most leaks, particularly those that occur outdoors. For protection in concentrated ammonia atmospheres, self-contained breathing apparatus is required.(c) Wear gauntlet type plastic or rubber gloves and wear plastic or rubber suits in heavily contaminated atmospheres.(d) Shut off the appropriate valves.(3) All storage systems must have on hand at least the following equipment for emergency and rescue purposes: (a) *One full face gas mask with anhydrous ammonia refill canisters.(b) **One pair of protective gloves.(c) **One pair of protective boots.(d) **One protective slicker and/or protective pants and jacket.(e) Easily accessible shower and/or at least 50 gallons of clean water in an open top container.(f) Tight-fitting vented goggles or one full face shield. *If ammonia vapors are detected when the mask is applied, leave the area immediately. The life of a canister in service is controlled by the percentage of vapors to which it is exposed. Canisters must not be opened until ready for use and should be discarded after use or as recommended by the canister manufacturer. Unopened canisters may be guaranteed for as long as three years and all should be dated when received. In addition, an independently supplied air mask of the type used by fire departments may be used for emergencies.
**Gloves, boots, slickers, jackets, and pants must be made of rubber or other material impervious to ammonia.
(4) Where several persons are usually present, additional safety equipment may be necessary.(5) Each tank motor vehicle transporting anhydrous ammonia, except farm applicator vehicles, must carry a container of at least five gallons of water and must have a full face gas mask, a pair of tight-fitting goggles or one full face shield. The driver must be instructed in their use and the proper action to take to provide for the driver's safety.(6) If a leak occurs in transportation equipment and it is impractical to stop the leak, the driver should move the vehicle to an isolated location.(7) If liquid ammonia contacts the skin or eyes, the affected area should be promptly and thoroughly flushed with water. Do not use neutralizing solutions or ointments on affected areas. A physician must treat all cases of eye exposure to liquid ammonia.Wash. Admin. Code § 296-307-40027
Amended by WSR 20-21-091, Filed 10/20/2020, effective 11/20/2020Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, and 49.17.060. 03-10-068, § 296-307-40027, filed 5/6/03, effective 8/1/03; 97-09-013, recodified as § 296-307-40027, filed 4/7/97, effective 4/7/97. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.040, [49.17.]050 and [49.17.]060. 96-22-048, § 296-306A-40027, filed 10/31/96, effective 12/1/96.