Iowa State University Extension

(Time: 45)

It's one thing to know about the dangers of anhydrous ammonia. You also need to know what to do in case of exposure.

If you're prepared, and can act quickly, you may be able to prevent serious injury.

Above all else, carry water with you at all times. Anhydrous ammonia causes serious burns, and even blindness, if not rinsed immediately. If you get anhydrous ammonia on your skin or in your eyes, you may need to rinse the area for as long as 15 to 20 minutes.

Serious injury can occur within a matter of seconds, so always be within arm's reach of water. Carry a squirt bottle of water, such as a ketchup or mustard container, in your shirt pocket to use until you can get to a larger water supply. Always keep a five-gallon jug of water on your tractor or truck. And don't overlook other fluids, such as cold coffee and juice, or water from nearby farm ponds, for immediate first aid.

You can prevent serious injury around anhydrous ammonia. You just have to know what to do.

Disclaimer and Reproduction Information: Information in NASD does not represent NIOSH policy. Information included in NASD appears by permission of the author and/or copyright holder. More

NASD Review: 04/2002

This radio public service announcement script was distributed by Iowa State University Extension as part of the Safe Farm Program. Safe Farm promotes health and safety in agriculture. It is funded by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Iowa State University, and a network of groups that serve Iowa farm workers and their families. Distribution date: April 1993.