Anyone who works with anhydrous ammonia, especially those applying nitrogen fertilizer on crop fields, will be able to learn how to handle it safely during an online workshop North Dakota State University Extension’s Stark-Billings County office is hosting Tuesday, April 7, at 6 p.m. Mountain time.
John Nowatzki, NDSU Extension agricultural machine systems specialist, will lead the training on topics including:
- Why anhydrous ammonia is dangerous
- Effects on people exposed to anhydrous ammonia
- Recommended emergency safety practices
- Protective equipment for anhydrous ammonia
- Anhydrous ammonia application safety checks
Kent McGuire, an Extension ag safety specialist from Ohio State University, also will present. He will discuss safe practices for transporting anhydrous nurse tanks and safety issues when using equipment to apply anhydrous ammonia.
“Anhydrous ammonia is a commonly used form of nitrogen fertilizer used in North Dakota crop production,” Nowatzki says.
“Anhydrous ammonia is classified as a hazardous substance,” he adds. “Most accidents with anhydrous ammonia are due to uncontrolled releases. Few problems occur when the ammonia is being handled and applied as intended. Most uncontrolled releases are due to improper procedures, careless or untrained workers or faulty equipment.”
Protective equipment is required by law to be available where anhydrous ammonia is handled or applied. Wearing protective equipment greatly reduces the chance of injury from an ammonia release.
“Anhydrous ammonia has the potential to be one of the most dangerous chemicals used in agriculture today,” says Kurt Froelich, NDSU Extension’s agriculture and natural resources agent for Stark and Billings counties. “It is used and stored under high pressures, which requires specially designed and well-maintained equipment. Those who work with anhydrous ammonia can benefit from safety training.”
The workshop also will be available other ways.
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Meeting ID: 901 609 335
Source : ndsu.edu