Review the checklist below to ensure your facility is free of the most common ammonia safety hazards:
- Clean floors, free of oil and water
- Sufficient pipe quality beneath insulation (controlled with spot checks for corrosion under insulation (CUI)
or the utilization of a corrosion inhibitor/ stainless steel piping) - Pipes properly labeled and marked per International Institute of Ammonia Refrigeration (IIAR) Bulletin No. 114
Equipment operates within design parameters, temperatures ranges - Personnel practices maintenance cycling program on valves, regularly opening and closing valves so they
don’t sit in one position for too long - Clear escape routes from areas with ammonia present (no boxes in front of exits)
- Personnel and operators are sufficiently trained on ammonia refrigeration operations and safety awareness.
- Safe access to frequently used valves, equipment for maintenance.
- Items that require maintenance are accessible from the ground
- Items up high have a catwalk or a clear path accessible via a scissor lift or ladder
- Complete annual testing on leak detection systems to ensure alarms work properly Pipe plug or cap on all valves open to the atmosphere Self-closing, spring-loaded valves to prevent the presence of open oil draining valves.
- Gas mask systems readily accessible, close to ammonia source
- Piping and components free of heavy ice buildup, added weight
- Complete annual safety switch testing
- Closed electrical cabinets