The Importance of Ammonium Nitrate Awareness for Western Australia

Introduction:

Oxidising agents are used extensively in mining and agriculture. Due to the predominance of these industries in Western Australia, it is pertinent for industry owners and operators in Western Australia who utilise these chemicals to have an understanding of the handling, storage and transportation requirements of these chemicals, as well as the regulations and codes of practice which guide these requirements.

Dangerous goods are materials or items with hazardous properties that require special handling, storage, and transportation. Class 5 dangerous goods consist of oxidising substances (Division 5.1) and organic peroxides (Division 5.2). These materials may not combust at regular storage temperatures, but will readily yield oxygen and initiate the combustion of other materials.

This article aims to raise awareness of the hazards associated with ammonium nitrate (AN), a Division 5.1 dangerous good used extensively in the mining and agricultural industries in Western Australia, and the importance of proper handling, storage, and transportation of this material.

Understanding AN:

AN is a white crystalline solid, which is relatively stable at ambient temperature and pressure. However, the risk of an explosion is increased if AN is exposed to incompatible substances or ignition sources. AN is classified as a Class 5.1 dangerous good, meaning that there is a significant risk to personnel, property, and the environment.

Hazards Associated with AN:

The following hazards are associated with AN:

1.     Fire and explosion hazards: AN can decompose rapidly and explosively when exposed to heat, fire, or other ignition sources.

2.     Toxic gas release: When AN decomposes or burns it can release toxic gases such as ammonia gas and nitrogen oxides.

3.     Environmental impacts: AN can contaminate soil and water resources, affecting plant and animal life and pose long-term environmental risks.

Regulations and Guidelines in Western Australia:

AN in Western Australia is subject to a number of Acts, Regulations and Codes of Practice which can differ from other Australian states and territories. These focus on safety and security around the manufacture, transport, handling and storage of AN, and include:

1.     Dangerous Goods Safety Act 2004. Government of Western Australia.

2.     Dangerous Goods Safety (Storage and Handling of Non-explosives) Regulations 2007. Government of Western Australia.

3.      Dangerous Goods Safety (Major Hazard Facilities) Regulations 2007. Government of Western Australia.

4.     Dangerous Goods Safety (Road and Rail Transport of Non-explosives) Regulations 2007. Government of Western Australia.

5.     Dangerous Goods Safety (Security Sensitive Ammonium Nitrate) Regulations 2007. Government of Western Australia.

6.     The International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code.

7.     Australian Standard AS 3846 - The handling and transport of dangerous cargoes in port areas.

8.     Australian Code for the Transport of Dangerous Goods by Road and Rail, ADG Code.

9.     Codes of practise (DEMIRS) for the Storage of Solid Ammonium Nitrate

General guidelines for Handling, Storing, and Transporting AN:

To minimise the risks associated with AN, the following best practices should be used:

1.     Storage safety: Segregate AN from incompatible substances such as combustible materials and reducing agents. Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated space.

2.     Transportation safety: Ensure that AN is securely packaged and transported according to the Australian Dangerous Goods Code and any applicable state or territory regulations.

3.     Training: Provide employees with adequate training on the hazards, handling, storage, and transportation of AN.

4.     Emergency response planning: Develop and update emergency response plans and procedures for dealing with AN incidents, including fire, explosion, and toxic gas release.

What AMOG can offer:

 AMOG is a leading global solutions provider to the energy, resources, defence and maritime industries. We combine the expertise of qualified, practised and forward-thinking engineers with the power of our international network. AMOG provides the following specialist engineering services:

• Preparation of Security Sensitive Ammonium Nitrate (SSAN) licensing applications
• Preparation of Special Berth Licensing (Ports) applications
• Explosion and fire risks assessments and consequence modelling
• Expert advice and risk assessments for land use planning
• Clause by clause assessments for the storage of solid ammonium nitrate as per DEMIRS codes of practice

If you would like to know more, contact AMOG's Melbourne office on +61 3 9542 3700 or contact Michael Sharp , AMOG's Team Lead - Process Engineering and Assurance or AMOG Senior Engineer Alex Waugh .