In the rush to apply liquid fertilizer during the busy planting season, always take time for safety around anhydrous ammonia. Each year, a number of Iowans are injured when they are exposed to anhydrous ammonia. The most serious injuries include permanent loss of eyesight or third-degree burns when the liquid fertilizer comes in contact with skin, eyes, nose or mouth.
Death also can occur if a large amount is inhaled.
Most of the recent accidents in Iowa that involved anhydrous ammonia occurred in driveways or fields as a result of equipment failure. This would include eruptions from a leaky hose, valve or nozzle. Some accidents occur while the operator fills the applicator tank, however, this is when protective gear is most likely to be worn. For more information about how to be safe around anhydrous ammonia, read instructions that come from your chemical supplier or dealer. A new SAFE FARM publication, Play it Safe with Anhydrous Ammonia, Pm-1518d, also is available at local Extension offices.