Ohio Complaints of respiratory and conjunctival irritation were reported among workers using anhydrous ammonia to remove painted lines from artificial turf at a sports stadium in Cincinnati, Ohio. About five times each year, when professional baseball and football seasons overlap, lines on the playing field must be altered repeatedly to accommodate the use of the stadium for both sports. The investigators interviewed 26 workers about symptoms associated with the paint-removal procedure and collected air samples to measure airborne exposures to ammonia during such operations. No formal respiratory protection program was followed. Few workers were observed wearing gloves and goggles.
Ammonia is a severe irritant of the eyes, respiratory tract, and skin.
By diluting the ammonia and using appropriate protective equipment, this problem is preventable. References National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. Health hazard evaluation report no. Occupational Safety and Health Administration. OSHA safety and health standards.