Abstract |
The manual summarizes technical information that will assist in identifying and (therefore) controlling ammonia-associated release hazards specific to the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD), which has considered strategies for reducing the risk of a major accidental air release of toxic chemicals. The strategy includes monitoring the storage, handling, and use of certain chemicals and providing guidance to industry and communities. Ammonia gas has an immediately dangerous to life and health (IDLH) concentration of 500 ppm, which makes it an acute toxic hazard. To reduce the risk associated with an accidental release of ammonia, some of the potential causes of accidental releases that apply to processes using ammonia in the SCAQMD must be identified. Examples of such potential causes are identified, as are measures that may be taken to reduce the accidental risk. These measures include recommendations on: plant design practices; prevention, protection, and mitigation technologies; and operation and maintenance practices. Conceptual costs of possible prevention, protection, and mitigation measures are estimated. |