Bangkok, The Pollution Control Department warns all ice plants to be careful of leaks of ammonia, which is used as a refrigerant. Along with suggestions on how to handle an ammonia leak to prevent dangerous contact. In the case of exposure to high concentrations May cause acute toxicity. The Pollution Control Department (PCD) warns all ice factories to monitor and prevent leaks of ammonia used as a refrigerant. during the summer The demand for ice is increasing. There may be a breakdown of refrigeration equipment and ammonia leaks. Ammonia is a colorless gas. Has a unique pungent smell Can dissolve in water and evaporate, is flammable, has an alkaline effect. Ammonia is used as a refrigerant in ice factories and cold storages. Because it's cheap Easy to transport and use Management costs are lower than other refrigerants. Does not destroy ozone in the atmosphere Does not cause global warming Ammonia leaks are caused by defects. Damaged equipment such as Leaks in gas pipelines, valves, or during system mai ntenance because ammonia can combine with water and moisture. Formed as ammonium hydroxide (Ammonium hydroxide), which is highly alkaline. Can corrode the system cause a leak or from improper storage of ammonia containers. cause leakage When a leak occurs Unrelated persons must be prevented from leaving the area. To prevent dangers caused by exposure to ammonia. Use a fire truck to squirt water to capture ammonia fumes. Ammonia concentration was measured both at the site of the leak and around it. Prevent ammonia in liquid form or wastewater resulting from suppression from entering water sources. and have a system in place to manage wastewater contaminated with ammonia. After that, check the system for ammonia leaks, such as Condition of gas pipelines and valves along with taking corrective actions And there must be a plan for using and maintaining the machines. Emergency Suppression Plan Pollution control and treatment system Health effects of ammonia It is acute toxicity from inhaling high concentrations of ammonia. causing blurry vision muscle weakness decreased response and unconscious Causes irritation to the respiratory mucosa. Swelling of the pangolin, larynx and windpipe, difficulty breathing, tightness in the chest and loss of consciousness, as well as irritation of the eyes, blurred vision and loss of vision. Direct contact with liquid ammonia Causes frostbite injury to the skin. Therefore, please ask the operator to check for defects regularly. equipment malfunction To prevent ammonia leakage Local authorities must regularly inspect factories and practice emergency response plans. To prevent danger to people's lives and property. Source: Thai News Agency
