Ammonia exposure: Essential first aid and protection knowledge

Ammonia is a common chemical substance used in industrial production, laboratory operations, and some cleaning work. It has a wide range of uses, but also poses certain dangers. Contact with ammonia can cause serious harm to the human body; therefore, understanding relevant first aid and protective knowledge is crucial.

I. Characteristics and Hazards of Ammonia

Ammonia is a colorless liquid with a strong, pungent odor. It easily evaporates in the air, releasing ammonia gas. When the human body comes into contact with ammonia, whether through skin contact, inhalation, or ingestion, it can cause varying degrees of health problems. Skin contact with ammonia can cause chemical burns, ranging from mild redness and swelling to pain, and in severe cases, necrosis of skin tissue. Inhalation of high concentrations of ammonia gas can severely irritate the respiratory tract, causing coughing, wheezing, and even pulmonary edema, endangering life. Ingestion of ammonia can severely corrode the mucous membranes of the mouth, esophagus, and stomach, causing severe pain and vomiting.

II. First Aid Measures

(A) Skin Contact: If ammonia comes into contact with the skin, first aid measures should be taken immediately. First, immediately rinse the affected area with plenty of water for at least 15-20 minutes. During rinsing, elevate the injured area to prevent further spread of ammonia. Carefully remove any clothing and jewelry contaminated with ammonia, being gentle to avoid further injury to the skin. After initial rinsing, seek medical attention as soon as possible for further treatment and evaluation by a professional doctor to prevent infection and more serious complications.

(II) Eye Contact: If ammonia accidentally splashes into the eyes, the situation is even more urgent. The eyes are very fragile and vital organs; ammonia contact can cause corneal burns, affecting vision and even leading to blindness. In this case, immediately rinse the eyes with plenty of water or saline solution for at least 15-20 minutes. During rinsing, keep the eyes open as much as possible to allow the water to thoroughly wash the surface of the eyeball. Do not rub your eyes, as this will worsen the damage. After rinsing, go to an ophthalmologist as soon as possible for professional treatment, such as medication to reduce inflammation and promote corneal repair. (III) Ammonia Inhalation: After inhaling ammonia, immediately move the patient to a well-ventilated area to breathe fresh air. If the patient experiences difficulty breathing, stops breathing, or suffers cardiac arrest, immediately perform CPR and call emergency services as soon as possible. While waiting for emergency personnel, keep the patient calm and avoid excessive activity to reduce oxygen consumption. Simultaneously, closely monitor the patient's vital signs, such as breathing and pulse, to provide accurate information to emergency personnel promptly.

(IV) Ingestion of Ammonia Water: After ingesting ammonia water, do not attempt to induce vomiting, as ammonia water is highly corrosive to the oral and esophageal mucosa, and inducing vomiting may worsen esophageal damage. Immediately give the patient plenty of water or milk to dilute the ammonia concentration in the stomach and reduce irritation to the gastric mucosa. Then, transport the patient to the hospital as soon as possible. Doctors may administer treatments such as gastric lavage and medications to protect the gastric mucosa, depending on the patient's specific condition. 

III. Protective Measures

(I) Personal Protective Equipment: In work environments where contact with ammonia is possible, correctly wearing personal protective equipment is the first line of defense against ammonia exposure injuries. Appropriate protective clothing should be selected, possessing good chemical protection properties to effectively prevent ammonia penetration. Simultaneously, chemical-resistant protective gloves, such as nitrile gloves or neoprene gloves, should be worn to protect hands from ammonia corrosion. For eye protection, chemical protective goggles should be worn to prevent ammonia from splashing into the eyes. When working in environments with high concentrations of ammonia, appropriate respiratory protective equipment, such as gas masks or self-contained breathing apparatus, should also be worn to prevent ammonia inhalation.

(II) Safety Measures for the Work Environment: In addition to personal protection, safety measures for the work environment are also crucial. Ammonia storage areas should ensure containers are properly sealed to prevent leakage and evaporation. Clearly visible warning signs should be posted in storage areas to remind personnel of the presence and hazards of ammonia. At the same time, good ventilation should be ensured in the workplace, especially in areas where ammonia is handled. Good ventilation can reduce the concentration of ammonia in the air and decrease the risk of ammonia inhalation. In addition, emergency equipment, such as eyewash stations and emergency showers, should be provided in the workplace to ensure timely first aid in the event of an ammonia contact accident.

(III) Safe Operating Procedures: Establishing and strictly adhering to safe operating procedures is crucial for preventing ammonia contact accidents. When handling ammonia, workers must strictly follow the prescribed procedures to avoid leaks or splashes caused by improper operation. For example, when moving ammonia containers, handle them gently to avoid collisions and tipping; when using ammonia in experiments or production, operate according to the correct proportions and methods to prevent excessive ammonia or dangerous reactions with other chemicals. At the same time, regular safety training should be provided to workers to improve their safety awareness and emergency response capabilities, enabling them to remain calm and take appropriate first aid measures in the event of an ammonia contact accident.

Ammonia contact is a safety issue that cannot be ignored; both first aid and protection are crucial. Understanding the characteristics and hazards of ammonia, mastering correct first aid measures, and taking effective protective measures can minimize the harm caused by ammonia contact to the human body. In our work, we must remain vigilant at all times, strictly adhere to safe operating procedures, correctly use personal protective equipment, and ensure a safe working environment. Only in this way can we effectively prevent ammonia contact accidents and protect the health and safety of ourselves and others. If you have any further questions, please leave us a message!