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7/28/2019 Texas explosion: How ammonia affects the body
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How ammonia canaffect the bodyThe explosion at a fertilizer plantin West, Texas, occurred as a small firespread to tanks containing chemicals,including ammonia anhydrous, usedto treat the fertilizer. The blast killed asmany as 15 people, injured many moreand led to the evacuation of half thetown due to fears of toxic fumes.
About ammonia anhydrous
Possible effects of inhaling,ingesting or contacting
Tips for returning evacuees
Eyes, nasal passagesIrritation,
burning; higher doses can causecorneal burns or blindness
2013 MCT
Anhydrous (dry or waterless)ammonia is a colorless,flammable, toxic gas
Throw away any food, including
pet food, not in sealed containers(cans, airtight plastic wrap)
Wash all plates, eating utensils
Clean up any residual whitepowder with a wet cloth; wearrubber gloves
Mouth, larynx (voice box),throat, esophagusSwelling, burns; coughing,choking or death fromswollen throat
LungsBurns
StomachNausea, vomiting,abdominal pain; burns
SkinIrritation, swelling,stinging; blistering,inflammation, deep burns,especially on moist areas,tissue death
Source: U.S. Centers forDisease Control and
Prevention; North DakotaDepartment of Public Health
Graphic: Pat Carr