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