MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEET
PRODUCT NAME: AMMONIA (0-5%) IN NITROGEN
1. Chemical Product and Company Identification
BOC Gases, BOC Gases
Division of Division of
The BOC Group, Inc. BOC Canada Limited
575 Mountain Avenue 5975 Falbourne Street, Unit 2
Murray Hill, NJ 07974 Mississauga, Ontario L5R 3W6
TELEPHONE NUMBER: (908) 464-8100 TELEPHONE NUMBER: (905) 501-1700
24-HOUR EMERGENCY TELEPHONE NUMBER: 24-HOUR EMERGENCY TELEPHONE NUMBER:
CHEMTREC (800) 424-9300 (905) 501-0802
EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN NO: 20101
PRODUCT NAME: AMMONIA (0-5%) IN NITROGEN
CHEMICAL NAME: Gas Mixture
COMMON NAMES/SYNONYMS: None
TDG (Canada) CLASSIFICATION: A, D1A, D2B
WHMIS CLASSIFICATION: 2.2
PREPARED BY: Loss Control (908)464-8100/(905)501-1700
PREPARATION DATE: 6/1/95
REVIEW DATES: 6/21/96
2. Composition, Information on Ingredients
PEL-OSHA1 TLV-ACGIH2
INGREDIENT % VOLUME LD50 or LC50
Route/Species
Nitrogen 95-100 Not Available Not Available Simple
FORMULA: N2 asphyxiant
CAS: 7727-37-0
RTECS #: QW9700000
Ammonia 0-5 Not Available 25 ppm LC50: 2000
FORMULA: NH3 35 ppm (STEL) ppm /4H
CAS: 7664-41-7 Inhalation/rat
RTECS #: BO0875000
1
As stated in 29 CFR 1910, Subpart Z (revised July 1, 1993)
2
As stated in the ACGIH 1994-95 Threshold Limit Values for Chemical Substances and Physical Agents
3. Hazards Identification
EMERGENCY OVERVIEW
Colorless gas with ammonia odor which may cause eye, skin and respiratory irritation. High
concentrations of gas may accumulate in confined or poorly ventilated areas, displacing oxygen and
causing unconsciousness or death. Exposure to ammonia present in this product may cause eye,
skin, and respiratory irritation and or eye damage. High exposure may result in ammonia toxicity. Use
only with adequate ventilation. Contents under pressure. Avoid heat and flames. Protect containers
from physical damage.
MSDS: G-271
Revised: 6/21/96 Page 1 of 7
PRODUCT NAME: AMMONIA (0-5%) IN NITROGEN
ROUTE OF ENTRY:
Skin Contact Skin Absorption Eye Contact Inhalation Ingestion
Yes No Yes Yes No
HEALTH EFFECTS:
Exposure Limits Irritant Sensitization
Yes Yes No
Teratogen Reproductive Hazard Mutagen
No No No
Synergistic Effects
Absorption in particles enhances irritation effects.
Carcinogenicity: -- NTP: No IARC: No OSHA: No
EYE EFFECTS:
Contact may cause eye irritation with associated redness, swelling, and tears. Ammonia can cause eye damage
with corneal burns if not rinsed promptly.
SKIN EFFECTS:
Contact may cause skin irritation and redness.
INGESTION EFFECTS:
Accidental ingestion is unlikely as at ambient temperature and pressure (STP) this product is a gas.
INHALATION EFFECTS:
Release of sufficient quantities of this product may cause asphyxiation or suffocation by displacing oxygen
content in the air. High concentrations of ammonia vapors can cause laryngitis, pulmonary edema or
pneumonitis.
MEDICAL CONDITIONS AGGRAVATED BY EXPOSURE: May aggravate pre-existing corneal disease,
glaucoma, and respiratory disease.
NFPA HAZARD CODES HMIS HAZARD CODES RATINGS SYSTEM
Health: 2 Health: 2 0 = No Hazard
Flammability: 0 Flammability: 0 1 = Slight Hazard
Reactivity: 0 Reactivity: 0 2 = Moderate Hazard
3 = Serious Hazard
4 = Severe Hazard
4. First Aid Measures
EYES:
Immediately flush eyes with large amounts of water for at least 15 minutes opening and closing eyelids to ensure
adequate rinsing. Seek medical attention.
SKIN:
Remove contaminated clothing and flush affected area with large quantities of water. If irritation persists, seek
medical attention.
INGESTION:
Product is a gas.
INHALATION:
MSDS: G271
Revised: 6/21/96 Page 2 of 7
PRODUCT NAME: AMMONIA (0-5%) IN NITROGEN
PROMPT MEDICAL ATTENTION IS MANDATORY IN ALL CASES OF OVEREXPOSURE. RESCUE
PERSONNEL SHOULD BE EQUIPPED WITH SELF-CONTAINED BREATHING APPARATUS.
Conscious persons should be assisted to an uncontaminated area and inhale fresh air. Quick removal from the
contaminated area is most important. If breathing is difficult, administer oxygen. If breathing has stopped, give
artificial respiration. Seek medical attention.
5. Fire Fighting Measures
Conditions of Flammability: Not flammable
Flash point: Method: Autoignition
None Not Applicable Temperature: None
LEL(%): None UEL(%): none
Hazardous combustion products: NH3 and NOx
Sensitivity to mechanical shock: None
Sensitivity to static discharge: None
FIRE AND EXPLOSION HAZARDS:
The majority of this product constitutes a nonflammable, inert gas. Ammonia is present in concentrations below
the Lower Explosive Limits (LEL). Containers may explode when exposed to heat or flames.
EXTINGUISHING MEDIA:
Water spray to keep cylinders cool. Extinguishing agent appropriate for the combustible material.
FIRE FIGHTING INSTRUCTIONS:
Continue to cool heat or flame exposed containers until well after flames are extinguished. Firefighters should
wear a full-facepiece, NIOSH/MSHA-approved self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) operated in positive
pressure mode and full turnout gear.
6. Accidental Release Measures
Evacuate all personnel from affected area. Use appropriate protective equipment including respiratory
protection for high or unknown concentrations. Personnel should not re-enter hazard area until ammonia is
dispersed and adequate atmospheric oxygen is re-established. If leak is in user鈥檚 equipment, be certain to purge
piping with inert gas prior to attempting repairs. If leak is in container or container valve, contact the
appropriate emergency telephone number listed in Section 1 or call your closest BOC location.
7. Handling and Storage
Electrical classification:
Non-hazardous
Stationary customer site vessels should operate in accordance with the manufacturer's and BOC鈥檚 instruction.
Do not attempt to repair, adjust or in any other way modify the operation of these vessels. If there is a
malfunction or other type of operations problem with the vessel, contact the closest BOC location immediately.
Valve protection caps must remain in place unless container is secured with valve outlet piped to use point. Do
not drag, slide or roll cylinders. Use a suitable hand truck for cylinder movement. Use a pressure reducing
regulator when connecting cylinder to lower pressure (<3000 psig) piping or systems. Do not heat cylinder by
any means to increase the discharge rate of product from the cylinder. Use a check valve or trap in the discharge
line to prevent hazardous back flow into the system.
Protect cylinders from physical damage. Store in cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from heavily trafficked
areas and emergency exits. Do not allow the temperature where cylinders are stored to exceed 130oF (54oC).
MSDS: G271
Revised: 6/21/96 Page 3 of 7
PRODUCT NAME: AMMONIA (0-5%) IN NITROGEN
Cylinders should be stored upright and firmly secured to prevent falling or being knocked over. Full and empty
cylinders should be segregated. Use a "first in-first out" inventory system to prevent full cylinders being stored
for excessive periods of time.
For additional storage recommendations, consult Compressed Gas Association鈥檚 Pamphlets P-1 and G-2.
Never carry a compressed gas cylinder or a container of a gas in cryogenic liquid form in an enclosed space such
as a car trunk, van or station wagon. A leak can result in a fire, explosion, asphyxiation or a toxic exposure.
8. Exposure Controls, Personal Protection
EXPOSURE LIMITS1:
PEL-OSHA2 TLV-ACGIH3
INGREDIENT % VOLUME LD50 or LC50
Route/Species
Nitrogen 95-100 Not Available Not Available Simple
FORMULA: N2 Asphyxiant
CAS: 7727-37-0
RTECS #: QW9700000
Ammonia 0-5 Not Available 25 ppm LC50: 2000
FORMULA: NH3 35 ppm (STEL) ppm /4H
CAS: 7664-41-7 inhalation/rat
RTECS #: BO0875000
21
Refer to individual state of provincial regulations, as applicable, for limits which may be more stringent than
those listed here.
2
As stated in 29 CFR 1910, Subpart Z (revised July 1, 1993)
3
As stated in the ACGIH 1994-1995 Threshold Limit Values for Chemical Substances and Physical Agents.
ENGINEERING CONTROLS:
Use local exhaust ventilation as necessary to maintain atmospheric oxygen levels above 19.5% and control air
contaminants to below acceptable exposure guidelines.
EYE/FACE PROTECTION:
Goggles should be worn.
SKIN PROTECTION:
Protective gloves made of suitable material (i.e.: butyl rubber) appropriate for the job.
OTHER/GENERAL PROTECTION:
Safety shoes, emergency eyewash station.
MSDS: G271
Revised: 6/21/96 Page 4 of 7
PRODUCT NAME: AMMONIA (0-5%) IN NITROGEN
9. Physical and Chemical Properties
PARAMETER VALUE UNITS
Physical state (gas, liquid, solid) : Gas
Vapor pressure : Above critical temp.
Vapor density (Air = 1) : Not Available
Evaporation point : Not Available
o
Boiling point : -195.79 C (liquid, as N2)
Freezing point: : Not Available
pH : Not Available
Specific gravity at STP : Not Available
Oil/water partition coefficient : Not Available
Solubility (H20) : Negligible
(Pure NH3 in air)
Odor threshold : 4.68 ppm
Odor and appearance : Colorless gas with ammonia odor
10. Stability and Reactivity
STABILITY:
Stable
INCOMPATIBLE MATERIALS:
Ammonia is corrosive to copper and galvanized surfaces. Ammonia is incompatible with strong oxidizers,
acids, halogens, and salts of silver and zinc.
HAZARDOUS DECOMPOSITION PRODUCTS:
Thermal decomposition will produce toxic fumes of NH3 and Nox.
HAZARDOUS POLYMERIZATION:
Will not occur.
11. Toxicological Information
EYE: Eye irritation was reported in 6 human volunteers exposed to 94 mg/m3 ammonia for 5 minutes. At 700
ppm eye irritation and permanent injury may result if prompt remedial measures are not taken. (Chris. Hazard
Chem Data, Vol. II 1984-85).
SKIN: Concentrations of 5 to 10% ammonia rarely causes burns to the skin.
ORAL: Deliberate suicidal ingestion of 5-10% ammonia (household ammonia) has resulted in esophageal
burns.
INHALATION: Irregular minute ventilation with cyclic patterns of hypernea, increases in blood pressure and
pulse rate, variable lacrimation, and general complaints of upper respiratory irritation were reported during
human exposures to 500 ppm ammonia for 30 minutes.
CHRONIC: Guinea pigs (12) exposed to 170 ppm ammonia 6H/day, 5 D/Week for up to 18 weeks exhibited
congestion of the spleen, liver, and kidneys with degenerative changes in suprarenal glands. No adverse effects
were observed in the 4 exposed animals and 2 control animals killed at 6 and 12 weeks.
MSDS: G271
Revised: 6/21/96 Page 5 of 7
PRODUCT NAME: AMMONIA (0-5%) IN NITROGEN
12. Ecological Information
ATMOSPHERIC FATE: Ammonia combines with sulfate ion in the atmosphere or in washout by rainfall
resulting in a rapid return of ammonia to the soil.
13. Disposal Considerations
Do not attempt to dispose of residual waste or unused quantities. Return in the shipping container PROPERLY
LABELED, WITH ANY VALVE OUTLET PLUGS OR CAPS SECURED AND VALVE PROTECTION CAP
IN PLACE to BOC Gases or authorized distributor for proper disposal.
14. Transport Information
PARAMETER United States DOT Canada TDG
PROPER SHIPPING NAME: Compressed gas, n.o.s. Compressed gas, n.o.s.
(Contains nitrogen and ammonia) (Contains nitrogen and ammonia)
2.2 2.2
HAZARD CLASS:
1956 1956
IDENTIFICATION NUMBER:
Non-flammable gas Non-flammable gas
SHIPPING LABEL:
15. Regulatory Information
Ammonia is listed under the accident prevention provisions of section 112(r) of the Clean Air Act (CAA) with a
threshold quantity (TQ) of 10,000 pounds.
SARA TITLE III NOTIFICATIONS AND INFORMATION
Releases of ammonia in quantities equal to or greater than the reportable quantity (RQ) of 100 pounds are
subject to reporting to the National Response Center under CERCLA, Section 304 SARA Title III.
SARA TITLE III - HAZARD CLASSES:
Acute Health Hazard
Sudden Release of Pressure Hazard
SARA TITLE III - SECTION 313 SUPPLIER NOTIFICATION:
This product contains the following toxic chemicals subject to the reporting requirements of section 313 of the
Emergency Planning and Community Right-To-Know Act (EPCRA) of 1986 and of 40 CFR 372:
CAS NUMBER INGREDIENT NAME PERCENT BY VOLUME
7664-41-7 Ammonia 0-5
This information must be included on all MSDSs that are copied and distributed for this material.
EPCRA SECTION 302: This product contains ammonia, a designated Extremely Hazardous Substance (EHS)
with a Threshold Planning Quantity (TPQ) of 500 pounds. The presence of EHSs in quantities in excess of the
TPQ requires certain emergency planning activities to be conducted.
MSDS: G271
Revised: 6/21/96 Page 6 of 7
PRODUCT NAME: AMMONIA (0-5%) IN NITROGEN
16. Other Information
Compressed gas cylinders shall not be refilled without the express written permission of the owner. Shipment of
a compressed gas cylinder which has not been filled by the owner or with his/her (written) consent is a
violation of transportation regulations.
DISCLAIMER OF EXPRESSED AND IMPLIED WARRANTIES:
Although reasonable care has been taken in the preparation of this document, we extend no warranties and make
no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of the information contained herein, and assume no
responsibility regarding the suitability of this information for the user鈥檚 intended purposes or for the
consequences of its use. Each individual should make a determination as to the suitability of the information for
their particular purpose(s).
MSDS: G271
Revised: 6/21/96 Page 7 of 7
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