Handling Emergencies Safely

In any emergency with BIG N ® call 1800 033 111. The operator will guide you through a response and contact the appropriate authorities.

Gas or liquid leaks

In the event of a gas or liquid leak, get yourself and others out of danger first. Move across-wind until clear of the leak, then up-wind to a position of greater safety. Walk quickly and keep breathing normally. If possible, hold a cloth pad over your mouth and nose.

Raise the alarm by calling the 24 hour emergency number: 1800 033 111.

The operator will guide you through the correct response and will contact the appropriate authorities on your behalf.

Fires

The main danger with a fire in an ammonia storage or application area is that a major ammonia escape may occur if the ammonia containers are ruptured at high temperatures.

Ammonia containers must be kept cool by spraying water on them from fire hoses or fixed sprinklers.

Use your common sense. If your personal safety or the safety of others is in doubt, get out of danger immediately and call the emergency number: 1800 033 111.

First aid

• Where liquid ammonia has come into contact with skin or eyes, wash thoroughly with copious amounts of water for at least 20 minutes. Seek medical assistance.
• Salves or ointments should NOT be used as a first aid measure for at least 24 hours or unless advised by a medical practitioner.
• If a person is overcome by ammonia fumes and stops breathing, remove them to fresh air and give artificial respiration.

Please report all cases of leaks, injuries or near misses to your nearest BIG N Distribution depot so that the incident can be recorded. It may be necessary to make changes to safety procedures or equipment to ensure the safety of others.

Damage to equipment

BIG N Distribution depots should also be advised immediately where equipment has been damaged so that repairs can be made.

This will ensure damaged equipment is not delivered to other properties.

Safety training

Safety awareness training sessions are vital in ensuring operators are aware of the necessary safety precautions, particularly when inexperienced operators will be using the product.

Even with experienced operators, it can pay to revisit some of the essentials at the start of an application such as personal protective equipment, how to make a safe transfer and what to do in an emergency.