Recent Blog Posts

Ammonia Detection Requirements

April 16th, 2024

Detection systems are a key player in the realm of process safety. Early detection and notification of an ammonia leak has the potential to save lives. In addition to ensuring that ammonia detectors are operating and maintained correctly, it is equally important from a regulatory perspective to ensure required parameters are met. A partial list […]

RMP Rule Update: Effective May 10, 2024

April 2nd, 2024

It is here. On March 11, 2024, the Safer Communities by Chemical Accident Prevention (SCCAP) RMP rule changes were published in the Federal Register. This has started the clock on new Risk Management Program requirements that will become effective on May 10, 2024. However, many new requirements have deferred compliance dates written into the law, […]

Ammonia Release | Brass Plug

March 19th, 2024

Summary In July 2020, the installation of a brass plug in an ammonia refrigeration system resulted in a release of approximately 100-300 lbs of ammonia. Due to the corrosive nature of ammonia on brass, the plug developed a leak due to corrosion. Incident Description A brass plug was installed on a CUNO oil filter several […]

Ammonia Detection in Non-Machinery Rooms

March 5th, 2024

  Question: Is ammonia detection required in rooms that contain ammonia, but are not classified as machinery rooms? Answer: This depends on which codes and standards the refrigeration system is subject to. New ammonia refrigeration systems are required to have ammonia detection in both machinery rooms and non-machinery rooms that contain ammonia equipment. Since IIAR […]

Ammonia Release | Band Saw to a Live Line

February 20th, 2024

Summary In October 2021, a contractor accidentally cut into a live ammonia pipe, resulting in the release of approximately 419 lbs of ammonia. Due to a general lack of labeling, the live pipe was confused for the decommissioned pipe that was intended to be cut out of the system. Incident Description A contractor was performing […]