Ammonia

Ammonia & Exposure Risks

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• published: 15 May 2014
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Ammonia is a chemical that is made by humans and is naturally found in the environment. It is comprised of one part nitrogen and three parts hydrogen. In the natural environment, ammonia is important to plants, animals and humans as a source of nitrogen and may be found in water, soil and air. Much of the naturally occurring ammonia in the environment comes from the breakdown of manure, dead plants and animals. A large amount of the ammonia produced by humans is used as fertilizer. It is also used to manufacture synthetic fibers, plastics, explosives and a number of cleaning products also contain ammonia in the form of ammonium ions. People may be exposed to ammonia by breathing air, eating food or drinking liquids that contain the chemical. Skin contact is also another exposure route. When ammonia is found at levels that may cause concern, it was likely produced either directly or indirectly by humans. If a person is exposed to ammonia, many factors can determine whether they will be harmed. These factors include the dose (how much), the duration (how long), and how they came into contact with the chemical. Ammonia has a strong odor that is irritating and that people can smell. Even low levels of ammonia may harm some people with asthma and other sensitive individuals. Ammonia is a corrosive substance and the main toxic effects are usually restricted to the sites of direct contact such as the skin, eyes, respiratory tract, mouth and digestive tract. At very high concentrations it can be fatal. Indoors, people may be exposed to ammonia while using household products that contain the chemical. Products may include ammonia-cleaning solutions, window cleaners, floor waxes and smelling salts. Agricultural workers can be exposed to ammonia when they work with or apply fertilizers containing the chemical. People who raise livestock or poultry can be exposed to ammonia from decaying manure. Workers involved in manufacturing processes that make, use or transport ammonia could also be at risk of exposure. These are just a few things to know about ammonia and human health concerns. To learn more about this or other health & safety, environmental or indoor air quality issues, please visit the websites shown in the video.