Storage handling

Canadian Fertilizer
Industry Storage
And
Handling Guidelines
2001

Table of Contents
Canadian Fertilizer Storage and Handling Guidelines
1.0 INTRODUCTION
1.1 Executive Steering Committee
1.2 Working Groups
1.3 General Approach
1.4 Recommendations on How to Use the Guidelines
2.0 SOLID FERTILIZER
2.1 Siting
2.1.1 Recommendations
2.2 Facility and Equipment Design and Construction
2.2.2 Ammonium Nitrate Storage
2.3 Facility and Equipment Inspections
3.0 ANHYDROUS AMMONIA
3.1 Siting
3.2 Facility Design and Construction
3.3 Facility and Equipment Inspections
4.0 LIQUID FERTILIZER
4.1 Siting
4.2 Facility Equipment Design and Construction
4.3 Inspections
5.0 EMPLOYEE TRAINING AND DOCUMENTATION
5.1 Employee Training
5.2 Documentation Requirements
6.0 EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLANNING AND PRACTICE
6.1 Recommendations
REFERENCES
APPENDICES
Appendix A-1 Solid Fertilizer Siting Distances
Appendix A-2 Anhydrous Ammonia Siting Distances
Appendix A-3 Liquid Fertilizer Siting Distances
Appendix B-1 Solid Fertilizer Site Layout
Appendix B-2 Bagged/Bulk Fertilizer Warehouse Layout
Appendix B-3 Anhydrous Ammonia Site Layout
Appendix B-4 Liquid Fertilizer Site Layout
Appendix C-1 Solid Fertilizer Daily Inspection Checklist
Appendix C-2 Solid Fertilizer Annual Inspection
Appendix C-3 Anhydrous Ammonia Fertilizer Daily Inspection Checklist
Appendix C-4 Anhydrous Ammonia Annual Inspection
Appendix C-5 Liquid Fertilizer Daily Inspection Checklist
Appendix C-6 Liquid Fertilizer Annual Inspection
Appendix C-7 Liquid Tank Inspection Report
Appendix D Suggested Training and Course Contents
Appendix E Emergency Response Plan Template

1.0 INTRODUCTION
The following document contains the
Canadian Fertilizer Industry Storage and
Handling Guidelines. These guidelines were
developed to provide information and
guidance to members of the industry on the
measures they can take at their facilities to
maintain or improve the level of safety
associated with the storage and handling of
fertilizers. This initiative was driven by the
industry’s responsibility to continuously
improve the stewardship of its products to
meet society's demand for protecting the
environment, human health and safety. The
guidelines are based upon existing regulatory
requirements and industry best practices.
1.1 Executive Steering Committee
The overall initiative was driven by an
Executive Steering Committee comprised of
representatives from all segments of the
industry. The members of the steering
committee were:
Donald Côté - Quebec Fertilizer
Manufacturers’ Association
Percy Crossman - Saskatchewan Wheat Pool
Jim Farrell - Canadian Fertilizer Institute
Bill McEwen – Agrium
Tom Sawyer - The Fertilizer Institute of
Ontario
John Scales - Atlantic Fertilizer Institute
Bernie Tiessen - Canadian Association of
Agri-Retailers
The Executive Steering Committee was
responsible for representing the interests of
manufacturers, distributors and retailers of
fertilizer. It was also responsible for defining
the overall process by which the guidelines
were developed
Working Groups
Three working groups were established to
develop the guidelines for each major
fertilizer industry segment. The working
groups and their members were:
Solid Fertilizer – Percy Crossman (Chair),
Malcolm Parker, Glen Dixon, Donald Côté,
John Scales.
Liquid Fertilizer – Bernie Tiessen (Co-
Chair), Tom Sawyer (Co-Chair), Jim Farrell,
Tony Bouw, Oleh Ilnyckyj.
Anhydrous Ammonia – Al Petkau (Co-
Chair), Neil Jorgenson (Co-Chair), Don
Henderson, Frank Vidalin, Reg Helwer.
1.2 General Approach
The major principle for the entire initiative
was to ensure recommendations were cost
effective based upon the actual
safety/environmental risks in the industry. To
assess the risks, a risk assessment survey was
developed and sent to industry members. The
survey asked each recipient to rank the level
of risk associated with various parameters
according to a four-point scale. Once the
surveys were returned, all the parameters were
analyzed to determine the highest ranked
risks. Any risk parameter that was ranked as a
moderate to high risk by greater than 50% of
respondents was selected as an area of focus
in the development of the guidelines.
Each identified risk was then investigated by
one of the specific working groups to
determine the level of risk and the
recommended approach to minimizing the
risk. The guidelines were based upon
existing regulations, corporate standards and
industry best practices.

1.3 Recommendations on How to Use
the Guidelines
These guidelines should be considered at the
early design stages for any new fertilizer
facility.
It is recognized that in many cases, existing
facilities will not meet all of the
recommendations, specifically for siting or
facility design and construction. Existing
facilities should consider all of the
recommendations made in this document and
work towards meeting the recommendations
in a timeframe that is economically viable.
The development of the guidelines considered
existing laws and regulations in general. It is
strongly recommended that local authorities
be consulted to determine any specific
requirements that may be over and above
these guidelines.

2.0 Solid Fertilizer
This section contains the recommended
guidelines for all solid (granules, crystals,
pellets, prills and pastilles) fertilizers. Further
to the recommendations an environmental site
assessment should be completed to ensure site
suitability prior to development.
2.1 Siting
The recommended distances for siting solid
fertilizer facilities were decided by reviewing
several factors. The first was to establish the
actual risks presented by solid fertilizer
storage facilities to the surrounding
environment. The next step was to compare
these risks to other facilities that have had
siting distances already established. Several
types of facilities were used for comparison
including crop protection storage facilities and
other hazardous substance storage facilities.
Once this comparison was completed, a siting
distance was established in proportion to the
risk presented. An example siting plan is
presented in Appendix A-1.
1. All Fertilizer Blenders and/or
Bulk/Bagged Fertilizer Storage (new
construction) - 25 metres from facility to
closest neighboring property line.
2. All Fertilizer Blenders and/or
Bulk/Bagged Fertilizer Storage (existing
facilities) - Facilities located closer than
25 metres from blending facility to closest
neighboring property line should install
dust control system.
3. Distance from rivers, lakes, streams
and/or environmentally sensitive areas -
50 metres from bulk storage facility or
blender to rivers, lakes, streams and/or
environmentally sensitive areas. Facilities
located closer than 50 metres should have
a plan for containing emergency response
water including an evaluation on dyking
requirements.
4. Ammonia Nitrate Storage Facilities -
National Fire Code (1995) references the
Canadian Transportation Commission
(CTC) General Order No. 0-36 as follows:
!"92 metres from storage facility to
school, hospital, senior citizen’s home
or other high occupancy facility.
!"46 metres from storage facility to
residence, office building, etc.
!"16 metres from storage facility to any
warehouse or facility used for the
storage of dangerous or
flammable/combustible products.
!"8 metres separation from other
facilities on adjoining properties if
aggregate storage is less than 182
tonnes.
!"16 metres separation from other
facilities on adjoining properties if
aggregate storage is less than 182
tonnes.
5. Distance from Fertilizer Storage
Facility to Roadway – typically at least
40 metres from the edge of the roadway to
the facility. However, it is recommended
that the facility owner check with local
provincial officials for specific
requirements.

6. Prevailing Wind Directions - prevailing
wind direction should be considered when
determining site locations for blending or
bulk fertilizer storage facilities. All dust
producing operations should be located
downwind from residential and/or
environmentally sensitive areas.
7. Access to Primary Roads - Access to
primary roads is critical to ensure
unrestricted fertilizer delivery. In several
jurisdictions, restrictions may be placed on
access to secondary roads for fertilizer
delivery.
8. Emergency Response Access - Access to
two sides of the facility with a minimum
10 metres clearance for Emergency
Response Vehicles.
2.2 Facility and Equipment Design
and Construction
The contents of this section were largely
determined by the responses to the risk
assessment survey. These designated risk
areas were investigated to determine the risk
presented. This risk assessment was then
used to develop recommendations based on
existing codes, regulations and/or industry
practices. An example layout plan is
presented in Appendix B-1.
1. Design Specification for Out of
Condition Material:
!"Regular Fertilizer - stored in a
contained area that is covered to
prevent contamination from rainwater.
Can be ground up and disposed of at a
later date.
!"Impregnated Fertilizer - Dealt with
promptly upon occurrence, not stored
on site.
2. Containment of Run-Off Water:
!"Priority must be placed on eliminating
the opportunities for contamination.
Small spills, leaks or dust must be
cleaned up immediately.
!"Contaminated run-off water must be
contained and disposed of properly
(i.e. land-farmed, certified waste
disposal, etc.)
3. Load-In/Load-Out Pads Design &
Construction:
!"Must be constructed of concrete or
asphalt.
!"Must be situated at all load in/load out
areas as well as under bins, blenders
and/or storage facilities.
!"Concrete should be sulphate resistant.
!"Load in/load out slab should be a
minimum of 2 metres wider than the
widest vehicle being loaded. See
figure 2.1.
!"Underground conveyor systems should
consider measures to avoid possible
water contamination.
4. Ventilation for Indoor Bulk/Blender
Warehouses:
!"Forced ventilation system should be
installed where practical. Where this
is not practical, dust masks or
respirators suitable for products being
handled, should be used by personnel
working in the facility. An example
warehouse layout is presented in
Appendix B-2.
5. Dust Collection:
!"Provincial or municipal environmental
dust control regulations should be
consulted to determine maximum
allowable dust production.

Figure 2.1 Load-in/Load-out Slab
!"Dust collection system should be
constructed of corrosion resistant
material.
!"Primary focus should be on limiting
points of dust production (i.e. points of
transfer, tops of conveyors, etc.)
6. Equipment Specification Requirements:
Electrical Code Designation is Class II
Div. II for all fertilizers. Further, all
fixtures must be aluminum or PVC to
resist corrosion.
7. Soil Preparation: Soil preparation should
consist of a compacted sub-base to provide
for a good foundation and decrease
permeability.
8. Fire Separation Requirements: The
majority of fertilizers are not classified as
hazardous products. However, fertilizer
storage facilities are often attached to
other facilities that may store hazardous
products. In these cases, the National Fire
Code and Building Code should be
consulted to determine any fire rating
requirements.
9. Location of Exits in a Warehouse: in
accordance with the National Building
Code (1995), the maximum travel distance
between exits should not exceed 15
metres. An example warehouse layout is
10. General Fertilizer Storage Signage:
!"Authorized Personnel Only (on
warehouse entrances)
!"Emergency Response Phone Numbers
(near road access to facility)
!"Exits
!"Fire Extinguishers
!"Safety Equipment Location
11. Emergency Response/Spill Clean-up
Equipment (located in a readily
accessible location):
!"Respirator
!"Goggles
!"Broom/Shovel
!"Gloves
!"Clean-up Drum for contaminated
product
!"Safety Equipment
!"Dust Mask/Respirator

2.2.2 Ammonium Nitrate Storage
The following are specific recommendations
for storing granular ammonium nitrate in bulk
storage facilities:
!"Ammonium nitrate should not be
stored in a confined space that would
allow a pressure buildup,
stored near, or be contaminated with
combustible materials or organic
substances such as oils and waxes,
stored near, or be contaminated with
inorganic materials that may contribute
to its sensitivity to explosion,
including chlorides and some metals,
such as chromium, copper, cobalt and
nickel.
Currently the National Fire Code (1995) states
in section 3.2.9.7.1) bagged ammonium nitrate
in quantities in excess of 600,000 kg shall be
stored only in buildings sprinklered in
conformance with Article 6.5.1.1. This
requirement is currently under review by the
National Fire Code and there are currently no
recommendations for sprinkler systems in
bulk storage of ammonium nitrate.
Specific Ammonium Nitrate Storage
Signage:
!"CTC General Order No. 0-36 states
that "a weatherproof sign bearing the
words "AMMONIUM NITRATE" and
"NO SMOKING OR OPEN
FLAMES" in block letters at least two
inches high on a white or light
coloured background shall be posted in
a conspicuous place near each entrance
to the storage facility".
2.3 Facility and Equipment
Inspections
The following section contains the
recommended inspections for all solid
fertilizer storage facilities. Example
inspection forms for solid fertilizer are
presented in Appendix C-1 and C-2.
1. Daily Walk-Around Inspection: a daily
walk around inspection is recommended to
ensure all spilled fertilizer is cleaned up to
avoid potential contamination.
2. Annual Safety Inspection: an annual
safety inspection is recommended for all
solid fertilizer storage facilities and
equipment.

3.0 Anhydrous Ammonia
Anhydrous ammonia is a corrosive,
compressed gas that is liquified under
pressure. It can present significant safety and
health risks if not handled and sorted properly.
This section contains the recommended
guidelines for all anhydrous ammonia storage
facilities. Further to the recommendations an
environmental site assessment should be
completed to ensure site suitability prior to
development.
3.1 Siting
There is currently a number of siting distance
restrictions for anhydrous ammonia facilities.
Several manufacturers of anhydrous ammonia
have set their own siting distance
requirements for their own facilities. Due to
the variety of requirements, it was necessary
to develop siting recommendations utilizing a
risk assessment approach. A risk assessment
screening process for ammonia storage and
distribution facilities currently under
development by the Canadian Fertilizer
Institute (CFI), includes an assessment of
pressurized ammonia storage tanks. The
criteria used to develop the model and risk
assessment process, considered 80 tonne
pressurized storage tanks, typical to Canadian
retail storage facilities. This model was used
as a reference when developing
recommendations for siting of retail ammonia
facilities. An example siting plan is presented
in Appendix A-2.
1. Boundaries: City, Town Or Village
(new construction) - Anhydrous ammonia
storage facilities being constructed should
be located a minimum of 1.5 km from the
boundary of a city, town or village.
2. Boundaries: City, Town or Village
(existing) - Anhydrous ammonia storage
facilities located closer than 1.0 km from
the boundary of a city, town or village
should implement the following program:
!"Annual meeting with local residents to
review emergency response plan and
how they can participate.
!"Must hold annual meeting with local
fire department and review the video
"Preventing & Responding to
Anhydrous Ammonia Emergencies".
!"Hold a half to full day session bi-
annually with local fire department(s)
on how to contain an NH3 escape by
proper hose location patterns and spray
to include:
!"Practical field demonstrations.
!"Walk through of location, storage
units, emergency shut-off valve
locations, fire routes, etc.
!"Meet with local mayor, reeve, council
and discuss/explain the emergency
response plan.
!"Staff training - review emergency
response plan and procedures in April
(before use season begins). Review
again with staff in September to ensure
safety handling procedures are being
followed.
!"Implement a daily check program
during the use season, where staff will
hand tighten every tap on nurse
wagons and storage tanks.

Please note: All the program elements listed
here should be considered for new facilities as
well.
3. Environmentally Sensitive Areas:
Anhydrous ammonia storage facilities
should be located a minimum of 50 metres
from areas such as rivers, lakes, streams
and other environmentally sensitive areas
provided the dyking is installed to contain
emergency response water.
4. General Site Recommendation:
Anhydrous ammonia facilities should be
located downwind of residences according
to prevailing wind direction.
5. Emergency Response Access: Access to
Response Vehicles.
3.2 Facility Design & Construction
The contents of this section were largely
determined by the responses to the risk
assessment survey. These designated risk
areas were investigated to determine the risk
presented. This risk assessment was then
used to develop recommendations based on
existing codes, regulations and/or industry
practices. An example facility layout is
1. Tank Construction: Anhydrous
ammonia storage tanks should be
constructed of SA-516-70 Fine Grained
Steel that has been fully stress relieved at
the time of construction.
2. Site Fencing & Security: A 2 metre high
fence is recommended around entire
anhydrous ammonia storage site to prevent
unauthorized access.
3. Standard Pipe Layout: A typical pipe
layout is shown in figure 3.1.
4. Facility Signage: The recommended
standard signage and location is:
!"Caution Ammonia (on tank)
!"Product Identification Number (PIN
#1005) (on tank)
!"Liquid Lines (on tank line)
!"Vapour Line (on tank line)
!"Twenty Four Hour Emergency Contact
Phone List (entrance to Facility)
5. Safety Equipment: The recommended
safety equipment for an anhydrous
ammonia operation is:
!"200 Gallon Water Trough (heated)
!"Wind Sock
!"One Self Contained Breathing
Apparatus
!"Full Face Canister Gas Mask (Delivery
Vehicle)
!"Personal Protective Equipment -
Goggles, Gloves, Turn Out Gear and
Water Bottle
!"Fire Extinguisher
!"First Aid Kit
6. Site Preparation/Soil Profile:
Anhydrous ammonia storage facility site
should be graded to minimize surface
water run-off and provide emergency
containment in the case of a major release.
3.3 Facility and Equipment
Inspections
The following section contains the
recommended inspections for all anhydrous
ammonia storage facilities. Example
inspection forms are presented in Appendix
C-3 and C-4.

Figure 3.1 Standard Pipe Layout – Ammonia Storage Tank
1. Daily Inspection: A daily visual walk
around of all storage vessels is
recommended to look for possible leaks or
equipment malfunctions.
2. Annual Inspection: An annual
documented inspection is recommended.
A recommended format will be prepared
for the final guidelines document.
3. Ten Year Internal Tank Inspection
(Tank Out Of Service): A ten year
internal examination of the storage vessel
is required according to Boiler & Pressure
Vessel regulations.
4. Safety Relief Valves: Safety relief valves
should be visually inspected annually and
replaced every five years.
5. Hoses: Anhydrous ammonia storage
vessel hoses should be tested annually to
maximum allowable working pressure.

4.0 Liquid Fertilizer
This section outlines the recommendations
and technical guidelines for the storage and
handling of the following types of liquid
fertilizers:
• urea ammonium nitrate solutions
• ammonium polyphosphate
• ammonium thiosulphate
• muriate of potash
• fertilizers in suspension (various)
Further to the recommendations, an
environmental site assessment should be
completed to ensure site suitability prior to
development.
4.1 Siting
Liquid fertilizer storage facilities do not
generally represent a risk to surrounding land
uses in terms of health and safety.
Environmental impacts of a storage tank
failure are the primary concern with respect to
siting and it is recommended that secondary
containment of the storage tank contents be
provided in all cases. An example siting plan
is provided in Appendix A-3.
1. Water sources: Liquid fertilizer storage
facilities should be a minimum of 50
metres from private wells and 300 metres
from a source of public water supply.
(Facilities located closer than these
recommended distances should examine
the hydro-geological conditions to
determine potential for contamination of
the water source and establish whether or
not additional containment measures are
required).
2. Environmentally Sensitive areas:
Liquid storage facilities should be a
minimum of 50 metres from rivers, lakes,
streams and environmentally sensitive
areas.
3. Emergency Response Access: Access to
Response Vehicles.
4. Distance from Liquid Storage Facility to
Roadway: Typically at least 40 metres
from the edge of the roadway to the
facility. However, it is recommended that
the facility owner check with local
provincial officials for specific
requirements.
4.2 Facility Equipment Design &
Construction
This section covers several items that should
be considered when designing or renovating
existing liquid fertilizer facilities. An example
facility layout is presented in Appendix B-4.

1. Site Preparation/Soil Profile: Sound
engineering principles should be applied
when choosing a site or a location within a
site and when designing a facility and
preparing for construction. Consideration
of floodlines and high water tables should
guide the decision for location of the
facility within the site. Ensure that the site
is graded to minimize surface water flow
onto the property and also ensure the
ability to capture surface water flow from
the site in the event of a spill. Frost
conditions and soil load bearing capacity
should also be factored into design
process.
2. Containment: All sites should be
graded/curbed to ensure spills in areas
where liquid fertilizer is handled will be
contained and drained to a collection point
(sump). Grades recommended for areas
draining to sumps range from 1 to 2 %.
3. Site Fencing and Security: Site security
is required to prevent accidents and to
minimize unauthorized access resulting in
spills or vandalism. A secure lock system
on all valves should be provided as a
minimum. Fencing around the entire site
is suggested as a good business practice
although it is recognized that this is not
practical or desirable in many operations.
If sight gauges are used they should be
lockable and be installed downstream of
the outlet valves.
4. Facility Layout for Delivery and Pick-
up: There should be adequate space to
allow for uninterrupted traffic flow and
allow for the safe movement of vehicles.
It is recommended that load-out facilities
be designed to allow for circular
movement of vehicles, but that will
depend on individual operations. In a
facility that requires the trucks, such as 5
axle semi trailers, A and B trains, a turning
radius should be provided to allow for:
- 42 metres minimum turning radius
- 50 metres preferred turning radius
5. Access to Site - Public Roadways:
Roads that experience high traffic increase
the potential for accidents and therefore
access roads with low traffic are most
desirable. Traffic routes with load
restrictions could restrict supplier and
customer and may have an impact on the
business. Discussion with the local
authorities should be initiated very early in
the planning process to ensure that site
access during peak times will not be a
problem.
6. Signage: A sign should be posted on the
storage tanks that clearly identifies the
product contained in the tank by text (i.e.
Nitrogen Solution) and numerical (i.e. 28-
0-0) description. Supplier MSDS sheets
will indicate whether or not there is a
Workplace Hazardous Materials
Information System (WHMIS)
requirement for product labeling.
For the overall site, signage is
recommended as follows: A sign shall be
placed that is legible from the primary
entrance to the property which indicates
the owner or operator of the site and/or the
emergency phone number(s) that will
initiate the site E/R plan. The sign shall be
of a permanent, weatherproof
construction.
7. Equipment Specification Requirements
(pipes, valves, fittings): It is
recommended that flexible connections at
the tank be made to a stainless steel nipple
and valve using stainless steel braid rubber
hose to allow for shifting of the tank. As a
minimum Schedule 80 piping is

recommended and it should be installed so
that it is self-draining. Pipe runs should be
marked (in/out) for safety purposes. Tank
piping should be compatible with material
stored within the tanks. Table 4.1 lists the
chemical compatibility for several liquid
fertilizer compounds and various
construction materials and Table 4.2
outlines construction material
compatibility between containers and
appurtenances. Above ground piping is
preferable to below ground piping as leaks
below ground can go undetected.
Table 4.1
CHEMICAL COMPATIBILITY FOR LIQUIDS FERTILIZERS
Table Key:
A- Acceptable if compatible with container or appurtenances
N- Not acceptable because of chemical compatibility
1- Acceptable if product is treated with corrosion inhibitor
2- Acceptable if warranted by equipment manufacturer for the intended use
3- Acceptable if cleaned after seasonal use and is used to store materials less than three months (cumulative) annually
Product Urea
Ammonia
Nitrate
Ammonium
Thiosulfate
Ammonium
Poly-
phosphate
Potassium
Phosphate
Potassium
Hydroxide
Potash
Solutions
Mixed
Fertilizers,
Starters
Container Material
Stainless Steel A A A A A A A
Mild Steel 1 1 A N N 3 3
Mild Steel with Liner 2 2 A 2 2 2 2
Aluminum A A N N N N N
Fiberglass A A A A 2 A A
Poly or Plastic A A A A 2 A A
Brass or Copper Alloys N N N N N N N
Plugs, Valves, Tank
Inserts
Nickel Stainless Insert A A A A 2 A A
Fully Lined Metal
Stainless Insert A A A A N A A
Nylon Ball Valve A A A A A A A
Forged Steel A A A 2 N A A
Cast Iron/Mild Steel N N A N N N N
Poly or Plastic A A A A 2 A A
Brass or Copper Alloys N N N N N N N
Plumbing
Forged Steel A A A 2 N A A
Cast Iron/Mild Steel 1 1 A N N 3 3
Galvanized N N A N N N 3
PVC/Other Synthetics 2 2 2 A 2 2 2
Source: Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection

Table 4.2
CONSTRUCTION MATERIAL COMPATIBILITY
BETWEEN CONTAINERS AND APPURTENANCES
Table Key:
A- Acceptable if all materials are chemically compatible
N- Not acceptable because of differing reactivity or strength
1- May be acceptable for some products, as recommended by manufacturer
Container
Stainless Steel Mild Steel Aluminum Fiberglass Poly
Plugs, valves, tank inserts
Stainless steel A A A A A
Cast nickel stainless insert A A A A A
Lined metal stainless insert N A A A A
Nylon ball valve A A A A A
Forged steel 1 A N A A
Cast iron or mild steel N A N 1 A
Poly or plastic N N N 1 A
Brass or copper alloys N N A 1 1
Plumbing
Stainless Steel A A A A A
Forged Steel 1 A A A A
Cast iron or mild steel N A N A A
Galvanized N A 1 A A
PVC and other synthetics 1 1 1 1 1
Source: Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection
8. Spill Clean-up Equipment: For minor
spills and drips associated with
loading/unloading operations it is
recommended that pails be used to capture
all liquid fertilizer material. Any material
that is not caught by pails should be
cleaned up immediately in situations
where the load-out area is constructed of
impervious material. Some type of
absorbent material (i.e. kitty litter) should
be available at locations with impervious
load out areas. It is very important to
make available a vessel for disposal of
minor spills and drips from loading
operations to ensure that the fertilizer is
dealt with properly.
Liquid fertilizers are mildly corrosive so
goggles and rubber gloves should be worn
in situations where direct contact with the
liquid is required. Equipment required for
dealing with major spills or tank failures is
discussed in the emergency response
section of these guidelines.
9. Tank Specifications: It is recommended
that all tanks used for storage of liquid
fertilizer be above ground. All tanks
should be anchored to keep them from
floating within the dyke in the case of a
spill. Soil conditions and load bearing
capacity should be considered when
locating and constructing liquid fertilizer
storage tanks.
Bottom of tanks should be well drained
and remain dry to minimize corrosion.
Suggestions for leveling tanks and
building various bases for large tanks are
provided in Tennessee Valley Authority
(1993).
There are several different types of tanks
that are used for storage of liquid
fertilizers and recommended guidelines for
specific types of tanks are provided:

!"Concrete tanks with liners: It is
recommended that concrete tanks be
lined with a styrofoam spray and then
a rubber bladder attached between the
liquid and the styrofoam. Rubber
bladders should be 30 ml thickness
which is the optimum for strength and
handling. Approximate design life of
rubber bladders is 10 years. This 10
year period can be extended if a foam
layer is applied to the concrete block
before the new liner is hung.
!"Steel Tanks: Experience shows that
steel tanks have a maximum useable
life of twenty years unless otherwise
indicated by the manufacturer. This is
also highly dependant on the tank
maintenance program. Additional
information on the selection and
specification of steel tanks can be
found in Welded Steel Tanks for Oil
Storage - API Standard 650 (API,
1993).
(A brief checklist of tank
specifications to look for will be
provided).
10. Secondary Containment Systems: It is
recommended that a secondary
containment system be included in the
construction of any new facility. The
dyked or otherwise contained area should
have a capacity to hold 110% of the
largest tank capacity, plus the volume
occupied by the other tanks in the area, up
to the safe design level of the dyke.
Precipitation that falls within the
containment area should be collected in
sumps and pumped out on a regular basis
using a manually switched, lockable
pump.
All pumping equipment should be located
within the containment area and pipe runs
should be over and not through
containment walls. The minimum
distance from the tank to the containment
wall to prevent spouting over the wall is
one-half the height of the largest tank.
Recommended minimum height for the
dyke is 60 cm.
Dyking can be constructed of clay, clay
with liner, concrete or steel. Construction
material will depend on site specific
design criteria, availability of materials
and location. A selection of materials that
can be used for dyke construction and
some associated recommendations are:
!"Clay - It is recommended that clay
dykes have an impermeable liner of
minimum 15 cm layer of soil with a
coefficient of permeability of at least
10-7
cm/sec. The impermeable layer
should be covered with at least 15 cm
of gravel or crushed rock.
!"Clay w/liner - The liner can be a
synthetic (hypalon) material or a
geosynthetic (bentonite filled) liner.
!"Concrete - Dykes constructed of
masonry or concrete should extend to a
depth of at least 45 cm below grade
and be joined to an impermeable base.
!"Steel - If space is limited tanks can be
contained within a steel tub or elephant
ring. The elephant ring is typically
half the height of the tank it is
containing and only has to be 1.5 times
the diameter to hold 110% of the tank
volume. This may present some
problems in terms of spouting
potential.
11. Containment Area Liners: Reinforced
concrete is the most common material but
is subject to cracking. Synthetic or clay
liners are less costly and may be more
appropriate for Canadian climate.
Specifics for ensuring concrete for base of
containment areas will resist moisture

penetration are provided in Tennessee
Valley Authority (1993) (page 4-19).
4.3 Inspections
Most instances of product loss resulting in
environmental damage and/or economic losses
are from minor leaks that go unnoticed for
extended periods of time. The set of
recommendations for inspections includes a
daily, annual and 3 to 5 year inspection
regime. Example inspection forms are
presented in Appendix C-5, C-6 and C-7.
1. Daily Inspections: It is recommended
that on a daily basis, or as a minimum
twice weekly, a very simple walk around
inspection is made which looks at the
storage tanks, sumps and ponding areas
and easily visible pipes and pumps. This
is a recommended good management
practice that will help identify problems at
the earliest possible stage. The regular
inspection should be a simple procedure
that is documented so that it can be
monitored to ensure it is being completed.
2. Annual Inspection (Tank in service):
The recommended annual inspection for
various liquid fertilizer tanks in service
are:
!"Steel Tanks - A thorough inspection of
the storage tanks, containment
systems, piping, valves and pumps
should be undertaken on an annual
basis. For further reference a sample
liquid tank inspection report is
provided in Appendix B. The
American Petroleum Institute (API)
Standard 653 - Tank Inspection,
Repair, Alteration and Reconstruction
provides a detailed checklist for
inspection of steel storage tanks,
including examination of tank
foundation, shell, appurtenances, and
roofs if they exist.
3. Three to Five Year Inspection (Tank
out of service):
!"Steel Tanks - It is recommended that
on a three to five year cycle, steel
tanks be drained and sludge that builds
up in the bottom of the tank be
removed.

5.0 Employee Training and
Documentation
The following section outlines the
recommended training programs and
documentation requirements for all fertilizer
operations.
5.1 Employee Training
Employee training is one of the most
important elements for ensuring a safe and
profitable fertilizer operation. The
recommended training programs are identified
below. Example training curriculums and an
employee training record are presented in
Appendix D.
1. Transportation of Dangerous Goods –
Anhydrous ammonia and ammonium
nitrate are the only commonly used
fertilizer products classified under the
Transportation of Dangerous Goods
regulations. Any facility that handles or
transports these classified products must
train staff in the requirements as defined
by the Transportation of Dangerous Goods
Act and Regulations.
2. Workplace Hazardous Materials
Information System (W.H.M.I.S.) – all
staff must be trained in accordance with
W.H.M.I.S. regulations. Specific attention
should be paid to understanding a Material
Safety Data Sheet (MSDS)
3. Standard Operating Procedures – all
staff must be trained to conduct all major
tasks and functions in accordance with
developed standard operating procedures.
4. Emergency Response Training – all staff
involved in executing the emergency
response plan must be trained to ensure an
understanding of their duties.
5. First Aid/C.P.R. – an appropriate number
of staff at the facility should be trained and
certified in emergency first aid and
cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
6. Safety Equipment Usage and
Maintenance – all staff must be trained in
the proper usage and maintenance of
safety equipment.
7. Confined Workspace/Hot Work
Training - any facility that requires
employees to enter confined workspaces
or undertake hot work must ensure those
employees are properly trained before
conducting those activities.
8. Occupational Health and Safety Rules –
all staff must be made aware of the health
and safety rules at a facility.
5.2 Documentation Requirements
There are a number of different types of
documentation required for all fertilizer
operations. Most provide information to
ensure compliance to regulatory requirements
while others serve to provide information to
monitor operational effectiveness. Both are
necessary to maintain a profitable and safe
fertilizer operation.

1. Regulatory Information – regulatory
information should include the
Transportation of Dangerous Goods Act &
Regulations, the Workplace Hazardous
Materials Information System Act &
Regulations, the Occupational Health and
Safety Regulations and any other
regulations applicable to the operation.
2. Standard Operating Procedures – a set
of up-to-date standard operating
procedures should be available at the
facility that defines in a step-by-step
manner how each major task or function is
to be safely and effectively conducted.
3. Emergency Response Plans – a
document detailing the plan for responding
to emergencies such as a fire or major spill
must be developed and updated regularly.
4. Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) –
Material Safety Data Sheets must be
available for each type of fertilizer stored
and handled at the facility.
5. Licenses & Permits – all licenses and
permits required to legally operate a
fertilizer operation must be obtained and
maintained.
6. Inspections – a copy of all inspections
should be kept including any copies of
follow-up on identified action items.
7. Training Records – copies of employee
training records should be kept to
adequately monitor and maintain training
requirements.

6.0 Emergency Response
Planning & Practice
Emergency response planning is one of the
most important environmental and safety
initiatives a fertilizer operation can undertake.
Experience has proven that a well-developed
and practiced emergency response plan can
minimize safety risks for emergency
responders and save the facility owner major
expenses in clean-up costs. This section
details the recommendations for emergency
response planning for all fertilizer storage
facilities. An emergency response planning
template is presented in Appendix E.
6.1 Recommendations
1. Emergency Response Planning - all
facilities should develop a plan for
responding to emergencies such as major
spills or fires. The plan should be
developed in conjunction with the local
emergency response officials.
2. Emergency Response Practice - all
facilities should practice their emergency
response plan at least annually.
3. Emergency Response Plan Filing- a copy
of the emergency response plan should be
kept by all people listed in the plan as well
as local emergency response officials.

References
1. American Petroleum Institute, 1995. Tank Inspection, Repair, Alteration, and Reconstruction
2. Canada Transportation Act, (no date). Ammonia Nitrate Storage Facilities Regulations, Canadian
Transport Commission – General Order No. 0-36.
3. National Building Code (1995)
4. National Fire Code (1995)
5. Tennessee Valley Authority (1993). Environmental Handbook for Fertilizer and Agrichemical
Dealers.
6. Transport Canada. Transportation of Dangerous Act and Regulations.

APPENDIX A-1
Solid Fertilizer Siting Distances
= 10 Metres
HospitalHospitalHospitalHospital
Roadway
ResidencesResidencesResidencesResidences
Solid
Fertilizer
Facility
DISTANCE
RETRICTIONS
(Ammonium Nitrate)
Distance to property
line of Hospital,
School etc.
line of residence.
Set back distance
from roadway
Distance to river,
lake or stream.
92
MIN. DISTANCE M
50
40
50
DISTANCE
RETRICTIONS
(Non-
Ammonium Nitrate)
line of Hospital,
School etc.
line of residence.
Set back distance
from roadway
Distance to river,
lake or stream.
50
MIN. DISTANCE M
25
40
50
Reservoir
Distance to closest
rail. 3.5
Distance to closest
rail. 3.5

APPENDIX A-2
= 50 Metres
DISTANCE
RETRICTIONS
Distance to boundary
of city, town or
village.
Set back distance
from roadway
Distance to river,
lake or stream
1000
DISTANCE M
40
50
Anhydrous Ammonia Siting Distances
Town Boundary
Anhydrous Ammonia
Facility
Farm Residence
River
Wind
Direction

APPENDIX A-3
Liquid Fertilizer Siting Distances
= 20 Metres
DISTANCE
RETRICTIONS
line of Hospital,
School etc.
line of residence.
Set back distance
from roadway
Distance to public
water supply source
50
DISTANCE M
50
40
300
HospitalHospitalHospitalHospital Roadway
LakeResidencesResidencesResidencesResidences
Liquid
Fertilizer
Facility
Town
Water Well
R.M.
Office
Distance to private
water source.
50
Distance to closest
rail.
3.5
Propane
Station

APPENDIX B-1
Solid Fertilizer Site LayoutSolid Fertilizer Site Layout
= 3 Metres
LEGEND
Fire Extinguisher
DEVICE Symbol
Light
Weigh Scale
Office
Equipment Storage
Equipment
Storage
Concrete Pad
Fertilizer
Blender
Fertilizer
Bins
Fertilizer
Auger
Loading/Unloading
Pad

APPENDIX B-2
Bagged/Bulk Fertilizer Warehouse
Layout
= 1 Metre
LEGEND
Fire Extinguisher
Clean-up Drum
Shovel
DEVICE
Bulk
Storage
Bulk
Storage
Bulk
Storage
Bulk
Storage
Bagged
Storage
Bagged
Storage
Blender
Spill Cleanup
Equipment
Safety
Equipment
Fork-Lift &
Loader Storage
Contaminated
Product Storage
Overhead
Door
MainAisle
Man-Door
Emergency Exit
Symbol
Ventilation Fan
Doorway

APPENDIX B-3
Anhydrous Ammonia Site LayoutAnhydrous Ammonia Site Layout
= 5 MetresFire Extinguisher
LEGEND Symbol
Light
Applicator and Field
Wagon Storage
DeliveryUnitStorage
Office
Workshop &
Storage
Main-Gate
DeliveryUnit
&FieldTank
LoadingIsland
DeliveryUnit
&FieldTank
LoadingIsland
Transport
UnloadingIsland
Water Trough
LEGEND Symbol
Wind Sock
Culvert
LEGEND Symbol
Culvert Sandbags Chain Link Fence
Emergency
Exit
Roadway
Run-Off
Run-Off

APPENDIX B-4
Liquid Fertilizer Site Layout
= 3 Metres
LEGEND
Fire Extinguisher
DEVICE Symbol
Light
Loading/Unloading
Pads
Containment
Dyke
Sandbags for
Blocking Culvert
Liquid Fertilizer
Storage Tank
Pump,Hose
& Meter
Office
Equipment Storage
Equipment
Storage

APPENDIX C-1
Solid Fertilizer Daily Inspection Checklist
All items indicated on the inspection checklist must be reviewed. If an item meets requirements, place a
check mark in the appropriate box corresponding to the date the item was reviewed. If an item is not in
compliance, place an X in the appropriate column and indicate the action required to correct along with
the completion date.
Item Inspections for the week of:
Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun
Housekeeping
Safety Equipment
Lighting
Machine Guards
Equipment Storage
Security
Spilled Product
Exits Clear
Fuel Storage
Traffic Areas Clear
Action Items
Action Item Date Completed

APPENDIX C-2
Solid Fertilizer Annual Inspection
Location: ________________________________ Date: ______________________
Inspector: ________________________________
Meets Requirements Needs Attention Not Applicable
Site:
#"Emergency Response Sign
#"Surrounding Fence
#"Yard Light
Grounds:
#"Weed and Grass Control
#"Traffic Areas
#"Burning Barrel
#"Equipment Organized
#"Traffic Areas
#"Power Lines
#"Housekeeping
Office:
#"Lighting and Electrical
#"Fire Extinguisher
#"First Aid Kit
#"Safety Supply Cabinet
#"Spill Clean-Up Equipment
#"Emergency Phone List
#"Safety Equipment
#"Steps, Walks and Railings
#"Safety Manuals
Personal Safety:
#"Work Boots
#"Hard Hats
#"Goggles
#"Respirators
Storage Bins:
#"Bin Condition
#"Loading Pad Condition
#"Transfer Augers
#"Slides and Gates
#"Bin Supports
#"Fire Extinguisher
#"Bin Ladders
#"Bin Openers
Warehouse:
#"Housekeeping
#"Eyewash Station
#"Loading Dock Levelers
#"Signage
#"Fire Extinguisher
#"Ventilation
#"Floors
#"Doors
#"Conveyors
#"Wheelers
#"Wheel Chocks
#"Heating System
#"Equipment/Facility Keys
#"Exits
Blender:
#"Housekeeping
#"Dust Collection
#"Conveyors
#"Eyewash Stations
#"Security Locks
#"Loading Pad
#"Blender and Bins
Portable Equipment:
#"Augers
#"Conveyors
#"Motors
Containment System:
#"Dyke Condition
#"Liner Condition
#"Cover Material
#"Clean Out Records
Fork-Lift/Loader:
#"Tires
#"Roll Bar
#"Lights

APPENDIX C-2 (Cont.)
Action Item Section
Complete an action required for each item listed as “Needs Attention”. The facility manager is
responsible to ensure timely completion of all required work. This form should be filed for future
reference once all action items are complete.
Item Action Required Date Completed
______________________________ ________________________________
Facility Manager Inspector

APPENDIX C-3
Anhydrous Ammonia Fertilizer Daily Inspection Checklist
Housekeeping
Safety/Emergency
Response Equipment
Lighting/Wind Sock
Hose Condition
Valve Condition
Gauge Condition
Equipment Storage
Site Security/Signage
Water Tanks
Traffic Areas Clear
Action Items

APPENDIX C-4
Anhydrous Ammonia Annual Inspection
Location: ________________________________ Date: ______________________
Inspector: ________________________________
Site:
#"Surrounding Fence
#"Yard Light
#"Emergency Water Tank
#"Wind Sock
Grounds:
#"Traffic Areas
#"Burning Barrel
#"Power Lines
#"Housekeeping
Office:
#"Fire Extinguisher
#"First Aid Kit
#"Emergency Response
Equipment
#"Emergency Response Plan
#"Safety Equipment
#"Safety Manuals
Personal Safety:
#"Work Boots
#"Hard Hats
#"Goggles
#"Respirators
#"Protective Suit
Transport Delivery Unit:
#"CVSA Inspection
#"Fire Extinguisher
#"First Aid Kit
#"Placards
#"Safe Operating Procedures
Manual
#"Hoses and Valves
#"Emergency Roadside Kit
#"Wheel Chock Blocks
#"Communication Equipment
#"Eyewash Equipment
#"Canister Gas Mask
#"Emergency Water Supply
#"Multiple Delivery Sheets
#"Pressure Relief Valves
#"Gauges
Tow Vehicle:
#"Fire Extinguisher
#"First Aid Kit
#"Canister Gas Mask
#"Signage and Placards
#"Water Supply for Field
Tanks
Manual
#"Emergency Road Side Kit
Applicators:
#"Quick Coupler
#"Hoses
#"Gauges
Field Application Tanks:
#"Colour Coding
#"Safety Kit
#"Hoses and Valves
#"Safety Chains
#"Tire Condition
#"Gauges
Storage Tank:
#"Signage
#"Colour Coding
#"Breakaway Connections
#"Hoses and Valves
#"Gauges
#"Emergency Shut Off
#"Bleed Off Barrel

Action Item Section
Complete an action required for each item listed as “Needs Attention”. The facility manager is
responsible to ensure timely completion of all required work. This form should be filed for future
reference once all action items are complete.
______________________________________ __________________________________

APPENDIX C-5
Liquid Fertilizer Daily Inspection Checklist
Housekeeping
Safety Equipment
Lighting
Hose Condition
Valve Operation
Security
Spilled Product
Equipment Storage
Fuel Storage
Traffic Areas Clear
Action Items

APPENDIX C-6
Liquid Fertilizer Annual Inspection
Location: ________________________________ Date: ______________________
Inspector: ________________________________
Site:
#"Surrounding Fence
#"Yard Light
#"Emergency Water Tank
Grounds:
#"Traffic Areas
#"Burning Barrel
#"Power Lines
#"Housekeeping
Office:
#"Fire Extinguisher
#"First Aid Kit
#"Emergency Response
Equipment
#"Emergency Response Plan
#"Safety Equipment
#"Safety Manuals
Personal Safety:
#"Work Boots
#"Hard Hats
#"Goggles
#"Respirators
Transport Delivery Unit:
#"CVSA Inspection
#"Fire Extinguisher
#"First Aid Kit
#"Placards
Manual
#"Hoses and Valves
#"Emergency Roadside Kit
#"Eyewash Equipment
Blender:
#"Housekeeping
#"Eyewash Stations
#"Security Locks
#"Loading Pad
#"Blender and Storage Tanks
Containment System:
#"Dyke Condition
#"Liner Condition
#"Cover Material
#"Clean Out Records
Field Application Tanks:
#"Safety Kit
#"Hoses and Valves
#"Safety Chains
#"Tire Condition
Storage Tanks:
#"Signage
#"Electrical
#"Tank Inspection Records
#"Hoses, Valves and Pump

Action Item Section
Complete an action required for each item listed as “Needs Attention”. The facility manager
is responsible to ensure timely completion of all required work. This form should be filed for
future reference once all action items are complete.
__________________________ __________________________

APPENDIX C-7
Liquid Tank Inspection Report
Location: ______________________________________ Date:__________________
Address: ______________________________________________________________
Secondary Containment: Yes _____ No _____ Type: _________________________
Tank MFG: ______________________________________ Year Built: ____________
Tank S/N: ___________________ Tank No: ____________ Tank Size: ____________
Last Contents: _____________________ Previous Contents: _____________________
Ever Used To Store Potash Based Solution: Yes ______ No ______ Unknown _______
Tank Base: Type: ______________________ Condition: ________________________
Does Base Cover Part Of Floor or Shell: Yes _______ No _______
If Yes, Is It Corroding Outside Of Tank: Yes _______ No _______
Exterior Inspection
Condition of Manway Cover: ___________________________
Vertical Welds: ______________________________________
Horizontal Welds: ____________________________________
Wall to Floor Weld: ___________________________________
Interior Inspection
Tank Cleaned Prior to Inspection Yes: ________ No: ________
Condition of Manway Cover: ___________________________
Backwelds on Manway: _______________________________
Couplings: __________________________________________
Vertical Welds: ______________________________________
Horizontal Welds: ____________________________________
Wall to Floor Weld: ___________________________________
Floor Welds: _________________________________________
Carbuncles Yes: _______ No: _______ Quantity: _______ Colour: _______________
Following Removal List Tank Condition (e.g. pitting): ___________________________
Overall Condition and Maintenance Required: (Use Separate Page)
Indicate location of floor
and wall welds, patches,
pits and carbuncles.
North

APPENDIX D
Suggested Training and Course Contents
Course: Workplace Hazardous
Material Information System
(WHMIS)
Section 1.0 Introduction
• Legislation
• Enforcement of Legislation
Section 2.0 Responsibilities
• Employers’ Responsibilities
• Employees’ Responsibilities
Section 3.0 Exemptions from WHMIS
• Exemptions
Section 4.0 Labeling
• The Supplier Label
• The Workplace Label
• Products Which Require Labeling
Section 5.0 WHMIS Controlled Product
Symbols
• Product Symbols
Section 6.0 Material Safety Data Sheets
(MSDS)
• Components
Section 7.0 Glossary of Terms
• Glossary
Course: Transportation of Dangerous
Goods
• Intention of Manual
• Training Requirements
• Non-compliance Penalties
Section 2.0 General Application
• Product Classification System
• Product Segregation
• Handling Procedures
• Loading/Unloading Guidelines
• Loading and Placarding
Procedures
• Unloading and Placarding
Procedures
• Use of Private Vehicles
Section 3.0 Safety Marks
• Requirements
• Responsibilities
• Labels
• Definition
• Special Labels
• Exemptions
• Removal of Labels
• Placards
• Definition
• Responsibilities
• Exemptions
• Display of Product Identification
Number
• Durability/Retro-Reflectivity of
Placards
• Placarding Mixed Loads of
Dangerous Goods
• Removal of Placards
Section 4.0 Emergency Response Plans
• Definition
• Immediate Reporting

• Thirty Day Reporting
Section 5.0 Documentation
• General
• Shipping Document
• Location of Documents During
Transport
• Change to Documents Resulting
From Diversions
• Delivery Documents
• Retention of Documents
• Manual Procedures
Section 6.0 Specific Applications
• General
• Retail Sales
• Placards for Retail Sales
• Placard Location
• Inter Station Transfers
• Placards for Inter Station
Transfers
• Multiple Deliveries
• Application Equipment
• Other Shipments Not Covered
Course: Safety Equipment Usage
and Maintenance
Self Contained Breathing Apparatus
(SCBA)
• SCBA Use
• SCBA Limitations
• Limitations of the User
• Types of SCBA
Section 2.0 Open Circuit Positive
Pressure SCBA
• Back Pack Assembly
• Air Cylinder Assembly
• Regulator Assembly
• Face Piece
Section 3.0 Maintenance of SCBA
• Maintenance Procedures
Section 4.0 Donning and Doffing
• Predonning Safety Guidelines
• Over the Head Method
• Back In Method
• Doffing
Section 5.0 Emergency Bypass Valve
• Bypass Valve
• Changing Air Cylinders
Canister Gas Mask
• Limitations
• Donning the Canister Gas Mask
• Maintenance and Inspection
Cartridge Respirator
• Limitations
• Donning the Mask
• Cartridge Selection
• Cartridge Inspection and
Replacement
Dust Mask
• Limitations
• Proper Fitting for Use
Course: Emergency First Aid and
CPR
The Red Cross or Saint John’s
Ambulance should be contacted for
training.

Course: Hot Work
• Definitions
• Typical Hot Work Operations
Section 2.0 Hot Work Permit
• Completion of the Permit
• Authorization Prior to Work
Section 3.0 Securing the Work Site
• Eliminate the Spread of Sparks and
Flames
• Fire Extinguisher Location
• Housekeeping
• Post Work Inspection
• Fire Watch
Course: Anhydrous Ammonia
Standard Operating Procedures
• Characteristics of Anhydrous
Ammonia
• Hazards of Anhydrous Ammonia
• Employers Responsibilities
• Employees Responsibilities
Section 3.0 Safety Equipment
Requirements
• Anhydrous Ammonia Storage
Facility
• Anhydrous Ammonia Delivery
Truck
• Field Tank
• Personal Protective Equipment
Section 4.0 First Aid
• Types of Injuries
• Recommended Treatment
Section 5.0 Terminology
• Definitions of Common Terms
Section 6.0 Standard Operating
Procedures
• Transfer from Transport Vehicle to
Permanent Storage
• Transfer from Storage Tank to
Transport Delivery Unit
• Transfer from a Transport Delivery
Unit to a Field Wagon
• Connecting a Field Wagon to an
Applicator
• Pre-travel Inspection of Field Tanks
and Applicators
• Transportation of Dangerous Goods
Requirements
• Highway Travel with Anhydrous
Ammonia Vehicles
Section 7.0 Safety and the Customer
• General Safety
• Safety Equipment Use
• Equipment Safety and Inspection
Course: Solid Fertilizer Standard
Operating Procedures
• Characteristics of Solid Fertilizers
• Hazards of Solid Fertilizers
• Special Hazards of Ammonium
Nitrate
Requirements
• Storage Facility
• Blending Operations
• Field applicators

• Definition of Common Terms
Procedures
• Overhead Power Line Safety
• Housekeeping
• Loading/unloading System
Operation
• Blending System Operation
• Pre-travel Inspection of Field
Applicators
Requirements
• Highway Travel with Fertilizer
Delivery Vehicles
• General Safety
Course: Liquid Fertilizer Standard
Operating Procedures
• Characteristics of Liquid Fertilizers
• Hazards of Liquid Fertilizers
Requirements
• Storage Facility
• Field Applicators
• Definition of Common Terms
Procedures
• Overhead Power Line Safety
• Housekeeping
• Loading/unloading of Liquid
Fertilizer
• Blending System Operation
• Pre-travel Inspection of Field
Applicators
Requirements
• Highway Travel with Fertilizer
Delivery Vehicles
• General Safety
Course: Emergency Response
Training
• Emergency Response Planning
Process
• Hazards of Fertilizers
• Special Hazards of Anhydrous
Ammonia
• Special Hazards of Ammonium
Nitrate
• Reporting Requirements

Requirements
• Responding to an Anhydrous
Ammonia Release
• Responding to a Solid Fertilizer Spill
• Responding to a Liquid Fertilizer
Spill
• Types of Injuries for Emergency
Response Situations
Section 5.0 Safety Guidelines
• Preparing to Respond
• Response Recommendation
• Disposing of Contaminated Products
• Decontamination Procedures After
Response
• Monthly Inspection of Equipment
Section 6.0 Responding to a Solid
Fertilizer Spill
• Safety Guidelines
• Response Recommendations
Section 7.0 Responding to a Solid
Fertilizer Spill
• Safety Guidelines
• Response Recommendations
Course: Confined Workspace
Entry Training
• Definition of Confined Workspace
• Types of Confined Workspaces
• Classification of Confined
Workspaces in the Fertilizer Industry
Requirements
• Anhydrous Ammonia Confined
Workspaces
• Solid Fertilizer Confined
Workspaces
• Liquid Fertilizer Confined
Workspaces
Section 4.0 The Entry Permit
• The Reason for a Confined
Workspace Entry Permit
• The Components of the Confined
Workspace Entry Permit
• Completing a Confined Workspace
Entry Permit
Section 5.0 General Procedures
• Isolation and Lock-out
• Entry and Exit
• Air Testing
• Ventilation
• Fire and Explosion Safety
• Emergency Procedures

Canadian Fertilizer Institute
Employee Training Tracking Form
Section 1.0 Employee Information
Employee Name: ________________________________________________
Position: ________________________________________________
Start Date: ________________________________________________
Section 2.0 Training Tracking Form
Course Name Date
Completed
Pass/Fail or
Mark
Rectification
Date

APPENDIX E
Emergency Response Plan Template
FACILITY NAME
ADDRESS
PHONE NUMBER
EMERGENCY TELEPHONE NUMBERS
POSITION NAME DAY/NIGHT
Facility Manager
Assistant Manager
General Manager
Physician
Fire Department
Police
Poison Control Centre
Hospital
Sask. Environment
S.W.P. Spill Team
Other
SWP 24-Hour

CANUTEC 24 HOUR SERVICE. CALL COLLECT (613) 996-6666
NOTE:
CANUTEC provides information and communications assistance in case of transport
emergencies involving dangerous goods. Its product information bank has been prepared
primarily for transport emergencies, but it can also provide response information for non-
transport emergencies involving dangerous goods.
REPORTING:
Emergencies involving crop protection chemicals must be reported promptly to the nearest
regional or provincial environmental emergency office as well as local fire or police.
EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN UPDATE:
Local fire departments should be invited to inspect your warehouse facility at least once a
year. They should be familiar with your Emergency Response Plan and should be given, in
advance, information on qualities, locations, and type of hazardous material in the facility.
The Emergency Response Plan should be updated after every significant change and at least
annually. This should be noted as below:
POST CONTENTS STORED IN FACILITY OR GIVE COPY TO FIRE DEPT.
DATE OF LAST E.R.P.
FACILITY
MANAGER:
(signature) (date)
FIRE DEPT.
OFFICIAL:
(signature) (date)
NAME OF FIRE DEPARTMENT
NEXT SCHEDULED REVIEW OR UPDATE

1. AGENCY NOTIFICATION: (List the names and the telephone numbers of agencies and
contact persons that need to be notified should a spill or fire involving pesticides or
fertilizers occur. Include railroads if rails may be blocked).
NAME PHONE NUMBER
2. SURROUNDING OCCUPANCIES & LAND USE: (Describe surrounding land use in all
four directions for one-mile radius. For example, North: grazing land to 1/4 mile,
commercial district 1/4 - 1/2 mile, residential zone 1/2 to 1 mile. Hospital located at 5th
and
Main. Show as much as possible in sketch.
NORTH
SOUTH
EAST
WEST

3. LOCATION OF EMERGENCY EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES: (Available 24 hours a day.
Include phone numbers).
SELF-CONTAINED BREATHING APPARATUS
SPARE COMPRESSED BREATHING AIR TANKS
EARTH MOVING EQUIPMENT
PORTABLE WATER PUMPS
STREET BARRIERS
SAND BAGS
OTHER
4. LOCATION AND TYPES OF WATER SUPPLIES: (hydrant, ponds, irrigation canals,
fresh or salt water, etc.). Verify hydrant thread capability and water pressure and flow
rates.
5. MEMBER LISTING OF REGIONAL EMERGENCY RESPONSE TEAM:

RISK ANALYSIS
1. DATE OF LAST ASSESSMENT:
2. COMPANY NAME:
3. FACILITY ADDRESS:
4. OCCUPANCY:
5. BUSINESS PHONE NUMBERS:
6. SECURITY SYSTEM TYPE:
7. EMERGENCY ACCESS:
8. FIRE LANE:
9. HOURS OF OPERATION:
Site Plans should be prepared at this point; one of the site and one of the surrounding area
in a one mile radius.

10. MAJOR HAZARDS AT THIS FACILITY (Include propane storage and types of
hazardous materials. Also include a list that could be found year round).
DANGEROUS GOODS MAXIMUM AMOUNT
KGS
NUMBER OF PALLETS
Explosives
Gases
Flammable Liquids
Flammable Solids
Oxidizing Materials
Poisonous Infectious
Radioactive
Corrosive
Miscellaneous
The fire department must receive an updated copy of this document annually and also
distribute the plan to the Regional Response Chief.
11. OTHER MAJOR HAZARDS THAT CAN BE FOUND AT THIS SITE ARE:
(consider gas release, pressure build up, heat, explosion).
12. ON SITE RESOURCES
On Site Resources Details
Sprinklers
Hydrant Flow
Reservoirs approx. gallons
Response Equipment (list to be in the plan)
Site Communications
First Aid Equipment
Other Emergency Services

13. SERVICES PROVIDED THROUGH MUTUAL AID AND EMERGENCY
ORGANIZATIONS.
a). Fire Equipment
Locations
b). Spill Containment Equipment (dyking, absorbents, pumps, etc.)
c). Laboratory/Analytical Service
d). Chemical Hazard Safety Information or Expertise
e). Other Emergency Equipment or Expertise (i.e. Haz MatTech)

14. ASSIGNED POSITIONS OF EMERGENCY RESPONSE PERSONNEL
a) Communications Officer:
Name:
Address:
Phone Numbers:
b) Emergency Control Chief:
Name:
Address:
Phone Numbers:
c) First Aid Chief and Technical Support:
Name:
Address:
Phone Numbers:
d) Responders:
Names & Addresses:
Phone Numbers:
e) List members of the Emergency Planning Committee:
15. DISTRIBUTE PLAN TO:
#"All responding Fire Departments
#"Facility Manager
#"Local Police or RCMP
#"ERP Committee Members
#"Regional Response Clean-up Chief

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