Ammogex
Ammogex Safety Sheet
Chemical Composition
A mixture of Ammonium Nitrate and Fuel Oil(ANFO).
Hazards Identification
ANFO Explosives are classed U.N. Division 1.1.
i.e. Substances which have a mass explosion risk.
| HAZARDS | RISK |
| (I)Explosion | Serious |
| (ii)Lifting/handling | Medium |
| (iii)Chemical exposure | Minor |
PRECAUTIONS
a) Personnel handling explosives must be trained in their use.
b) Personnel should be trained in lifting/handling.
c) Gloves should be worn when handling exposed explosives.
First Aid Measures
Because of the fuel content, ANFO can cause dermatitis. Contact with the skin – wash thoroughly with water. Do not ingest.
Fire Fighting Measures
Fires involving explosives must NOT be fought. An area of at least 300 metres around the fire should be evacuated and the site of the fire must not be approached until it is absolutely certain that the fire is out.
Accidental Release Measures
Spillages of ANFO should be carefully lifted and, preferably put into a drill hole for disposal by detonation: if this is not possible, the explosive should be destroyed in the manner described in UIE`s leaflet “RECOMMENDED METHODS FOR THE DESTRUCTION OF EXPLOSIVES & ACCESSORIES”.
Handling & Storage
Explosives must be handled with care and not subject to naked flame, friction or shock. Smoking whilst handling explosives is forbidden. Explosives may only be stored in licensed premises.
Exposure Controls / Personal Protection
When handling exposed ANFO, personnel are advised to wear suitable gloves, see “FIRST AID MEASURE” above.
Physical and Chemical Properties
ANFO is a relatively free-flowing material, consisting of white prills and having a distinctive fuel oil (diesel) smell. ANFO has no water resistance and when exposed to moisture will dissolve leaving an oily residue which is non-explosive.
The colour is white with a slight pink tinge.
Ammogex is sold in 25kg bags. The density varies from 0.8 to 0.9 gms/cc. (For further information see the relevant Product Information Sheet).
Stability and Reactivity
The shelf life of these explosives, stored in good condition is at least one year.
Toxicological Information
There is no known toxic hazard from these explosives.
Ecological Information
When burned, these explosives give off some nitrous fumes. Should the explosives be exposed to moisture, the ammonium nitrate will dissolve releasing nitrates and free fuel oil.
Disposal Considerations
See above under “Accidental Release Measures”.
Transport Information
The Transport of Explosives is Controlled by “The Packaging of Explosives for Carriage Regulations” (NI) 1993, and “The Carriage of Explosives by Road Regulations” (NI) 1997.
Regulatory Information
The purchase of explosives is controlled under SRO (NI) No. 110 1970 (Control of Explosives Regulations”, and SR No. 488 1993 “The Placing on the Market and Supervision of Transfer of Explosives Regulations” (NI) 1993.
Other Information
Ulster Industrial Explosives Limited conduct Training Courses in;
1. Shot Firing
2. Explosives Supervision
Course are approved by MPQC.
