Large amount of ammonium nitrate stored on rural property near major gas pipeline
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Loading... - Elden Noah
- 11 May 2023
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According to Fire and Emergency (FENZ), a large amount of ammonium nitrate is currently being stored on a rural property in Waikato in close proximity to a major gas pipeline. Ammonium nitrate, when exposed to temperatures of 230 degrees Celsius or higher, can become highly unstable and potentially explode, as seen in the devastating Beirut explosion of 2020 that resulted in over 200 fatalities. While the likelihood of an explosion is currently low, FENZ has expressed concern that the specific characteristics of the site may increase the risk.
If an explosion were to occur and the gas pipeline were to rupture, the resulting emergency would be significantly magnified. For this reason, FENZ has taken steps to ensure the safety and well-being of its personnel and the surrounding community. In March of this year, FENZ asked the company responsible for the storage of the ammonium nitrate to explore alternative, safer long-term storage solutions.
Under the Health and Safety at Work (Hazardous Substances) Regulations 2017, FENZ is responsible for reviewing emergency response plans for locations storing hazardous substances. To this end, FENZ has reviewed the emergency plan for the site and made recommendations for changes. Additionally, FENZ is developing a tactical plan to respond to any emergency on the site, including situational awareness of the site and surroundings, specific measures to protect personnel and nearby communities, and protocols for evacuation.
It is important to note that the presence of fire, heat, or organic material in close proximity to ammonium nitrate can trigger or accelerate a fire. WorkSafe has stated that the business responsible for the storage of the chemical received a Location Compliance Certificate in March 2023, indicating that the storage meets the requirements of the Health and Safety at Work (Hazardous Substances) Regulations 2017. The certificate, which covers emergency management requirements, was issued by an independent competent person. Although WorkSafe does not know the exact amount of ammonium nitrate being stored on the site, the site is certified to store up to 349 tonnes.
FENZ and WorkSafe are committed to ensuring the safety of personnel and the surrounding community in light of the potential risks associated with the storage of ammonium nitrate. As such, they urge the public to remain vigilant and report any concerning activity or behavior related to the site.
