Ammonia in

Refrigeration
Systems
About WorkSafeBC
WorkSafeBC (the Workers’ Compensation Board) is an independent provincial statutory agency
governed by a Board of Directors. It is funded by insurance premiums paid by registered employers and
by investment returns. In administering the Workers Compensation Act, WorkSafeBC remains separate
and distinct from government; however, it is accountable to the public through government in its role of
protecting and maintaining the overall well-being of the workers’ compensation system.

WorkSafeBC was born out of a compromise between B.C.’s workers and employers in 1917 where
workers gave up the right to sue their employers or fellow workers for injuries on the job in return for a
no-fault insurance program fully paid for by employers. WorkSafeBC is committed to a safe and healthy
workplace, and to providing return-to-work rehabilitation and legislated compensation benefits to
workers injured as a result of their employment.

WorkSafeBC Prevention Information Line

The WorkSafeBC Prevention Information Line can answer your questions about workplace health
and safety, worker and employer responsibilities, and reporting a workplace accident or incident. The
Prevention Information Line accepts anonymous calls.

Phone 604 276-3100 in the Lower Mainland, or call 1 888 621-7233 (621-SAFE) toll-free in British Columbia.

To report after-hours and weekend accidents and emergencies, call 604 273-7711 in the Lower Mainland,
or call 1 866 922-4357 (WCB-HELP) toll-free in British Columbia.

BC Safety Authority Information Line

BCSA staff can answer questions regarding issues and interpretations of the Power Engineer, Boiler,
Pressure Vessel and Refrigeration Safety Regulation (PEBPV and RSR) and adapted codes.

Phone 604 660-6286 in the Lower Mainland, or call 1 866 566-7233 (566-SAFE) toll-free in British Columbia.
 Ammonia in
Refrigeration
Systems
WorkSafeBC Publications

Many publications are available on the WorkSafeBC web site. The Occupational Health and Safety
Regulation and associated policies and guidelines, as well as excerpts and summaries of the Workers
Compensation Act, are also available on the web site: WorkSafeBC.com

Some publications are also available for purchase in print:

Phone: 604 232-9704

Toll-free phone: 1 866 319-9704

Fax: 604 232-9703

Toll-free fax: 1 888 232-9714

Online ordering: WorkSafeBC.com and click on Publications; follow the links for ordering

© 2007 Workers’ Compensation Board of British Columbia. All rights reserved. The Workers’
Compensation Board of B.C. encourages the copying, reproduction, and distribution of this document
to promote health and safety in the workplace, provided that the Workers’ Compensation Board of B.C.
is acknowledged. However, no part of this publication may be copied, reproduced, or distributed for
profit or other commercial enterprise, nor may any part be incorporated into any other publication,
without written permission of the Workers’ Compensation Board of B.C.

Library and Archives Canada Cataloguing in Publication Data

Main entry under title:
Ammonia in refrigeration systems

Previously published 1988 under title: Ammonia in refrigeration systems : manual of standard practice.
Publisher’s original name, Workers’ Compensation Board of British Columbia, also appears on
publication.
ISBN 978-0-7726-5881-4

1. Ammonia - Safety regulations - British Columbia - Handbooks, manuals, etc. 2. Liquid ammonia
- Safety regulations - British Columbia - Handbooks, manuals, etc. 3. Refrigeration and refrigerating
machinery - Safety regulations - British Columbia - Handbooks, manuals, etc. 4. Refrigeration and
refrigerating machinery - Maintenance and repair - Safety regulations - British Columbia - Handbooks,
manuals, etc. 5. Industrial safety - British Columbia. I. WorkSafeBC. II. Workers’ Compensation Board
of British Columbia. III. Title: Ammonia in refrigeration systems : manual of standard practice.

TP492.A4A45 2007 363.17’91 C2007-960236-3

Safeguarding Machinery and Equipment: General Requirements

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Acknowledgments

WorkSafeBC wishes to thank the following organizations and their representatives for their assistance
in preparing this manual:
British Columbia Safety Authority
Recreational Facilities Association of British Columbia
City of New Westminster
City of Vancouver
City of Coquitlam
City of Richmond
Canadian Fishing Company Ltd.
D & C Refrigeration Ltd.
ICI Canada

Safeguarding Machinery and Equipment: General Requirements

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Contents

Introduction.................................................................................................................. 1

What is ammonia?......................................................................................................... 3

Hazards of ammonia..................................................................................................... 4
Health.............................................................................................................................................................4
Fire.................................................................................................................................................................5
Corrosive action.............................................................................................................................................5

Employer responsibilities............................................................................................. 6
Health and safety program............................................................................................................................6
Written safe work procedures........................................................................................................................6
WHMIS program......................................................................................................................................7
Exposure control plan...............................................................................................................................7
Respirator program (personal protective equipment)...............................................................................7
Written emergency procedures.................................................................................................................8
Written preventive maintenance procedures............................................................................................8
Checking on a worker working alone.......................................................................................................8
Training, instruction, and supervision..........................................................................................................9

Examples of written safe work procedures............................................................... 10

Example 1: Leak detection and control........................................................................................................ 10
Example 2: Draining the chiller oil.............................................................................................................. 12

Preparing for emergencies......................................................................................... 13

Written emergency procedures.................................................................................................................... 13
Emergency equipment.................................................................................................................................. 14
Eye wash and shower facilities............................................................................................................... 14
First aid kit.............................................................................................................................................. 15

Investigating accidents.............................................................................................. 16

Working safely around ammonia................................................................................ 17

Storing ammonia.......................................................................................................................................... 17
Signage.................................................................................................................................................... 17
Quantity and location............................................................................................................................. 17
Housekeeping.......................................................................................................................................... 18
Empty cylinders...................................................................................................................................... 18
Fire precautions....................................................................................................................................... 18

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 Handling ammonia.............................................................................................................................. 18
Moving cylinders............................................................................................................................ 18
Valves.............................................................................................................................................. 18
Repair and maintenance...................................................................................................................... 19

Preventing and controlling exposure...................................................... 20

Engineering control (building design)................................................................................................. 20
Machine rooms............................................................................................................................... 20
Class “T” Machine Rooms.............................................................................................................. 21
Ventilation....................................................................................................................................... 22
Administrative control........................................................................................................................ 23
Monitoring/alarm systems.............................................................................................................. 23
Detector tubes................................................................................................................................. 24
Personal protective equipment............................................................................................................ 25
Eye protection................................................................................................................................. 25
Skin protection................................................................................................................................ 25
Respiratory protection.................................................................................................................... 25
Person-check radio/telephone......................................................................................................... 27
Emergency equipment.................................................................................................................... 28

First aid.................................................................................................... 29
Ammonia inhalation........................................................................................................................... 29
Skin contact......................................................................................................................................... 29
Eye contact........................................................................................................................................... 30

Ammonia in Refrigeration Systems

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Introduction

When used as a refrigerant, pure ammonia gas is compressed to form

pure liquid ammonia. Unlike ammonia compounds, pure ammonia, in
both gas and liquid forms, is a toxic substance that presents a number
of hazards. If proper precautions are not taken while working with or
around pure ammonia, serious injury or even death can result. In order to
prevent injury, WorkSafeBC has developed requirements detailed in the
Occupational Health and Safety Regulation.

This manual is mainly for two groups: employers whose business includes the
use of ammonia as a refrigerant (in ice rinks or ice-manufacturing plants, for
example), and workers who work with or around ammonia, including those
who repair or maintain ammonia systems. Employers will find information
on what they need to do to comply with the Occupational Health and Safety
Regulation and to ensure a safe environment both for workers and for
communities around facilities in which ammonia is stored or used. Workers
will find information that will help them work safely around ammonia.

Employers whose business involves ammonia for uses other than as a

refrigerant will also find this manual useful. Compressed ammonia gas
is used in blueprinting, die hardening, and the manufacture of cleaning
products. Liquid ammonia is occasionally used in water treatment plants
and in the manufacture of agricultural fertilizers. Liquid ammonia itself is
also used directly as a fertilizer.

Engineers and architects will also find information on building design for
facilities in which ammonia is to be used or stored.

This manual does not replace the Occupational Health and Safety
Regulation. It complements the Regulation and is a tool to help industry
work safely. In this manual, the word must means that a particular safety
step is specified in the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation. The
word should indicates that a particular action, although not specified in
the Regulation, will improve safety in the workplace. Please note also that
the word worker includes supervisors, managers, and workers.

In addition to the information in this manual, you can get specific

information from manufacturers, suppliers, and CSA Standard B52-05,
Mechanical Refrigeration Code. Worksites should have a copy of this
CSA standard and the Power Engineer, Boiler, Pressure Vessel and
Refrigeration Safety Regulation (PEBPV and RSR).

Ammonia in Refrigeration Systems

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WorkSafeBC has produced a number of related safe practices manuals
such as Breathe Safer, a respirator manual. For copies, please contact the
WorkSafeBC Store (WorkSafeBCStore.com).

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What is ammonia?

Pure ammonia comes in two forms: gas and liquid.

Pure ammonia versus
Ammonia gas is colourless and has a suffocating, pungent, penetrating household ammonia
odour. It is also much lighter than air. If ammonia gas escapes from a
refrigeration system or a storage container, it tends to collect in high areas The liquid ammonia
or ceilings. As the amount of ammonia gas in the air decreases to parts referred to in this
manual should not
per million (ppm) quantities, natural air convection currents spread the
be confused with
gas throughout the confined area. the “liquid ammonia”
commonly found
Ammonia gas is easily liquefied under pressure.
in households.
Liquid ammonia is a clear fluid that evaporates quickly at room Household ammonia
is actually a diluted
temperature. Liquid ammonia also has a high compression ratio. The ratio
mixture of ammonia
of liquid to gas is 1 to 800, which means that 1 litre of liquid ammonia
and water. The liquid
expands to form 800 litres of gas. A major ammonia spill is potentially ammonia used in
disastrous because liquid ammonia evaporates quickly when exposed to refrigeration systems is
air and creates an explosive fire hazard at high concentrations. ammonia gas that has
been compressed into
If all the liquid ammonia in a 1,000 lb. refrigeration system escaped, it a pure liquefied form,
would release so much pure ammonia gas that it would take 14 times the sometimes referred
amount of air in BC Place stadium to dilute the gas concentration to 25 to as anhydrous
ppm, the maximum allowable concentration a person can be exposed to in ammonia.
an eight-hour period.

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Hazards of ammonia

Health
Hazard alert: Do
not heat ammonia Ammonia gas is very irritating to the eyes, nose, and respiratory system,
systems which makes it easy to detect low concentrations in the air. Because the
gas is physically irritating, it is unlikely that any person will remain in an
Never apply heat to area contaminated with a detectable concentration of ammonia, unless the
any part of an ammonia
person is trapped or unconscious.
system containing
liquid ammonia. The If you have been exposed to ammonia repeatedly, however, your ability
immediate increase in
to smell it may be significantly reduced. Workers who have worked
pressure can rupture
the tank or pipe. regularly with ammonia have shown decreased ability to detect its odour
at concentrations immediately dangerous to life and health (IDLH).

Note The IDLH exposure level is the point at which a person without
appropriate respiratory protection could be fatally injured or could suffer
irreversible or incapacitating health effects.

Depending on the concentration, ammonia can cause coughing, chest

pain, breathing difficulty, bronchopneumonia, pulmonary edema, and
death from bronchial spasm. Ammonia is a severe eye irritant; it can
penetrate the eye quickly, causing permanent blindness. Contact with the
skin or eyes can cause severe and potentially fatal burns.

Toxic effects of ammonia

Ammonia concentration
(parts per million) Effect
2–55 ppm Normal range of odour threshold*

70 ppm Stinging or burning in eyes, nose, or throat; can cause watering

of eyes, sneezing, and coughing*

300 ppm Severe irritation of eyes, nose, or respiratory tract, which

becomes intolerable after a few minutes; difficulty breathing;
possible burning in lungs (IDLH level)*

2,000 ppm or more Can be fatal after a few breaths

* T he concentrations listed in this table do not apply to those who

have become desensitized by long-term exposure to ammonia. These
people may notice initial health effects only at higher concentrations.
Long-term exposure to ammonia will not help you develop a tolerance
to it; it will only weaken your ability to detect ammonia.

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Exposure limits of ammonia
Hazard alert:
Exposure level Electrical spark
(parts per million) Exposure limit ignites ammonia
25 ppm Maximum allowable concentration averaged over an eight-hour vapour
period
For several hours, no
35 ppm Maximum allowable short-term exposure (15 minutes) one noticed a leak of
liquid ammonia from
300 ppm or more Immediately dangerous to life and health (IDLH) a deteriorated seal.
When the engineer
Fire smelled ammonia in
the area, he entered
Ammonia’s fire hazard rating is usually stated as “slight.” Ammonia is the machine room
explosive in air at concentrations of 16–27 percent (by volume). and found pools of
liquid on the floor. He
Ammonia is extremely reactive, however, which means it easily combines immediately activated
with other materials to form products that are often more hazardous the fire valve. A spark
than ammonia alone. The presence of oil or other combustible materials inside the electrical
increases ammonia’s fire hazard. Ammonia can form explosive mixtures switch ignited the
when it comes into contact with strong oxidizers such as chlorine, ammonia vapour,
causing an explosion
bromine, iodine, calcium, gold, mercury, silver, and hypochlorite bleaches.
that blew out two
walls. Amazingly, the
Corrosive action engineer suffered only
minor injuries.
Ammonia can cause chemical burns on all body surfaces. Ammonia
vapour reacts with moisture in the air to form moist ammonia, which
attacks copper, zinc, tin, cadmium, and most of their alloys. Ammonia
will also corrode many rubbers and plastics.

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Employer responsibilities

According to the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation, employers

must develop and implement an effective health and safety program,
which includes training workers and supervisors in relevant sections of
the program.

Health and safety program

A health and safety program helps ensure a safe, productive workplace by
describing specific tasks and responsibilities for many different aspects of
an employer’s operation. An effective health and safety program for any
workplace in which ammonia is used or stored must include:
•• A written occupational health and safety policy that:
-- States the employer’s commitment to health and safety
-- States the program’s objectives
-- Defines the responsibilities and roles of the employer, supervisors,
and workers
•• Written safe work procedures and emergency response procedures
•• Training for supervisors and workers
•• Regular worksite inspections
•• Regular health and safety meetings
•• Accident investigation
•• Records and statistics
•• A joint health and safety committee or representative, if required

It is important to remember that every worksite is different. Although

these general elements may be common to health and safety programs
across the province, employers cannot expect to copy a program from
another worksite. Instead, they must develop and implement a health and
safety program unique to their own operation.

Written safe work procedures

A health and safety program is an overall program that includes a
number of individual written safe work procedures and specific, smaller
programs. Written safe work procedures and programs tell workers how
to perform their duties safely. Employers must ensure that all workers
understand these procedures well enough to perform their duties
competently. Employers and workers must review all written safe work
and emergency procedures jointly at least once a year.

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WHMIS program

A Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) program

helps ensure that workers who work with or near ammonia are instructed
in its safe use, storage, handling, and disposal. This includes the use of
labels or other means of identifying ammonia containers or systems.
For more information, see Part 5 of the Occupational Health and Safety
Regulation.

Exposure control plan

Written exposure control plans explain the work procedures and other
controls that will be used to reduce workers’ risk of exposure to ammonia.
Strict adherence to ammonia exposure limits and appropriate respiratory
and skin protection are essential elements of such a plan. Employers must
also ensure that qualified persons perform a formal risk assessment to
determine which workers may be affected by exposure to ammonia and
the extent of any exposure. For more information about the elements of
exposure control plans, see Section 5.54 of the Regulation.

For more detailed information on preventing exposure (through building

design, ventilation, and monitoring/alarm systems) and controlling
exposure (using eye, skin, and respiratory protection), see Preventing and
controlling exposure, page 20.

Respirator program (personal protective equipment)

Providing protective equipment and ensuring that workers use it are

essential to any effective occupational health and safety program.
Employers must develop and implement a written respiratory
protection program that is acceptable to WorkSafeBC and that meets
the requirements of the Regulation. (For more information on personal
protective equipment and clothing, see Part 8 of the Regulation.)

Employers must ensure that workers are trained in proper use and care of
respirators. Employers must also provide fit-testing (using a WorkSafeBC-
accepted protocol, such as described in CSA Standard Z94.4-02) when a
worker is first fitted with a respirator, and once a year thereafter. (One
type of test, the qualitative fit-test, determines if the worker can detect
any amount of a test compound leaking through the respirator.) Employers
must keep records of the fit-test program. Fit-test kits are available from
respirator suppliers.

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Respiratory, eye, and skin protection are all covered in more detail
under Personal protective equipment, on page 25. You can also find more
information on respiratory protection programs in other WorkSafeBC
safe practices guides, available through the WorkSafeBC web site
(WorkSafeBC.com).

Written emergency procedures

Employers must conduct a risk assessment and prepare emergency

procedures, including escape and evacuation, drills, and notification
of emergency services. For more information on written emergency
procedures, see Preparing for emergencies, page 13.

Written preventive maintenance procedures

Employers, in consultation with equipment manufacturers or suppliers,

must ensure that all equipment is inspected regularly and replaced when
necessary. Employers must ensure that written preventive maintenance
procedures and written emergency procedures are readily available to and
understood by all people required to work on the ammonia system.

Employers must also include plans for testing and replacing, where
required, all ancillary (secondary) safety equipment, such as monitors and
alarm systems, detection equipment, radios, eye washes, respiratory and
skin protection equipment, and first aid kits. To ensure that nothing is
missed, employers may find it useful to develop checklists for inspecting
and testing equipment. All use and maintenance of safety equipment
must be recorded in a suitable log book.

For more information on preventive maintenance, see Repair and

maintenance, page 19.

Checking on a worker working alone

Employers must establish a system with written procedures to ensure

the continued well-being of workers who enter an ammonia enclosure on
their own or who work in isolation. Depending on the situation, the check
system may consist of either visual checks, radio contact, or a telephone
call-in procedure. The check system must include:
•• A set interval between checks
•• A record of each check
•• A check at the end of the work shift
•• Procedures to follow if the worker cannot be contacted or is injured

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Training, instruction, and supervision
Safe handling of
Although workers may have special certification or other external ammonia: Where to
training, employers are responsible for providing them with thorough, look in the Regulation
site-specific training and continued instruction in the programs and
procedures outlined above. Written safe work procedures form the basis Employers can use
several elements
of an employer’s ongoing training program.
of their health and
Employers must document training and instruction, and workers must be safety program to
help ensure the safe
able to demonstrate competency in doing their work according to the work
handling of ammonia.
procedures. See the next section, Examples of written safe work procedures, For the purposes of
for more information and samples. this manual, these
key elements (and
their location in the
Regulation) include:
– Emergency
preparedness (Parts
4–6)
– Equipment preventive
maintenance; critical
parts inspections
(Parts 4 and 6)
– WHMIS; exposure
control programs
(Part 5)
– Respiratory
protection programs
(Part 8)
– First aid requirements
(Part 3)

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Examples of written safe work procedures

Some tasks that require written safe work procedures include (but are not
Hazard alert: limited to):
Lack of written •• Cylinder hookup
procedure results in •• Leak detection and control
ammonia leak •• Draining the chiller
A heavy buildup •• Checking on a worker working alone
of ice had formed •• Respirator program
on the outside of •• Disposal of damaged containers
the main ammonia •• System shut-down procedure
feed-line. One of the •• Routine maintenance of equipment (such as pumps and piping)
maintenance staff
was told to remove Written safe work procedures must be detailed and complete, and must
the ice. There was not assume that the worker will know or remember any unlisted tasks.
no written safe work The following examples demonstrate the amount of detail required.
procedure, so the
employee attempted These examples will not apply to all worksites. Employers must create
to break the ice away their own detailed, written safe work procedures to suit each individual
with an axe. He hit a worksite.
pipe elbow, snapping
it off and releasing
liquid ammonia into the Example 1: Leak detection and control
area. The emergency
procedures had to be Situation 1: A minor leak occurs during routine operation (with an alarm system
activated, and the plant in place).
was evacuated. •• If the alarm has been activated, leave the area and follow emergency
procedures.
•• If the alarm has not been activated (for example, when ammonia
concentration is less than 35 ppm), follow these steps:
1. Moisten a strip of indicator paper with water (see notes on next
page), then check for the approximate area of the leak.
2. After locating the approximate area of the leak, use fresh strips of
indicator paper to determine the exact source of the leak.
3. Do not attempt to stop the leak until a second worker is present.
4. Put on appropriate respiratory protection (see the respirator
selection table, page 27).
5. Perform minor maintenance to stop the leak (for example, tighten
the flange).
6. Wait a few minutes, then re-test the leak with indicator paper.
7. If minor procedures do not stop the leak, initiate the shutdown
procedure to prepare for repair.

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Notes
1. The indicator paper contains phenolphthalein — do not attempt to
moisten the strip using your mouth.
2. Indicator paper can be used only for detecting leaks, not for measuring
airborne ammonia concentrations. The indicator paper changes colour
to pink when near ammonia. The colour change is slow at 6 ppm and
moderately quick at 15 ppm.
3. Do not store indicator paper in the machine room.

Situation 2: A minor leak occurs during routine operation (with no alarm system
in place).
1. If you smell ammonia and/or feel eye irritation, leave the area.
2. Notify the supervisor.
3. Wearing appropriate respiratory protection (see the respirator
selection table, page 27), measure the airborne ammonia
concentration using a detector tube.
4. Moisten a strip of indicator paper with water (see notes below),
then check for the approximate area of the leak.
5. After locating the approximate area of the leak, use fresh strips of
indicator paper to determine the exact source of the leak.
6. Perform minor maintenance to stop the leak.
7. Wait a few minutes, then re-test the leak with indicator paper.
8. If minor procedures do not stop the leak, initiate the shutdown
procedure to prepare for repair.

Notes
1. The indicator paper contains phenolphthalein — do not attempt to
moisten the strip using your mouth.
2. Indicator paper can be used only for detecting leaks, not for measuring
airborne ammonia concentrations. The indicator paper changes colour
to pink when near ammonia. The colour change is slow at 6 ppm and
moderately quick at 15 ppm.
3. Do not store indicator paper in the machine room.
4. If the exhaust ventilation is not automatically triggered (see Ventilation,
page 22), the designated supervisor will determine when it is safe to
ventilate the contaminated area.

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 Situation 3: A leak occurs during routine operation, and no method of
Hazard alert: No determining the airborne ammonia concentration is immediately available.
respirators and When no method of determining the airborne ammonia concentration is
inadequate training immediately available, all leaks must be considered major leaks and full
result in major emergency procedures must be activated.
ammonia spill
A 25-litre (5-gallon) Example 2: Draining the chiller oil
bucket collecting oil
froth was about to This is a routine maintenance procedure that involves the release of
overflow. The operator ammonia gas. When writing procedures, consider the following steps to
left his untrained minimize the amount of ammonia released:
assistant holding the •• While this procedure is being performed, the ventilation system must
hose and crossed
be switched on and operating.
the room to fetch a
second bucket. The •• The work procedure must specify how often this job will be done.
assistant held the hose Draining the chiller oil on a regular basis reduces the amount of oil
up out of the bucket drained, which will reduce the amount of ammonia released.
by mistake, sending •• Measurements of ammonia levels in the air must be recorded to
ammonia vapour into ensure that the work procedure maintains these levels below 35 ppm.
his own face. Physically •• Draining the chiller oil through a length of tubing into a bucket of
distressed, he dropped
water also helps to significantly reduce the amount of ammonia gas
the hose and ran.
released.
Liquid ammonia started
to drain into the room. •• All workers in the machine room must wear appropriate respirators.
The operator was •• At least two workers must be present during this procedure, unless
unable to approach the system is equipped with a shut-off valve (deadman switch).
the shut-off valve and •• Always close the drain valve before leaving the immediate area for any
also left the room. He reason (except during emergency escape).
was coughing and
had trouble breathing, Note There are a number of different methods for isolating the oil-trap
and his eyes and nose from the system by using an intervening valve (a valve between the
were burning. Had the oil-trap and the system). If an accident occurs, only the oil-trap will be
operator realized that
drained, not the whole system.
he had been acting
as a supervisor in this
instance, he might have
properly instructed the
untrained assistant.

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Preparing for emergencies

Preparing for emergencies includes planning for ammonia spills that may
require procedures such as evacuation and notification of local emergency
response units. The preparation required for these types of emergencies is
detailed below under Written emergency procedures.

Preparing for emergencies also includes making appropriate emergency

equipment available to workers and ensuring that they know how to use
it. This equipment —eye wash and shower facilities and first aid kits — is
discussed under Emergency equipment.

Written emergency procedures

Formal written emergency procedures provide workers with detailed
directions in case of an emergency. A detailed emergency plan is not
enough by itself, however. Employers must also conduct emergency drills
to determine whether the procedures work in practice and to thoroughly
familiarize workers with their roles in an actual emergency. Employers
must keep records of these drills to monitor efficiency.

The written emergency procedures must include specific details concerning

the following:
•• Notifying workers of the emergency location
•• Controlling materials that may become dangerous during the emergency
•• Emergency personal protective equipment and its location
•• Location of the system fire valve
•• Emergency lighting
•• Evacuation procedure and a check system to ensure that all personnel
are evacuated
•• Search and rescue
•• Notifying police, fire department, hospital, and other emergency
response units (such as suppliers)
•• Notifying adjacent worksites and private homes of the emergency

As soon as the written emergency procedures are created, the employer must:
•• Provide each worker with a copy of the plan, and provide enough
training to ensure that workers clearly understand the procedures
•• Post the procedures and other relevant information (such as telephone
numbers) in appropriate, conspicuous locations
•• Conduct regular tests of the procedures, including drills
•• Notify the fire department and other emergency response units of any
specialized information

Ammonia in Refrigeration Systems

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 •• Provide nearby worksites and private homes that could be affected in
Hazard alert: Fire an emergency with information about the nature of the hazard and
valve vents into with a copy of appropriate emergency procedures
emergency gathering
area Besides these general emergency procedures, employers must have
specific procedures to cover concerns such as:
The arena is located •• Response to an alarm signal
next to a school,
•• Leak control
separated from it by a
narrow parking area. •• First aid response
The arena staff are •• Dispersal of leaked ammonia inside the plant
aware of the need to •• Dispersal of ammonia dumped (vented) through the fire valve
notify the school in •• Accident investigation
the event of a major
emergency. The
parking area is an
Emergency equipment
emergency gathering
point for the students, Eye wash and shower facilities
however, and the Sections 5.85 to 5.96 of the Regulation describe requirements for emergency
arena’s ammonia fire
washing facilities. Employers must conduct a risk assessment for each
valve is located beside
this area. workplace hazard. In the Regulation, use Table 5-2: Risk Assessment to help
determine risk levels relating to hazardous materials, including ammonia.
Use Table 5-3: Provision and Location of Emergency Washing Equipment to
help determine the type of eye wash equipment required and where it must
be located.

Employers must consider the following when conducting a risk assessment:

•• The nature of the workplace chemical (corrosive or irritant)
•• The state of the substance (gas, liquid, or solid)
•• The potential for exposure to skin or eyes and the extent of any exposure
•• The number of potentially affected workers
•• The availability of first aid and professional medical help

Employers must follow these requirements for eye wash and shower facilities:
•• Ensure that the facilities have a supply of tempered water — not running
cold water. Ensure that workers cannot mistakenly turn on hot water alone.
•• Determine the most appropriate location for emergency equipment. It
is not appropriate, for example, to install emergency equipment in the
machinery room.
•• Take into account the geographical location of the facility when deciding
whether or not an outdoor location will be practicable during the winter.
•• Do not locate emergency equipment where the public may access and
possibly damage it.

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First aid kit

Workers must have immediate access to an appropriate first aid kit at each
ammonia location. To determine the appropriate first aid kit required for
a particular worksite, see Part 3 of the Occupational Health and Safety
Regulation.

Ammonia in Refrigeration Systems

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Investigating accidents

Investigation of accidents is important for preventing future accidents, and

for education of workers and employers. According to the Occupational
Health and Safety Regulation, employers must immediately notify
WorkSafeBC of any major release of a toxic substance. In the case of
ammonia, a major release is:
•• A leak or spill resulting in at least one person receiving professional
medical attention
or
•• A leak or spill resulting in at least three people receiving first aid

Any time enough ammonia is released to set off the alarm, the employer
must conduct a formal investigation to discover the causes of the accident.
This investigation must also examine measures that will prevent similar
situations in the future. Employers must forward copies of the investigation
report to their occupational health and safety committee and to WorkSafeBC.

Ammonia in Refrigeration Systems

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Working safely around ammonia

This section will be useful to anyone who works with or around ammonia.
It includes information on storing ammonia, handling ammonia, and
repair and maintenance of ammonia systems.

Personal protective equipment — particularly eye, skin, and respiratory

protection — is essential to working safely around ammonia. For more
information, see Personal protective equipment, page 25.

Storing ammonia
Liquid ammonia is stored in a variety of containers: cylinders, pressure
vessels, and tank trucks. This section describes what you must and must
not do when storing ammonia.

Note All ammonia and refrigeration equipment must meet the requirements
of the Safety Standards Act, the Electrical Safety Regulation, the Power
Engineers, Boiler, Pressure Vessel and Refrigeration Safety Regulation (PEBPV
and RSR), and applicable CSA standards (such as B52-05 and B339-02).

Signage

•• Use signs to clearly identify all ammonia storage areas. Only qualified
personnel are permitted to enter an ammonia storage area.
•• Indicate the total weight of ammonia contained in the system using a
readable, accessible sign.

Note See CSA Standard B52-05 for other sign-posting requirements.

Quantity and location

•• Do not allow the amount of stored ammonia to exceed 136 kg (300 lb.)
or 20 percent of the normal ammonia charge (total amount in system),
whichever is less.
•• Store ammonia cylinders and containers in a cool, dry, and relatively
isolated area, protected from weather and extreme temperatures. If
cylinders and containers are stored outside, shield them from direct
sunlight unless they are specifically designed for unshaded, outdoor
storage.
Note Never apply heat to containers or their valves.
•• When storing inside, store ammonia cylinders and containers in a
well-ventilated building, away from any heat sources. Never allow
cylinders and containers to reach 50°C.

Ammonia in Refrigeration Systems

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•• Store cylinders upright, and secure them against falling. Cylinders
will discharge vapour when upright, and liquid when upside-down.

Housekeeping

•• Do not store materials that may react violently with ammonia (for
example, iodine, bromine, chlorine, calcium, gold, mercury, silver, and
hypochlorite bleaches) in the same room as ammonia.
•• Do not block access to emergency equipment and doors.
•• Use cylinders on a “first-in, first-out” basis.

Empty cylinders

•• Clearly tag or mark empty cylinders, and separate them from full
cylinders.
•• Do not consider cylinders or other ammonia system containers empty
and safe until they have been thoroughly purged with nitrogen, steam,
or water.

Fire precautions

•• Do not use open flames in ammonia storage or holding areas.

•• Do not smoke in ammonia storage or holding areas.
•• Always ground storage containers to minimize the buildup of static
electricity.

Handling ammonia
This section describes what you must and must not do when handling
ammonia.

Moving cylinders

•• Handle cylinders with care when moving or storing them. Do not

allow cylinders to strike objects, and do not drop cylinders.
•• Do not use slings or magnetic devices to move ammonia cylinders.
•• Do not stand in line with valve or fitting openings, particularly
pressure relief valve openings.

Valves

•• Ensure that cylinders have valve protection hoods in place when not
connected to a system.

Ammonia in Refrigeration Systems

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•• Do not lift a cylinder by its valve protection hood. The hood is not
designed to carry the weight of a cylinder. Welding hazard
•• Do not modify, alter, or repair cylinders and valves. Only the supplier
Welding or any other
should carry out these tasks. heating of an ammonia
system is extremely
Repair and maintenance hazardous. Isolate and
purge system parts
Employers are responsible for providing written preventive maintenance before welding.
procedures and written emergency procedures to any person who works
on an ammonia system. Workers should be familiar with these procedures
before carrying out repairs or maintenance on the ammonia system.

Qualified personnel must supervise the cleaning and repair of ammonia

systems. They must be familiar with all the hazards and the safeguards
necessary to safely perform the work.

The ammonia system must be shut off if repairs present an ammonia

hazard. The part needing repair must be isolated from the system, either by
physically removing it or by effective blanking (blocking off lines to cut off
the flow of ammonia). Before any work is done, the isolated part must be
thoroughly purged with water or steam to remove all traces of ammonia.

Ammonia in Refrigeration Systems

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Preventing and controlling exposure

Engineering and administrative controls are the first line of defence

against exposure to ammonia. Proper building design and ventilation are
important engineering considerations. Monitoring/alarm systems are also
essential in preventing ammonia exposure.

Personal protective equipment is the last line of defence. It is vital in

controlling exposure when an ammonia leak has occurred or there is a
possibility of such a leak. Personal protective equipment includes eye,
skin, and respiratory protection. It also includes emergency equipment
such as eye wash and shower facilities and first aid kits.

Engineering control (building design)

This section is mainly for engineers and architects who are involved in
designing ammonia systems and storage facilities.

Machine rooms

Ammonia machine rooms must conform to CSA Standard C22.1-06, Canadian

Electrical Code Part 1, unless an inspector has designated the room a Class
“T” room under the Safety Standards Act and the Power Engineers, Boiler,
Pressure Vessel and Refrigeration Safety Regulation (PEBPV and RSR). Class
“T” room requirements are outlined in a separate section on the next page.

Consider the following points when designing an ammonia system or

storage facility:
•• All electrical installations must be explosion-proof.
•• Shipping containers and equipment containing ammonia must be
located indoors in a suitable fire-resistant building. If a separate
building is not provided, containers and equipment must be located in
an enclosure with fire-resistant floors and walls.
•• The machine room must be sealed from the rest of the building. All
pipe openings must also be sealed.
•• Machine rooms with a floor area larger than 60 sq. m (200 sq. ft.) must
have two or more exit doors to ensure accessible escape routes.
•• The machine room must provide free and unrestricted access to exit
doors. At least one exit door must open to the outside of the building.
•• All exit doors must open outward and must be fitted with panic
hardware (a crash bar for easy exit).
•• Doors should not be self-locking.
•• If the room is heated for comfort, ammonia containers and equipment
must not be overheated.

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•• The machine room or storage rooms must not be designed or used for:
-- Storage of other materials (such as ice skates, in the case of arenas)
-- Any other work processes
-- A worker rest area
•• Emergency controls to shut down the ammonia compressor must be
located outside the machine room.
•• Cold storage rooms must have a door that opens easily from the
inside. These rooms must also have a means of alerting other workers
if a person is unable to exit the room.
•• The machine room must be equipped with emergency lighting.
•• Hazardous material contained in a piping system must be identified.
“Identification of material contained in a piping system shall be by
background colour marking and legend. For controlled products,
pictograms shall also be used. The background colour marking and
coloured pictograms are used to designate whether the contained material
is hazardous, or for fire protection.” (CGSB Standards 5.1 and 6.1.2)

TABLE 1: Background and Legend Colour

Material Background Colour* Legend Colour*

Hazardous Yellow 505-101 Black 512-101

Inherently Low Hazard Green 503-107 White 513-101

Fire Protection Red 509-102 White 513-101

* Colour numbers are those in CGSB Standard 1-GP-12.

Class “T” Machine Rooms

Consider the following points for Class “T” ammonia machine rooms:
•• The room must not contain any permanently installed flame-
producing devices or hot surfaces over 427°C.
•• The room’s walls, floor, and ceiling must be sealed from the rest of
the building and must be constructed to have at least a one-hour
fire-resistance rating. All pipe openings must also be sealed.
•• At least one exit door must open to the outside of the building. Any
exit to another area in the building must be through a vestibule
equipped with approved self-closing, tight-fitting fire doors.
•• Exterior openings must not be under any fire escape or open stairway.
•• Emergency controls to shut down the mechanical equipment must be
located outside the machine room.

Ammonia in Refrigeration Systems

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•• The purpose of all valves must be conspicuously marked, and a
schematic diagram of the system should be available.
•• All electrical installations inside a building containing ammonia
must be explosion-proof and must conform to the requirements of the
applicable regulatory authority and CSA Standard C22.1-06, Canadian
Electrical Code Part 1.
•• The machine room must have an independent mechanical ventilation
system. If the machine room is in a basement, the ventilation system must
operate continuously. Machine rooms in any other locations must have
-- Continuous ventilation when they are operating or occupied, and
-- Mechanical ventilation to exhaust a potential accumulation of
refrigerant if the ammonia detector is activated
•• Ventilation fans must have a control switch on a separate circuit
located outside the machine room. Ventilation fans must be allowed to
run as long as power is available.

For more specific building design information, refer to the:

•• Province of British Columbia Building Code
•• Ammonia system manufacturer/supplier
•• B.C. Safety Authority
•• Power Engineers, Boiler, Pressure Vessel and Refrigeration Safety
Regulation (PEBPV and RSR)
•• CSA Standard B52-05, Mechanical Refrigeration Code

Ventilation

A suitable fan must ventilate the machine room and storage rooms. All
ventilating fans must provide at least 15 air changes per hour, and must have
switches outside the machine room even when an inside switch is installed.

Because ammonia gas is lighter than air and tends to collect at ceiling
level, the suction of ventilating fans must be at or near ceiling level. Air
inlets must be located to provide cross-ventilation using outside air.

Ammonia must not be discharged into areas where it may cause damage
or injury, such as schools, worksites, private homes, or shopping centres.
Ventilation exhaust must not be positioned where it can be captured by
the air intake system of the same or another building.

As per CSA Standard B52-05, ventilation exhaust from a machinery room

must be vertically upward from the roof. The system must have rated ducts
with an upblast fan. The required rate of ventilation must be calculated

Ammonia in Refrigeration Systems

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from the information contained in the Standard. The minimum stack height
will be determined by the distance from the edge of the roof, in accordance
with Industrial Ventilation: A Manual of Recommended Practice.

If a machinery room is not vented upward from the roof, modifications

to the exhaust system are required to meet the specifications of CSA
Standard B52-05.

Administrative control

Monitoring/alarm systems

An effective alarm system includes a monitor that constantly tracks

ammonia levels and an alarm that responds if ammonia concentrations
reach a certain preset level.

A 24-hour continuous ammonia monitor must be connected to the alarm

system. In case of an ammonia leak or emergency, all facilities must have
a working alarm that can be heard and seen by workers.

The continuous monitor needs to have a direct readout that can be seen from
outside the enclosed hazard area. A digital readout is preferable, but a needle/
scale is acceptable. The readout ensures that emergency response personnel
know the actual concentration inside the enclosure. Knowing that the leak has
developed an atmosphere below 35 ppm, between 35 and 300 ppm, or above
300 ppm allows emergency response personnel to make an informed decision
with respect to the proper respiratory protection to be worn.

Without a direct readout from the monitor, every leak must be considered
IDLH, as the ammonia concentration is unknown. This requires SCBA to
be worn, with emergency backup, as outlined in the detailed emergency
response procedures.

There are several commercial monitoring/alarm systems. Each type has

advantages and disadvantages. Before buying an alarm system, consider its:
•• Reliability
•• Accuracy
•• Response speed
•• Calibration and system drift
•• Operating temperature range
•• Sensors (Note A monitor with an electrochemical sensor must have
the sensor replaced after every alarm)

Ammonia in Refrigeration Systems

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•• Service and maintenance
•• System testing

It is also important to determine what other gases may activate the alarm.
You may need a more selective system if interfering compounds may be
present in the facility. Equipment suppliers and other alarm system users
can provide more information.

Basic alarm system requirements

– The system must be installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Routine maintenance procedures and tests must follow a strict timetable,
and records must be kept.
– Qualified workers must test and calibrate the system using the
manufacturer’s instructions. Systems must be tested for proper operation at
least monthly and calibrated at least annually. Systems must also be tested
and calibrated after any significant exposure. (See the manufacturer’s
instructions to determine what a significant exposure is.)
– Workers must know the alarm level (the ammonia concentration that
triggers the alarm), and this information must be clearly posted outside the
enclosure. Necessary safety precautions for any given concentration level
must also be posted.

– The preset alarm level must be at or below 35 ppm. Alarm response

procedures must account for minor leaks, which may not require the
services of an emergency response team.

– The system must include a visible and audible alarm at the ammonia
location, preferably connected to a radio or telephone system to alert the
operator in case of an emergency.

– The system must be able to trigger exhaust ventilation automatically,

although this will not be appropriate in all locations.

– If the alarm system reacts to compounds other than ammonia, it must be

determined whether these interfering gases are present and, if so, whether
they will affect the alarm’s response to ammonia.

Detector tubes

Several hand-held ammonia detection systems are available. These

systems use detector tubes to give a direct reading of ammonia
concentration.

Ammonia in Refrigeration Systems

- 24 -
Workers must be properly trained in the use and maintenance of detector
tubes. Unused detector tubes should be discarded after a shelf life of two
years. Before each use, the pump must be checked using an unopened
detector tube.

When taking measurements to determine the extent and severity of a

leak outside the enclosure, workers must wear appropriate respiratory
protection. (See Choosing the right respirator, page 27.)

Personal protective equipment

Controlling exposure requires strict attention to ammonia exposure
limits. Appropriate respiratory, eye, and skin protection are essential.
Workers should be familiar with and understand the requirements of
their employer’s written exposure control plan.

Eye protection

Because eye irritation from exposure to ammonia gas normally does

not occur until concentrations reach about 70 ppm, eye protection is not
mandatory under normal working conditions (in other words, below 25
ppm). All respirators, however, except escape respirators, must provide
full face protection or be used with effective eye protection.

Skin protection

Workers who are controlling any liquid ammonia leak must have access
to full-body protective suits. This equipment must also be available to
workers exposed to airborne ammonia concentrations above 300 ppm for
more than a few minutes, which causes immediate irritation of moist body
areas. (Ammonia reacts instantly with moisture.)

Respiratory protection

This section outlines the types of respirators available to protect workers from
exposure to ammonia, and the limitations of each respirator. Choosing the
right respirator must be based on both the needs of each individual worksite
and the requirements of the employer’s written safe work procedures.

Ammonia in Refrigeration Systems

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 Full facepiece respirators with cartridges
When the ammonia concentration is shown to be greater than 35 ppm,
workers must wear a full facepiece respirator fitted with a chemical
cartridge that protects against ammonia exposure. Full facepiece respirators
with cartridges are also appropriate for leak control where tests show the
ammonia concentration to be less than 300 ppm (IDLH level).

Full facepiece respirators with canisters

Although cartridges are both adequate and preferable, workers may use
a full facepiece respirator fitted with an air-purifying canister for leak
control and repair or maintenance procedures in ammonia concentrations
less than 300 ppm.

Notes
1. If the concentration of ammonia is greater than 300 ppm, cartridges
or canisters cannot be worn, and a self-contained breathing apparatus
(SCBA) must be used.
2. Canisters with an indicator window must be replaced when the
material in the window has changed colour. Canisters or cartridges
without an indicator window must be replaced after each use. In either
case, canisters must never be used after the expiration date stamped
on the label.

Half facepiece respirators with goggles

To ensure that the
Workers working in air contaminated by ammonia vapour in concentrations
respirator fits properly,
workers must be clean- up to 250 ppm may use half facepiece respirators. Because ammonia vapour
shaven where the causes immediate eye irritation, workers must always use gas-rated, vapour-
respirator seals with tight chemical goggles with half facepiece respirators.
the face.
Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBAs)
Workers must use SCBAs when the ammonia concentration is unknown
or is measured at more than 300 ppm. A worker wearing an SCBA must
not enter a contaminated atmosphere until a second qualified person is
present, also equipped with an SCBA and ready to perform a rescue.

Escape respirators
Two types of escape respirators are acceptable: bite-block respirators and
half facepiece cartridge respirators. Bite-block respirators must be worn
with a nose plug. Anyone entering an ammonia enclosure for any reason
must carry an escape respirator and keep it within arm’s reach at all times.

Ammonia in Refrigeration Systems

- 26 -
Bite blocks are often used SCBAs provide air from a cylinder
by workers in pulp mills and that is carried by the wearer.
chemical manufacturing plants.

Choosing the right respirator

The correct selection of respiratory protection requires an accurate
knowledge of the ammonia concentration in the hazard area.

Situation Ammonia concentration Respirator choice

Routine work in ammonia Unknown; exit room Escape respirator
room; leak occurs immediately

Working on ammonia system; Unknown; exit room Full facepiece respirator

chance of leak immediately if leak occurs

Leak occurs; enter to repair 35–300 ppm Full facepiece respirator

300 ppm or more* SCBA

Unknown; always assume SCBA

IDLH level

* Concentrations above 300 ppm also require full skin protection.

Person-check radio/telephone

Employers must establish a check system to ensure the continued well-

being of workers who are working alone or at an isolated worksite. Where
visual checks are not possible, the check system may require a radio or
telephone. Workers who will need to use such a system must be trained in
the written procedure.

Ammonia in Refrigeration Systems

- 27 -
Emergency equipment

Emergency equipment includes eye wash and shower facilities and first
aid kits. Workers must have immediate access to each of these items and
must know how to use them in case of emergency. Emergency equipment
is covered in more detail on page 14. For first aid information, see page 29.

For more detailed information on personal protective equipment, contact:

•• Ammonia suppliers
•• Equipment manufacturers
•• Safety equipment suppliers
•• WorkSafeBC offices (listed at the end of this manual)

Ammonia in Refrigeration Systems

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First aid

When someone is injured in an ammonia-related accident, first aid can help

reduce the impact of their injuries and prevent further injuries from occurring.
The following steps apply to any situation in which someone is injured:
1. Do not panic.
2. Ensure that there is no more danger to yourself or the victim.
3. Using appropriate safety gear, remove the victim from the
contaminated area.
4. Send for medical help.

Ammonia inhalation
Someone who has inhaled ammonia may be unconscious, and may have
difficulty breathing or may have stopped breathing completely. Follow
these steps when treating a victim of ammonia inhalation: Unconscious patients
1. Assess the victim’s breathing: As soon as they
• If breathing has stopped, begin artificial respiration and continue resume breathing,
until the victim resumes breathing. (Mouth-to-mouth and pocket always place
masks are the most effective methods of artificial respiration.) unconscious patients
• If the victim is having difficulty breathing (gasping, coughing), place in the drainage
the victim in the most comfortable position, usually semi-sitting. position (on their side,
2. If an oxygen therapy unit and trained personnel are available, so fluids can drain
from the mouth and
administer oxygen at a 10-litre flow.
airways). Never give
3. Ensure that the victim is transported to hospital in case the victim an unconscious patient
suffers a delayed reaction in the form of pulmonary edema. Any anything by mouth.
physical exertion, excitement, or apprehension increases the chances
and severity of a delayed reaction. Keep the victim warm and
completely at rest. Reassure the victim while waiting for assistance
and transportation to hospital by ambulance.

Skin contact
Skin contact with ammonia can result in severe — even fatal — burns.
Before attempting to flush a victim’s contaminated skin, make sure the
victim is breathing properly. Follow these steps:
1. Assess the victim’s breathing:
• If breathing has stopped, begin artificial respiration and continue
until the victim resumes breathing. (Pocket masks are recommended
for artificial respiration, although the mouth-to-mouth method may
also be used.)

Ammonia in Refrigeration Systems

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 • If the victim is having difficulty breathing (gasping, coughing), place
the victim in the most comfortable position, usually semi-sitting.
2. As soon as the victim resumes breathing, flush the victim’s contaminated
skin and clothing with large amounts of water for 30 minutes.
3. Remove all contaminated clothing while flushing.
4. Continue flushing until all traces of ammonia have been removed.
5. Dress obvious burns with sterile gauze and bandage them loosely.
Apply insulated cold packs to help reduce pain.
6. Call for an ambulance to take the victim to a hospital.

Notes
1. Do not attempt to neutralize the ammonia with other chemicals.
2. Do not apply salves, ointments, or medications unless prescribed by a
doctor.
3. Skin contact with liquid ammonia or an ammonia gas stream leaking
under high pressure can cause frostbite. Pure liquid ammonia can
cause severe burns.

Eye contact
Eye contact with liquid ammonia for even a short period can cause
permanent disability such as blindness. Flushing must begin within 10
seconds. Follow these steps:
1. Flush the eyes immediately with large amounts of running water
(preferably lukewarm) if:
• Any amount of liquid ammonia has entered the eyes
• Exposure to gaseous ammonia causes persistent eye irritation
2. Hold the eyelids apart forcibly to ensure full flushing of the eyes and
eyelids.
3. After flushing has removed all traces of ammonia, cover both eyes with
moistened sterile gauze pads and bandage enough to keep light out.
4. Apply insulated cold packs to help reduce pain.
5. Call for an ambulance to take the victim to a hospital.

Notes
1. Do not attempt to neutralize the ammonia with other chemicals.
2. Do not apply oils, ointments, or medications to the eyes.

Ammonia in Refrigeration Systems

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WorkSafeBC Offices
Visit our web site at WorkSafeBC.com.

Abbotsford North Vancouver

2774 Trethewey Street V2T 3R1 400 – 224 Esplanade W. V7M 1A4
Phone 604 276-3100 Phone 604 276-3100
1 800 292-2219 1 888 875-6999
Fax 604 556-2077 Fax 604 232-1558

Burnaby Prince George

450 – 6450 Roberts Street V5G 4E1 1066 Vancouver Street V2L 5M4
Phone 604 276-3100 Phone 250 561-3700
1 888 621-7233 1 800 663-6623
Fax 604 232-5950 Fax 250 561-3710

Coquitlam Surrey
104 – 3020 Lincoln Avenue V3B 6B4 100 – 5500 152 Street V3S 5J9
Phone 604 276-3100 Phone 604 276-3100
1 888 967-5377 1 888 621-7233
Fax 604 232-1946 Fax 604 232-7077

Courtenay Terrace
801 30th Street V9N 8G6 4450 Lakelse Avenue V8G 1P2
Phone 250 334-8765 Phone 250 615-6605
1 800 663-7921 1 800 663-3871
Fax 250 334-8757 Fax 250 615-6633

Kamloops Victoria
321 Battle Street V2C 6P1 4514 Chatterton Way V8X 5H2
Phone 250 371-6003 Phone 250 881-3418
1 800 663-3935 1 800 663-7593
Fax 250 371-6031 Fax 250 881-3482

Kelowna Head Office / Richmond

110 – 2045 Enterprise Way V1Y 9T5 Prevention Information Line:
Phone 250 717-4313 Phone 604 276-3100
1 888 922-4466 1 888 621-7233 (621-SAFE)
Fax 250 717-4380 Administration:
Nanaimo 6951 Westminster Highway
4980 Wills Road V9T 6C6 Phone 604 273-2266
Phone 250 751-8040 Mailing Address:
1 800 663-7382 PO Box 5350 Stn Terminal
Fax 250 751-8046 Vancouver BC V6B 5L5
Nelson After Hours
524 Kootenay Street V1L 6B4 Health & Safety Emergency
Phone 250 352-2824 604 273-7711
1 800 663-4962 1 866 922-4357 (WCB-HELP)
Fax 250 352-1816
R06/06
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