Evaluation of the Experience of International Accidents Related to the Storage and Handling of Ammonium Nitrate Fertilisers

Abstract

Due to its high nitrogen content, ammonium nitrate is a popular fertiliser raw material worldwide and is also used as an ingredient in explosives in mines due to its explosiveness. As a result, several dangerous plants in the world are involved in the storage and handling of ammonium nitrate. In order to prevent a serious incident involving the substance, a number of national and international regulations exist. However, despite these strict laws and official controls, serious accidents have occurred that have resulted in significant material, environmental, and last but not least, human losses. The aim of the publication is to describe the major international accidents that have occurred during the storage and handling of ammonium nitrate. Furthermore, a summary is presented of the causes and main experiences identified during the investigation of these injury events.