A systematic approach to risk assessing ammonia refrigeration systems.

The safety of ammonia refrigeration systems is a priority for owners and users. Whilst legislation and good practice requirements are understood by leaders in the industry, the site installations often have elements that are unsafe or have poor procedures. Also the industry is focused more on ammonia’s flammability and explosive properties, whilst often the more significant risk is one of toxicity. When carrying out an ammonia risk assessment, the outcome of the assessment is only as good as the knowledge of the assessor and their ability to identify the risks in a short space of time during their site visit. A standard approach has been developed and is used when risk assessing ammonia refrigeration systems to ensure that all aspects of legislation and good practice are reviewed and recorded. Where non-compliances are identified an action list is provided, to guide the owner and users in implementing changes to their refrigeration system, safety systems and working practices.