When stored correctly, ammonium nitrate fertiliser is safe. Fertilisers containing less than 20% nitrate are also relatively safe and do not have such strict storage guidance.
However, more than 20% ammonium nitrate fertiliser is of great concern to firefighters when it is involved in fire or contaminated by other things such as fuels and oils.
Storing fertiliser safely
- Store fertiliser in a clean environment where it cannot be contaminated.
- Try to keep fertiliser stores away from other flammable materials.
- Make stores as secure as possible – if you suspect theft, report it to the Police immediately.
- Any fertiliser not required for programmed use should be evaluated as to whether it is necessary to keep.
Dangerous Substances (Notification and Marking of Sites) Regulations 1990
The below leaflet is for duty holders responsible for sites storing 25 tonnes or more of dangerous substances as defined by the NAMOS Regulations. It also explains changes to a legal requirement to notify the Fire & Rescue Service about any site storing 150 tonnes or more of relevant ammonium nitrate and mixtures containing ammonium nitrate where the nitrogen content exceeds certain levels.
Dangerous Substances (Notification and Marking of Sites) Regulations 1990 (NAMOS)
We have a simple online form to help you notify us of any storage that meets the NAMOS regulations, further information can be found here.