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This article is from the Woodworking FAQ
Collection 1, by multiple authors.
42 Ammonia Fuming: What safety precautions are necessary?
It is important to be aware of the hazardous nature of concentrated
ammonia and to treat the liquid and its vapor with great care. Never
attempt to enter a large fuming chamber before covering the ammonia
containers and then allowing fumes to dissipate. At low fume levels (not
particularly dangerous or permanent-damage inducing) ammonia will be very
irritating and choking, and hence, will provide an adequate warning sign
that you should reduce contact as quickly as possible.
NOTE: Concentrated ammonia is very caustic and can cause burns to the skin,
eyes and mucous membranes if fumes are deeply inhaled or the liquid
contacted. Warnings and emergency treatment procedures are on the label.
Read them! Use gloves and eye protection (goggles).
Even with good ventilation, I'd advise the practice holding a deep breath
while handling open containers of ammonia solution, and by all means verify
that you can do so for the length of time needed (1) to pour out the
solution into smaller containers and (2) place them in (or remove from) the
chamber. Unless the chamber is small and the open containers of ammonia are
within easy reach, you should verify that you have some means--such as
long tongs -- to cover and /or withdraw the container(s) without encountering
an objectionable level of fumes. I don't use a respirator, but I would do
so if I intended to do fuming on a regular, frequent basis. A good idea is
to use an electric fan to direct the fumes away from you while opening the
ammonia container and pouring out liquid or while opening the chamber to
remove the workpiece after the fuming is completed. After removal from the
chamber, fumed wood will require 1 to 2 days of airing to lose most of the
ammonia odor. I usually apply finish coats (oil) after 2 days.
Note: NEVER carry out the fuming process in a closed room! Only work
outside (or in a detached garage/shop), away from open doors and windows.
If the fuming chamber is within an attached garage, be certain to keep the
outside garage door fully open during the entire procedure. Make sure
inquisitive pets, small children, etc., are kept away.
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