Public Notice – EPA undertakes audit of Ammonium Nitrate storage areas in Ghana

Public Notice

The recent explosion in Lebanon, which is alleged to have been caused by Ammonium Nitrate

The EPA has noted with grave concern the recent chemical explosion, which shook Beirut, Lebanon’s Capital City on Tuesday, 4th August 2020. According to the authorities the blast was triggered by fire in a nearby port that spread to a warehouse where Ammonium Nitrate was being stored.

We wish to further state that ammonium nitrate in Ghana is used both as a fertilizer for farming and as an industrial chemical, especially in mining operations. The compound itself typically doesn’t detonate on its own and requires another ignition source. We therefore direct that Ammonium Nitrate must be kept away from fuels and sources of heat.

The Agency directs all concerned in the storage, handling and use of ammonium nitrate, to ensure that all safety requirements and protocols are strictly adhered to and the general public is advised to keep away from such storage areas.

The Agency wishes to assure the general public that it has taken immediate steps to ensure that all known designated storage areas of Ammonium Nitrate in Ghana are audited to ensure that safety and stringent storage practices are enhanced.

For any further information or clarification please contact the Agency through the following:

Telephone: 0302664697/8

Email: info@epa.gov.gh
Facebook: @EnvironmentalProtectionAgencyGhana

Twitter: @EPA_Ghana