Applying PSM to Ammonia Refrigeration Systems – A Practical Approach

Ammonia refrigeration systems have been in operation for a century. The PSM regulation in 1992 covered any system with >10,00 of ammonia. Despite guidance from the Center for Chemical Process Safety (CCPS and the International Institute of Ammonia refrigeration (IIAR) ammonia refrigeration releases are a significant portion of the reported events. In addition, OSHA has included Ammonia refrigeration in it's PSM Chemical Facilities National Emphasis Program (Chemical Plant NEP).

The purpose of this paper is to use the industry guidance and common practices to outline simplified, but effective ways to implement PSM for ammonia refrigeration systems.