This publication serves the interest of all who could, in any way, be associated or concerned with nitrous oxide manufacturing from the thermal decomposition of ammonium nitrate. It also serves to acquaint persons not versed in ammonium nitrate and nitrous oxide technology with those factors considered important to health and safety.

This publication applies to safety in the design, construction, installation, operation, and maintenance of nitrous oxide plants using ammonium nitrate technology. Emphasis is placed on equipment, operational, and maintenance features that are particular to nitrous oxide plants.

This publication is not applicable to the process of production of nitrous oxide from other raw materials, but may be used as a guideline for the purification, drying, compression, liquefaction, and storage as applicable.

Nitrous oxide emissions during production are not covered by the scope of this publication.