Country-specific legal regulations apply to the storage of fertilisers containing ammonium nitrate. In addition, manufacturers and industry associations issue guidelines and best practice recommendations for safe storage. Adhering to these requirements ensures product quality and to mitigate potential risks to human health and safety, as well as to the environment. This includes preventing adverse impacts such as contamination of groundwater and surface water. 

Fertilisers are categorised into distinct groups based on the proportion of ammonium nitrate (AN) and the composition of other constituents. These classifications determine their regulatory status, including their designation under transport regulations (ADR), as well as applicable requirements for storage, handling, and personal protective measures. Details can be found in the safety data sheets and on www.lat-nitrogen.com. The compound fertilisers supplied by LAT Nitrogen are, in general, classified as not capable of self-sustaining thermal decomposition.

Avoid heat sources, storage temperatures above 32 °C and, where possible, temperature fluctuations. Use a ventilation system and maintain sufficient distance between the fertiliser and the roof.

Work according to the “First In – First Out” (FIFO) principle and keep up‑to‑date stock records.

When storing in bulk, keep AN‑based fertilisers (e.g. CAN, NPK, etc.) separate from Urea.

Fertilisers should always be stored in a clean, dry environment. Where flooring is not adequately protected against moisture ingress, LAT Nitrogen recommends the use of zeolite-based moisture absorbers (e.g. Terraperl or Lithosoil 300) as a bedding layer. An application rate of approximately 1–2 kg per m² is recommended.

Prevent water ingress caused by leaking roofs, open doors or permeable floors. Where necessary, store fertiliser bags on pallets to reduce contact with moisture.

Fertilisers should preferably be stored in fully enclosed buildings. If this is not possible, a canopy roof should be used, and the goods must be protected from direct and indirect sunlight, including sunlight entering through windows.

When fertilisers are stored outdoors, bags must never be exposed to direct sunlight. Select a well-ventilated, shaded area for storage. If shading is not available, cover the bags with a light-coloured sheet, ensuring it does not rest directly on the bags. Placing a layer of pallets between the bags and the covering sheet helps maintain adequate ventilation and protection.

Plexiglass and similar materials do not provide adequate protection against direct sunlight.

Smoking, eating and drinking are prohibited in fertiliser storage areas.

Fertilisers must be strictly stored separately from:

• Petrol and other flammable liquids, Organic or combustible materials such as oils, fats, sawdust, grain, seeds, grass, straw, and hay 

• Metal salts, including chromates and compounds of zinc, copper, nickel, and cobalt 

• Compressed gases and plant protection products 

• Strongly alkaline substances, such as quicklime, cement, or metal slag powder 

• Chemicals such as hydrochloric acid, sulphuric acid, potassium chloride, ammonium sulphate, and sodium chloride 

• Hot objects, surfaces, and sources of heat, such as ovens, welding or grinding equipment, lighting fixtures, electrical switches and cables, and machinery parts that get hot during operation.

Vehicles may enter the storage area only for loading and unloading purpose All vehicles must be in proper working condition and free from oil or fuel leaks.

To avoid damaging lifting loops, use only forklift tines with rounded edges (minimum radius: 5 mm).

Place Big Bags on level surfaces and secure the load during transport.

Take care when filling the fertiliser spreader and open the bags / Big Bags gently.

Keep people away from lifting operations and transport vehicles.

Avoid damaging the product. Ensure Big Bags stand securely and cannot topple over.

Wear a high‑visibility vest in the storage area.

Cut Big Bags diagonally at the bottom using a lance and never stand beneath them. Using a discharge slider is the safest method of emptying.

Empty fertilizer big bags are not reusable. The recycling symbols demonstrate LAT Nitrogen’s commitment to environmental protection and recycling

Exposure to heat can trigger chemical reactions that release toxic gases, such as nitrogen oxides or ammonia.

When stored correctly, AN‑containing fertilisers are safe. However, a combination of external factors can create a risk of detonation, especially for products with high nitrogen content (>28% N from AN):

• Extreme heat that can cause melting and decomposition 
• Pressure buildup from gas emissions without adequate ventilation (especially in closed containers) 
• Contamination with fuels, oil, organic matter, metal salts (e.g., copper sulfate), or pesticides 
• Situations that could trigger explosions (gas cylinders, explosives) 

For detailed safety information, see the safety data sheets at www.lat-nitrogen.com

Avoid dust formation and thereby avoid skin, eye and clothing contact

Clean and regularly inspect your personal protective equipment (PPE).

Ensure that the current storage and emergency plan is known to all employees and easily accessible.

In case of fire or smoke:

1. Notify the fire brigade (UK: 999 or 112 – European emergency number) and state the location and type of fertiliser involved.

2. Do not inhale smoke.

3. Evacuate the area.

4. Evacuate others only if it does not endanger your own safety.

5. Secure machinery and electrical equipment (e.g. unplug electrical devices).

Extinguish only with plenty of water. Do not use chemical extinguishers, foam, or sand on AN-based fertilizers, as this can promote decomposition. Ensure that extinguishing water does not enter surface or groundwater.