India amends storage and handling rules for two hazardous substances

The Indian Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) amendment of the storage, handling, and packaging rules and stock reporting system for ammonium nitrate and calcium carbide came into effect on the 2nd of September, 2021.

Ammonium nitrate is a substance widely used as a fertiliser, however, it is also a major component for explosives and nitrous oxide, popularly known as laughing gas. Calcium carbide is used in manufacturing acetylene gas and generating acetylene in carbide lamps. It is also used for manufacturing chemicals used in steelmaking and as fertlisers.

The ministry sets a new safety framework to ensure that these substances are well reviewed when handling, storing, or reporting them. Considering the huge importation of ammonium nitrate in India, the new rule covers all possible risks from the point where the substance lands to its last consumption point. The new ammonium nitrate rules stipulate that:

• A single package’s weight limit is 500 tonnes and packages must be stored two metres apart at the very least.
• Only captive consumption are permitted for importation and storage is at least 500 metres from the port’s vicinity.
• Importers must be licensed by the relevant authorities. Compusorily, they must file returns on consumption, stocks, identification of consignments and traceability at every point of transportation.
• A verification of transporters and handlers must be done by the police. Each substance consignment must have at least one security guard go with it.
• A licence issued by the Directorate General of Mines Safety must be provided for transporting ammonium nitrate from one premises to another.
• An on-site fire fighting personnel and equipment must be available.

So also, the new calcium carbide rules require importers to:

• Provide location-based data where the calcium carbide is stored and used;
• Daily file accounts of receipt and sale of the substance with the relevant district authorities and the Directorate General of Mines Safety.
• Provide the coordinates of the premises to facilitate geo-mapping.

Last Update: 2021-11-30