What is the primary hazard associated with Ammonia exposure?

Ammonia is a highly irritating and toxic chemical that primarily poses a risk to the respiratory system when exposure occurs. When inhaled, ammonia can cause irritation of the throat and lungs, leading to significant respiratory distress. In high concentrations, it can result in more severe consequences, such as pulmonary edema, which is a life-threatening condition that involves fluid accumulation in the lungs.

While ammonia exposure can also lead to skin burns and may present fire risks under certain conditions (like when ammonia is mixed with certain other chemicals), the most immediate and life-threatening hazard in most situations is its effect on respiratory health. This is particularly critical in industrial settings where ammonia is frequently used, as proper ventilation and personal protective equipment are essential to mitigate the risk of respiratory damage.