Highlighting a Powerful Training Opportunity: Ammonia Awareness Through PSM Academy | Blog No. 101
- Payton Lemons
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
At Macha PSM, we believe that strong safety programs begin with strong training. One of the most valuable educational opportunities available through our PSM Academy platform is the Ammonia Awareness Training | Course AA101—a course specifically built for individuals who work in, around, or in support of ammonia refrigeration systems. While this training has been part of our curriculum, many facility teams may not realize just how impactful it can be for strengthening safety culture and meeting regulatory expectations. This blog serves to highlight that opportunity and encourage facilities to take full advantage of it.
PSM Academy, operated by Macha PSM, is a premier training institution dedicated to equipping industrial refrigeration personnel with the essential knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to excel in their roles. Our programs emphasize OSHA and EPA Process Safety Management (PSM) standards, hazard identification, risk management, and emergency response. These pillars form the foundation of safe ammonia operations—and Ammonia Awareness Training is one of the best starting points for any employee entering this environment.
The Ammonia Awareness Training (AA101) course offers participants a comprehensive introduction to ammonia, industrial refrigeration principles, and the critical safety practices required in ammonia-based facilities. Topics include what ammonia is, how anhydrous ammonia is used, sources and common applications, system basics, NFPA 704 ratings, regulatory standards, emergency response procedures, and the hazards associated with NH₃. By presenting this information clearly and effectively, the course ensures that employees develop the awareness and understanding needed to perform their jobs more safely.
This training opportunity is particularly important because OSHA’s 29 CFR §1910.119 and EPA’s 40 CFR Part 68 require ammonia awareness education for any employee who works with or near ammonia systems. That includes operators, maintenance personnel, supervisors, program managers, safety staff, and other facility personnel. Course AA101 helps facilities stay compliant while empowering employees with the practical knowledge required to respond confidently to abnormal conditions, recognize warning signs, and support safe day-to-day operations.
Beyond compliance, Ammonia Awareness Training contributes directly to improved workplace culture. Employees gain a deeper understanding of how ammonia systems work and the risks they can pose if not managed correctly. This not only builds confidence but also encourages proactive decision-making and safer behaviors in the field. Teams that understand the “why” behind safety protocols are more likely to follow them, creating a stronger, more unified safety mindset throughout the facility.
Priced at $249, AA101 is an accessible and cost-effective option for individuals and teams alike. Facilities with larger groups can also reach out to Micah Hicks (micah@machapsm.com) for enrollment assistance for over 20 participants. The course is designed to be straightforward and engaging—delivering impactful learning without disrupting daily operations.
At Macha PSM, we are proud to offer this training through PSM Academy and encourage all facilities using ammonia refrigeration to take advantage of this valuable resource. Ammonia Awareness is more than a course—it’s a foundational investment in safety, readiness, and operational excellence. We invite you to explore the Training section of our website, learn more about Course AA101, and consider enrolling your team to strengthen your safety culture from the ground up.
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Previous Blog: What the EPA Actually Expects of the General Duty Clause Ammonia Refrigeration Facility | Blog No.100
For a comprehensive training on Anhydrous Ammonia, click here for our PSM Academy Ammonia Awareness training, to learn and earn a certificate of completion. Training is in English and Spanish. Use code SDS20 for a 20% discount on the entire purchase. For more information, email us at academy@machapsm.com.