What is a security sensitive ammonium nitrate?

Last updated: 04 March 2025

A security sensitive ammonium nitrate (SSAN) [previously known as security risk substances] is defined as a substance that contains more than 45 per cent ammonium nitrate, unless:

  • it is an explosive, or
  • it is an aqueous solution, being a homogenous mixture of two or more components in a single phase.

Some calcium ammonium nitrate products qualify as a security sensitive ammonium nitrate.

Due to their nature, there are more stringent security requirements for the licensing, storage and handling and transport of SSAN than for standard dangerous goods. SSAN licences are required for the following activities:

  • import or export
  • manufacture
  • supply
  • transport
  • storage.

Learn more about chemicals of security concern.

Why are some dangerous goods considered to be a security risk?

The basis for regulations relating to SSAN is the Council of Australian Governments (COAG) agreement of 25 June 2004 related to counter-terrorism measures. The following National guidance notes support the COAG agreement of 25 June 2004 against inappropriate use of ammonium nitrate.

Security clearance

SSAN licences are only issued to applicants in possession of a valid security clearance, which is a pre-condition of the licensing process. A licence held by an individual only remains valid while the security clearance of the individual is current.

Learn more about security clearance and dangerous goods security card

Accessing SSAN

People with unsupervised access to security sensitive ammonium nitrate require a security clearance (typically a dangerous goods security card). Additionally, the card holder also requires authorisation from the SSAN licence holder to have unsupervised access to the SSAN.

This establishes that the employee has an operational need and the competence to have unsupervised access to security sensitive ammonium nitrate, and gives the person the legal status of a secure nominee.

The Meaning of ‘controlled by the other person’ for security purposes: Information sheet covers many of the licences with activities involving explosives and SSAN that require the possession of a valid dangerous goods security card.

Resources and guidance

The security requirements of the Dangerous Goods Safety (Security Sensitive Ammonium Nitrate) Regulations 2007 are in addition to the requirements of the other dangerous goods safety regulations. 

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