Acids, alkalis, and acid-containing substances pose a health and life-threatening hazard. Concentrated acid can cause a chemical burn when it comes into contact with unprotected skin.
In industry and laboratory research, acids are often used, which, as a result of the release of toxic fumes, can cause poisoning in addition to burns, and also damage the tissues of the organs of vision and the respiratory tract.
Safety precautions
When working with acid, it's essential to follow established safety precautions. This will help maintain your health and avoid fatalities:
When working with acid, personal protective equipment (PPE) must be used: special clothing, glasses, masks, acid-alkali-resistant (AAR) gloves.
The transfer of acids and acid-containing substances is carried out under a fume hood – toxic fumes must be quickly and effectively removed from the room.
Containers containing hazardous substances must be labeled with the name of the substance and its concentration. When pouring the substance, the label must always be on top. This will prevent damage to the label.
If acid is spilled, mop it up with quartz sand. Sprinkle a neutralizing agent on the spilled area and discard. After cleaning, thoroughly rinse the spilled area with a soda solution and clean water.
Before disposal, spent reagents are quenched with alkali.
First aid
If a caustic reagent comes into contact with unprotected skin:
The burn site is thoroughly washed with running water for 15 minutes.
After washing, a gauze bandage (cotton swab) soaked in a 2% soda solution is applied to the burn.
After 10 minutes, the gauze bandage is removed and the affected skin is wiped dry with a soft cloth.
If acid or alkali gets into the eyes, rinse them with running water and then with a 2% soda solution. The victim must be taken to a medical facility for examination by a doctor.
Following simple safety precautions when handling acids, alkalis, and acid-containing substances will reduce the risk of exposure to hazardous toxic substances and their vapors.
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