There are two basic groups of corrosives: acids and alkalies. These chemicals require precautions for safe handling. These precautions will be discussed in this chapter.

EO 1.1STATE the hazards associated with the use of corrosives.

EO 1.2STATE the general safety precautions necessary for the handling, storage, and disposal of corrosives.

Acids

Acids are compounds of hydrogen and one or more other elements (with the exception of carbon) that dissociate or break down to produce hydrogen ions (H+) when dissolved in water or certain other solvents.

Acids are corrosive in any form, and in high concentrations destroy body tissue and cause severe burns on contact with the skin. The eyes are very susceptible, and permanent damage or loss of sight may result from contact with acids. The inhalation of excessive concentrations of vapor or mist is extremely irritating to the respiratory system and to mucous membranes in particular. Accidental swallowing of concentrated acids may result in severe irritation of, and damage to, the throat and stomach which, in some cases, may prove fatal. Some of these materials are specifically poisonous as well as irritating. In lower concentrations, repeated skin contact may result in inflammation.

Concentrated aqueous solutions of acids are not in themselves flammable. The potential hazard is the danger of their mixture with other chemicals or combustible materials which may result in fire or explosion. Acids also react with many metals resulting in the liberation of hydrogen, a highly flammable gas, which upon ignition in air may cause an explosion. Some of the acids are strong oxidizing agents and can react destructively and violently when in contact with organic or other oxidizable materials.

Personnel exposure requiring immediate action usually involves direct contact of the acid with the body or eyes of the individual, inhalation of acid vapors or decomposition products, and ingestion of acid. The initial treatment in all cases of local contact is immediate removal of the acid with a large amount of water. This treatment must be prolonged until all traces of acid have been removed, usually a minimum washing time of 15 minutes.