A corrosive substance is one that will destroy and damage other substances with which it comes into

contact. It may attack a great variety of materials, including metals and various organic compounds, but
people are mostly concerned with its effects on living tissue: it causes chemical burns on contact.

The word 'corrosive' is derived from the Latin verb corrodere, which means 'to gnaw', indicating
how these substances seem to 'gnaw' their way through flesh or other material. Sometimes the
word 'caustic' is used as a synonym but, by convention,[citation needed] 'caustic' generally refers only
to strong bases, particularly alkalis, and not to acids, oxidizers, or other non-alkaline corrosives.
The term 'acid' is often used, inaccurately, for all corrosives.
A low concentration of a corrosive substance is usually an irritant. Corrosion of non-living
surfaces such as metals is a distinct process. For example, a water/air electrochemical cell
corrodes iron to rust. In the Globally Harmonized System, both rapid corrosion of metals and
chemical corrosion of skin qualify for the "corrosive" symbol.
Corrosives are different from poisons in that corrosives are immediately dangerous to the tissues
they contact, whereas poisons may have systemic toxic effects that require time to become
evident. Colloquially, corrosives may be called "poisons" but the concepts are technically
distinct. However there is nothing which precludes a corrosive from being a poison; there are
substances that are both corrosives and poisons.
Common corrosives are either strong acids, strong bases, or concentrated solutions of certain
weak acids or weak bases. They can exist as any state of matter, including liquids, solids, gases,
mists or vapors.
Their action on living tissue (e.g. skin, flesh and cornea) is mainly based on acid-base reactions
of amide hydrolysis and ester hydrolysis. Proteins (chemically composed of amide bonds) are
destroyed via amide hydrolysis while lipids (many of which have ester bonds) are decomposed
by ester hydrolysis. These reactions lead to chemical burns and are the mechanism of the
destruction posed by corrosives.
Some corrosives possess other chemical properties which may extend their corrosive effects on
living tissue. For example, sulfuric acid (Sulphuric acid) at a high concentration is also a strong
dehydrating agent,[1] capable of dehydrating carbohydrates and liberating extra heat. This results
in secondary thermal burns in addition to the chemical burns and may speed up its decomposing
reactions on the contact surface. Some corrosives, such as nitric acid and concentrated sulfuric
acid, are strong oxidizing agents as well, which significantly contributes to the extra damage
caused. Hydrofluoric acid does not necessarily cause noticeable damage upon contact, but
produces tissue damage and toxicity after being painlessly absorbed. Zinc chloride solutions are
capable of destroying cellulose and corroding through paper and silk since the zinc cations in the
solutions specifically attack hydroxyl groups, acting as a Lewis acid.
In addition, some corrosive chemicals, mostly acids such as hydrochloric acid and nitric acid, are
volatile and can emit corrosive mists upon contact with air. Inhalation can damage the
respiratory tract.

Corrosive substances are most hazardous to eyesight. A drop of a corrosive may cause blindness
within 210 seconds through destruction of the cornea.
Ingestion of corrosives can induce severe consequences, including serious damage of the
gastrointestinal tract, which can lead to vomiting, severe stomach aches, and death.
Common corrosive chemicals are classified into:

Acids
o
o
o
o
o

Strong acids the most common are sulfuric acid, nitric acid and hydrochloric
acid (H2SO4, HNO3 and HCl, respectively).
Some concentrated weak acids, for example formic acid and acetic acid
Strong Lewis acids such as anhydrous aluminum chloride and boron trifluoride
Lewis acids with specific reactivity, e.g. solutions of zinc chloride
Extremely strong acids (superacids)

Bases
o

Caustics or alkalis, such as sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and potassium hydroxide

(KOH)
o Alkali metals in the metallic form (e.g. elemental sodium), and hydrides of alkali
and alkaline earth metals, such as sodium hydride, function as strong bases and
hydrate to give caustics
o Extremely strong bases (superbases) such as alkoxides, metal amides (e.g. sodium
amide) and organometallic bases such as butyllithium
o Some concentrated weak bases, such as ammonia when anhydrous or in a
concentrated solution
Dehydrating agents such as concentrated sulfuric acid, phosphorus pentoxide, calcium
oxide, anhydrous zinc chloride, also elemental alkali metals
Strong oxidizers such as concentrated hydrogen peroxide
Electrophilic halogens: elemental fluorine, chlorine, bromine and iodine, and
electrophilic salts such as sodium hypochlorite or N-chloro compounds such as
chloramine-T halide ions are not corrosive, except for fluoride
Organic halides and organic acid halides such as acetyl chloride and benzyl
chloroformate
Acid anhydrides
Alkylating agents such as dimethyl sulfate
Some organic materials such as phenol ("carbolic acid")

This guideline identifies general safety precautions that should be reviewed and followed when
dealing with corrosive chemicals at Brandeis. They represent a significant hazard because skin or
eye contact can readily occur from splashes, and their effect on human tissue generally takes
place very rapidly.

Examples of corrosives:

Glycolic acid
Imidazole
4-Methoxybenzylamine
Sodium hydroxide
Amines
Sulfuric acid
Bromine
Hydrogen peroxide

Corrosive gases and vapors are also extremely hazardous. Examples which can cause severe
irritation and bodily injury include:

Ammonia
Hydrogen chloride
Nitrogen dioxide
Sulfur dioxide

How Do I Protect Myself?

Review the material safety data sheet (MSDS) prior to using this material.
Eye Protection
Safety glasses that meet the ANSI Z.87.1 1989 standard should be worn whenever handling
corrosive chemicals. Ordinary prescription glasses WILL NOT provide adequate protection
unless they also meet this standard. Safety glasses should also be equipped with side shields if
there is a possibility of flying particles (i.e., glass, plastics). When there is the potential for
significant splash hazards, additional eye/face protection should be worn in the form of
goggles or a face shield.
Skin Protection
Gloves should be worn when handling corrosive chemicals. Nitrile gloves should be adequate for
handling most of these in general laboratory settings. An MSDS should be reviewed if handling
may involve extended or high exposure to lab personnel to ensure adequate skin protection is
provided.
In addition, a lab coat or apron is advised if exposure could involve more than normal handling
operations would be expected. No open-toe shoes are allowed.
Special Handling

Never store corrosive liquids above eye level.

Always add acids or bases to water (and not the reverse).
Segregate acids and bases in storage.

When mixing corrosive solids with water, always slowly add the corrosive solid to the
water, stirring continuously. Cooling may also be necessary.
If there is a possibility that you may generate a significant amount of dust, conduct work
in a fume hood.
If the potential exists for explosion or a high thermal reaction, additional shielding should
be utilized. This may involve the use of shielding in a glove box or in the case of a fume
hood with the sash in the lowest possible position. Portable shields may also be used for
additional protection.
Store corrosives material away from heat/flames, oxidizers and water sources. Keep
containers closed and ensure that manufacturers labels and warnings remain intact.

Special Considerations for Corrosive Gases

For potentially corrosive gases, perform manipulations of materials that pose an

inhalation hazard in a chemical fume hood to control exposure or wear appropriate
respiratory protection.
Ensure that you protect all exposed skin surfaces from contact with corrosive or irritating
gases and vapors.
Ensure that regulators and valves of gases are closed when the cylinder(s) are not in use
and properly purged and cleaned with dry air or and inert gas such as nitrogen.
Ensure that when corrosive gases are to be discharged into a liquid, a trap, check valve or
vacuum break device is employed to prevent dangerous reverse flow.

Handling Emergencies Involving Corrosive Chemicals

Anticipate emergency situations, have proper handling equipment in the lab and readily available
for spills. Acid and base spill kits are available in the Main Hazardous Waste Accumulation area.
Contact the Department of Environmental Health and Safety at ext. 6-4262 or the Hazardous
Waste Hotline (Monday/Thursday) at ext. 62561 for access. It is also highly recommended that
spill control material/kits be maintained in the lab.
In the event of a spill or adverse reaction, notify lab personnel immediately that an incident has
occurred. Do not attempt to handle a large spill/reaction/fire, or one in which you are not trained
or equipped for.
Laboratory emergencies should be reported to public safety at ext. 6-3333. Public safety will also
contact the Department of Environmental Health and Safety at ext. 6-4262. Communicate the
following:

Location of spill/incident
Type of material involved and quantity
Injuries involved
Fire/explosion
Your location/contact information (or who to contact for further information)

Notify the principal investigator or designated safety officer as soon as possible.

Waste Disposal Requirements

Handling and disposal of corrosive chemicals should be done in accordance with lab protocol
established by the principal investigator.
Aqueous solutions between pH 6.0 to 10.0 may be disposed of down the sink. Contact the
Department of Environmental Health and Safety at ext. 6-4262 with any question concerning
sink disposal of material other than aqueous solutions described here. The university operates
under a discharge permit from the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority and has specific
discharge limits.
Disposal requests should be called into the Waste Hotline at ext. 6-2561.
Decontamination Procedures
Cleanup and decontamination may require the use of neutralizing agents. Review the MSDS for
additional guidance and personal protection.

Why should I substitute with a less hazardous material where possible?

Substitution can be the best way to avoid or reduce a hazard. Often though, it is not easy or even
possible to find a non-corrosive or less corrosive substitute to do the job effectively and safely.
Start by obtaining the MSDSs for all possible substitute materials. Find out about all of the
hazards (health, fire, chemical reactivity) of these materials before making any changes.
Choose the least hazardous materials that can do the job effectively and safely. Learn how to
work safely with them, too.
Please see the OSH Answers Substitution of Chemicals: Considerations for Selection for more
information. Also see Corrosive Materials and their Hazards for more information on corrosives.

Why should I use good ventilation wherever corrosives are present?

Well-designed and well-maintained ventilation systems remove corrosive vapours, fumes, mists
or airborne dusts from the workplace and reduce their hazards.
The amount and type of ventilation needed to minimize the hazards of airborne corrosives
depends on such things as the kind of job, the kind and amount of materials used, and the size
and layout of the work area. An assessment of the specific ways corrosives are stored, handled,
used, and disposed of is the best way to find out if existing ventilation controls (and other hazard
control methods) are adequate.

Some workplaces may need a complete system of hoods and ducts to provide acceptable
ventilation. Others may require a single, well-placed exhaust fan. Use corrosion-resistant
construction in ventilation systems for corrosive materials. No special ventilation system may be
needed when working with small amounts of corrosives which do not give off airborne
contaminants.

How should I store containers of corrosives?

Before storing corrosives, inspect all incoming containers of corrosives to ensure that they are
undamaged and properly labelled. Do not accept delivery of defective containers.
Corrosives can destroy containers made of improper materials. Be sure to store corrosive
materials in the type of containers recommended by the manufacturer or supplier. Protect
containers against banging or other physical damage when storing, transferring, or using them.
Keep them tightly closed when not in use.

Where should corrosives be stored?

In general, store corrosives separately, away from processing and handling areas, and from other
materials. Separate storage can reduce the amount of damage caused in case of fires, spills or
leaks. If totally separate storage is not possible, store corrosives away from incompatible
materials.
Some corrosives are incompatible with each other. For example, acids and bases react together,
sometimes violently. Do not store them beside each other.
Walls, floors and shelving in corrosive storage areas should be made from materials that resist
attack by corrosives. Floors in areas where liquid corrosives are stored should not allow liquids
to penetrate. Since many corrosive liquids flow easily, store them in corrosion-resistant trays to
contain spills or leaks. For large containers, such as 250-litre (55-gallon) drums, provide dikes
around liquid storage areas and sills or ramps at door openings.
Store containers at a convenient height for handling, below eye level if possible. High shelving
increases the risk of dropping containers and the severity of damage if a fall occurs.
Store corrosives in areas which are:

Well ventilated.
Supplied with adequate firefighting equipment.
Supplied with suitable spill clean-up equipment and materials.
Labelled with proper warning signs.

At all times:

Allow only trained, authorized people into storage areas.

Keep the amount of corrosive material in storage as small as possible.
Inspect storage areas regularly for any deficiencies, including corrosion damage, leaking
containers, or poor housekeeping. Correct all deficiencies as soon as possible.

Is the storage temperature important?

Store corrosives in dry, cool areas, out of direct sunlight and away from steam pipes, boilers or
other sources of heat. If a sealed full drum or carboy of a corrosive liquid is stored in direct
sunlight or near other heat sources, vapour levels in the container can build up. This leads to an
increase in pressure in the container. In severe cases, this could cause the container to rupture. A
buildup of pressure might also result in the material shooting out into the face of the person
opening the container.
Follow the chemical manufacturer's or supplier's recommendations for storage temperature.
Where appropriate, store corrosive liquids at temperatures above their freezing (melting) points.
Acetic acid, for example, has a freezing point of approximately 17C (63F) and can freeze in an
unheated room. As it freezes, it expands and can crack a glass container.
Avoid rapid temperature changes in corrosive liquid storage areas. If a tightly-sealed corrosive
liquid container is cooled suddenly, a partial vacuum could form inside it. In extreme cases, the
container might collapse and leak.

How do I handle corrosive containers safely?

Always handle containers of corrosives carefully. Damaged containers may leak.
Many workplaces receive corrosive liquids in large metal drums or barrels and fill smaller
containers from them. Moving full drums weighing hundreds of pounds by hand can be difficult
and hazardous. Drums can be moved in specially designed drum cradles which can also be used
as individual drum storage racks. You can also purchase special carboy caddies for bulky bottles
of corrosives and safety bottle carriers for smaller-sized bottles of corrosives. Safety equipment
and laboratory supply retailers sell this equipment.
Self-closing, portable containers for carrying, storing, and dispensing small amounts of corrosive
liquids are also available. They are made from high density polyethylene and come in different
shapes with capacities up to 19 litres. These containers have spring-mounted spout caps that
close automatically when you finish filling or pouring from the container, or if they are dropped.
They also automatically open when the vapour pressure builds up inside, to allow vapours to
escape and prevent rupture.

Why might the container rupture?

Acid containers, such as drums and carboys, can cause particular problems if they are not
handled and stored safely. Injuries have resulted from sealed acid drums and carboys that
ruptured or burst.
There are many reasons why these containers rupture:

Heat can cause vapour levels inside a sealed container to build up to the point where the
container bursts. This is more likely to happen if the drum is overfilled to begin with.
Chemicals stored in a metal drum might react with the metal and form hydrogen gas which
could ignite when the drum is opened.
The drum may not have been cleaned thoroughly before it was filled. If the previously-stored
chemical is incompatible with the corrosive, chemical reactions could cause the drum to
explode.
Air or inert gas pressure used to empty the drum may cause weakened or damaged drums to
burst.

To avoid bursting or rupturing, acid drums may need to be vented periodically. This is done by
carefully loosening a closure plug to relieve any buildup in pressure. The MSDS may say
whether drums of a particular liquid need to be vented and, if so, how often. To be sure whether
drums of acids must be vented and for specific directions about how to vent, contact the
chemical manufacturer or supplier.
Venting should only be done by trained people, using the right tools and wearing the proper
personal protective equipment. If any swollen drums of chemicals are seen, contact the chemical
manufacturer or supplier immediately for assistance. Handling swollen chemical drums is a very
hazardous job that often requires special procedures and equipment to be done safely.
Always:

Make sure that containers of corrosives are kept tightly closed except when the materials are
actually being used.
Keep only the smallest amounts possible of corrosives in work areas.
Check that all corrosive containers are properly labelled.
Handle containers so that the label remains undamaged and easy to read.

How do I handle corrosive materials carefully?

Take care when dispensing or transferring corrosives from one container to another. Dispense
from only one container at a time. Finish all the dispensing of one material before starting to
dispense another. Be sure containers are closed after dispensing.

Handle corrosives so that dusts, mists, vapours, or fumes do not get into the air. Be very careful
when transferring from larger containers into smaller ones. Many injuries have been caused by
spillage from open, unstable, or breakable containers during material transfer.
If liquid corrosives are stored in drums, use a corrosion-resistant drum pump for transferring
liquids into other containers. Pumps are also available for dispensing corrosive liquids from most
sizes and types of the supplied containers. Do not transfer liquids by pressurizing their usual
shipping containers with air or inert gas. Ordinary drums and barrels may be damaged by the
pressure. Never pipette corrosive liquids by mouth. Use a pipette bulb or aspirator instead.
Transfer corrosive solids using tools like scoops or shovels that are corrosion resistant.

Can I add corrosives to water?

Sometimes, a job requires mixing corrosives with water. Many corrosive materials, both liquid
and solid, generate large amounts of heat when they are mixed with water. This can cause the
solution to froth and boil or even to erupt violently from the container. For example, a glass of
water thrown into a bucket of concentrated sulfuric acid is converted instantly to steam which
will eject the entire contents of the bucket into the air. For this reason, always add corrosives to
water, slowly, in small amounts, with frequent stirring. Always use cold water.

How do I dispose of waste material safely?

Corrosive wastes are hazardous and must always be handled safely.
All containers for corrosive wastes must be made from corrosion-resistant materials. Identify the
contents of these containers with suitable labels.
"Empty" drums, bottles and other containers often have hazardous corrosive residues inside
them. Never use these "empty" containers for anything else, no matter how clean they seem to
be. Treat them as corrosive wastes. It may be possible to safely decontaminate "empty"
containers. The chemical manufacturer or supplier can give advice about this.
Never dispose of corrosives down sinks or drains that connect to sanitary or storm sewers.
Dispose of them according to the manufacturer's or supplier's directions, or through hazardous
waste collection and disposal companies. In all cases, dispose of corrosive wastes according to
the environmental laws that apply to your jurisdiction. Contact the appropriate environmental
officials for details about the disposal laws that apply for specific corrosives.

Why should I practice good housekeeping, personal cleanliness and maintain

equipment?
Good housekeeping, personal cleanliness and equipment maintenance are important wherever
any chemicals, including corrosives, are used.
Maintain cleanliness and order at all times in the workplace:

Clean up any spills and buildups of corrosives promptly and safely.

Properly dispose of unlabelled or contaminated chemicals.
Remove empty containers at once from work areas.
Ensure that all containers for waste are properly marked and easily located.

Personal cleanliness is a very important way of protecting personnel working with hazardous
chemicals.

Wash hands before eating, drinking, smoking or going to the toilet.

Remove and clean contaminated clothing before wearing it again, or discard it.
Do not smoke, drink, chew gum or eat in any areas where hazardous chemicals are present.
Store food and tobacco products in uncontaminated areas.
Avoid touching yourself with contaminated hands.
Clean yourself thoroughly at the end of the workday.

Regular maintenance of equipment is important in preventing leaks or emissions of corrosives

into the workplace.

Ensure maintenance personnel know the possible hazards of the materials they might be
exposed to.
Be sure they know any special procedures and precautions that might be needed before they
begin to work on equipment.

Regular workplace inspections can help in spotting areas where health and safety problems may
be developing.

When should I wear proper personal protective equipment?

If other methods, such as engineering controls, are not available or effective enough to control
exposure to corrosives, wear suitable personal protective equipment (PPE). Choosing the right
PPE to wear when doing a particular job is essential. MSDSs should provide general guidance.
Selecting PPE for a specific job is best done with the help of someone who knows how to
evaluate the hazards of the job and how to select the proper PPE.

Avoid Skin Contact

Wear protective gloves, aprons, boots, hoods, or other clothing depending on how much chance
there is of skin contact. This clothing must be made of materials that resist penetration or damage
by the chemical. The MSDS should recommend appropriate materials. If it does not, contact the
chemical's manufacturer or supplier for specific information.
Protect Your Eyes and Face

Always wear eye protection when working with corrosives. Although ordinary safety glasses
provide some protection, chemical safety goggles are best. In some cases, you should also wear a
face shield (with safety glasses or goggles) to protect your face from splashes. The current CSA
Standard Z94.3, "Eye and Face Protectors," provides advice on selection and use of eye and face
protectors.
Avoid Breathing Corrosive Vapours, Fumes, Dusts or Mists

If respirators must be used for breathing protection, there should be a written respiratory
protection program to follow. Guidance for developing a program can be found in the current
CSA Standard Z94.4, "Selection, Care, and Use of Respirators." Follow all legal requirements
for respirator use and approvals. These may vary between jurisdictions in Canada.
Know and be familiar with the right PPE for emergencies, as well as normal operations.
You must wear the PPE needed for doing a particular job. PPE cannot protect you if it is not
worn.

What should I do in an emergency?

Be ready to handle emergencies safely. In emergencies like chemical fires, leaks and spills, act
fast.

Evacuate the area at once if you are not trained to handle the problem or if it is clearly beyond
your control.
Alert other people in the area to the emergency.
Call the fire department immediately.
Report the problem to the people responsible for handling emergencies where you work.
Obtain first aid if you have been exposed to harmful chemicals.

The MSDS and container label for a particular corrosive should give specific first aid
instructions in case of exposure by skin or eye contact, inhalation, or swallowing.
Most workplace injuries caused by common corrosives, such as acids and bases, result from
accidental skin or eye contact. The first aid for these injuries usually involves flooding the
contaminated area with large amounts of water. However, the specific first aid recommendations

can vary from one corrosive material to another, depending on the nature (properties and
hazards) of the material.
Emergency eyewash stations and safety showers should be present wherever accidental exposure
to corrosives might occur. These are available from safety equipment retailers.
Only specially trained people, equipped with the proper tools and protective equipment, should
handle the emergency. Nobody else should go near the area until it is declared safe.
Planning, training and practicing for emergencies are important so that everyone knows what
they must do.
The MSDSs for the materials you are using on each job are a good starting point for drawing up
an emergency plan. MSDSs have specific sections on fire and explosion hazards, including
suitable fire extinguishing equipment and methods, spill clean-up procedures and first aid
instructions. If the directions in each MSDS section are not clear or seem incomplete, contact the
material's manufacturer or supplier for help. You can obtain help in developing emergency plans
from many other sources too. Local fire departments can assist with fire emergency plans and
training. Occupational health and safety and environmental enforcement agencies, provincial
safety associations, St. John Ambulance, insurance carriers, professional societies in
occupational health and safety, labour unions, trade associations, some local colleges and
universities, and CCOHS can supply useful information at little or no cost. Specialized private
consultants are also available.

What are the basic safety procedures concerning corrosives?

Following these basic safe practices will help protect you from the hazards of corrosive
materials:

Obtain and read the Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDSs) for all of the materials you work with.
Be aware of all of the hazards (fire/explosion, health, chemical reactivity) of the materials you
work with.
Know which of the materials you work with are corrosives.
Store corrosives in suitable labelled containers away from incompatible materials, in a cool, dry
area.
Store, handle, and use corrosives in well-ventilated areas.
Inspect containers for damage or leaks before handling. Never use containers that appear to be
swollen.
Handle containers safely to avoid damaging them.
Dispense corrosives carefully and keep containers closed when not in use.
Stir corrosives slowly and carefully into cold water when the job requires mixing corrosives and
water.
Handle and dispose of corrosive wastes safely.
Practice good housekeeping, personal cleanliness and equipment maintenance.
Wear the proper personal protective equipment for each of the jobs you do.

Know how to handle emergencies (fires, spills, personal injury) involving the corrosive materials
you work with.
Follow the health and safety rules that apply to your job.
Flush contaminated eyes or skin with water for at least 20-30 minutes, sometimes longer, in
case of accidental contact. Call immediately for medical assistance.
Know where to closest eyewash station and safety showers are located, and how to use them.
Never return unused material to the original container. It may contain traces of contamination
which may cause a chemical reaction.
Do not reuse empty containers -- the residue may be hazardous.

How long should the skin or eyes be flushed with water in the event of a
chemical exposure?
Most standard sources recommend that water rinsing/flushing following skin or eye contact with
a chemical should continue for 15 or 20 minutes. However, all chemicals do not cause the same
degree of effects (some are non-irritants while others can cause severe corrosive injury). At the
present time, there is insufficient scientific evidence available to properly address the question of
how long flushing should continue. However, it makes sense to tailor the duration of flushing to
the known effects of the chemical or product, as follows:

5-minutes for non-irritants or mild irritants,

15-20 minutes for moderate to severe irritants and chemicals that cause acute toxicity if
absorbed through the skin,
30 minutes for most corrosives, and
60 minutes for strong alkalis (e.g. sodium, potassium or calcium hydroxide).

It is very important that water flushing start immediately following skin or eye contact with a
chemical. It is better if complete water flushing occurs on-site. However, moving the victim to an
emergency care facility earlier may be necessary depending on the victim's condition (e.g.
compromised airways, breathing or circulation) and/or the availability of a suitable water supply.
If it is necessary to transport the victim before completing flushing on-site, flushing should
continue during emergency transport, taking proper precautions to protect emergency services
personnel.
Note that the manufacturer/supplier may also specify a cleansing agent (e.g. non-abrasive soap)
if appropriate, or may recommend an alternative agent in exceptional cases if water is clearly
inappropriate.
OSH Answers has more information on emergency eyewash and shower equipment.

Under what circumstances should oxygen be administered as a first aid

measure?
In the past, emergency oxygen was commonly recommended as a first aid procedure for almost
any chemical inhalation exposure. Later, concern was expressed that the administration of
oxygen itself may be harmful if carried out improperly or in the wrong circumstances. In
particular, there was concern that administering oxygen to victims with chronic obstructive lung
diseases, such as chronic bronchitis or emphysema, could cause the victim to stop breathing.
However, recent reviews have concluded that, during an emergency situation, the lack of oxygen
is the most critical issue and there should be little concern over worsening the condition of
victims with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
The presence of oxygen cylinders in the workplace can introduce additional hazards. For
example, since oxygen supports combustion, the presence of oxygen cylinders could contribute
to a fire hazard in the workplace. Also, since oxygen is stored under high pressure, the cylinder
can behave like a missile if the valve breaks or the tank is punctured. Therefore, the risks and
benefits of storing and maintaining an emergency oxygen supply in the workplace must be
weighed.
There are some situations where the benefits of emergency oxygen outweigh the potential risks
associated with maintaining and storing oxygen cylinders in the workplace. Emergency oxygen
may be beneficial following exposure to chemicals that interfere with the body getting the
necessary levels of oxygen to sustain life and health, including chemicals that:

Displace oxygen in the air, reducing the amount of oxygen available for breathing (e.g., helium,
argon, methane, carbon dioxide or nitrogen).
Reduce the ability of blood to transport oxygen (e.g., carbon monoxide poisoning, or
methemoglobinemia (presence of an oxidized form of hemoglobin in the blood that does not
transport oxygen)).
Compromise the use of oxygen by body tissue, as with cyanide or hydrogen sulfide toxicity.
Interfere with the ability of oxygen to cross through the lungs to the blood stream, as occurs
with pulmonary edema, a potentially fatal accumulation of fluid in the lungs. Ammonia,
phosgene and chlorine are examples of chemicals that can cause pulmonary edema.
Provoke a severe asthma attack (e.g., toluene diisocyanate).

Additional training of first aid providers is required since basic first aid training courses do not
include oxygen administration. First aid providers must be familiar with the laws that govern the
use of oxygen administration in their workplace.

When should vomiting be induced following ingestion of a chemical?

Vomiting should NOT be induced following ingestion of a chemical in an occupational setting
unless advised by a Poison Centre or doctor. Some of the arguments against inducing vomiting
are:

The amount of chemical accidentally ingested by an adult is generally estimated to be very small
(14-21 mL or about 0.5-0.75 oz).
There is no conclusive evidence that victims of chemical ingestion who do have their stomachs
emptied have more successful outcomes than victims who do not.
There can be significant risks associated with inducing vomiting especially in emergency
situations.
There does not seem to be a reliable and safe first aid procedure for inducing vomiting in adults.
Medical attention is usually available quite quickly in most situations.

In the event of a chemical ingestion, the best course of action is to call your local Poison Control
Centre or a doctor and follow their advice. They will ask you specific questions, such as the
name of the product ingested, the amount ingested and the condition of the victim. This
information will assist them in determining the best course of action.

Should water or milk be given to dilute a chemical that has been ingested?
Much of what we know about the benefits of diluting an ingested chemical with water or milk is
based on in vitro (test tube) and ex vivo (using harvested rat esophagi) studies.
Based on their evaluation of the evidence for dilution with milk or water, the American Heart
Association and American Red Cross recommend that people should not take anything by mouth
for an ingested poison unless specifically told to do so by a doctor or the poison control centre.

How do I know which antidote to have available for the chemicals in my

workplace?
It is a common misperception that antidotes are available for most chemical poisonings. True
antidotes are the exception rather than the rule.
Activated charcoal is sometimes considered to be an antidote. Activated charcoal works by
binding the chemical in the stomach so it cannot be absorbed through the stomach. According to
the American Academy of Clinical Toxicology and the European Association of Poisons Centres
"the administration of activated charcoal may be considered if a patient has ingested a potentially
toxic amount of a poison (which is known to be adsorbed to charcoal) up to 1 hour previously...".
In general, the administration of activated charcoal is NOT considered a first aid procedure.
Activated charcoal may be administered in the emergency department or under medical
supervision.
Some chemical classes do have true antidotes - cyanides and organophosphate pesticides are
good examples. You can determine which chemicals used in your workplace have antidotes by
consulting with a doctor with certification in medical toxicology or occupational medicine, or the
manufacturer/supplier of your product. These specialists can advise you on situations where it

may be appropriate to store an antidote onsite. Special training of first aid providers will be
required.

How do I know which first aid procedures to follow for chemicals used in my
workplace?
In order to know what first aid procedures to follow, it is essential that you know what chemicals
are present in your workplace. Consult your chemical inventory and the First Aid Measures
Section on the Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDSs). Create a list of chemicals, their properties
and their corresponding first aid requirements. Be sure that the emergency first aid providers in
your workplace have the appropriate training and authority (if necessary) to deal with the types
of chemicals used at your workplace.
Finally, make sure your local hospital is aware of any chemicals on your site that may require
special first aid procedures, antidotes or medical follow-up.

Does CCOHS have more information on first aid for incidents involving
chemical exposures?
CCOHS staff prepared the publication The Material Safety Data Sheet - A Practical Guide to
First Aid as a source of information for people interested in developing or evaluating first aid
recommendations for Material Safety Data Sheets. It is also useful for developing first aid
programs for responding to chemical exposures in workplaces.

4.0 CORROSIVE CHEMICALS

Chemicals that cause severe local injury to living tissue are called corrosive chemicals.
Accidents involving splashes of corrosive chemicals are very common in the work place.
Damage to the skin, respiratory system, digestive system and the eyes may result from contact
with these substances or their vapors. The seriousness of the damage depends on the type and
concentration of corrosive material, length of the exposure, the body part contacted, and first aid
measures taken.
Usually minor exposure to corrosive materials is reversible and healing is normal. However,
severe exposure may cause permanent damage. Depending on the severity of the exposure,
damage to the skin may range from redness and peeling to severe burns and blistering. Chronic
exposure may result in dermatitis. Exposure to the respiratory system may range from mild
irritation, to inflammation, chest pain, difficulty in breathing, pulmonary edema, and death. Mild
exposure to the eyes may cause pain, tearing, and irritation. Severe exposure may cause
ulcerations, burns and blindness. Ingestion of corrosive chemicals may cause immediate pain and

burning in the mouth, throat, and stomach followed by vomiting and diarrhea. Perforation of the
esophagus and stomach is possible.
The concentration of a corrosive material also determines the extent of damage to the tissues. For
example, a weak solution of acetic acid (vinegar) can be ingested and contact the skin without
any harmful effects. However, concentrated acetic acid is highly corrosive and can cause serious
burns to the tissues.
First aid measures must be taken immediately if corrosive chemicals contact the tissues.
Corrosive chemicals that contact the skin or eyes should be immediately washed off with water
for at least fifteen minutes. Inhalation victims should be moved to fresh air and artificial
respiration started if breathing has stopped. If a corrosive material has been ingested, 2-4 glasses
of water should be administered to the victim and the poison control center called immediately.
If mixed or stored incorrectly corrosive chemicals can generate excessive heat, pressure,
flammable, and toxic gases that can damage equipment, ignite combustibles, and lead to injury.
During a fire, highly toxic gases may be released. Many corrosive chemicals have other serious
hazards and may be classified as flammables, reactives, or toxins.

CLASSES
Strong acids. All concentrated strong acids can attack the skin and permanently damage the
eyes. Acids usually cause irritation and pain immediately. Adding water to acids can cause the
contents to be violently ejected. Burns from acids are typically more painful, though less
destructive than alkaline burns. The vapors from many acids such as hydrochloric acid are
soluble in water and cause irritation of the nose and upper respiratory tract. Vapors from other
acids, however, are not soluble in water and do not cause irritation. For example, vapors from
nitric acid may travel deep into the lungs and cause permanent damage and not be immediately
noticed.
Strong acids are also hazardous because they can combine with other chemicals in storage and
cause fires and explosions. Common strong acids include hydrochloric, nitric, and sulfuric.
Strong alkalis. The metal hydroxides, especially the alkali metal hydroxides, are extremely
hazardous to the skin and the eyes. In contact with water considerable heat can be generated that
can cause splattering of the material. Burns from alkaline substances are less painful than acid
burns but possibly more damaging. The healing of serious alkaline burns is extremely difficult.
Concentrated alkaline gases such as ammonia can cause severe damage to the skin, eyes, and
respiratory tract. Dry bases can react with the moisture on the skin, eyes, and mucous
membranes, causing serious burns. Examples of strong alkalis include sodium hydroxide,
potassium hydroxide, and ammonia.
Halogens. The halogens are toxic and corrosive to the skin, mucous membranes, and the eyes.
Fluorine gas is highly reactive with organic matter and will cause deep penetrating burns on

contact with the skin. Chlorine is less reactive but still extremely hazardous. Bromine is a
common source of eye damage because of its use as a pool disinfectant. In contact with the skin
it can also cause severe, long lasting burns. Iodine vapor is irritating to the eyes and respiratory
tract and may cause pulmonary edema. Skin contact may produce burns.
Oxidizing agents. Besides being corrosive to the skin, mucous membranes, and eyes, oxidizing
agents are also fire and explosion hazards. Oxidizing agents readily release oxygen, increasing
the ease of ignition of flammable and combustible materials and increasing the intensity of
burning. Some compounds give up their oxygen at room temperatures while others require the
application of heat. Powerful oxidizers such as nitric and sulfuric acids may react with organic
compounds and readily oxidizable materials causing fires and explosions. Oxidizers include
chlorates, perchlorates, bromates, peroxides, and nitrates. The halogens are also considered
oxidizing agents because they react the same as oxygen under some conditions.

SAFETY PROCEDURES
Transportation. Corrosive chemicals should always be transported in unbreakable safety
containers. Carts used for moving chemicals should have a lip to prevent accidents.
Reactions. Acids should always be added to water to prevent excessive heat generation and
splashing. All corrosives should be mixed slowly. Many acids are also oxidizers and react
violently with organic compounds and other acids.
Personnel protective equipment. Chemical goggles, aprons, and rubber gloves must be worn
when handling corrosive chemicals. Gauntlets (sleeve coverings) may also need to be worn.
Goggles should be supplemented with a face mask if the possibility of significant splashing
exists. Contact lenses must never be worn when working with corrosive chemicals because they
can trap chemicals against the eye. Suitable respiratory equipment should be available if a danger
exists from inhaling toxic fumes.
Eye-wash and emergency shower. An OSHA approved eye-wash unit and emergency shower
must be located in areas where corrosive chemicals are used. If corrosive chemicals contact the
skin or the eyes, the area should be immediately washed with large amounts of water for 15
minutes.
Storage. Storage should be in a cool, dry, and well ventilated area away from direct sunlight.
Corrosive chemicals should not be stored with combustibles, flammables, organics, and other
highly reactive and toxic compounds. Acids and bases should not be stored together. Fire,
explosion, or the release of dangerous gases or vapors may result if these chemicals combine.
Corrosive chemicals should be stored below eye level to prevent splashes in the eyes or face.
Shelving should be non-corroding. Strong oxidizing agents should be stored and used in glass or
other inert containers. Corks and rubber stoppers should not be used.

Ventilation. Corrosive chemicals producing hazardous vapors and corrosive gases should be
used with adequate exhaust ventilation.
Spills. Neutralizing chemicals, absorbent materials, and cleaning supplies should be readily
available to clean up corrosive chemical spills. All spills should be cleaned up immediately.

Corrosive Chemical Storage

Corrosive chemicals because of their nature, prevalence in the laboratory, and variety of
concentrations, constitute a series of hazards ranging from poisoning, burning and gassing,
through explosion. Serious injury can result from exposure to strong acids or caustics in either
the liquid, solid, or gaseous states. Corrosive chemicals in a science laboratory are usually strong
acids and/or bases. Laboratory employees handling strong corrosives should always wear proper
eye- and skin-protective clothing and equipment (Wear acid-proof aprons, gloves and face
shields when handling highly corrosive materials such as strong mineral acids or alkyl
hydroxides).
Employees should also be informed of the dangers of tissue contact with corrosives. Should there
be contact between corrosives and any body tissue, particularly the eyes, immediately flush the
area of contact with cool water for fifteen (15) minutes. Remove all affected clothing and
immediately seek medical assistance.
Below are some guidelines for proper storage of some common corrosive materials, such as:

Ammonium Hydroxide -- Ammonium hydroxide is a base, or caustic

chemical which should be kept separate from all acids. All acids are
generally incompatible with bases. Ammonium Hydroxide does not
substantially attack steel, painted steel or wood, so no special cabinet is
needed for it.
Acetic Acid and Picric Acid -- are organic acids and should be kept separate
from the inorganic, or mineral acids, such as Phosphoric Acid, Hydrochloric
Acid, Nitric Acid, Sulfuric Acid, and (especially) Perchloric Acid. Acetic Acid
is also combustible and more appropriately stored in a flammable storage
cabinet.
Phosphoric Acid*
Hydrochloric Acid*
Nitric Acid
Sulfuric Acid*
Perchloric Acid*

*The mineral acids, Phosphoric Acid, Hydrochloric Acid, Nitric Acid,

Sulfuric Acid, and Perchloric Acid can all be stored in a cabinet designed for
Corrosive Acids.

SciMatCo and Justrite are examples of manufacturers that make non-metallic cabinets for these
types of acids. Both brands are available from laboratory supply and safety supply companies.
Some of the important design features of corrosive cabinets include:

no internal metallic parts

acid resistant coating
cabinet floor constructed to be able to contain spillage.

You may also want to specify cabinet vents if you intend to connect the cabinet to an external
exhaust.
Concentrated mineral acids can be very reactive, even with each other. Concentrated acids can
even react vigorously with dilute solutions of the same acid, if mixed together rapidly. For
example: concentrated sulfuric acid mixed quickly with 1 molar sulfuric acid will generate a lot
of heat. Different acids should be stored apart. If stored within the same cabinet, plastic trays,
tubs or buckets work well to keep different acids apart within the cabinet.
Acids can only be used where an emergency eyewash is located within the immediate vicinity.
Strict adherence to safety goggle use procedures is necessary when using acids and bases. All
occupants of rooms where corrosives are used must be familiar with the Material Safety Data
Sheets (MSDSs) for those materials.
Finally, you should attempt to minimize the amount of acid stored to the smallest amount
practical:

Picric Acid and Perchloric Acid volumes should always be kept at an absolute minimum.
Picric Acid can form explosive salts with many metals, or by itself when dry.
Perchloric Acid is an extremely powerful oxidizer and must be kept away from all organic
materials, including wood.
Perchloric Acid, if heated, must be used in a specially designed Perchloric Acid washdown fume
hood, that can't be used for anything else.

In summary, you may need one or more acid resistant cabinets, depending on the volume you
intend to store. Nonmetallic cabinet(s) are recommended in addition to some other means to
further isolate the different acids within the cabinet(s). Ammonium Hydroxide should be stored
away from the other acids. Acetic Acid and Picric Acid should be stored in a flammable storage
cabinet. The amounts of acid stored should be minimized, especially for Picric Acid and
Perchloric Acid. All precautions listed on the MSDS should be understood and followed.

For further information on chemical safety, contact your professor, supervisor, principal
investigator or the Department of University Safety and Assurances.

Corrosive Chemicals
Standard operating procedures (SOP) are intended to provide you with general guidance on how
to safely work with a specific class of chemical or hazard. This SOP is generic in nature. It
addresses the use and handling of substances by hazard class only. In some instances multiple
SOPs may be applicable for a specific chemical (i.e., both the SOPs for flammable liquids and
carcinogens would apply to benzene). If you have questions concerning the applicability of any
item listed in this procedure contact the EHRS 215-898-4453 or the Principal Investigator of
your laboratory. Specific written procedures are the responsibility of the Principal Investigator.
If compliance with all the requirements of this standard operating procedure is not possible, the
Principal Investigator must develop a written procedure that will be used in its place. This
alternate procedure must provide the same level of protection as the SOP it replaces. The Office
of Environmental Health and Radiation Safety is available to provide guidance during the
development of alternate procedures.
Corrosive chemicals are substances that cause visible destruction or permanent changes in
human skin tissue at the site of contact, or are highly corrosive to steel. Corrosive chemicals can
be liquids, solids, or gases and can affect the eyes, skin, and respiratory tract. The major classes
of corrosives include strong acids, bases, and dehydrating agents. Liquid corrosive chemicals
are those with a pH of 4.0 or lower or a pH of 9 or higher. Solid chemicals are considered
corrosive when in solution; they fall in the above pH range. A highly corrosive chemical has a
pH of 2 or lower or a pH of 12.5 or higher. Injurious chemicals cause tissue destruction at the
site of contact.
Some examples of corrosive materials:
Strong Acids: hydrochloric, sulfuric, phosphoric
Strong Bases: hydroxides of sodium, potassium, ammonia
Strong Dehydrating Corrosives: sulfuric, phosphophrous pentoxide, calcium oxide
Strong Oxidizing Corrosives: concentrated hydrogen peroxide, sodium hypochlorite
Corrosive Gases: chlorine, ammonia
Corrosive Solids: phosphorous, phenol

JUMP TO SECTION IN THIS S.O.P.

Before you begin

Setting-up
Carrying out your work
Cleaning-up
Emergencies

Before you begin

Approvals and Notifications

o Most corrosives can be used by properly-trained individuals in the laboratory
environment without the need for specific EHRS approval. Special
circumstances, such as abnormally large-scale use may require
evaluation. Contact EHRS at x84453 for assistance.
o EHRS should be notified before purchasing hydrofluoric acid for use in your
laboratory for the first time. See the HF Safety Fact sheet for more details about
working with liquid hydrofluoric acid.
o EHRS should be notified before purchasing certain corrosive compressed gases
such as anhydrous ammonia.
o Training required
Training requirements based on job duties and responsibilities are
determined for each employee by completing the Penn Profiler.
Any corrosives users should have taken an Introduction to Laboratory
Safety course as well as any required annual updates.
Most introductory programs are offered monthly. Dates are published in
the Almanac and on the EHRS website. Annual updates of these
programs can be completed online. For more information on these
programs or to request a training program on safety or health topics for
your department, please contact Valerie Perez at 215-746-6652 or send
email to: traininghelp@ehrs.upenn.edu
Purchasing materials
Purchase of any container of corrosives with a volume of greater
than 5 gallons for laboratory use requires EHRS approval.
Hazard Assessment
A hazard assessment for work involving corrosives must
thoroughly address the issues of proper use and handling,
fire safety, chemical toxicity, storage, and spill response.
A hazard assessment must be conducted when a
process/reaction/work-up/or purification is changed or
when scaling-up any corrosives use to more than 10 times
the original volume.

The first time a highly hazardous corrosive material such as

concentrated sulfuric or nitric acid is used for a process, a
hazard assessment should be conducted.
Upon request EHRS can assist you in performing a
thorough hazard assessment.

Setting-up

Storage: Corrosive Chemical Storage Cabinets

o Chemicals should be segregated according to the Chemical Storage and
Transportation section of the Chemical Hygiene Plan
o Cabinets: Specially designed corrosion resistant cabinets should be used for the
storage of large quantities of corrosive materials. For new lab construction,
renovations, and whenever possible in existing labs, the specifications for acid
cabinets found in the Laboratory Design & Equipment section of the EHRS
website should be followed. Cabinets for storing alkaline corrosive materials
should be of the same construction whenever possible.
o If no corrosion-resistant cabinet is available, store corrosives on plastic trays.
o Do not store corrosive liquids above eye level.
o Engineering Controls (ventilation, shielding, vacuum protection)
Safety Shielding: Shielding is required any time there is a risk of
explosion, splash hazard or a highly exothermic reaction. All
manipulations of corrosives which pose this risk should occur in a fume
hood with the sash in the lowest feasible position. Portable shields, which
provide protection to all laboratory occupants, are also acceptable.
Special Ventilation: Corrosive materials must be handled in a chemical
fumehood if production of corrosive vapor is anticipated. Manipulation of
corrosives outside of a fume hood may require special ventilation controls
in order to minimize exposure to the material. Fume hoods provide the
best protection against exposure to corrosives in the laboratory and are the
preferred ventilation control device. Always attempt to handle quantities
of corrosives greater than 500 mL in a fume hood. If your research does
not permit the handing of large quantities of corrosives in your fume hood,
contact the EHRS to review the adequacy of all special ventilation.
Vacuum Protection: Evacuated glassware can implode and eject flying
glass, and chemicals. Vacuum work involving corrosives must be
conducted in a fume hood, glove box or isolated in an acceptable
manner. Mechanical vacuum pumps must be protected using cold traps
and, where appropriate, filtered to prevent particulate release. The exhaust
for the pumps must be vented into an exhaust hood. Vacuum pumps
should be rated for use with corrosives.
Personal Protective Equipment
Splash proof goggles in addition to standard laboratory personal
protective equipment (PPE) consisting of a 100% cotton lab coat,

closed toe shoes and nitrile gloves must be worn when there is a
significant risk of splash. Pouring very large volumes or handling
particularly corrosive materials may require additional PPE
consisting of thicker gloves and an apron. Contact EHRS with
assistance in selecting chemical resistant personal protective
equipment that is appropriate for the materials you are handling
and the type of work you are doing.
Eye protection in the form of safety glasses must be worn at all
times when handling corrosives. Ordinary (street) prescription
glasses do not provide adequate protection. (Contrary to popular
opinion these glasses cannot pass the rigorous test for industrial
safety glasses.) Adequate safety glasses must meet the
requirements of the Practice for Occupational and Educational Eye
and Face Protection (ANSI Z.87. 1 1989) and must be equipped
with side shields. Safety glasses with side shields do not provide
adequate protection from splashes; therefore, when the potential
for a splash hazard exists other eye protection and/or face
protection must be worn. In addition to safety glasses, a face
shield should be worn when splash or spray is foreseeable.
Gloves must be worn when handling corrosives. Disposable nitrile
gloves (4 mil minimum thickness) provide adequate protection
against accidental hand contact with small quantities of most
laboratory chemicals. Lab workers should contact EHRS for
advice on chemical resistant glove selection when direct or
prolonged contact with hazardous chemicals is anticipated.
Some examples of when specialty gloves may be necessary
are: Handling of hydrofluoric acid, when immersion in corrosive
liquids is anticipated, when large volumes of corrosive liquids are
being transferred or dispensed.
At a minimum, 100% cotton lab coats, closed toed shoes and longsleeved clothing must be worn when handling
corrosives. Additional protective clothing, such as a chemicalresistant apron, should be worn if the possibility of skin contact is
likely.
Protect all skin surfaces from contact with corrosive or irritating
gases and vapors.
Emergency Irrigation (Eyewash and safety shower)
A safety or drench shower should be available within 10
seconds of travel from where the corrosives are used.
Safety showers are tested annually by facilitys personnel.
Where the eyes or body of any person may be exposed to
corrosives, suitable facilities for quick drenching or
flushing of the eyes and body shall be provided within the
work area for immediate emergency use. Bottle type
eyewash stations are not acceptable.

Eyewashes must be activated weekly by laboratory workers

to ensure proper function of equipment and to flush the
plumbing.

Carrying out your work

Consult the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for any new corrosive chemicals you introduce
to your lab. Fully assess the potential hazards and consider what safety equipment will be
needed before you begin your work. EHRS can provide you with an MSDS for any chemical
you plan to use.

Handling
o Handling process for liquids should be designed to minimize the potential for
splash, splatter, or other likely scenarios for accidental contact.
o Do not pour water into acid. Slowly add acid to water with stirring and cooling if
heat generation can be anticipated.
o Reactions involving acids and bases are often very exothermic
Use only heat resistant labware
Allow for extra volume in your mixing or reaction vessel to account for
expansion and/or foaming
It may be necessary to pre-cool solutions and cool while mixing or
reacting
Corrosive Gases
Corrosive compressed gases can burn and destroy body tissue
(especially the eyes or respiratory contact) on contact. The
magnitude of the effect is related to the solubility of the material in
the body fluids. Highly soluble gases such as ammonia or
hydrogen chloride can cause severe nose and throat irritation,
while substances of lower solubility such as nitrogen dioxide,
phosgene, or sulfur dioxide can penetrate deep into the
lungs. Corrosive gases also can corrode metals. Warming
properties such as odor or eye, nose or respiratory tract irritation
may be inadequate with some substances. Do not rely upon these
symptoms as warning of overexposure.
All procedures detailed in the Compressed Gases Standard
Operating Procedure should be followed for work with corrosive
gases.
Perform manipulations of materials that pose an inhalation hazard
in a chemical fume hood to control exposure.
To prevent environmental pollution and damage to equipment it
may be necessary to trap and or scrub exhaust from processes
which utilize corrosive gases even when working in the fume
hood. Contact EHRS for assistance with design and set-up of gas
neutralization processes.

When corrosive gases are to be discharged into a liquid, a trap,

check valve, or vacuum break device must be employed to prevent
dangerous reverse flow.
Regulators and valves must be closed when the cylinder is not in
use and flushed with dry air or nitrogen after use.
Labeling
All corrosives must be clearly labeled with the correct
chemical name. Handwritten labels are acceptable;
chemical formulas and structural formulas are not
acceptable.
The label on any containers of corrosives should say
Flammable and include any other hazard information,
such as Flammable or Toxic, as applicable.
Heating/Open flame
Do not store corrosives in chemical fume hoods or
allow containers of corrosives in proximity to
heating mantles, hot plates, or torches.
Transferring/Dispensing
Weighing, transferring, and dispensing of
corrosive solids must be performed carefully
to avoid aspiration and ingestion of airborne
powders and solids.
The materials of construction for lab
apparatus and vessels that will come in
contact with corrosive chemicals must be
evaluated for compatibility with the
chemical in use.
Transport corrosives in secondary
containment, preferably a polyethylene or
other non-reactive bottle carrier and/or a
sturdy cart designed for chemical transport.
When combining acid and water, always add
ACID to WATER

Cleaning-up

Small spills
o Anticipate spills by having the appropriate clean up equipment on hand. The
appropriate clean up supplies can be determined by consulting the material safety
data sheet. This should occur prior to the use of any corrosives.
o Corrosive spill controls neutralize the hazardous nature of the spilled material.
Acids and bases require different types of spill control materials.
o Specific acid and base neutralizing spill kits are available from Fisher Scientific.

o
o

Sodium carbonate (soda ash) can also be used to neutralize spills of acidic liquids
prior to clean-up. Do not attempt to neutralize a hydrofluoric acid spill. EHRS
should be notified to handle all spills involving hydrofluoric acid.
In the event of a spill all personnel in the area should be alerted. Turn off all
sources of ignition.
Waste disposal
Corrosives are hazardous wastes. Questions regarding waste disposal
should be directed to the EHRS.
Vented caps for 1-gallon sized plastic containers are available from EHRS
for collection of wastes that are likely to produce gas. These wastes
include mixtures of corrosive liquids and peroxides (such as Piranha and
Chromerge).

Emergencies

Decontamination
o Personnel: Immediately flush contaminated area with copious amounts of water
after contact with corrosive materials. Remove any jewelry to facilitate removal
of chemicals. If a delayed response is noted report immediately for medical
attention. Be prepared to detail what chemicals were involved.
o If the incident involves hydrofluoric acid (HF), seek immediate medical
attention.
o If there is any doubt about the severity of the injury, seek immediate medical
attention.
o Area: Decontamination procedures vary depending on the material being
handled. Contact EHRS in the event of a large spill.
o Large spills
Do not attempt to handle a large spill of corrosives. Vacate the laboratory
immediately and call for assistance.
Office of Environmental Health & Radiation Safety, 215-898-4453
University Police 511 or 215-573-3333. This is a 24 hour service.

Remain on the scene, but at a safe distance, to receive and direct safety personnel when
they arrive.
Fire
o Pull the fire alarm
o Turn out the lights and close your laboratory door when everyone is out
o Evacuate the building
o Call 511 from a university phone or 215-573-3333 from a safe location to give
Penn Police more information about the fire situation
o Make yourself available to give emergency responders information as needed

Table of Corrosive Chemicals

Chemicals and Industrial Materials to which Motors, Gears, and Drives may be Subjected
Alkaline Solutions: are variable in their action on aluminum. The pH of alkaline solutions is not
a reliable indicator of the performance of aluminum in these solutions. Although bases such as
sodium hydroxide and potassium hydroxide attack aluminum, many others, such as ammonium
hydroxide and hexamine, are handled in aluminum equipment.
Aluminum Sulfate: (alum, peral alum, pickle alum) is handled in aluminum cooling trays to
avoid product contamination. The rate of attack is low at room temperature and varies directly
with concentration and temperature. Aluminum piping for aluminum sulfate solutions is in use in
the paper industry.
Ammonia: gas (dry) has no action on aluminum, even at elevated temperatures. When ammonia
is moist or in solution, the rate of attack also is low for all concentrations at temperatures up to at
least 1200F. Aluminum handling and process equipment are widely used.
Ammonium Carbonate: has negligible corrosive action on aluminum. Aluminum tankage,
piping and subliming equipment are in use. The product is not discolored by contact with
aluminum.
Ammonium Chloride: solutions cause moderate pitting on unprotected aluminum.
Ammonium Nitrate: and its solutions are handled extensively in aluminum. Aluminum does not
render the nitrate unstable.
Ammonium Nitrate, Ammoniated: does not attack aluminum. Aluminum pressure vessels,
storage tanks, piping and tank cars are excellent for handling these nitrogen fertilizer solutions.
Aniline: vapors and liquid at room temperature do not attack aluminum. Aluminum resists
corrosion even at elevated temperatures, provided a trace of moisture is present. Aluminum
equipment is used in process handling aniline at elevated temperatures.
Asphalt: has no action on aluminum.
Benzene: has no action on aluminum. Aluminum containers, tankage, heat exchangers,
distillation columns and piping are in service.
Boraz: in dilute solutions at temperatures up to 1750F, is without action on aluminum.
Aluminum equipment is in service in contact with borax solutions in the emulsification of waxes
and gums.
Boric Acid: has little action on aluminum. Aluminum drying kilns, trays, bucket conveyors and
hoods for bottom closings for centrifuges are in service in boric acid plants.

Butane: has no action on aluminum.

Butter: (containing up to 8% salt) is handled satisfactorily in aluminum. Aluminum butter
churns and foil wrappers are in service.
Buttermilk: is bottled in containers with unlined aluminum foil hoods.
Butyl Alcohol: pure or in solution, has no action on aluminum at room temperature. Even at the
boiling point, aluminum may be used, provided a trace of moisture is present in the alcohol.
Aluminum decanters and heat exchangers are used for butanol-water mixtures. Aluminum
storage tanks are used for the pure alcohol.
Calcium Carbonate: solutions cause only negligible action on aluminum.
Calcium Chloride: solutions at room temperatures have a slight action on aluminum. Aluminum
equipment is used with chromate-inhibited calcium chloride brines. Molten calcium chloride is
corrosive to aluminum.
Calcium Gluconate: is processed in aluminum tanks to avoid discoloration.
Calcium Propionate: is stored in aluminum tanks.
Calcium Silicate: is dried in aluminum rotary dryers.
Calcium Sulfate:, in saturated solution, has negligible action on aluminum at room temperature.
Calcium Sulfide: has negligible action on aluminum. Horticultural spray formulations
containing up to about 20% calcium sulfide have been handled in aluminum equipment.
Cane Sugar Liquors: are handled in aluminum piping, crystallizers and heating equipment.
Carbon Dioxide: has no action on aluminum at room or elevated temperatures, even when
moisture is present.
Carbon Disulfide: has no action on aluminum even at the boiling point. Aluminum absorbers,
distillation columns, condensers and piping are used in carbon disulfide recovery systems.
Carbonic Acid: has negligible action on aluminum. Aluminum equipment is in use handling
carbonated beverages. Aluminum steam condensate lines have replaced steel in installations
where carbon dioxide is associated with the steam.
Cellulose Acetate: has no action on aluminum. Aluminum tankage, piping, trays, rotary dryers,
fume ducts, hoods and conveyors are used in the production of cellulose acetate.
Cellulose Nitrate: plants employ aluminum fume ducts, ventilating hoods, washing tanks and
centrifugal extractors.

Cement: after hardening, has no appreciable action on aluminum. During the setting-up period,
minor action occurs which may be prevented by the use of a coating. Galvanic action in presence
of highly conductive cements, such as magnesium oxychloride cement, can be inhibited by the
addition of chromate. Aluminum strips are used in terrazzo floors.
Cereals: may be handled in aluminum equipment. A variety of industrial cooking utensils are in
general use.
Cheese: is handled in aluminum cheese molds and vats. Aluminum foil wrappings, both plain
and lacquered, are widely used.
Chocolate: does not attack aluminum. It is processed in aluminum steam-jacketed kettles, molds
and tanks and packaged in foil.
Chromic Acid: solutions have a moderate action on aluminum which varies directly with
concentration and temperature.
Citric Acid: is produced in aluminum fermentation pans, crystallizers and storage tanks.
Aluminum is non-toxic, has a minimum effect on fermentation processes, and does not discolor
the product.
Clay: slurries are handled in aluminum piping, fittings and valves because of low friction losses,
portability and the elimination of iron oxide contamination in the clay.
Coal: has been handled for many years in aluminum mining equipment such as trucks, hopper
cars, chutes, skips, cages, trolleys, pip props and hand tools. Despite some corrosion, aluminum
pipe has been found to be the most economical material for handling acid mine water.
Coal Gas: does not attack aluminum.
Coal Tar Bases: do not attack aluminum. Their color is unaffected by contact with aluminum.
Corn Products: plants are taking increasing advantage of the high resistance to corrosion of
aluminum roofing, siding, handrails and architectural trim. In the process, aluminum hoods,
ducts, piping and screw-type starch conveyors are in service.
Corn Syrup: has no action on aluminum. Aluminum piping, tankage and shipping drums are in
service.
Cottonseed Oil: is processed, stored and shipped in aluminum.
Cream of Tartar: (Potassium Bitartrate) is handled in aluminum equipment because aluminum
does not discolor the product.

Creosote: vapors have been handled in aluminum coils and heat exchanger tube bundles for
more than 15 years in a tar distillation plant. Aluminum storage tans and shipping drums are in
use.
Dextrose: solutions have no action on aluminum at room or elevated temperatures.
Dextro-Lactic Acid: is produced from glucose in aluminum fermentation equipment.
Dyes: must be considered individually. Aluminum can be used to handle neutral dyes for cotton,
linen, vegetable and other natural and synthetic fibers. Many acid dyes and direct dyes also are
suitable with aluminum. Aluminum drying pans, dye kettles and dye sticks are in service.
Lithopone, ultramarine and chrome dyes can be handled in aluminum. Vat dyeing solutions,
however, because of their high alkalinity, should not be handled in aluminum equipment.
Ethyl Alcohol: and its solutions do not attack aluminum up to the boiling point. Commercial
absolute alcohol is not corrosive at the boiling point.
Ethyl Benzene: has been handled in aluminum heat exchanger tubes form more than five years.
Ethyl benzene contacts the tube side, and a mixture of steam and carbon dioxide contacts the
shell side.
Ethylene Glycol: has negligible action on aluminum at room or boiling temperatures.
Contaminated solutions may be inhibited effectively in many cases. Certain plastics containing
ethylene glycol are formulated in aluminum vessels to avoid discoloration.
Fermentation: process equipment often is designed in aluminum because aluminum is nontoxic
to organisms used in these operations.
Flue Gases: have a variety of actions on aluminum. Aluminum chimney liners and vents for
domestic gas-fired appliances are used extensively. Under condensing conditions, some attack
occurs when high sulfur fuels are burned.
Fruit Juices: usually can be processed and handled in aluminum equipment. Orange squeezers
of aluminum have been used for many years. Frozen juices are packed in aluminum foil
wrappers or aluminum impact-extruded tubes.
Gasoline: does not attack aluminum. Where substantial amounts of "sump water" collect in the
bottom of the tank, alclad materials are preferred. Aluminum tanks for high octane gasoline are
standard for aircraft.
Glucose: and its solutions do not attack aluminum.
Glue: is processed in aluminum tubs, pans, drying screens, drying tunnels and dehumidifying
systems.

Glycerine: and its solutions have no action on aluminum. Aluminum stills, condensers, heat
exchangers, receivers, storage tanks and tank cars are in service with natural and synthetic
glycerine.
Hydrochloric Acid: solutions are corrosive to aluminum, but the attack in dilute solutions can
be reduced by inhibitors.
Hydrogen: has no effect on aluminum. Aluminum equipment is used to produce liquid hydrogen
in a heavy water plant.
Hydrogen Peroxide: is processed, stored and shipped in aluminum distillation towers, heat
exchangers, storage tanks, piping, tank cars and shipping drums. Aluminum is the preferred
material for producing and shipping hydrogen peroxide in all commercial concentrations.
Hydrogen Sulfide: has negligible action on aluminum. Aluminum storage tank roofs for sour
crude oils, bubble caps in petroleum distillation towers and heat exchanger tubes are in service.
Ice Cream: is handled in aluminum trays, molds, pans, insulated storage tanks and freezer parts.
Kerosene: has no action on aluminum.
Ketones: generally are without action on aluminum, even at their boiling points.
Lacquers: and their solvents are handled in aluminum tanks and piping to avoid discoloration.
Lactic Acid: solutions, at room temperature, have negligible action on aluminum. The
anhydrous acid is stored in aluminum tanks.
Lactose: (Milk Sugar), when pure has no action on aluminum.
Lard Oil: has no action on aluminum and is used as a forming or rolling lubricant in the
fabrication of aluminum parts.
Linseed Oil: is handled in aluminum equipment at elevated temperatures. Drying agents, such as
lead and manganese compounds do not cause difficulty. Local overheating should be avoided
since decomposition products may cause some attack.
Magnesium Carbonate: solutions have no action on aluminum.
Magnesium Chloride: solutions, below 1% in concentrations, cause only staining of aluminum
at room temperature. Dilute solutions above 1% by weight cause moderate pitting on aluminum.
Magnesium Sulfate: solutions have virtually no action on aluminum. Oxygen-saturated 50%
solutions at 1500F, used in the weighting of silk, are handled in aluminum to avoid product
discoloration.

Meats: are processed in aluminum. Aluminum is an approved material for utensils and
equipment used in the meat packing industry.
Milk: when fresh, at temperatures up to the boiling point, has no action on aluminum, and
aluminum imparts no taste to the milk. Aluminum milker pails, coolers, tanks, piping and cans
are used with whole milk and sweetened or unsweetened condensed milk. Powdered milk is
dried in aluminum towers. Aluminum foil milkhoods are in service for sealing bottles. Sour milk
may cause a slight action because of its acidity.
Mine Waters: cause attack of aluminum which varies with the nature and concentration of salts
present in solution. Coal mine waters usually contain sulfuric acid. Nonetheless, aluminum
piping is used because the life of aluminum pipe is several times as long as the life of steel pipe
and more than compensates for the difference in initial cost.
Molasses: has negligible action on aluminum.
Naphthalene: is processed in aluminum stills, reactors, fractionators, heat exchangers, piping,
receivers and storage tanks at temperatures above 3000F.
Naval Stores: such as turpentine, rosin, copal, pentene, dipentene and pinene are widely handled
in aluminum equipment.
Nitric Acid: in concentrations over 82% by weight, (including red fuming nitric acid) has a
negligible action on aluminum.
Nitrous Gases: when dry, have only a slight action on aluminum at room temperature. Some
etching occurs in the presence of moisture.
Orange Juice: is handled in aluminum equipment. Aluminum does not effect the flavor of the
juice.
Ozone: when dry, does not attack aluminum. A superficial attack may occur in the presence of
moist ozone, but it is not enough to discourage the use of aluminum in the construction of
ozonizers.
Pickle Liquor: a solution of acetic acid and sodium chloride, causes pitting of aluminum.
Potassium Chloride: solutions have only slight action on aluminum and are similar to solutions
of sodium chloride.
Potassium Nitrate: solutions have negligible action on aluminum, even at elevated
temperatures. Aluminum tankage is in service handling solutions of potassium nitrate.
Sauerkraut Juice: is similar to pickle liquor in its actions on aluminum, causing a pitting type
of attack.

Soaps: of many kinds are handled in aluminum, depending on pH. Alkaline soaps that cause
some action on aluminum may be inhibited by the addition of silicates.
Sodium Bicarbonate: solutions have a negligible action on aluminum at room temperature.
Sodium Carbonate: solutions cause some attack on aluminum, the rate varying directly with
concentration and temperature.
Sodium Chloride: both in solid form and in solution, is handled extensively in aluminum
equipment.
Sodium Hydroxide: solutions dissolve aluminum readily.
Sodium Nitrate: solutions have a negligible action on aluminum.
Sodium Sulfate: solutions have negligible action on aluminum at room or elevated temperature.
Spirits: such as whiskies, brandies and gins, may be handled in aluminum for short-time
exposure, but undergo slight changes in flavor and clarity if stored or left in prolonged contact
with aluminum. Corrosive attack on the aluminum is slight.
Steam: even when containing carbon dioxide, does not corrode aluminum at temperatures up to
4800F. Aluminum surface condensers, condensate lines and condensate tanks are being used in
power plants.
Sulfur: has no corrosive action on aluminum.
Sulfuric Acid: varies in its action on aluminum depending on concentration and temperature.
Very dilute solutions of sulfuric acid are handled in aluminum equipment at room temperature.
Turpentine: is handled extensively in aluminum equipment.
Vapors and Fumes: of many varieties are handled in aluminum equipment. Aluminum
ventilating canopies, hoods and ducts are widely used for removing fumes from nitrating
processes. Aluminum ducts have given excellent service in applications for venting fumes
containing considerable H2S, SO2, SO3, CO2, or NH3.
Waters: vary in their action on aluminum. Distilled water regularly is stored and piped in
aluminum equipment. High quality deionized water has no action on aluminum. Unpolluted rain
water does not corrode aluminum. Fresh and salt waters in the pH range 4.5 - 8.5 cause only
negligible attack of aluminum even at the boiling point, but certain of these waters cause pitting
because they contain traces of heavy metal salts. Alclad alloys prevent premature perforation
under these circumstances and are recommended for equipment handling salt water. A number of
aluminum heat exchangers are in service employing salt water cooling. Aluminum may be used
with practically all recirculated waters.

Wines: have various actions on aluminum. Light wines have little effect on aluminum, but the
heavy and white wines, which contain some free sulfurous acid, tend to become turbid when in
contact with aluminum.
- See more at: http://www.usmotors.com/TechDocs/ProFacts/CorrosiveChemicals.aspx#sthash.hud6xUzI.dpuf

1) Medical Emergency Arising from a Chemical Exposure

The information that follows is so urgent that it is repeated from the previous section, "Chemical Release:
If a Co-Worker is Exposed to a Hazardous Chemical". All chemical exposures should be viewed as
significant and every precaution taken to guard against these exposures.
a. Initial response and decontamination

A potentially dangerous situation exists. The initial condition of the victim is not a good
indicator of the urgency of the problem. Recognize that the symptoms from many
inhalation exposures take up to 12 hours to appear, and the result may lead to pulmonary
edema and death.
Alert nearby co-workers of the potential danger from exposure to the released chemical.
Remove the injured person form the area of exposure. Do this only if you can do it
without injury to yourself!! If you have protective equipment suitable for the hazard, don
this first before entry into the contaminated area. If you do not have adequate protective
equipment, DO NOT ENTER. Instead, wait for properly attired emergency personnel to
perform the rescue.
From a safe location call for emergency medical assistance:
DIAL 9-911

a) Give the location of the emergency- Building 484. Specify the Wing, if known
b) Give the extent and nature of injury, if known.
c) Give any details that may be important in a rescue situation - what chemicals are involved, are there
toxic fumes involved, etc.

Notify the Chemistry Business Office of the emergency so that the University HazMat
Emergency Team may be activated.
5-3335

If you are able to remove the individual to a safe location, do so. The primary concern
initially should be to determine if the person has normal respiratory and circulatory
functions. If the person is not breathing or does not have a pulse, do not begin CPR until
the person has been decontaminated unless you can protect yourself adequately against
exposure in the process.
Begin decontamination. Place the person under an emergency shower and flush the skin
with copious amounts of water. All contaminated clothing must be removed, including
shoes. Make certain that the person's hair is also thoroughly flushed if the possibility of
contamination exists.
If the chemical splash affected the persons eyes, reaction time is critical. The person
should be led or forced to the eyewash area and the eyes flushed thoroughly for at least

15 minutes. The victim will most likely be in great pain and panic stricken. I may take
several people to get the person to the eyewash and perform the needed washing. Make
certain that the eyes are held open while the water washes the eyes and face.
While decontamination is taking place, steps should be taken to identify the chemical.
Material Safety Data Sheets should be consulted, as well as any co-workers who may
have information as to what was in use and what happened. This information should be
collected and ready for the attending emergency medical personnel.
After decontamination is complete, the individual should be kept warm with blankets until
professional medical attention arrives.
If the material in use has a specific antidote, it should be administered immediately.
Certain gases such as hydrogen cyanide and hydrogen sulfide do not respond to oxygen
alone; their effect must be counteracted. Persons knowingly working with such materials
should always make certain that all co-workers know the location of any antidotal agents.
It is important that all personnel suffering from an accidental chemical exposure be
examined by a medical professional before they return to work or leave for home. Many
chemicals have a delayed reaction period of several hours before the onset of symptoms.

b. General guidelines in case of exposure to unknown chemicals

It is important that all Chemistry Building personnel know what to do in case of a medical emergency. The
following guidelines should be read and understood BEFORE an emergency occurs, so that the
appropriate actions may be taken without delay. Please read over these guidelines on a regular basis to
refresh your memory regarding the correct response.

Follow the Golden Rules:

1. Protect yourself before attending to the injured!
2. Decontaminate the injured person.
3. Treat cessation of breathing first.
4. Check for pulse and begin CPR if no pulse is present.
5. Treat eye injuries next
6. Treat injuries resulting from skin contact.
7. Treat shock.
8. Call for help.
Make a quick assessment of the most likely route of exposure. Check the eyes, nose,
mouth and skin for signs of the chemical itself, or signs of damage such as swelling,
redness, bleeding, burns, discharge of fluids, or excessive paleness or pallor. Signs of
ingestion of a corrosive might be drooling, difficulty in swallowing, noisy or labored
breathing. If a splash has occurred to the face, assume eye contact. The following
general guidelines should be followed for poisoning by inhalation, ingestion, skin or eye
contact.

i. Poisoning by Inhalation
1) After protecting yourself, remove victim from area of exposure.
2) If breathing has stopped, administer artificial respiration using a bag valve mask, or if this is not
available, use the chest pressure-arm lift technique. DO NOT use mouth to mouth respiration if the nature
of the chemical is not known!
3) Once the airway has been opened, maintain it and monitor.
4) Notify emergency medical personnel of nature of exposure and arrange transport of injured.
ii. Poisoning by Ingestion

1) If the injured person is conscious:

Have the person rinse out mouth with water.

Give the person 1 or 2 cups of water or milk to drink. If the person becomes nauseated or cannot
swallow, STOP!
Vomiting should not be induced if the person has swallowed an corrosive substance since this
could result in aspiration into the lungs. Signs of ingestion of a corrosive substance include
abdominal pain, a distended abdomen or a rigid, hard abdomen. Do not induce if there are signs
of burns in or around the mouth or if person can not swallow.
Vomiting may be induced if there are no signs of burns around the mouth, swallowing difficulty or
abdominal pain, and if the ingested material is suspected to be highly toxic.
a) Vomiting may be induced by giving person 2 teaspoons of syrup of ipecac. If this is not
available, induce vomiting by having the person touch back of throat with their finger or other
blunt instrument.

Make sure the person is sitting up and leaning forward while vomiting.
The vomitus should be saved for analysis by the medical team.
After vomiting, the person should be made to drink 1 or 2 cups of water. This will help to dilute the
ingested chemical.
Do not allow the person to go to sleep.
2) If the injured person is unconscious:

Lay the person on their left side, bending the right hip.
Make sure the airway is open and maintain it.
Immediately arrange for transport to the nearest medical facility.
DIAL 9-911

Stand by to administer artificial respiration and CPR if breathing and/or heartbeat cease. Maker
certain that all traces of chemical have been removed from in and around the mouth before
providing artificial respiration. If the nature of chemical is unknown, DO NOT give mouth to mouth
respiration. Instead use a bag-valve mask or the chest-arm lift technique.
If the person vomits, save the vomitus for analysis by the medical team.
If the person shows signs of shock (weak, rapid pulse; pale, clammy skin; cold hands and feet)
elevate the feet 8 to 12 inches and cover the person with a blanket.
NEVER give an unconscious person anything to drink!
NEVER give a convulsing person anything to drink!
iii. Poisoning by Skin Contact
1) Remove the person from the contaminated area, taking care not to contaminate yourself.
2) Remove the person's contaminated clothing, including shoes and jewelry, from the affected
areas. This should be done under an emergency or while flushing with water.
3) Flushing should continue until all traces of the chemical are gone and any slippery feeling to
the skin has disappeared. Continue rinsing for at least 15 minutes.
4) Cover the person with a blanket or clean dry clothing.
5) If there exists inflammation, burns or blisters, apply a loose, dry sterile dressing, or cover area
with a clean, dry cloth.

DO NOT break blisters or remove skin. If clothing is stuck to skin after rinsing, do not try to
remove it.
DO NOT rub or apply pressure to affected skin.
DO NOT apply any oily substance to skin.
DO NOT use hot water.
DO NOT apply a neutralizing agent to the skin, the heat evolved could cause even more serious
injury.
6) If the person is in a state of shock, have them lie down on their side, elevate the feet, and
cover with a blanket.
7) Notify emergency personnel of the nature of the accident and arrange for transport to the
nearest medical facility. If the identity of the chemical is known, a Material Safety Data Sheet
should accompany the medical personnel to the hospital.
iv. Poisoning by Eye Contact
1) Remove injured person from contaminated area, taking care not contaminate yourself.
2) ACT QUICKLY! Every second counts when chemicals are in contact with the eye. Flush the
eyes with clean, tepid water for at least 15 minutes. If an eyewash unit is available, use that. If
not, have the injured person down and tilt head back while you slowly pour water into their eyes,
starting at the inner corners and letting the water run out of the outer corners. Eyes must be held
open so that the chemical can be removed from the eyeball. Ask the person to roll their eyes as
you rinse to make certain that all surfaces of the eye are cleansed.
3) The injured person will quite likely be in great pain and will want to keep the eyes closed or rub
them. It may take several people to restrain the person to allow rinsing of the eyes to continue.
4) Arrange for immediate transport to a medical facility, even if no pain remains after rinsing.
Depending upon the nature of the chemicals, delayed damage may occur. If there is pain, cover
the eyes loosely with sterile dressing. It is important to maintain verbal and physical contact with
the injured person until help arrives.

Corrosive Chemicals
Chemical Name/Description
Class
Acetic acid solution, not less than 50 percent but not more than 80 percent
8
acid, by mass
Acetic acid solution, with more than 10 percent and less than 50 percent
8
acid, by mass
Acetic acid, glacial or Acetic acid solution, with more than 80 percent acid,
8
by mass
Acetic anhydride
8
Acetyl bromide
8
Acetyl iodide
8
Acrylic acid, stabilized
8

CAS Number
64-19-7
64-19-7
64-19-7
108-24-7
506-96-7
507-02-8
79-10-7

Alkyl sulfonic acids, liquid or Aryl sulfonic acids, liquid with more than 5
8
percent free sulfuric acid
Alkyl sulfonic acids, liquid or Aryl sulfonic acids, liquid with not more
8
than 5 percent free sulfuric acid
Alkyl sulfonic acids, solid or Aryl sulfonic acids, solid with not more than
8
5 percent free sulfuric acid
Alkyl sulfonic acids, solid or Aryl sulfonic acids, solid, with more than 5
8
percent free sulfuric acid
Alkylphenols, liquid, n.o.s. (including C2-C12 homologues)
8
Alkylphenols, solid, n.o.s. (including C2-C12 homologues)
8
Alkylsulfuric acids
8
Allyltrichlorosilane, stabilized
8
Aluminum bromide, anhydrous
8
Aluminum bromide, solution
8
Aluminum chloride, anhydrous
8
Aluminum chloride, solution
8
Amines, liquid, corrosive, flammable, n.o.s. or Polyamines, liquid,
8
corrosive, flammable, n.o.s.
Amines, liquid, corrosive, n.o.s, or Polyamines, liquid, corrosive, n.o.s.
8
Amines, solid, corrosive, n.o.s., or Polyamines, solid, corrosive n.o.s.
8
2-(2-Aminoethoxy) ethanol
8
N-Aminoethylpiperazine
8
Ammonia solutions, relative density between 0.880 and 0.957 at 15 degrees
C in water, with more than 10 percent but not more than 35 percent
8
Ammonia
Ammonium hydrogen sulfate
8
Ammonium hydrogendifluoride, solid
8
Ammonium hydrogendifluoride, solution
8
Ammonium polysulfide, solution
8
Ammonium sulfide solution
8
Amyl acid phosphate
8
Amyltrichlorosilane
8
Anisoyl chloride
8
Antimony pentachloride, liquid
8
Antimony pentachloride, solutions
8
Antimony pentafluoride
8
Antimony trichloride, liquid
8
Antimony trichloride, solid
8
Batteries, dry, containing potassium hydroxide solid, electric, storage
8
Batteries, wet, filled with acid, electric storage
8
Batteries, wet, filled with alkali, electric storage
8

42615-29-2
42615-29-2
42615-29-2
42615-29-2
99-89-8
99-89-8
540-82-9
107-37-9
7727-15-3
7727-15-3
7446-70-0
7784-13-6

929-06-6
140-31-8
007664-41-7
7803-63-6
1341-49-7
1341-49-7
12259-92-6
012135-76-1
2382-75-5
107-72-2
1300-64-7
007647-18-9
007647-18-9
7783-70-2
010025-91-9
010025-91-9

Batteries, wet, non-spillable, electric storage

Battery fluid, acid
Battery fluid, alkali
Benzene sulfonyl chloride
Benzotrichloride
Benzoyl chloride
Benzyl chloroformate
Benzyldimethylamine
Bisulfate, aqueous solution
Bisulfites, aqueous solutions, n.o.s.
Bombs, smoke, non-explosive, with corrosive liquid, without initiating
device
Boron tribromide
Boron trifluoride acetic acid complex
Boron trifluoride diethyl etherate
Boron trifluoride dihydrate
Boron trifluoride propionic acid complex
Bromine or Bromine solutions
Bromoacetic acid, solid
Bromoacetic acid, solution
Bromoacetyl bromide
Butyl acid phosphate
Butyltrichlorosilane
Butyric acid
Butyric anhydride
Caesium hydroxide
Caesium hydroxide solution
Calcium oxide
Caproic acid
Caustic alkali liquids, n.o.s.
Chemical kit
Chlorite solution
Chlorophenolates, liquid or Phenolates, liquid
Chlorophenolates, solid or Phenolates, solid
Chlorophenyltrichlorosilane
Chloroplatinic acid, solid
2-Chloropropionic acid
Chlorosilanes, corrosive, flammable, n.o.s.
Chlorosilanes, corrosive, n.o.s.
Chlorosulfonic acid (with or without sulfur trioxide)

8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8

7664-93-9
7664-93-9
000098-11-3
98-07-7
98-88-4
501-53-1
103-83-3
7681381
7631-90-5

8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
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8
8
8

007440-42-8
373-61-5
109-63-7
13319-75-0
7726-95-6
79-08-3
79-08-3
598-21-0
107-66-4
7521-80-4
000107-92-6
106-31-0
21351-79-1
21351-79-1
007440-70-2
142-62-1

007758-19-2
25167800
106-48-9
26571-79-9
16941-12-1
598-78-7
13465-78-6
13465-78-6
007790-94-5

Chromic acid solution

Chromic fluoride, solid
Chromic fluoride, solution
Chromium oxychloride
Chromosulfuric acid
Compounds, cleaning liquid
Compounds, tree killing, liquid or Compounds, weed killing, liquid
Copper chloride
Corrosive liquid, acidic, inorganic, n.o.s.
Corrosive liquid, acidic, organic, n.o.s.
Corrosive liquid, basic, inorganic, n.o.s.
Corrosive liquid, basic, organic, n.o.s.
Corrosive liquid, self-heating, n.o.s.
Corrosive liquids, flammable, n.o.s.
Corrosive liquids, n.o.s.
Corrosive liquids, oxidizing, n.o.s.
Corrosive liquids, toxic, n.o.s.
Corrosive liquids, water-reactive, n.o.s.
Corrosive solid, acidic, inorganic, n.o.s.
Corrosive solid, acidic, organic, n.o.s.
Corrosive solid, basic, inorganic, n.o.s.
Corrosive solid, basic, organic, n.o.s.
Corrosive solids, flammable, n.o.s.
Corrosive solids, n.o.s.
Corrosive solids, oxidizing, n.o.s.
Corrosive solids, self-heating, n.o.s.
Corrosive solids, toxic, n.o.s.
Corrosive solids, water-reactive, n.o.s.
Crotonic acid liquid
Crotonic acid, solid
Cupriethylenediamine solution
Cyanuric chloride
Cyclohexenyltrichlorosilane
Cyclohexylamine
Cyclohexyltrichlorosilane
Dibenzyldichlorosilane
Dichloroacetic acid
Dichloroacetyl chloride
Dichlorophenyltrichlorosilane
Dicyclohexylamine
2-Diethylaminoethanol

8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
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8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8

007738-94-5
7788-97-8
7788-97-8
14977-61-8
14489-25-9

7447-39-4

3724-65-0
3724-65-0
13426-91-0
108-77-0
10137-69-6
108-91-8
98-12-4
79-43-6
79-36-7
27137-85-5
101-83-7
100-37-8

Diethyldichlorosilane
Diethylenetriamine
N,N-Diethylethylenediamine
Diethylthiophosphoryl chloride
Difluorophosphoric acid, anhydrous
Diisooctyl acid phosphate
2-Dimethylaminoethanol
Dimethylcarbamoyl chloride
N,N-Dimethylcyclo-hexylamine
Di-n-butylamine
Diphenyldichlorosilane
Diphenylmethyl bromide
Disinfectant, liquid, corrosive, n.o.s.
Disodium trioxosilicate
Dodecyltrichlorosilane
Dyes, liquid, corrosive, n.o.s. or Dye intermediates, liquid, corrosive, n.o.s.
Dyes, solid, corrosive, n.o.s. or Dye intermediates, solid, corrosive, n.o.s.
Ethanolamine or Ethanolamine solutions
Ethyl chlorothioformate
Ethylenediamine
Ethylphenyldichlorosilane
Ferric chloride, anhydrous
Ferric chloride, solution
Ferrous chloride, solid
Ferrous chloride, solution
Fire extinguisher charges, corrosive liquid
Fluoroboric acid
Fluorophosphoric acid anhydrous
Fluorosilicic acid
Fluorosulfonic acid
Formaldehyde, solutions, with not less than 25 percent formaldehyde
Formic acid
Fumaryl chloride
Gallium
Hexadecyltrichlorosilane
Hexafluorophosphoric acid
Hexamethylenediamine solution
Hexamethylenediamine, solid
Hexyltrichlorosilane
Hydrazine aqueous solution, with more than 37% hydrazine, by mass

8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
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8
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8
8
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8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8

1719-53-5
111-40-0
100-36-7
2524-O4-1
13779-41-4
27215-10-7
108-01-0
79-44-7
98-94-2
111-92-2
80-10-4
776-74-9

4484-72-4

141-43-5
26555-35-1
107-15-3
1125-27-5
7705-08-0
7705-08-0
7758-94-3
7758-94-3
16872-11-0
13537-32-1
16961-83-4
7789-21-1
50000
64-18-6
627-63-4
7440-55-3
5894-60-0
16940-81-1
124-09-4
124-09-4
928-65-4
302-01-2

Hydrazine, anhydrous
Hydriodic acid
Hydrobromic acid, with more than 4 percent hydrobromic acid 9
Hydrobromic acid, with more than 49 percent hydrobromic acid
Hydrobromic acid, with not more than 49 percent hydrobromic acid
Hydrochloric acid
Hydrofluoric acid and Sulfuric acid mixtures
Hydrofluoric acid, with more than 60 percent strength
Hydrofluoric acid, with not more than 60 percent strength
Hydrogen fluoride, anhydrous
Hydrogendifluorides, n.o.s. solid
Hydrogendifluorides, n.o.s. solutions
Hydroxylamine sulfate
Hypochlorite solutions
3,3'-Iminodipropylamine
Iodine monochloride
Isophoronediamine
Isopropyl acid phosphate
Lead sulfate with more than 3 percent free acid
Lithium hydroxide
Lithium hydroxide, solution
Maleic anhydride
Mercury
Mercury contained in manufactured articles
Methacrylic Acid, stabilized
Methylphenyldichlorosilane
Molybdenum pentachloride
Morpholine
Nitrating acid mixtures spent with not more than 50 percent nitric acid
Nitrating acid mixtures with more than 50 percent nitric acid
Nitrating acid mixtures with not more than 50 percent nitric acid
Nitrating acid mixtures, spent with more than 50 percent nitric acid
Nitric acid other than red fuming, with more than 70 percent nitric acid
Nitric acid other than red fuming, with not more than 70 percent nitric acid
Nitric acid, red fuming
Nitrobenzenesulfonic acid
Nitrohydrochloric acid
Nitrosylsulfuric acid
Nonyltrichlorosilane
Octadecyltrichlorosilane

8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
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8
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8

302-01-2
10034-85-2
10035-10-6
10035-10-6
10035-10-6
7647-01-0
7664-39-3
7664-39-3
7664-39-3
7664-39-3

10039-54-0
56-18-8
7790-99-0
2855-13-2
1623-24-1
7446-14-2\15739-80-7
1310-66-3
1310-65-2
108316
7439-97-6
7439-97-6
79-41-4
149-74-6
10241-05-1
110-91-8

7697-37-2
7697-37-2
7697-37-2
31212-28-9
8007-69-0
7782-78-7
5283-67-0
11204-90-1

Octyltrichlorosilane
Paint or Paint related material
1-Pentol
Perchloric acid with not more than 50 percent acid by mass
Phenolsulfonic acid, liquid
Phenyl phosphorus dichloride
Phenyl phosphorus thiodichloride
Phenylacetyl chloride
Phenyltrichlorosilane
Phosphoric acid, liquid
Phosphoric acid, solid
Phosphorous acid
Phosphorus oxybromide
Phosphorus oxybromide, molten
Phosphorus oxychloride
Phosphorus pentabromide
Phosphorus pentachloride
Phosphorus pentoxide
Phosphorus tribromide
Phosphorus trioxide
Phthalic anhydride with more than .05 percent maleic anhydride
Piperazine
Piperidine
Potassium hydrogen sulfate
Potassium hydrogendifluoride, solid
Potassium hydrogendifluoride, solution
Potassium hydroxide, solid
Potassium hydroxide, solution
Potassium monoxide
Potassium sulfide, hydrated with not less than 30 percent water of
crystallization
Propionic acid
Propionic anhydride
1,2-Propylenediamine
Propyltrichlorosilane
Pyrosulfuryl chloride
Rubidium hydroxide
Rubidium hydroxide solution
Selenic acid
Selenium oxychloride

8
8
8
8
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8
8
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8

5283-66-9

1312-73-8

8
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8
8
8
8
8
8

79-09-4
123-62-6
78-90-0
141-57-1
7791-27-7
1310-82-3
1310-82-3
7783-O8-6
7791-23-3

12772-47-3
7601-90-3
1333-39-7
644-97-3
3497-00-5
103-80-0
98-13-5
7664-38-2
7664-38-2
7664-38-2
7789-59-5
7789-59-5
10025-87-3
10026-13-8
7647-19-0
1314-56-3
7789-60-8
1314-24-5
85-44-9
110-85-0
110-89-4
7646-93-7
7789-29-9
7789-29-9
1310-58-3
1310-58-3
12136-45-7

Silicon tetrachloride
8
Sludge, acid
8
Soda lime with more than 4 percent sodium hydroxide
8
Sodium aluminate, solid
8
Sodium aluminate, solution
8
Sodium borohydride and sodium hydroxide solution, with not more than 12
percent sodium borohydride and not more than 40 percent sodium
8
hydroxide by mass
Sodium hydrogendifluoride solution
8
Sodium hydrogendifluoride, solid
8
Sodium hydrosulfide with not less than 25 percent water of crystallization 8
Sodium hydroxide solution
8
Sodium hydroxide, solid
8
Sodium monoxide
8
Sodium sulfide, hydrated with not less than30 percent water
8
Solids containing corrosive liquid, n.o.s.
8
Stannic chloride pentahydrate
8
Stannic chloride, anhydrous
8
Sulfamic acid
8
Sulfur chlorides
8
Sulfur trioxide, stabilized
8
Sulfuric acid with more than 51 percent acid
8
Sulfuric acid with not more than 51% acid
8
Sulfuric acid, fuming with 30 percent or more free sulfur trioxide
8
Sulfuric acid, fuming with less than 30 percent free sulfur trioxide
8
Sulfuric acid, spent
8
Sulfurous acid
8
Sulfuryl chloride
8
Tetraethylenepentamine
8
Tetrahydrophthalic anhydrides with more than 0.05 percent of maleic
8
anhydride
Tetramethylammonium hydroxide
8
Thioglycolic acid
8
Thionyl chloride
8
Thiophosphoryl chloride
8
Titanium tetrachloride
8
Titanium trichloride mixtures
8
Trichloroacetic acid
8
Trichloroacetic acid, solution
8
Trichloroacetyl chloride
8

10026-04-7
8006-28-8
1302-42-7\11138-49-1
11138-49-1
16940-66-2
16940-66-2
16940-66-2
16940-66-2
1310-73-2
1310-73-2
12401-86-4
1313-82-2
10026-06-9
7646-78-8
5329-14-6
10025-67-9
11/9/7446
7664-93-9
7664-93-9
7664-93-9
7664-93-9
7664-93-9
7782-99-2
7791-25-5
112-57-2
85-43-8\2426-02-0
75-59-2
68-11-1
9/7/7719
3982-91-0
7550-45-0
7705-O7-9
76-03-9
76-03-9
76-02-8

Triethylenetetramine
Trifluoroacetic acid
Trimethylcyclohexylamine
Trimethylhexamethylenediamines
Valeryl chloride
Vanadium oxytrichloride
Vanadium tetrachloride
Vanadium trichloride
Zinc chloride, anhydrous
Zinc chloride, solution
Zirconium tetrachloride

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112-24-3
76-05-1
34216-34-7
25620-58-0
638-29-9
7727-18-6
7632-51-1
7718-98-1
7646-85-7
7646-85-7
10026-11-6

@2008 Columbia UniversitySite Designed by Jean J. Lee

SAN DIEGO STATE UNIVERSITY

ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH & SAFETY DEPARTMENT
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES
CORROSIVE CHEMICALS

Standard operating procedures (SOP) are intended to provide you with general guidance on how to safely work with
a specific class of chemical or hazard. This SOP is generic in nature. It addresses the use and handling of substances
by hazard class only. In some instances multiple SOPs may be applicable for a specific chemical (i.e., both the SOPs
for flammable liquids and carcinogens would apply to benzene). If you have questions concerning the applicability
of any item listed in this procedure contact Environmental Health & Safety Department (619) 594-6778 or the
Principal Investigator of your laboratory. Specific written procedures are the responsibility of the principal
investigator.
If compliance with all the requirements of this standard operating procedure is not possible, the principal
investigator must develop a written procedure that will be used in its place. This alternate procedure must provide
the same level of protection as the SOP it replaces.
Corrosive chemicals are substances that cause visible destruction or permanent changes in human skin tissue at the
site of contact, or are highly corrosive to steel. The major classes of corrosives include strong acids, bases, and
dehydrating agents.
Hazard assessment
Hazard assessment should include instruction on proper use and handling; spill control; and splash protection.
EHRS Notification
Not applicable
Special storage

Segregate the various types of corrosives. Separate acids and bases. Liquids and solids should also be separated.
Specially designed corrosion resistant cabinets should be used for the storage of large quantities of corrosive
materials. Store corrosives on plastic trays. Do not store corrosive materials on high cabinets or shelves.
Designated area
Not applicable
Securing of gas cylinders
Not applicable
Eye protection
Eye protection in the form of safety glasses must be worn at all times when handling corrosive materials.
Ordinary (street) prescription glasses do not provide adequate protection. (Contrary to popular opinion these
glasses cannot pass the rigorous test for industrial safety glasses.) Adequate safety glasses must meet the
requirements of the Practice for Occupational and Educational Eye and Face Protection (ANSI Z.87. 1 1989)
and must be equipped with side shields. Safety glasses with side shields do not provide adequate protection
from splashes; therefore, when the potential for splash hazard exists other eye protection and/or face protection
must be worn. It is recommended that face shields be worn when a splash potential exists with corrosive
materials.
Eyewash
Where the eyes or body of any person may be exposed to corrosive chemicals, suitable facilities for quick
drenching or flushing of the eyes and body shall be provided within the work area for immediate emergency
use. Bottle type eyewash stations are not acceptable.
Respiratory Protection
Fume hood
Manipulation of corrosive substances should be carried out in a fume hood if corrosive vapor production is
anticipated.
Glove (dry) box
Not applicable
Special ventilation
Manipulation of some corrosive materials outside of a fume hood may require special ventilation controls in
order to minimize exposure to the material. Fume hoods provide the best protection against exposure to
corrosive materials in the laboratory and are the preferred ventilation control device.
Protective apparel
Lab coats, closed toed shoes and long sleeved clothing should be worn when handling corrosive materials.
Additional protective clothing should be worn if the possibility of skin contact is likely.
Safety shielding

Safety shielding is required any time there is a risk of explosion, splash hazard or a highly exothermic reaction.
All manipulations of corrosive materials which pose this risk should occur in a fume hood with the sash in the
lowest feasible position. Portable shields, which provide protection to all laboratory occupants, are acceptable.
Gloves
Gloves should be worn when handling corrosive chemicals. Disposable nitrile gloves provide adequate
protection against accidental hand contact with small quantities of most laboratory chemicals. Lab workers
should contact EH&S for advice on chemical resistant glove selection when direct or prolonged contact with
hazardous chemicals is anticipated.
Safety shower
A safety or drench shower should be available in a nearby location where the corrosive materials are used.
Signs and labels
Containers: All corrosive chemical must be clearly labeled with the correct chemical name. Handwritten labels
are acceptable; chemical formulas and structural formulas are not acceptable.
Vacuum protection
Not applicable
Waste disposal
Most corrosive materials are hazardous wastes. Questions regarding waste disposal should be directed to the
Environmental Health & Safety Department (619) 594-6778.
Decontamination procedures
Personnel: Immediately flush contaminated area with copious amounts of water after contact with corrosive
materials. Remove any jewelry to facilitate removal of chemicals. If a delayed response is noted report
immediately for medical attention. Be prepared to detail what chemicals were involved.
If the incident involves Hydrofluoric acid (HF), seek immediate medical attention.
If there is any doubt about the severity of the injury, seek immediate medical attention.
Area: Decontamination procedures vary depending on the material being handled. The corrosivity of some
materials can be neutralized with other reagents. Special neutralizing agents should be on hand to
decontaminate areas.
Spill response
Anticipate spills by having the appropriate clean up equipment on hand. The appropriate clean up supplies can
be determined by consulting the material safety data sheet. This should occur prior to the use of any corrosive
chemical. Corrosive spill controls neutralize the hazardous nature of the spilled material. Acids and bases
require different types of spill control materials. In the event of a spill all personnel in the area should be
alerted.. Do not attempt to handle a large spill of corrosive materials. Vacate the laboratory immediately and
call for assistance.

Environmental Health & Safety Department (619) 594-6778

San Diego State University Public Safety Emergency Number (619) 594-1991 or 911 from a campus phone.

Remain on the scene, but at a safe distance, to receive and direct safety personnel when they arrive.
Emergency procedure
Emergency procedures which address response actions to fires, explosions, spills, injury to staff, or the
development of sign and symptom of overexposure must be developed. The procedures should address as a
minimum the following:
Who to contact: (University police, Environmental Health & Safety Department (619) 594-6778, and Principal
investigator of the laboratory including evening phone number)
The location of all safety equipment (showers, spill clean up supplies, eye wash, fire extinguishers, etc.)
The method used to alert personnel in nearby areas of potential hazards
Special first aid treatment required by the type of corrosive material(s) handled in the laboratory