Hazards of Chemicals and Gases
DOE-HDBK-1015/2-93
CORROSIVES (ACIDS AND ALKALIES)
Rev. 0
CH-05
Page 1
CORROSIVES (ACIDS AND ALKALIES)
There are two basic groups of corrosives: acids and alkalies. These
chemicals require precautions for safe handling. These precautions will be
discussed in this chapter.
EO 1.1
STATE the hazards associated with the use of corrosives.
EO 1.2
STATE the general safety precautions necessary for the
handling, storage, and disposal of corrosives.
Acids
Acids are compounds of hydrogen and one or more other elements (with the exception of
carbon) that dissociate or break down to produce hydrogen ions (H ) when dissolved in water
+
or certain other solvents.
Acids are corrosive in any form, and in high concentrations destroy body tissue and cause severe
burns on contact with the skin. The eyes are very susceptible, and permanent damage or loss
of sight may result from contact with acids. The inhalation of excessive concentrations of vapor
or mist is extremely irritating to the respiratory system and to mucous membranes in particular.
Accidental swallowing of concentrated acids may result in severe irritation of, and damage to,
the throat and stomach which, in some cases, may prove fatal. Some of these materials are
specifically poisonous as well as irritating. In lower concentrations, repeated skin contact may
result in inflammation.
Concentrated aqueous solutions of acids are not in themselves flammable. The potential hazard
is the danger of their mixture with other chemicals or combustible materials which may result
in fire or explosion. Acids also react with many metals resulting in the liberation of hydrogen,
a highly flammable gas, which upon ignition in air may cause an explosion. Some of the acids
are strong oxidizing agents and can react destructively and violently when in contact with
organic or other oxidizable materials.
Personnel exposure requiring immediate action usually involves direct contact of the acid with
the body or eyes of the individual, inhalation of acid vapors or decomposition products, and
ingestion of acid. The initial treatment in all cases of local contact is immediate removal of the
acid with a large amount of water. This treatment must be prolonged until all traces of acid have
been removed, usually a minimum washing time of 15 minutes.
