Corrosives are solid or liquid substances that exact extreme caution when handling. They are usually either an acid, such as nitric acid, sulfuric acid, chromic acid, hydrochloric acid, hydrofluoric acid, or acetic acid, or a base, such as ammonium hydroxide, sodium hydroxide, or potassium hydroxide.
Anyone that has ever seen the effects that corrosives have on metal or other strong materials can easily imagine the damage that a corrosive would do to the delicate human skin.
Adding to the danger is the fact that corrosives act upon contact, meaning that damage begins the moment that the corrosive or its vapors come into contact with the eyes, mouth, skin, digestive tract, or respiratory tract.
Injuries from contact with corrosive materials might be extensive and, in some cases, irreversible. Keep in mind that the stronger the concentrate of the corrosive material, the more damage it has the potential of doing. Some of the most common injuries that result from unprotected contact with corrosives are burns to the eyes and skin, which can result in blindness or severe scarring.
When the vapors from corrosive materials are inhaled, they can cause burning to the respiratory tract, pulmonary edema (the buildup of fluid around the lungs), or even death. Although less common, if ingested the corrosive might cause extensive burning or perforation in the mouth, esophagus, and stomach.
Aside from the danger of corrosives coming into direct contact with the body, some are combustible or flammable and can explode or catch fire if not properly stored and handled. Another hazard is incompatibility: when incompatible chemicals are mixed or accidentally come into contact, the result can be a dangerous, sometimes deadly, chemical reaction.
Any worker that handles any corrosive material should always protect themselves:
Safe storage and handling
- Make sure that corrosives are stored in a safe area away from incompatible substances and, in some cases, separated even from other corrosives.
- The storage area should be secured, cool, and dry.
- If it's necessary to transfer corrosive materials between containers, make sure the transfer is done with extreme caution and the appropriate safety steps have been taken.
- Ensure appropriate ventilation anytime a corrosive material is accessed.
- If you must add corrosive materials to water, be attentive to avoid overfilling or spillage; it is safest to add corrosive to water in small amounts rather than the reverse.
- Never reuse any container that previously contained a corrosive material.
- Follow proper protocol when disposing of unused corrosive materials; these should not be poured down a drain without authorization.
- Don appropriate personal protective equipment as required, which might include chemical-resistant gloves, an apron, goggles, a face mask, and respiratory protection.
In addition to safe practices, businesses that store materials on-site may want to review coverage options related to stored building or manufacturing materials. For some operations, policies such as Plastics Materials & Basic Forms Insurance or Lumber and Other Building Materials Insurance can be relevant when evaluating overall risk management.
If an accident does occur, immediately seek first aid for the injured person, close off the area to prevent further exposure, and notify the appropriate supervisory personnel. For questions about coverage or to review options with an agent, you can talk to an agent.
Remember: it's too late to be cautious once an accident occurs. One mistake can produce a costly, painful, disfiguring, or potentially deadly injury.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do immediately after skin contact with a corrosive?
Remove contaminated clothing and flush the affected area with copious amounts of water for at least 15 minutes, then seek medical attention.
How do I protect my eyes from corrosive splashes?
Wear chemical splash goggles or a full face shield and use emergency eyewash stations immediately if exposure occurs.
Is it safe to neutralize a corrosive spill with another chemical?
Neutralization should only be done with approved materials and procedures; consult your safety data sheet (SDS) and trained personnel before attempting neutralization.
How should corrosive waste be disposed of?
Dispose of corrosive waste according to your facility’s hazardous waste procedures and local regulations; do not pour it down drains unless explicitly permitted.