-
Contact with chemicals may cause external or internal injuries. External injuries are caused by skin exposure to caustic/corrosive chemicals (acid/base/reactive salts).
-
Prevent as far as possible inadvertent spills and splashes and equipment corrosion.
-
Internal injuries may result from toxic or corrosive effects of chemicals accidently ingested and absorbed by body.
-
Inorganic acids and bases have health and safety limits. Exposure to fumes can irritate or damage eye, skin and create respiratory problems.
-
Hot acids quickly react with the skin. Store acids and bases separately, in well-ventilated areas and away from volatile organic and oxidisable substances.
-
Slowly add strong acids and bases to water to avoid spattering. If there is an accidental skin contact, thoroughly flush the contaminated area with water and seek medical attention.
-
Perchloric acid reacts violently or explosively on contact with organic materials.
-
Don’t use perchloric acid together with organic reagents, particularly volatile solvents in one fume hood.
-
NaOH and certain other chemicals produce considerable heat on dissolution, which may cause burns.
-
Some metals (arsenic, nickel, mercury) are highly toxic and may also be carcinogenic. Avoid inhalation, ingestion and skin contact.
-
Nearly all organic solvents are hazardous. Some are probably carcinogenic and should be treated with extra caution.
-
Avoid mouth pipetting. Use of vacupads or auto pipettes is advisable.
-
Beware of physical hazards from electrical items and gas cylinders.
-
Never use glassware for HF (Hydrofluoric acid) treatment.
-
Always remember, HOT glassware looks exactly like COLD glassware, be careful while handling.
