Chemical Hygiene Plan - Queensborough Community College ...

1(800) 222-1222. If possible, bring a copy of the MSDS with you. After receiving medical
attention, complete an Injury/Illness Report.
7.9 Corrosives
OSHA defines a corrosive as “a chemical that causes visible destruction of, or irreversible
alterations in living tissue by chemical action at the site of contact.” Under the DOT Hazard
Class system, corrosives are listed as Class 8.
Corrosive chemicals can be further subdivided as acids and bases. Corrosives can be in a liquid,
solid, or gaseous state. Corrosive chemicals can have a severe effect on eyes, skin, respiratory
tract, and gastrointestinal tract if an exposure occurs. Corrosive solids and their dusts can react
with moisture on the skin or in the respiratory tract and result in exposure.
Whenever working with concentrated corrosive solutions, splash goggles should be worn instead
of safety glasses. Splash goggles used in conjunction with a face shield provides better
protection. Please note that a face shield alone does not provide adequate protection. Use of
rubber gloves such as butyl rubber and a rubber apron may also be required.
Corrosive chemicals should be handled in a fume hood to avoid breathing corrosive vapors and
gases.
When mixing concentrated acids with water, always add acid slowly to the water (specifically,
add the more concentrated acid to the dilute acid). Never add water to acid, this can result in a
boiling effect and cause acid to splatter. Do not pour the acid directly into the water; it should be
poured in a manner that allows it to run down the sides of the container. Never store corrosive
chemicals above eye level and always use a protective bottle carrier when transporting corrosive
chemicals.
Some chemicals can react with acids and liberate toxic and/or flammable vapors. When working
with corrosive materials, ensure that the proper amount of spill cleanup material is available for
neutralization, such as Calcium carbonate for acids and Citric acid for bases. Contact your EHS
Office for assistance.
Wherever acids and bases are used, an eyewash and emergency shower must be available. If any
corrosive chemical gets splashed in the eyes, immediately go to an eyewash station and flush
your eyes for at least 15 minutes. The importance of flushing for at least 15 minutes cannot be
overstated! Once the eyewash has been activated, use your fingers to hold your eyelids open and
roll your eyeballs in the stream of water so the entire eye can be flushed. After flushing for at
least 15 minutes, seek medical attention immediately and complete an Injury/Illness Report.
For small splashes of corrosives to the skin, remove any contaminated gloves, lab coats, or other
clothing, and wash the affected area with soap and water for at least 15 minutes. Seek medical
attention afterward, especially if symptoms persist.
For large splashes of corrosives to the body, it is important to get to an emergency shower and
start flushing for at least 15 minutes. Once under the shower, and after the shower has been
activated, it is important to remove any contaminated clothing. Failure to remove contaminated
clothing can result in the chemical being held against the skin and causing further chemical
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