Chemical Hygiene Plan - Queensborough Community College ...

exposure and damage. After flushing for a minimum of 15 minutes, seek medical attention
immediately and complete an Injury/Illness Report.
Please note some chemicals, such as Hydrofluoric acid, require the use of a special antidote
(such as Calcium gluconate gel) and special emergency procedures. Read the MSDSs for
any chemical(s) you work with to determine if a special antidote is needed if a chemical
exposure occurs.
7.10 Hydrofluoric Acid
Hydrofluoric Acid (HF) is one of the most hazardous chemicals used on CUNY campuses. Small
exposures to HF can be fatal if not treated properly. The critical minutes immediately after an
exposure can have a great effect on the chances of a victim’s survival.
HF is a gas that is dissolved in water to form Hydrofluoric acid. The concentration can vary
from very low such as in store bought products up to the most concentrated 70% form
(anhydrous), with the most common lab use around 48%. The liquid is colorless, non-flammable
and has a pungent odor. The OSHA permissible exposure limit is 3 ppm, but concentrations
should be kept as low as possible. HF is actually a weak acid by definition and not as corrosive
as strong acids such as Hydrochloric (HCl); however, corrosivity is the least hazardous aspect of
HF. The toxicity of HF is the main concern.
HF is absorbed though the skin quickly and is a severe systemic toxin. The fluoride ion binds
calcium in the blood, bones, and other organs and causes damage to tissues that is very painful
and can be lethal. At the emergency room, the victim is often given calcium injections, but pain
medication is not generally given since the pain subsiding is the only indication that the calcium
injections are working.
Because of the serious hazard of working with HF, the following guidelines are recommended:
• All users of HF must receive Hydrofluoric Acid Safety training from their EHS Office as
well as training from their supervisor.
• A Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) should be written for the process in which HF is
used. This SOP should be posted or readily available near the designated area where HF
use will occur.
• HF should only be used in a designated fume hood and the fume hood should be
identified by posting a HF Designated Area sign.
• First Aid - A HF first aid kit that includes 2.5% calcium gluconate gel must be available.
The Hydrofluoric Acid First Aid sign should be posted in a prominent place where the
Calcium gluconate gel is located.
• Spill Kits - An HF spill kit must be available with calcium compounds such as Calcium
carbonate, Calcium sulfate or Calcium hydroxide. Sodium bicarbonate should never be
used because it does not bind the fluoride ion and can generate toxic aerosols.
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