Chemical Hygiene Plan - Queensborough Community College ...

• Prior approval - Before anyone uses HF they must have prior approval from the P.I. Lab
personnel planning to use HF should be able to answer the following in the affirmative:
o Has read the MSDS for HF
o Has read the HF Use SOP developed by the lab
o Has read the Hydrofluoric acid section in this Lab Safety Manual
o Is aware of the designated area for HF use
o Knows the first aid procedure in case of an HF exposure
o Knows what to do in case of an HF spill
• The following PPE is required for HF use:
o Rubber or plastic apron
o Plastic arm coverings
o Gloves
Incidental use - double glove with heavy nitrile exam gloves and re-glove
if any exposure to the gloves
Extended use – heavy neoprene or butyl over nitrile or silver shield gloves
o Splash goggles in conjunction with a fume hood sash
o Closed toed shoes
o Long pants and a long sleeve shirt with a reasonably high neck
The following are safe practice guidelines when working with HF:
• Never work alone with HF. Have a buddy system.
• Use a plastic tray while working with HF for containment in case of a spill.
• Keep containers of HF closed. HF can etch the glass sash and make it hard to see
through (if the hood sash becomes fogged and hard to see though because of etching,
please contact EHS about installing a polycarbonate sash)
• Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) – A MSDS for HF must be available.
• All containers of HF must be clearly labeled.
• The stock HF should be stored in plastic secondary containment and the cabinet should
be labeled. HF should be stored in lower cabinets near the floor.
• Wash gloves off with water before removing them.
Contact your EHS Office for more information.
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