Corrosives

Common corrosive acids

Sulfuric acid battery acid,
drain opener, cleaner

Acetic acid contained in

vinegar

Hydrochloric acid also called

muriatic acid
1a
Common corrosive acids
Nitric acid also an oxidizing agent

Chromic acid

Hydrofluoric acid a very strong acid

that can be used to etch glass

Corrosive acids you work with

1b
Common corrosive
bases
Ammonium hydroxide
contained in household
ammonia products

Potassium hydroxide potash

Sodium hydroxide lye

1c
Common corrosive
bases
Calcium hydroxide hydrated
lime

Sodium carbonate soda ash

Corrosive bases you work with

1d
Recognizing corrosives
Corrosives can be liquids,
powders, pellets, or gases

Most have a strong, irritating

odor

2a
Recognizing corrosives
Read the label

Litmus paper test

2b
Chemistry of corrosives
Can be either acids or bases

Chemically reactive

Contact with metal

pH level
3
Health hazards of
corrosives
Explained in MSDSs

Chemical burns to skin and the

mucus membranes of
your eyes, nose,
mouth, and
respiratory tract

4a
Health hazards of
corrosives
Respiratory ailments due to a
build up of fluid in the lungs

Poisoning, many
corrosives are toxic

4b
Physical hazards of
corrosives
Explained in MSDSs

Reactive with many materials.

Many react with water

Combustible or
flammable, can easily
ignite and burn

5
Engineering controls
Ventilation systems

Chemical transfer equipment

6a
Personal protective
equipment (PPE)
See MSDSs for PPE
recommendations

You must be
trained in use
and demonstrate
understanding

7
Safe work procedures
Refer to MSDS for handling
information

Take fire prevention precautions

Remove all jewelry

Use only the amount you need

8a
Safe work procedures
Dispense from one container at
a time

When mixing, always add the

corrosive to the water

Be cautious about skin contact

8b
Safe storage procedures
Refer to MSDS for storage
information

Store in original container

9a
Safe storage procedures
Storage areas should be well-
ventilated

Inspect containers for damage

prior to use

9b
Proper clean-up and
disposal procedures
Report all leaks and spills

Follow all instructions

10a
Proper clean-up and
disposal procedures
Collect waste corrosives in
proper containers

Refer to MSDS for

clean-up and
disposal information

10b
Proper first aid and
emergency procedures
Refer to MSDS for first aid and
emergency information

Workers overexposed to
corrosives must be
removed to an area
with fresh air

11a
Proper first aid and
emergency procedures
In case of direct contact flush
the affected area with plenty of
clean water for at least 15
minutes

Medical attention
may be necessary

11b