Hazardous chemicals are a concern at this institution because of the type and variety of chemicals present. Although some of the most common types of chemicals in the laboratory are acids, workers may be unaware of their specific hazards.
Acids are caustic, which means they have the ability to injure and destroy human tissue on contact.
Even a small splash may produce severe burns and scarring. Some strong acids, such as nitric, perchloric, picric, sulfuric, chromic, and hydrochloric acid can be explosive when mishandled or mixed with incompatible compounds. Adequate acid protection requires the ability to assess a potential hazard, utilize proper control procedures, select appropriate personal protective equipment, and understand what to do in the event of an emergency. Knowledge is vital to your protection. A copy of the CHP should be located in each laboratory, and is also available from the Department of Environmental Health and Safety on the eighth floor of the Forchheimer Building.