If the MSDS warns against an inhalation hazard, you must work with good local exhaust ventilation. Whenever possible replace highly flammable, toxic, or suspect and known human carcinogenic solvents with less toxic solvents. Especially avoid the use of ethyl ether, benzene, carbon tetrachloride, and chloroform. Check with your professor or contact the Environmental Health and Safety Office for assistance with identifying suitable substitutes. Milder corrosives are found in textile dye solutions, and in photographic chemicals.
Corrosive materials are hazardous because they burn, irritate or damage tissue on contact.
Highly concentrated, strong corrosive materials, such as the etching solution used in printmaking, can cause severe, permanent injury to skin tissue. Concentrated corrosives also give off vapors which can damage the respiratory tissue and mucous membrane if inhaled. Use concentrated corrosive materials only in well ventilated areas. When diluting acids, add acid to the water, not the reverse. Also, some acids and bases may be incompatible with each other.